While most countries are trying to bounce back to normalcy, and reopen to tourism, Thailand had earlier announced it will not reopen this year. However, on 21 August Yuthasak Supasorn, governor of Thaildan’s Tourism Authority announced that Phuket is likely to reopen for international tourism from 1 October. The new decision comes with some terms and conditions. Here’s what you must expect on your next trip to Phuket. On that note, here are 6 Reasons Why Phuket Must Be On Your Bucket List.
Terms & Conditions For Travellers Visiting Phuket
Phuket, the island which boasts Thailand’s most popular beaches, will reopen for international tourists from 1 October. However, visitors arriving in the country, must stay for a minimum of 30 days. Foreign tourists planning a trip to Thailand must directly fly into Phuket and must stay for at least 30 days. Those planning shorter trips will not be permitted to enter the country. And in case you do decide to spend 30 days in Thailand, here’s an itinerary that will help.
As for the rules, tourists must submit a negative Covid-19 PCR test upon arrival in Phuket. Following this, all travellers must adhere to a 14-day quarantine which they will spend in a private hotel room. Visitors will also be given access to ommon areas of the hotel’s property, and in some cases beach access. In addition, travellers will undergo two PCR tests post quarantine. Only if these tests come out negative will travelers be allowed to leave the hotel property and venture around Phuket.
Tourists who wish to leave Phuket and visit other islands in the country must undergo a third PCR test performed during the third week of their visit. In order to ensure the pilot testing is successful, the hotel staff are also asked to stay in the hotel, to avoid being carriers of the virus. On that note, a Stranded Couple In Thailand Is Now Fostering 10 Dogs.
Which Countries Will Be Allowed To Enter Phuket?
The entry requirements and countries that will be permitted entry from 1 October have not yet been formally announced as yet. However, it is believed that Thailand will kick off tourism by welcoming tourists from the neighboring countries where the virus has been contained. Nations with important socioeconomic ties to Thailand might also be on the list.
Ever since Thailand closed borders in March, it has been one of the most successful countries in the world at containing Covid-19. The country has not seen a single confirmed case over the last three months and this is also one of the reasons why they did not reopen borders.
However, Thailand thrives on tourism and the country has witnessed a devastating 12.2% shrink in the second quarter, the worst hit in the last 22 years. Last year, Thailand welcomed over 40 million tourists. The government is hopeful that the pilot project will help resume the country’s foreign tourism.
Since July Thailand permitted entry only for certain category of people. Here’s a list of people who can enter Thailand now:
- Diplomats
- UN officials
- Business people
- Investors who have an agreement with the government
- Film crews
- Migrant workers
- Medical tourists
- Exhibition personnel
- Holders of Thailand Elite visas
Phuket is the first island to officially open for tourists ever since the country closed borders in March. Meanwhile, also take a look at these 10 Beautiful Destinations Around The World That You Must Visit With Your Girl Gang. Further, Maldives Is Now Open For Tourism & Here Are The New Rules.