Thailand is set to reopen more popular tourist destinations, Bangkok Chiang Mai, Hua Hin and Pattaya from 1 October. The reopening scheme starts with Phuket Sandbox from 1 July and continues with the Samui Plus from 15 July, Phuket 7+7 Extension from 15 August. It allows fully vaccinated tourists to travel to Thailand without the need to quarantine. The Royal Thai Government has announced plans to reopen Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chon Buri, Phetchaburi, and Prachuap Khiri Khan from 1 October as part of the second phase of the country’s reopening scheme. From mid-October, another 21 destinations up and down the country will reopen. These include Chiang Rai, Lamphun, Mae Hong Son, Nan, Phrae, and Sukhothai in the North; Bueng Kan, Nong Khai, Ubon Ratchathani, and Udon Thani in the Northeast; Kanchanaburi and Ratchaburi in the West; Chanthaburi, Rayong, and Trat in the East; Ayutthaya in the Central Region, and Nakhon Si Thammarat, Ranong, Satun, Songkhla, and Trang in the South. Thailand is set to proceed with the fourth phase of reopening in January 2022, with 13 border provinces to reopen under travel bubbles with neighbouring countries. Nearly 9 million people have been fully vaccinated nationwide in Thailand. Over 25 million have received their first dose while another over 600,000 people received their third vaccine dose, according to the Ministry of Public Health.

Phuket New!: Phuket adjusts COVID-19 controls and travel screening in September 2021 Click here Phuket adjusts COVID-19 controls and travel screening in September 2021 Click here Phuket Sandbox 7+7 Extension FAQs (Updated) Click here General Information – Phuket Sandbox (Updated) Click here Phuket extends COVID-19 domestic travel screening, control measures until 31 August 2021 Click here Phuket updates COVID-19 control measures during 3-16 August 2021 Click here Ko Samui, Ko Pha-ngan and Ko Tao COVID-19 control Measures for Ko Samui and Ko Pha-nganEffective from today, 24 July, 2021 until further notice Click here Khao Lak, Ko Yao Yai and Ko Yao Noi (Phang Nga) N/A Ko Phi Phi, Ko Ngai and Railay Beach (Krabi) N/A

The Phuket Sandbox reopening scheme, the so-called “Phuket Sandbox 7+7 Extension” has been approved by Thailand’s Centre for COVID-19 Situation Administration (CCSA). This allows travellers from overseas who are fully vaccinated against Covid-19 to enter Phuket, stay on the island for seven days, and then travel on a sealed route to specified destinations in Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, Krabi, Khao Lak and Koh Yao. Moreover Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Hua Hin, and Pattaya, are planned to reopen from 1 October, 2021. Starting from 16 August, 2021, the “Phuket Sandbox 7+7 Extension” programme allows eligible international travellers to reduce the mandatory stay in Phuket from 14 to 7 days. It gives travellers more freedom to visit other southern Thai destinations without the need to quarantine. The 7+7 extension connects with Samui Plus (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao), Krabi and Phang Nga reopening schemes. In Surat Thani, islands open to the travelers include Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao. In Krabi, the popular tourist destinations Koh Phi Phi, Koh Ngai and Railay are open. Khao Lak, Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi in Phang Nga are included in the scheme. The existing entry requirements for the Phuket Sandbox programme remain unchanged for the 7+7 extension. Read more HERE. Travellers are also required to travel from Phuket to the selected areas in Krabi, Phang-Nga, or Surat Thani only via approved routes and modes of transport. Samui Plus – Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, or Koh Tao can be reached via Bangkok Airways’ direct domestic flight on the Phuket-Koh Samui route. Krabi (Koh Phi Phi, Koh Ngai, or Railay) can be reached by SHA Plus-certified boat and ferry services from Ao Po Pier and Rassada Pier. Khao Lak can be reached by SHA Plus-certified car transfer services from Phuket directly to the SHA Plus-certified hotels. Koh Yao Noi or Koh Yao Yai can be reached via SHA Plus-certified boat and ferry services from three approved piers – Ao Po Pier, Ao Po Grand Marina, and Bang Rong Pier – to Koh Yao Yai’s Chonglat Pier and Ban Laem Yai Pier and to Koh Yao Noi’s Manoh Pier. Once travellers have completed the 7-night extension in Krabi, Phang-Nga or Surat Thani (Samui Plus), and are tested negative in their third COVID-19 test (conducted on Day 12-13), they can continue their journey to other destinations in Thailand. If the stay in Krabi, Phang-Nga or Surat Thani (Samui+) is less than 7 nights, travellers must proceed directly to Phuket International Airport on their departure day. At the port of entry back into Phuket, they will need to show a plane ticket or other proof of their international travel from Phuket. While in Thailand, TAT would like to remind all travellers to continue with D-M-H-T-T-A precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19: D – Distancing, M – Mask wearing, H – Handwashing, T – Temperature check, T – Testing for COVID-19, and A – alert application. Key points Fully vaccinated travellers against COVID-19 from approved countries to visit Phuket Sandbox 7+7 Extension. Travellers must take 3 RT-PCR COVID tests during their stay (arrival day, day 6-7, day 12-13) Travellers must stay in Phuket for the first 7 days before traveling to Koh Samui, Koh Tao, Koh Phangan, Khao Lak, Koh Yao, Phi Phi, Railay and Koh Ngai. Travellers can stay less than 14 days. Remarks: Thailand’s Department of Disease Control (DDC) posts a new list of low to medium risk countries for Covid-19 on the 1st and 16th of every month. The information is mostly in Thai. Click here to go to the DDC website. Who? Fully vaccinated travellers who received two doses of the COVID-19 vaccines at least 14 days before their travel date. Children under 18 years travelling with fully vaccinated parents or guardians Must have a negative RT-PCR result issued no more than 72 hours before the travel date When? From 16 August 2021 7 days in Phuket Day 8-14, travellers can combine Phuket with Koh Samui, Koh Tao, Koh Phangan, Khao Lak, Koh Yao, Phi Phi, Railay or Koh Ngai. After 14 days to the rest of Thailand Requirements Proof of COVID-19 vaccination Health insurance covering COVID-19 during the total stay in Thailand. Minimum coverage of 100,000 USD Copy of the payment confirmation at SHA Plus-certified hotel/s during the total stay. Copy of booked and payment confirmation of RT-PCR tests via www.thailandpsas.com. If the length of stay is less than 14 nights, travellers must also present a confirmed flight ticket out of Thailand. Negative RT-PCR result issued no more than 72 hours before the travel date Certificate of Entry (COE). Register online, www.coethailand.mfa.go.th How to Before departure Book direct flights to Phuket. Domestic transit in Thailand is not currently not allowed. Book and prepay SHA+ hotel  Book and prepay RT-PCR tests, www.thailandpsas.com  Buy Insurance  covering COVID-19 treatment (minimum 100,000USD) Proof of vaccination Show a negative RT-PCR test no more than 72 hours before travel date Download and register the Mor Chana Mobile App and Thailand Plus App  Arrival First RT-PCR upon arrival. Children under 6 years of age will receive a COVID-19 saliva test. Transfer to your SHA+ hotel by SHA+ certified transportation provider Stay Wait for your first RT-PCR result in your own hotel room. (about max 12 hours). RT-PCR test on day 6-7 and day 12-13  For those who join Phuket Sandbox 7+7 Extension scheme, after the first 7 days in Phuket and receiving a “Transfer Form” issued by their hotel in Phuket and showing the negative PCR tests, travellers can travel to Koh Samui, Koh Tao, Koh Phangan, Khao Lak, Koh Yao Noi, Koh Yao Yai, Phi Phi, Railay or Koh Ngai. Departure Stay less than 14 days, depart with direct flight to your home country or other countries from Phuket International Airport. After 14 days and obtaining a “Release Form” from their hotel, travellers can continue their journey to other destinations in Thailand. If the stay in Krabi, Phang-Nga, or Surat Thani is less than 7...

Following the footsteps of Phuket Sandbox Model, the Samui Plus program including Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao is set to open for fully vaccinated international travellers from 15 July 2021.  To ensure the safety of international fully vaccinated tourists, the Thai government requires a negative RT-PCR test of visitors including fully vaccinated tourists and children under 18 years no more than 72 hours before the departure date.  Despite similar guidelines for entry requirements, there are differences in how it works. The procedure would be as follows. Arrival day (day 0). RT-PCR test at your “Samui Extra Plus” Hotel and wait for the result in your room. Day 1-3: If showing the negative result,  travellers can relax and enjoy services in the area that the ‘Samui Extra Plus’ hotel has provided. DAY 4-7: Travel on the specified route and program on Koh Samui. We will update the information once available. DAY 6 or 7: The 2nd RT-PCR test at your ‘Samui Extra Plus’ hotel. DAY 8-14: Relaxation: Stay at a ‘SHA Plus’ hotel, and after receiving a negative test result. Travel within Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao with a follow-up with the specified IT system. DAY 12 or 13, The third RT-PCR test will be conducted at the approved hospital. Tourism Authority of Thailand is pleased to give you a quick guideline on how to visit Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao between July and December 2021. Who is eligible? Fully vaccinated travellers against COVID-19 from low and medium risk countries according to the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) and must be in the said countries for at least 21 days before the traveling date. Except those with residence in Thailand returning from a journey in those approved countries/territories. Travellers must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 within 14 days and have a valid vaccine certificate. All travellers, including fully vaccinated tourists as well as children under 18 years must have a medical certificate with a RT-PCR laboratory result indicating that Covid-19 is not detected and issued no more than 72 hours before departure. Unvaccinated children under 18 years can travel with fully vaccinated parents or their guardians. Hotel The first 7 nights’ accommodation in a ‘Samui Extra Plus’ hotel and the remaining 7 nights in a ‘SHA Plus’ hotel (in case of staying less than 7 nights, this document must be for a ‘Samui Extra Plus’ accommodation only). Flight Domestic transit in Bangkok at Suvarnabhumi airport is allowed. Travellers must travel in or out of Thailand via a direct international flight or a dedicated flight by Bangkok Airways to connect with a direct international flight at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport. Before departure to Samui Apply Certificate of Entry (COE) online, https://coethailand.mfa.go.th/ Documents required as following A copy of passport Medical insurance with COVID-19 treatment coverage of at least US$100,000. Vaccine certificate Air ticket Fully paid booking for the first 7 nights’ accommodation in a ‘Samui Extra Plus’ hotel and the remaining 7 nights in a ‘SHA Plus’ hotel (in case of staying less than 7 nights, this document must be for a ‘Samui Extra Plus’ accommodation only). Proof of payment of COVID-19 testing; the number of tests depends on the intended duration of stay. Arrival Arrive at Gate E10, Suvarnabhumi Airport Health Control Checkpoint at Concourse G Install Thailand Plus App Board at Gate D4 Arrive at Samui Airport Install Mor Chana App and Register Samui Health Pass Transfer to your Samui Extra Plus’ hotel in the designated vehicle. During your stay The RT-PCR test will be conducted according to the length of stay (on Day 0, Day 6-7 and 12-13). DAY 0: WAITING: The first RT-PCR test will be conducted at the ‘Samui Extra Plus’ hotel, and the traveller must wait in their room for the result. DAY 1-3 Chilling at the hotel: After receiving a negative test result, travellers can then relax and use services in the area that the ‘Samui Extra Plus’ hotel has allocated. DAY 4-7 Sealed Route: Travellers can travel in districts of Samui according to the specified route and travel programme. We will update the information once available. DAY 6 or 7: The second RT-PCR test will be conducted at the ‘Samui Extra Plus’ hotel. DAY 8-14 Relaxation: Travellers must stay at a ‘SHA Plus’ hotel, and after receiving a negative test result, can travel within Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao with a follow-up with the specified IT system. DAY 12 or 13, The third RT-PCR test will be conducted at the approved hospital. Departure Free to travel to other provinces in Thailand after 14 nights on Koh Samui, Koh Phangan or Koh Tao as long as they provide proof of at least 14 nights stay, 3 RT-PCR test results, and evidence of disease control according to the destination’s regulations.    Read more in details here. FAQ: Frequent asked questions about Samui Plus here Frequent asked questions about Phuket Sandbox here

The Phuket Sandbox model is to reopen Phuket from 1 July. Overseas travellers from certain countries — including Nordics and Baltics — who have been vaccinated against Covid-19 can travel to Phuket without the need to quarantine.  We understand that you may have questions and will do our best to answer them here. The information here is aimed specifically at travellers from the Nordics and Baltics. Different rules may apply if you are travelling from another country. The Phuket Sandbox scheme is open to travellers from designated low/medium risk countries. Phuket Sandbox key points Open to travellers from countries/regions which are deemed low to medium risk (this includes the Nordic and Baltic countries) You can find the list of countries here (update as of 30 June 2021). Must have resided in designated country for at least 21 days before departure to Phuket Proof of Covid-19 vaccination is required (both jabs)Obtain a Certificate of Entry (CoE) before departure Travel insurance with Covid-19 cover(Must cover medical costs up to a minimum of USD 100,000 for the entire duration of your stay in Thailand) Download the Mor Chana and Thailand plus App before departure and upload the required informationMor Chana For Android / For iPhone Travellers must have a medical certificate with a RT-PCR laboratory result indicating that Covid-19 is not detected issued no more than 72 hours before departure Covid-19 screening including RT-PCR tests on arrival in Phuket and further tests on day 6 or 7 and day 12 or 13 of your stay Must pay in advance for Covid-19 tests in Phuket. Cost is approximately 8,000 Baht in total for 3 tests. After 1 August, travellers needs to book RT-PCR Covid-19 test, Swab Appointment System by themselves via the website https://www.thailandpsas.com/SignIn Must fly directly to Phuket International Airport. Domestic transits in Thailand are currently not allowed. Stay at a SHA Plus hotel (this is a hotel with enhanced safety protocols and where at least 70% of staff have been vaccinated) If you wish to travel around Thailand, you must stay in Phuket for a minimum 14 days. Before you go ttps://asq.in.th/phuket-sandbox-hotelsertificate of Entry (CoE) Q. What is the Certificate of Entry (CoE) and where do I get it?  A. The Certificate of Entry (CoE) is a document that is required before flying to Thailand. Application can be made online here: https://coethailand.mfa.go.th/   Insurance Q. I am fully vaccinated (2 jabs), is Covid-19 insurance a must? A. Yes. You need to have insurance for Covid-19 that covers medical costs up to a minimum of USD 100,000 for the entire duration of your stay in Thailand. If you are travelling with children, they will also need to be covered by insurance.   There is some information here from the Thai General Insurance Association. https://covid19.tgia.org/   Vaccine   Q. Can I travel right after getting the vaccine?  A. Visitors need to be fully vaccinated with two shots of the vaccine (one shot for Johnson & Johnson). Vaccination shots need to have been given at least 14 days before boarding your flight to Thailand and no longer than one year before.   The vaccine must be approved by: World Health Organization(WHO) or The Thai Food & Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA approved list includes AstraZeneca, Johnson & Johnson, Moderna, Pfizer, Sinopharm, and Sinovac.   Q. If I have not been vaccinated or only receive 1 dose of for example AstraZeneca, can I still travel to Thailand? A. Yes, you can, but you will need to follow the current entry procedures and enter quarantine on arrival. You can only visit without quarantine if you have been fully vaccinated with both doses of the jab (or one shot for the Johnson & Johnson vaccine).   Travel with Children Q. I am travelling with children under 18 years, do they need to take a RT-PCR test? A. Yes. They must have a medical certificate with a laboratory result by an RT-PRC method indicating that COVID-19 is not detected no more than 72 hours before travel.   List of countries to enter Thailand Q. Where can I find the list of countries that are allowed to enter Thailand? A. You can find the list of countries here (update as of 30 June 2021). List of countries/territories is approved by the Centre for COVID-19 Situation Administration (CCSA), per the guidelines of the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), as proposed by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports (MoTS) and TAT. Flight Q. Which airlines fly directly to Phuket? A. Here is the list of airlines who fly directly to Phuket Emirate: www.emirates.com   Qatar Airways: https://www.qatarairways.com Singapore Airlines: www.singaporeair.com   Thai Airways: www.thaiairways.com Turkish Airlines: https://www.turkishairlines.com   Please check flight schedules on the respective airlines’ websites. In some cases these will be operating as code shares and while not all will be direct in the usual sense, they will be regarded as such because they don’t require transiting via another Thai airport.   Q. Can I fly to Phuket via Bangkok?  A. In time it may be possible, but not as of today as it is not allowed domestic transit in Thailand. Thai authorities are still sorting out the arrangements at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi airport.   Hotel Q. Travellers are required to stay at SHA Plus hotels. What is SHA and SHA Plus? A. SHA is an abbreviation of Amazing Thailand Safety and Health Administration (SHA). To be awarded SHA status, businesses must meet strict safety protocols. The SHA Plus certificate is only granted to businesses that meet all the safety protocols plus at least 70% of their staff have been vaccinated against Covid-19.   Q. Where can I find a list of SHA Plus Hotels? A. You can find SHA Plus hotels in this link: Phuket SHAPlus hotels   Q. How can I book SHA Plus Hotels? A. You can book your SHA Plus hotel on any booking platform or via your travel agency. Please make sure that you get confirmation from SHABA system.    Once you have made your ‘SHA Plus’ hotel...

Phuket is now officially open for fully vaccinated tourists without quarantine from 1st July. Oversea travellers from certain countries — including the Nordic and Baltic countries — who have been vaccinated against Covid-19 can travel to Phuket without the need to quarantine. The Phuket Sandbox model is the first step of the Thailand reopening roadmap and the plan to fully open the country within 120 days.    To ensure the safety of international fully vaccinated tourists, the Thai government requires a negative RT-PCR test of visitors including fully vaccinated tourists and children under 18 years no more than 72 hours before the departure date.   Here is the complete easy guide on what to expect and how to prepare yourself for travelling to Phuket.  Everything you need to know Who   Fully vaccinated travellers against COVID-19 from low and medium risk countries according to the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) and must be in the said countries for at least 21 days before the traveling date.  Thailand’s Department of Disease Control (DDC) posts a new list of a low to medium risk countries for Covid-19 on the 1st and 16th of every month. The information is mostly in Thai. Click HERE to go to the DDC website. Travellers must have a medical certificate with a RT-PCR laboratory result indicating that Covid-19 is not detected and issued no more than 72 hours before departure.  Travellers must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 at least 14 days and not longer than 1 year prior to the travel date.  Unvaccinated children under 18 years can travel with fully vaccinated parents or their guardians. They must have a medical certificate with a RT-PCR laboratory result indicating that Covid-19 is not detected and issued no more than 72 hours before departure.  Where Travellers are free to travel anywhere in Phuket for the first 14 days after receiving the negative RT-PCR result which is done on the arrival day.  Travellers can enjoy day trips and snorkeling at popular islands in Phuket such as: Koh Rang (Yai and Noi), Koh Naka (Yai and Noi), Koh Racha (Yai and Noi), Koh Maprao (Coconut Island), Koh Tapao (Yai and Noi), Koh Loneone, Koh Mai Thon, Koh He (Coral Island) and Koh Bon.  Travellers can travel to the rest of Thailand after 14 days in Phuket.  When  From 1 July, fully vaccinated travellers from approved countries can visit Phuket quarantine-free.  After 14 days in Phuket, travellers can travel to the rest of Thailand.  Travellers can stay in Phuket for fewer than 14 days and return home any time or travel to other countries with direct flights out from Phuket.  Stay Stay at SHA+ (Safety and Health Administration Plus) accommodation in Phuket. Phuket Sandbox hotels Travellers are required to stay at the same SHA+ hotel for the first 7 days. They can change to other SHA+ accommodation afterwards in Phuket. SHA Plus businesses in Phuket.  SHA is an abbreviation of Amazing Thailand Safety and Health Administration (SHA). To be awarded SHA status, businesses must meet strict safety protocols. The SHA Plus certificate is only granted to businesses that meet all the safety protocols plus at least 70% of their staff have been vaccinated against Covid-19.  How  Pre-arrival  Passport with a visa (if any)  Apply Certificate of Entry (COE) online, https://coethailand.mfa.go.th/   All travellers including fully vaccinated tourists and children under 18 years must show a negative RT-PCR result no more than 72 hours before departure to Phuket.  Health insurance covers Covid-19 (minimum coverage of 100,000USD) during the total stay in Thailand  Proof of vaccination at least 14 days before the travel date  Copy of prepaid “SHA+” hotel booking and RT-PCR test  After booking with SHA+ hotel, SHABA ID will be provided for RT-PCR test booking 3 RT-PCR tests costs about 8,000 Baht per person and must be booked via https://www.thailandpsas.com/SignIn with your SHABA ID.   A copy of the flight itinerary. Domestic transits in Thailand are currently not allowed. In case of stay fewer than 14 days, a confirmed flight ticket with outbound flight from Phuket must be shown.  Arrival  Travellers are required to download and activate the Mor Chana Mobile App and Thailand Plus App which provide real-time information about COVID and has built-in contact tracing technology in case of infection.  All travellers must undergo a pre-booked RT-PCR test upon arrival and wait for the result at your accommodation. The test result is issued within 12 hours. If tested positive, travellers will be referred to specified healthcare facilities for medical treatment at their own expense.  Travellers are required to take a SHA Plus certified transportation provider to your SHA Plus hotel.  During your stay  Must take a pre-booked RT- PCR tests.  Stay less than 7 days, take the PCR test on Day 6 or 7.  Stay between 10-14 days, take the second test on Day 6 or 7 and the third test on Day 12 or 13.  Children under 6 years do not need to take any RT-PCR test during the stay.  Children age 6-18 years must undergo RT-PCR tests during the stay.  If tested negative, travellers can enjoy their vacation in Phuket. If tested positive, travellers will be referred to specified healthcare facilities for medical treatment at own expense.  Follow the DMHTTA precautions: D – Distancing, M – Mask wearing, H – Handwashing, T – Temperature check, T – Testing for COVID-19, and A – alert application.  It is recommended to use only SHA PLus services (restaurants, tours & excursions). Here is the update list of SHA Plus business in Phuket  Departure  For travelling from Phuket to other countries, travellers are advised to follow the guidelines and measures announced by the respective country of their destination.  For travelling from Phuket to other Thai destinations, travellers are required to show proof that they have completed a 14-night stay accommodation along with other required documentation per the guidelines and measures announced by the respective destinations.  Remarks  The cost of an RT-PCR covid test ranges from 2,400-4,000 Baht per person.  RT-PCR Covid-19 testing in Phuket is available as follows  – Phuket Swab Center Maikhao operated by Bangkok Hospital Phuket  – Phuket Swab Center Laguna operated by Bangkok Hospital Phuket  – PhuketPhuket Swab Center Central Phuket operated by Vachira Phuket Hospital   – Phuket Swab Center Jungceylon operated by Bangkok Hospital Siriroj  – Phuket Swab Center Kata Center operated by Mission Hospital Phuket  For more information, please...

Thailand is ready to welcome international vaccinated visitors without quarantine. The reopening country model starts from reopening Phuket from 1 July, Samui, Phangan and Koh Tao from 15 July, followed by other destinations, including Krabi, Phang Nga (Khao Lak), Pattaya, Chiang Mai and Buri Ram in the following months. The plan was approved by the Centre for COVID-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) on Friday June 18 and will be submitted for final approval from the Cabinet. Minister of Tourism and Sports H.E. Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said, “Thai Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha on June 7th  has set a goal to reopen Thailand to fully vaccinated foreign visitors without quarantine within the next 120 days. If Bangkok or any of the 76 provinces are ready to reopen from October, provided that the local population are inoculated, and the infection rate is at no more than 20-30 cases daily.” This gives hope and confidence to the Thai tourism industry as well as to ensure the safety of the Thais and international visitors. Timeline for reopening Thailand July – August 2021 The ‘Island Approach’ will begin with Phuket from 1 July, followed by Surat Thani, including Samui-Phangan-Tao from 15 July. The approach will continue in August with an ‘Extension’ concept to be introduced. For Example, travel to Phuket and combine with Krabi, including Phi Phi, Koh Ngai and Railay or Phang Nga (Khao Lak and Koh Yao). September 2021 From September, certain areas in Chiang Mai, Chonburi (Pattaya) and Buri Ram) will be opened for vaccinated tourists without quarantine. Chiang Mai: Mueang, Mae Rim, Mae Tang and Doi Tao Districts Chon Buri (Pattaya): Neo Pattaya, Pattaya City and Bang Lamung and Sattahip Districts Buri Ram: Mueang District and the Chang Arena. October 2021 and onwards From October,  Bangkok, Cha-Am and Hua Hin, as well as any other Thai destinations that are ready, will be reopened to vaccinated foreign tourists without quarantine. TAT is also considering the reopening of other destinations with nearby tourist islands, including Pattaya (Ko Lan) and the provinces in the Eastern Economic Corridor (Chachoengsao, Chon Buri and Rayong). Guidelines for reopening Phuket, Samui, Phang Ngan and Koh Tao Pre-arrival Visitors must travel from countries/regions with a low to medium risk of SAR-CoV-2 virus as announced and constantly updated by the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH). They must also have already stayed in the said countries/regions no less than 21 days before the travel date. They must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 with a vaccine registered with the MoPH or approved by the World Health Organisation (WHO) no less than 14 days before the travel date, and must have a vaccine certificate to verify their vaccination; Children under 6 years of age are allowed when travelling with fully vaccinated parents or guardians; Travellers who have a history of COVID-19 infection must also be fully vaccinated no less than 14 days before the travel date; Travellers must have a medical certificate with an RT-PCR laboratory result indicating that COVID-19 is not detected issued no more than 72 hours before departure; Travellers must have a COVID-19 health insurance policy with a minimum coverage of US$100,000. Travellers who are qualified and equipped with the required documents are advised to submit an application for the Certificate of Entry (COE) via www.entrythailand.go.th Arrival Undergo Immigration and Customs procedures, and a COVID-19 screening, including RT-PCR tests; Download and install the alert application; Go directly to your reserved hotel to wait for the test results; Arrivals to Phuket must check-in at the pre-booked SHA Plus-certified accommodation establishment; Arrivals to Ko Samui must check-in at alternative local quarantine (ALQ) facilities; If tested negative for COVID-19, travellers to Phuket can go anywhere in Phuket. Travellers to Ko Samui can leave their room for facilities and services within their accommodation only. Stay For travellers to Phuket: Travellers who wish to visit Phuket only, no minimum stay is required but they must leave Phuket (Thailand) for another country before the intended departure date. For travellers who wish to continue the journey to other Thai destinations, they must stay in Phuket for 14 nights, and thereafter will be allowed to travel domestically. For travellers to Ko Samui: During the 1st-3rd nights, travellers can leave their room for facilities and services within their accommodation only. During the 4th-7th nights, travellers can travel on specified routes within Ko Samui only. During the 8th-14th nights, travellers can travel between Ko Samui, Ko Phangan and Ko Tao. Undergo a COVID-19 test using an RT-PCR method per the MoPH’s guidelines; Travellers are advised to strictly follow the DMHTTA precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19: D – Distancing, M – Mask wearing, H – Handwashing, T – Temperature check, T – Testing for COVID-19, and A – alert application. Domestic Departure For travelling from Phuket or Samui-Phangan-Tao to other Thai destinations, travellers are required to show proof that they have completed a 14-night stay along with the other required documents per the guidelines and measures announced by the respective province of destination.  

 The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is pleased to provide the initial information on the ‘Phuket Sandbox’ model to safely reopen Phuket to fully vaccinated international travellers from 1 July, 2021. This is a living document, which the TAT will provide more details on the Phuket Sandbox model as soon as officially approved directives from the Royal Thai Government are available. Phuket Sandbox At a glance Applicable for international travellers who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 no less than 14 days, but no later than 1 year before the travel date. They must also be from countries/regions with a low to medium risk of SAR-CoV-2 virus as announced and constantly updated by the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH). Applicable for children under 6 years of age travelling with fully vaccinated parents or guardians. Applicable for children between 6 and 18 years of age travelling with fully vaccinated parents or guardians, but they are required to take a COVID-19 test upon arrival at their own expense. All vaccinated international arrivals must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 with a vaccine registered with the MoPH or approved by the World Health Organisation (WHO). All arrivals are required to download and install the ThailandPlus application on their smartphones, and must keep the app on all the time, as they move to different locations around Phuket. All arrivals are required to stay in an accommodation establishment that is certified with the Amazing Thailand Safety and Health Administration (SHA) Plus certification for no less than 14 nights, and thereafter will be allowed to travel to visit other Thai destinations. All COVID-19 tests must follow the guidelines by the MoPH. Travellers are allowed to engage in any tourism activities but are advised to strictly follow the DMHTTA precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19: D – Distancing, M – Mask wearing, H – Handwashing, T – Temperature check, T – Testing for COVID-19, and A – contact tracing application (Thai Chana and Mor Chana). Foreign Traveller Journey Pre-arrival In order to be eligible to enter in Thailand, vaccinated international travellers – and their children – need to have all of their advance arrangements in good order for arrival and entry. These include: A vaccine certificate to proof that they are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 no less than 14 days, but no later than 1 year before the travel date with a vaccine registered with the MoPH or approved by the World Health Organisation (WHO); A valid visa; A Certificate of Entry (COE) issued by the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate; A COVID-19 health insurance policy with a minimum coverage of US$100,000; A confirmation of booking for 14 nights in a SHA Plus-certified accommodation; A medical certificate with an RT-PCR laboratory result indicating that COVID-19 is not detected issued no more than 72 hours before departure; The duration of stay can be less than 14 days, but travellers must leave Phuket on or before the permit to stay date. Arrival Undergo Immigration and Customs procedures, and a COVID-19 screening, including RT-PCR tests; Download the ThailandPlus application; Check-in at the pre-booked SHA Plus-certified accommodation establishment and stay there for no less than 14 nights. Stay Undergo a COVID-19 test using an RT-PCR or a rapid antigen method on Day 5 of your arrival per the MoPH’s guidelines; Engage in tourism activities or enjoy services in SHA Plus-certified venues and businesses, under the DMHTTA precautions; For emergency in case of having respiratory or other related symptoms, please alert the staff at your accommodation or contact the nearest hospital; The operator/owner of the accommodation establishment is required to report the name list and status of all foreign guests to the provincial authority on a daily basis. Departure For travelling from Phuket to other Thai destinations, vaccinated international travellers are required to show a vaccine certificate and a medical certificate that they have tested negative for COVID-19; For travelling from Phuket to other countries, travellers are advised to follow the guidelines and measures announced by the respective country of destination. Relevant information Child Policy Children under 6 years of age must travel only with their parents or guardians who have been vaccinated; In the case the parents or guardians are found to have COVID-19, the children are to be placed in isolation for 14 days. Countries The Phuket Sandbox is applicable only for fully vaccinated international travellers from countries/regions with a low to medium risk of SAR-CoV-2 virus as announced and constantly updated by the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH). *The list will be available soon.   High-risk countries are not allowed entry at this stage. Visa & Certificate of Entry Every traveller must obtain a Certificate of Entry (COE) at https://coethailand.mfa.go.th/.  Check the website to see the required documents; Embassy/Consulate-General takes 3 working days to process the application; Applicants can check the result of the application on the website. Insurance International travellers must have an insurance covering treatment and medical expenses in relation to COVID-19 with a minimum coverage of US$100,000. The insurance must cover the total duration of stay in Thailand. Vaccines   International travellers who have received the following vaccines are able to enter Phuket:– WHO approved vaccines;– Vaccines approved by the government of each country;– Thai FDA approved vaccines (5): AstraZeneca, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson, Sinovac Biotech, and Sinopharm. Arrivals must be vaccinated more than 14 days to 1 year before entering Phuket. Proof of vaccination must be submitted when applying for a COE. Airlines Airlines that have announced direct flights to Phuket:– THAI– Singapore Airlines– Emirates– Qatar Airways– Hongkong Airlines– EVA Air– Korean Air– Jinair– Cathay Pacific– KLM   Please check the flight schedule on the respective airline’s websites.   Please be aware that some airlines are unable to operate into your home country for your return. Before Arrival in Phuket You must get an RT-PCR COVID-19 test within 72 hours before arrival in Phuket and submit proof to the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs when obtaining your COE. At the Airport You must download the Thailand Plus application. At Immigration, you are required to complete your arrival card, show your COE and passport. SHA & SHA Plus+ ‘SHA’...

Even though the pandemic has brought the stop the world, it has also allowed the nature to revive and heal itself.  In Phuket, we had witnessed many leatherback turtles have returned to lay their eggs after a long time of absence since 2017. These ancient leatherback turtles are the largest turtle in the world both for fresh water and sea water. What make them so unique is their leather shells and the pattern that look like starfruit. Since they rely fully on nature for their well-being, fertile nature become most impact factor of their distinction. Phuket and Phang Nga are the ideal places for them to lay eggs especially when the tourists were away.   On the morning of new year 2021, one of the leatherback mothers came ashore to lay her eggs on Kata Beach, one of the most popular beaches in Phuket. The number of nests continue to grow from 13 nests last year to 18 nests altogether this year. This phenomenon is one of the evident that nature have return to fertility.   After the world return to its normal stage, Thailand will continue to work on green tourism and welcome all the travelers close to the nature and the beauty that Thailand has to offer.