Large fire on Thai holiday island leaves tourists without accommodation
Up to six foreigners were among nine people injured when a fire broke out on Thailand’s Phi Phi island last night.
Witnesses claim the blaze, which is believed to have been started by a gas cylinder explosion, spread to five hotels and hostels on the island, which is in Krabi province.
Three Thais were also injured in the fire, which local reports suggest started at the October Hostel and Restio at the tourist hotspot of Soi Slinky at about 9.30pm.
More than 20 nearby shops were damaged, in addition to several hostels.
The Phuket News said tourists and residents were forced to evacuate, with some fleeing to the beach.
Some reports claim the injured foreigners were from Brazil, Belgium and Argentina.
The fire was brought under control within two hours, but authorities have sealed off the area as buildings are likely to collapse, leaving tourists unable to return to their accommodation.
One tourist, Peter Erskine, who had been staying at Hostelworld in Phi Phi said tweeted the hotel: "We were evacuated from our hostel and may not be able to return to it tonight or at all. Can you help either with new accommodation or a refund please?"
The UK Foreign Office said British nationals who require assistance should call the British Embassy in Bangkok on +66 (0)23 05833 or e-mail [email protected]
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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