As a gradual reopening to international tourism continues, Thailand is once again delighting the world’s travellers with the culture and hospitality that’ve made it a best-loved holiday spot.
Travellers are flying direct to Thailand from places such as London, Paris, Frankfurt, Copenhagen, Zurich, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Singapore and Hong Kong.
A CAREFULLY PLANNED REOPENING
The first destinations to open were beach resorts, thanks to the Phuket Sandbox programme. This launched on 1 July 2021, allowing fully vaccinated tourists to visit without quarantine. On 15 July the Samui Plus programme launched, enabling tourists to visit Samui, Ko Pha-ngan and Ko Tao. Then, on 16 August, the Phuket Sandbox 7+7 Extension programme opened up designated areas in Krabi and Phang-Nga, while the Samui Plus programme meant people could visit for seven days after spending a week on Phuket.
Next came the reopening of Chon Buri, Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Ranong, Chiang, Loei and Buri Rum in Bangkok, as well as all areas in Krabi and Phang-Nga in November. Other emerging destinations are to follow in December, with Chiang Rai, Mae Hong Son, Sukhothai, Ayutthaya, Trat, Rayong, Khon Kaen, Nakhon Ratchasima, Nakhon Si Thammarat and Songkhla just a few.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand is aiming to have the whole county reopened by the end of Q2 2022.
Emphasis has been, and continues to be, put on having the necessary health and safety measures in place. The Amazing Thailand Safety and Health Administration (SHA) certification was introduced in May 2020 and has been certified by the World Travel and Tourism Council as being on par with its Safe Travels protocols.
AS WONDERFUL AS EVER
Tourists visiting southern Thailand‘s tropical paradise will find beach resorts in pristine condition. With November to February the best time to visit the Andaman Coast (this is when the temperature is warm and the skies are clear), its reopening to the world is timely.
So is the case with Chiang Mai in northern Thailand, with the cooler months of November to February bringing comfortable temperatures and lower humidity. It’s a fantastic time to explore the city’s temples and cultural attractions and to indulge in soft-adventure activities.
Bangkok is as energetic as ever, an enthralling metropolis of old and new where glistening temples, shopping malls and bustling local markets abound.
Spa resorts are countrywide, as are community-based tourism activities – an added benefit being that these help spread tourism benefits further afield.
Find out more at tourismthailand.org or connect with the Tourism Authority of Thailand on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
