No place on this planet offers the same combination of scuba diving, religious sanctuaries, and sun-kissed white-sand beaches as Thailand. In ‘The Land of Smiles’, cultural experiences are plentiful, creating a captivating blend of Asian influences and natural landscapes that, in addition to being featured in every guidebook, provide a unique adventure for every traveler.
There is a contrast of energy, with both the glamorous nightlife and tranquil boat rides, the exhilarating paragliding journey and deeply moving prayers in temples. There is a mesmerizing aspect that compels you to explore an entirely new culture, ask questions, and develop a fondness for Thai cuisines that you have never savored before. Thailand is a multitude of things, and it offers something different to each person. However, what remains constant is the fact that this destination is a must-visit.
Read below for a comprehensive post-Covid travel guide to Thailand that will assist you with your post-pandemic travel planning.
Thailand Travel Advisory During Covid-19
Are you searching for the Thailand travel restrictions for foreigners? After partially lifting a three-month ban on international tourism, Thailand is finally resuming its international tourism by allowing travelers from all countries to further enhance tourism. Tourists, particularly international visitors, play a vital role in Thailand’s economy, and after closing its borders during the outbreak, the country is now experiencing some semblance of normalcy in the travel sector. In addition to announcing the reopening, the country is also offering special extended visas. As the latest developments and guidelines are more crucial than ever, here is what you need to know before planning your journey:
- Currently, Thailand entry restrictions are in effect.
- According to media reports, Thailand is anticipated to reopen for vaccinated visitors from mid-October.
- Travelers must await further notice from the Thailand Embassy before making any plans.
- Restrictions are applicable solely to non-Thailand residents.
- Boating and water sports have partially resumed.
- All restaurants and markets are now operational.
- Sightseeing activities are permitted while adhering to social distancing guidelines.
- Local transport services are available only to residents.
- Tuk-tuks and taxis are operating at full capacity.
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Optimal Time To Visit
The finest and most popular time for tourists to visit Thailand is during the pleasant and dry season between April and November, when temperatures range from 29°C to 34°C. However, Thailand is known as a year-round destination, as different parts of the country offer unique experiences based on the time of year, and none of them should be overlooked. Please note that current travel restrictions in Thailand are still in place.
How To Arrive
The province of Thailand has lifted all travel limitations on local and international visitors including the nation of India. Coverings are still obligatory and promoting physical distance in public venues is recommended to prevent any community contagion. Here are the optimal ways to reach Thailand for your forthcoming journey:
- Visitors can board a flight to the Suvarnabhumi Airport (Bangkok Airport), Don Mueang International Airport, Phuket International Airport, Chiang Mai International Airport, Mae Fah Luang – Chiang Rai International Airport, and Hat Yai International Airport.
- Aerial voyage is the simplest approach to reach Thailand from India and any other means to arrive, including the India-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway, is not recommended due to lack of information on its Covid-19 protocols.
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Navigating
There are merely a handful of locations where the element of navigating is as enjoyable as discovering a new destination, and Thailand is one of them. The contemporary means of transportation such as subway, cab, ferry, bus, and train are highly convenient for international visitors, but if you desire to travel like a local, we strongly advocate climbing aboard a tuk-tuk and journeying around the city while cheerfully shouting Thai greetings.
Places To Explore In Thailand During Covid
There is a plethora of daring and sightseeing endeavors to be discovered in the many cities of Thailand. Merely a brief excursion to Phuket unveils a charming display of 19th-century shophouses and serves as a lively epicurean hub for limitless indulgence. Just a tad farther is Koi Samui, where beaches—particularly the nightlife along the shores—are renowned for their incredibly trendy and relaxing atmosphere. And less than two hours from Koi Samui lies Bangkok, where tourists can immerse themselves in the dynamism of a metropolis or delve into the downtown area for some extraordinary discoveries. Apart from these renowned cities, do yourself a favor and deviate from the usual path with a trip to Krabi, Ko Tao, and Phang Nga Bay. The only necessity is to peruse the post-Covid travel manual to Thailand while delighting in your journey.
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Activities To Engage In Thailand During Covid
After closing down their tourism for months due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Thailand has hit the reset button, reimagining its tourism story to resume travel in a fresh and improved manner. The new realm of Thailand tourism embodies safety and precautions for incoming tourists, as well as a meticulous approach towards eco-friendly tourism, encouraging travelers to discover the natural landscapes the country cherishes and appealing for their conservation for future generations. Most individuals associate Thailand with scuba diving and romantic honeymoon getaways, but there is much more to explore, with a promise that it will only leave you craving for more.
If you are planning a trip in the upcoming months or perhaps in the following year, here is a compilation of some of the finest activities to engage in while in Thailand:
- Indulge in an ethical elephant encounter
- Meet the indigenous communities of northern Thailand
- Embark on an off-the-beaten-track adventure in Chiang Mai
- Visit The Grand Palace in Bangkok
- Explore the UNESCO Heritage site of Khao Yai National Park
Lodging
If you are seeking to reserve a hotel or Airbnb during your travels in Thailand, ensure that you secure your room in advance and complete the obligatory documentation such as any contact tracing forms or checks that may be necessary. All hotels now adhere to the government’s guidelines for reopening, which entail a thorough sanitization process before and after each guest, limited capacity of beds, closure of communal areas like pools and gyms, and contact tracing. This post-Covid travel guide to Thailand aims to bring you up to speed with the latest recommendations and guidelines before you make your accommodations.
Here is a list of measures that Thailand has implemented for the hotel industry to ensure safe and secure travel:
- The Ministry of Public Health’s Emergency Operation Center (EOC) mandates the Alternative State Quarantine (ASQ), which consists of a two-week isolation period at a government-approved hotel before commencing your travels within Thailand.
- If you wish to make reservations for the ASQ package, it is advisable to directly contact the hotels.
- The Thai authorities will issue a Certificate of Entry (COE) which requires proof of an ASQ booking. General hotel reservations will not be authorized.
- As per Thailand quarantine requirements, golf-quarantine has been approved by the government for foreigners, meaning international travelers can choose a pre-booked stay that includes access to a golf course instead of opting for the local state quarantine.
- The ASQ package does not cover consultation fees with doctors or any additional medical treatments at the hospital, except for Covid-19 tests during the quarantine period.
- Please note that any package may be subject to change without prior notice, so it is crucial to stay in touch with the management for any updates.
If you are planning to travel in the near future and wish to book an Alternative State Quarantine (ASQ) hotel, ensure that they offer these facilities in the package for a safe and secure stay:
- COVID-19 screening tests available on-site, with up to two tests included in the package.
- Single occupancy for a minimum of 15 nights.
- Full board meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- Medical staff present for temperature checks, health evaluations, and Covid-19 screening.
Please be aware that this is not an exhaustive list of amenities and some hotels may not offer all of them. It is recommended to check with your accommodation provider.
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Dining Establishments
The hospitality industry in Thailand is reopening but the safety of the travelers and staff remains a top priority. While some of the major restaurants are back to normal operations with a limited capacity, many food establishments have transitioned to delivery-only or takeaway services. Food franchises are also open and welcoming customers with socially distanced seating and disposable cutlery to prevent any transmission. Here are some of the guidelines issued for the dining establishments in Thailand:
- Street-food in local markets is available and offers a limited selection of items on the menu.
- Restaurants and bars are open for on-site dining while maintaining social distancing and following sanitization procedures recommended by the government.
What To Bring
If you are planning a journey to Thailand soon, you will need to pack a few extra items in your backpack considering the ongoing pandemic. The most crucial aspect during your travel is to minimize the risk of getting sick while also keeping those around you safe. Here’s Fred and Fuzzys’s comprehensive list of things to pack:
- Comfortable cotton attire for sightseeing and beachwear.
- A set of disposable face masks or 2-3 reusable face masks.
- Hand sanitizer for personal use and a solution for outdoor/surface use.
- A personal PPE kit that will include a face shield, sanitizer packets, and a pair of disposable gloves for flights, trains, or any form of transportation.
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Travel To-Do List
- Make advance bookings for your travel and accommodation.
- Discuss with your hotel/Airbnb about their sanitation facilities and the Covid-19 related precautions they are taking.
- Obtain the Arogya Setu application on your cellular device.
- Attempt to obtain a test before your journey and keep the certificate indicating that you have tested negative for Covid-19 readily available during your commute.
- Discover the most recent information regarding containment zones in Thailand as non-essential travel is prohibited in any of these zones.
- Have a guide to travel in Thailand after Covid readily available.
- It is compulsory to test for Covid-19 in your home country and carry the certificate of the test before your departure.
- Visa on arrival is currently unavailable for travelers post-Covid, and it is necessary to obtain the required permit or travel visa before going to Thailand.
- The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) advises travelers to greet via a Wai (a traditional Thai greeting) from a distance of 1-2 meters.
- Travelers must wear a mask at all times when in public areas or during their commute. Most places like restaurants and shopping centers may deny entry or impose fines for non-compliance with this guideline.
- Ensure that you have hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes if you plan to participate in adventurous activities.
- Individuals over the age of 65 or children under the age of 10 are advised against undertaking non-essential travel.
- Refer to the post-Covid travel guide to Thailand before planning a trip to the country.
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Additional Travel Tips
Thailand is not only known for its beautiful beaches and cultural attractions, but also for its floating markets, full-moon parties, and unique events like the Loi Krathong Festival. It is a blend of Asian traditions, breathtaking caves, and natural reserves that attract travelers from around the globe. Amidst the bustle, there is a sense of tranquility that allows you to relax with a good book on your balcony while gazing at the endless horizon. There is also an undeniable energy that encourages you to explore Phuket’s nightlife or embark on a spontaneous scuba-diving adventure to discover the vibrant coral life beneath the surface. The best part is the balance it offers and the opportunity to find your own adventure. Keep this post-Covid travel guide to Thailand bookmarked for the latest updates on this destination. Looking for more? Let us assist you in exploring further with our customized itineraries for a trip to Thailand.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to travel to Thailand for non-essential purposes in the upcoming months?
Yes, it is safe to visit Thailand for leisure travel in small groups, as long as you adhere to the health and safety guidelines provided by the health department. According to the CDC, Thailand is classified as one of the safest destinations due to its low number of confirmed cases (4,000) and deaths (less than 100), indicating successful management of the pandemic.
Is self-isolation upon arrival in Thailand mandatory?
Yes, every individual entering the country must undergo a 14-day quarantine at their place of residence or hotel. This measure is taken by the government to prevent community transmission among incoming travelers.
Can I travel to Thailand for a short stay and avoid mandatory quarantine?
According to current guidelines, short-stay visas are not being issued at this time, making it impossible to bypass the mandatory quarantine. The general visa duration is a minimum of 60 days, which can be extended to 90 days with a special visa.
Is the visa on arrival option available in Thailand?
Due to the ongoing pandemic situation, the visa on arrival facility is currently unavailable for tourists. If you plan to travel to Thailand, contact the nearest embassy or consulate in your home country to apply for a visa.
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