Travel around the world at present is dependent on a range of factors. From providing negative Covid-19 tests to showing proof of vaccination, tourists are required to jump through a series of hoops in order to be able travel once more.
Yet, as countries become desperate to restart tourism, other solutions are being found. Much like Spain's bid to reopen when citizens are vaccinated, Thailand is planning to reopen its popular destinations without a quarantine beginning in July once 70% of its citizens are vaccinated.
Here's more on this exciting plan, plus a reminder of the restrictions and requirements for travel to Thailand at present.
A country that is heavily reliant on tourism for both income and jobs for its citizens, Thailand has struggled greatly during the pandemic, with once-thriving businesses now closed for the foreseeable future, beaches deserted and hotels empty.
However, the emergence of a new plan of action suggests a partial end to the struggles may be within sight.
Whilst the government's proposed date for the reopening of the whole of Thailand is October 1st, one leading minister suggested that the country could be welcoming foreign guests to select provinces without quarantine from as early as July 1st.
Speaking at a meeting of leading tourism representatives, Thailand's Minister of Tourism and Sports, Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, revealed that the key to reopening early would be vaccinating 70% of the population of the three select provinces.
The provinces in question – Phuket, Phang-Nga and Krabi – have been selected due to the revenue they generate, with these three alone responsible for bringing in 20% of the total tourist revenue, worth 600 billion baht (around $20 billion USD).
Each located on the country's Andaman seaboard, they feature stunning beaches and the karst landscape that has made Thailand a must-visit for travelers in recent years.
Speaking at the meeting on Wednesday, Ratchakitprakarn said:
'According to the timeline set by the government, foreigners will be allowed to travel to Thailand without quarantine. But we want to do it faster. We hope this can be done starting with Phuket in July under the condition that at least 70% of its population is vaccinated, a requirement of 900,000 doses for 450,000 people.'
The plan is set to be discussed at a meeting of the Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) on March 19th. Should the plan be accepted, it is bound to be warmly received by travelers.
Thailand's pricey quarantine has long since been a barrier for many travelers, so the decision to allow travelers to visit without having to quarantine is sure to be a popular one.
Thailand's Entry Requirements Travelers Should Know
Once home to extremely restrictive borders at the start of the pandemic, Thailand's borders have softened in recent months.
Those who live in a country that has a visa exemption or visa on arrival arrangement with Thailand do not need to obtain a visa before traveling to Thailand.
Those from countries who do not have such an arrangement can apply for the Special Tourist Visa, which is open for travelers of any nationality.
All travelers must obtain a certificate of entry, and must have insurance that covers Covid-19 up to $100,000. Travelers must provide a negative Covid-19 test.
There is a mandatory quarantine period of 14 days at present, though this is due to change for some from next month. – TraveloffPath.Com
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