Bangkok, Thailand's lively capital, is home to over 10 million people. Known for its vibrant nightlife, royal palaces, stunning temples, and shopping opportunities it is a top destination for travellers worldwide.
One morning after a big night out, an Australian traveller faced the harsh reality of a lost phone and no money. To add to the stress he hadn't arranged any accommodation beyond his initial stay. Most importantly, he lacked travel insurance.
Phee has been a consular official at the Australian Embassy in Bangkok for 4 years. When the Australian man contacted the Embassy for help, Phee was there to assist.
Phee recalled, 'the man was affected by alcohol. He talked about his struggle with mental illness after leaving his medication in Australia'.
'He contacted the Embassy, seeking financial help for food and transportation. He also needed funds to buy a plane ticket home to Australia.
I suggested he consider alternative funding sources, like family or friends.'
When the man called his elderly mother in Australia, she couldn't help but told him to contact his siblings. Despite his many attempts, he couldn't get through to them either. As night descended, the man had no money, no shelter or means to buy food.
Phee said, 'It was late, and the client had neither food nor shelter. We provided a small Traveller Emergency Loan, as we can only do in the most serious cases. It covered a night's stay at a hostel, two meals, and a taxi fare to the Embassy and back. This loan must be paid back within a specific timeframe.'
'We had asked the man to come back the next day so we could try reaching his family for financial help.'
However, things went downhill overnight. Phee was shocked to receive a message from Canberra the following day.
'It turns out after the man left the Embassy he went to the airport. He had grabbed a bottle of spirits from a restaurant without paying for it. When the Tourist Police arrived, they found the man heavily intoxicated.'
'When the man's family in Australia finally got in touch, they arranged his flight back home and covered the cost of the spirits he had taken.'
'The Tourist Police took care of him until his flight that night. He was very lucky the restaurant decided not to pursue legal action’, Phee explained.
'I have dealt with several challenging cases like this, this year. Many of them are due to mental health problems, especially with Australians not travelling with or taking their medication, or Australians coming to Thailand without a return ticket.'
'Travelers should always consult Smartraveller for information about their destination. There is great advice on travel insurance, mental health and medication considerations for overseas travel.'
SMARTRAVELLER
Travelling with a mental health condition can be challenging.
It's important you speak to your treating Doctor before you travel. You may have trouble finding medication overseas and taking what you need with you. Some medications could even be illegal in your destination.
Before you go, you can take steps to reduce the risk of having problems overseas.
Planning ahead will help minimise risks and increase your chances of a successful trip.
Read more on the Smartraveller website about:
- managing your mental health
- medication and medical equipment
See our advice on medical assistance when overseas.