Thailand's tourism minister Pipat Ratchakitprakarn told business media Than Setthakit that his ministry and the Tourism Authority of Thailand were working on adding seven provinces in the eastern seaboard and north east Thailand to the reopening plans for foreign tourists. ASEAN NOW

Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn. Picture: Than Setthakit

 

Thailand's tourism minister Pipat Ratchakitprakarn told business media Than Setthakit that his ministry and the Tourism Authority of Thailand were working on adding seven provinces in the eastern seaboard and north east Thailand to the reopening plans for foreign tourists.

 

On the eastern seaboard this refers to Trat, Chanthaburi and Rayong and specifically to the islands of Koh Chang, Koh Kood, Koh Man Nork and Koh Samet. 

 

In the north east Bung Kan, Nong Khai, Udon Thani and Ubon Ratchathani would be allowed to reopen to foreign tourists though the minister conceded that each one faced its own challenges. 

 

These seven provinces could reopen in October. 

 

The same October time frame is now looking likely for Chiang Mai and Chonburi (Pattaya and Sattahip) after more infections there put an end to September reopening plans. 

 

October is also slated for the reopening of Bangkok, Hua Hin and Cha-Am, said Pipat. 

 

These three areas and many more in the south of Thailand connected to Phuket Sandbox and 7+7 Extension plans were part of ten original provinces slated for reopening, said the minister yesterday.