Thailand Joins Vietnam, Japan, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, France, Spain And More As Germany Issues New Travel Advisory Amid Border Instability, Identity Document Requirements And Security Alerts

As worries about border instability, stricter identity document enforcement, and changing security conditions grow, Germany has released updated travel guidelines covering Thailand, Vietnam, Japan, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, France, Spain, and other important destinations. The guidelines advise travelers to stay away from high-risk areas, always carry valid identification, and stay aware of local safety alerts and disruptions.

Germany has updated and reinforced travel guidance for several popular destinations across Asia, the Middle East and Europe, urging travellers to stay alert to evolving security conditions, border-related risks, identity document rules and public safety issues. While the nature of the warnings varies by country, the common thread is clear: German authorities want travellers to prepare carefully, follow local rules closely and avoid high-risk areas.

Thailand: Border tensions, southern unrest and rising crime risks

Thailand sits at the centre of Germany’s latest advisory focus due to a mix of border instability, internal security concerns and growing crime in tourist hubs.

Travel within fifty kilometres of the Cambodia border is discouraged. Military clashes in the border region since July 2025 resulted in deaths and injuries. Although a ceasefire was signed in December 2025 and violence has subsided, martial law remains in place across border provinces and crossings between Thailand and Cambodia are still closed. German authorities warn that renewed escalation cannot be ruled out.

Travel is strongly discouraged to the southern provinces of Narathiwat, Yala and Pattani, along with parts of Songkhla, where separatist violence, terrorist attacks and armed clashes with security forces continue. A state of emergency remains in effect and night-time curfews can be imposed without warning.

Non-essential travel to Trat province islands, including Ko Chang, Ko Mak and Ko Kut, is also discouraged.

Beyond conflict zones, Germany highlights a sharp rise in crime across tourist hotspots such as Phuket, Pattaya, Koh Samui and Koh Tao. Drug- and alcohol-related assaults, robberies and sexual crimes have been reported, particularly during Full Moon Parties on Koh Pha Ngan. Tourists are warned about scams involving taxis, tuk-tuks, jet ski rentals and corrupt police practices, especially in Patong Beach.

Foreigners must carry valid identification at all times, with frequent checks in entertainment districts. Thailand’s digital arrival card is mandatory, and overstaying visas can lead to detention, fines, deportation and long entry bans.

Vietnam: Zero tolerance on drugs, strict laws and nightclub raids

Germany’s advisory for Vietnam stresses strict law enforcement and limited tolerance for mistakes by foreign visitors.

A complete ban is in force on e-cigarettes, vaporizers and related equipment. Importing, possessing or using them can lead to heavy fines or long prison sentences.

Authorities have increased police raids on bars and nightclubs, particularly in Ho Chi Minh City. Patrons may be subjected to drug testing. A positive test can result in detention, even if drug use occurred days or weeks earlier or outside Vietnam. Consular access may be delayed or unavailable during detention.

Public demonstrations are prohibited and criticism of the government, including social media posts made abroad, can lead to questioning, travel delays or exit restrictions. Travel near military zones and borders is strongly discouraged, as restricted areas are often poorly marked.

Petty crime is rising in major cities, including theft on night trains, bag snatching by motorbikes and scams targeting tourists. Visitors are advised to keep documents secure, avoid accepting drinks from strangers and exercise caution in nightlife settings.

Japan: Restricted zones, disaster risks and nightlife vigilance

Germany considers Japan broadly safe but maintains specific warnings that travellers must respect.

Visitors are advised not to enter evacuated zones around the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, where restrictions remain in place more than a decade after the disaster. Travel to other parts of Japan is considered safe from a radiological perspective.

Japan faces frequent natural hazards. Earthquakes are common, several volcanoes remain under active monitoring and typhoons regularly disrupt travel. Winter blizzards and avalanches affect mountainous regions.

Crime levels are low, but fraud, drink spiking and sexual assault incidents have been reported in nightlife districts of Tokyo and other major cities. Foreigners must carry passports at all times, as police checks are routine.

South Korea: Generally safe, but alert systems and nightlife risks

South Korea is described as stable and secure, with demonstrations usually peaceful and well-organised. However, tensions with North Korea mean emergency drills, sirens and transport shutdowns can occur without warning.

The German advisory encourages travellers to follow local alerts and make use of emergency apps that provide English-language warnings.

Crime rates are low, though isolated cases of drink spiking and sexual assault have been reported in nightlife areas such as Hongdae and Itaewon. Visitors are urged to remain cautious in bars and clubs and safeguard personal belongings.

Visa-free entry remains available for short stays, and biometric data collection is routine at border control.

Saudi Arabia: Regional volatility and border restrictions

Germany warns that despite a ceasefire between Israel and Iran in June 2025, the wider Middle East remains volatile. Security-related incidents, airspace closures and flight disruptions may occur at short notice.

Travel to the border region with Yemen is strongly discouraged due to ongoing conflict and the risk of missile or drone attacks. Terrorism remains a concern, with past attacks targeting civilians, security forces and diplomatic facilities.

Visitors are urged to avoid crowded places, follow security instructions and remain vigilant near religious sites, shopping centres and energy infrastructure. A valid visa is mandatory, and employment disputes can lead to travel bans.

France: Terror alert, strikes and expanded smoking ban

France remains under its highest terrorism alert level, with armed patrols, bag checks and heightened security across transport hubs, public spaces and tourist attractions.

Travellers are advised to remain vigilant during major events and avoid demonstrations, as strikes and protests can disrupt public transport and occasionally turn violent.

A major smoking ban introduced in July 2025 prohibits smoking in parks, beaches near bathing waters, bus stops and areas around schools and sports facilities. Fines apply for violations.

Petty crime, pickpocketing and organised theft affect major cities, particularly Paris. Corsica has seen recent attacks targeting state institutions, while New Caledonia remains sensitive following unrest in 2024.

Spain: Elevated terror alert and tourist-targeted crime

Spain continues to operate under an elevated terror alert level introduced after attacks in 2017. While daily life remains normal, travellers are advised to exercise caution at crowded events and transport hubs.

Tourist-targeted crime is a key concern. Pickpocketing is widespread in cities, airports and beach destinations. Along highways, particularly near Barcelona, organised gangs use distraction tactics to rob drivers.

Violent incidents and break-ins have been reported in major cities, and youth travel groups are urged to ensure proper supervision. Cash declaration rules are strict, and large cash transactions are limited by law.

A broader message to travellers

Germany’s updated guidance does not suggest avoiding travel altogether but sends a clear signal: global travel conditions are becoming more complex. Border tensions, strict enforcement of local laws, identity document requirements and uneven security situations mean travellers must prepare more carefully than before.

Registering with German crisis preparedness systems, monitoring local media, avoiding high-risk zones and respecting local regulations are no longer optional precautions. They are now essential parts of responsible international travel.

Due to border instability, stricter identity document enforcement, and growing traveler security concerns, Germany has updated its travel recommendations for Thailand, Vietnam, Japan, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, France, Spain, and other locations.

As destinations reopen and global movement accelerates, Germany’s message is simple but firm: stay informed, stay alert, and travel with caution.

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Iberia caps economy-class fares on flights between Madrid and Barcelona at €99, a temporary measure introduced as rail disruptions cause delays and cancellations on Spain’s busiest intercity corridor. The price limit applies, in principle, until […]

Sweden Joins Denmark, Netherlands, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, UK and More in Europe as Key Drivers Of Growth in Indonesia’s Post-Pandemic Tourism Revival and Economic Boom

Sweden, along with Denmark, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, and the UK, has become a driving force behind Indonesia’s post-pandemic tourism revival, significantly contributing to its economic recovery. These European nations lead in both the number of visitors and the high spending per trip, with tourists from these countries staying longer and investing more in Indonesia’s luxury resorts, cultural experiences, and eco-tourism destinations. Their ongoing presence and increased expenditure reflect the strong demand for Indonesian travel, fueling growth in the country’s tourism sector and boosting its overall economic recovery post-pandemic.

Indonesia’s tourism sector has experienced a remarkable resurgence in 2025, driven in part by increased arrivals from European countries. According to data from Indonesia’s Central Statistics Agency (BPS), European tourists are the biggest spenders among all foreign visitors, with their spending and stay duration setting new records for the country. This influx is a crucial component of Indonesia’s tourism recovery, following the global pandemic’s significant impact on travel.

As the 2025 tourism year draws to a close, figures indicate a notable improvement in foreign tourist arrivals, with 15.39 million visitors recorded — up 10.8% from 2024, but still short of pre-pandemic levels. Despite the lingering effects of COVID-19, European nations have emerged as the largest contributors to tourism spending in Indonesia, with travellers from the continent setting new benchmarks for expenditure and stay length.

Let’s dive into how European nations are leading the charge in driving Indonesia’s tourism sector to new heights, focusing on the key countries propelling this surge in both arrivals and spending.

Sweden Joins Denmark, Netherlands, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, UK and More in Europe Driving Record Growth in Indonesia Tourism

While tourists from across the globe have been flocking to Indonesia’s tropical islands, European visitors have been leading the pack in terms of their overall spend. European tourists spent an average of $1,916.50 per visit in 2025, with their average stay lasting 16.75 days—the longest among all regions.

This surge in spending reflects more than just an increased number of visitors; it highlights a changing travel dynamic, with Europeans opting for longer stays and higher expenditures per trip. Below is a breakdown of key European countries contributing to the tourism boom in Indonesia, driving the country’s tourism recovery and pushing the limits of spending.

1. United Kingdom

• Average Spending: $1,916.5
• Average Stay: 16.75 days

Tourists from the United Kingdom have always been among the top contributors to Indonesia’s tourism sector, and in 2025, they continue to set records. British visitors are high spenders, with an average expenditure of nearly $2,000 per trip. The UK leads not only in spending but also in travel preferences, with travellers choosing longer stays, which often extend to 16.75 days on average. As Bali remains the most popular destination among British tourists, the surge in spending reflects an ongoing demand for luxury experiences and longer holidays.

This growth in the UK market highlights an overall boost in British travel post-pandemic, as they embrace new, extended holiday plans and re-discover Indonesia’s appeal, not just as a tropical paradise, but as a cultural hub for high-end tourism.

2. France

• Average Spending: $1,897.23
• Average Stay: 12.1 days

France remains another European powerhouse for Indonesia’s tourism industry. French tourists, while spending slightly less than the British, have increased their average length of stay, which is 12.1 days—more than most other international tourists. Visitors from France are particularly drawn to Bali’s beaches and Java’s cultural landmarks, showcasing the French appreciation for Indonesia’s mix of luxury relaxation and cultural richness.

This surge is largely attributed to French travellers seeking a combination of relaxation and immersion in Indonesian culture—a trend that’s been seen across Europe’s high-end tourism market. French tourists are booking longer stays in luxury resorts, contributing significantly to the country’s tourism revenue.

3. Germany

• Average Spending: $1,741.22
• Average Stay: 15.27 days

German tourists round out the top three European spenders in Indonesia, with an average expenditure of $1,741.22 per visit. Tourists from Germany are often attracted to Indonesia’s natural beauty and adventurous experiences, from mountain treks to cultural village tours. Their stay in Indonesia lasts an average of 15.27 days, and this extended holiday period speaks to the German desire for extended explorations.

Germany’s growing interest in sustainable travel has also played a role in boosting the number of eco-tourism trips to places like Bali, where green tourism practices are becoming more prevalent. Many Germans are not just looking for a vacation, but for a cultural experience that will immerse them in local Indonesian communities.

4. Italy

• Average Spending: $1,726.02
• Average Stay: 13.06 days

In Italy, an old favourite in the European travel market, visitors to Indonesia are spending an average of $1,726.02. While the average length of stay is slightly shorter than the UK or Germany at 13.06 days, the high expenditure reflects Italians’ growing preference for luxury holidays and cultural escapades. Indonesians’ diverse landscapes, from luxurious beachfront resorts to ancient temples and jungles, cater perfectly to Italian tourists seeking a rich and immersive experience.

5. Spain

• Average Spending: $1,398.70
• Average Stay: 9.43 days

Spanish tourists are also contributing to the rise in tourism revenue in Indonesia, though their spending is slightly lower compared to other European nations, averaging $1,398.70. Their stay in Indonesia averages 9.43 days, indicating a balance between relaxation and exploration.

Visitors from Spain typically focus on areas such as Bali and Yogyakarta, drawn to both the cultural experiences and vibrant beach resorts. As a growing source market, Spain’s involvement in Indonesia’s tourism boom is undeniable, and Spanish-speaking tourists are finding Indonesia increasingly appealing for longer trips.

6. Netherlands

• Average Spending: $1,234.16
• Average Stay: 13.27 days

The Netherlands rounds out the top six, contributing significant tourism revenue despite a lower average spend of $1,234.16 per visit. However, Dutch visitors are more likely to stay for longer periods, averaging 13.27 days—a reflection of their desire for extended travel that allows them to fully explore Indonesia’s cultural and natural wonders.

The Dutch have long enjoyed visiting Indonesia, particularly due to the country’s colonial history and the appeal of historical destinations such as Jakarta’s National Museum and Bali’s traditional villages.

7. Switzerland

• Average Spending: $1,500
• Average Stay: 10.5 days

Switzerland, although not as large a market as others, consistently contributes to the growing demand for luxury and cultural tourism in Indonesia. The Swiss traveller spends an average of $1,500 per trip and enjoys stays that last around 10.5 days. Their interest is mainly drawn to Bali and the quieter destinations like Ubud, where they can enjoy a combination of high-end hospitality and cultural experiences.

Tourism Growth by Region:

The European continent has set a new benchmark in tourism spending in Indonesia, especially as the overall tourist numbers climb back to near pre-pandemic levels. While Southeast Asia remains the largest source of visitors, European tourists’ spending per visit remains unmatched. Moreover, average stay lengths from European visitors tend to be longer, which significantly impacts the total revenue generated per traveller.

Indonesia’s Key Airports and Tourism Hubs:

As the number of tourists from Europe increases, it’s clear that Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport remains Indonesia’s busiest entry point, especially for Australian visitors during the holiday periods. Bali also remains the dominant destination for European travellers, particularly those looking for a luxury escape.

Further expansion of facilities at Ngurah Rai and Soekarno-Hatta International in Jakarta ensures that Indonesia’s major tourism hubs will continue to handle the growth in European arrivals.

Looking Forward to 2026: A Bright Future for Indonesia’s Tourism Sector

The year 2025 marked a significant milestone for Indonesia’s tourism recovery, with Europe’s wealthier nations playing a critical role. As the tourism sector continues to grow, the focus on attracting high-spending visitors will only intensify. The European market will undoubtedly remain a crucial factor in driving Indonesia’s tourism economy, with luxury experiences, long stays, and cultural exploration at the forefront of the country’s appeal.

Sweden, Denmark, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, and the UK are key drivers of Indonesia’s post-pandemic tourism revival, contributing significantly to the country’s economic growth through high-spending, long-staying European tourists attracted to its luxury and cultural experiences.

In 2025, Sweden, Denmark, Netherlands, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, and the UK have demonstrated their key roles in boosting Indonesia’s tourism sector. Their high spending and longer stays represent a growing trend of European tourists embracing luxury, culture, and adventure in Indonesia. With Bali and Java leading the charge, the country is witnessing an impressive comeback. As we look toward 2026, Indonesia’s tourism sector is poised for even greater growth, with European nations continuing to contribute significantly to the island nation’s tourism revenue and overall economic recovery.

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