Tourists warned of poor air quality in hazy Chiang Mai
Tourists visiting the popular Thai city of Chiang Mai are being warned of the risk of air pollution, which authorities have blamed on fires in neighbouring countries.
The UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office has added the northern city to the list of urban areas affected by heavy air pollution and smoke haze in its latest travel advice for Thailand.
It said the city is being heavily affected by regional smoke haze.
"This may aggravate bronchial, sinus or asthma conditions. Children, the elderly and those with pre-existing medical conditions may be especially affected."
The FCO said the problem was often worse in March and April in parts of the north, northeast and south of Thailand.
The authorities are urging citizens to wear face masks and the governor of Chiang Mai has ordered public health offices to distribute them to locals.
This city has a current No Burning policy which is still active until April 20.
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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