thailand reopening borders

Thailand Has Received More Than 300K Tourists Since Scrapping “Test & Go” Scheme

Fully vaccinated travelers entering Thailand under its Test & Go scheme will only need to undergo an RT-PCR test upon arrival instead of two, and one night at a government-approved hotel while awaiting the results.

All non-Thai arrivals need to buy health insurance that covers COVID-19.

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Thailand Reopening – Latest Updates

May 12 – Thailand has received more than 300,000 tourists after scrapping “Test & Go” on May 1.

Fully vaccinated tourists will be able to enter the country with a Thailand Pass and bypass quarantine beginning May 1. RT-PCR Tests are not required before or upon entry.

Those who are not fully vaccinated may still enter Thailand under the Alternative Quarantine scheme or be exempt from quarantine if they can present a Covid-19 RT-PCR test result issued no more than 72 hours before departure.

“After we scrapped the Test & Go scheme on May 1, more than 300,000 tourists entered the country within a week and this is expected to rise between May and September.” Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha said Wednesday

All countries should know that “Thailand has fully reopened for tourism, business, conferences, medical services, and so on,” he added.

COVID-19 situation in Thailand

As of May 12, the country has reported 4,353,237 and 29,314 deaths.

Entry requirements

Phuket, Thailand

As of today, in order to be granted access to the country travelers must,

  • Present proof of vaccination (only WHO-approved vaccines are valid) (to reduce quarantine) – Unvaccinated travelers are currently allowed too.
  • Purchase health insurance that covers COVID-19 treatment up until USD $100.000
  • Show proof of a negative PCR test result taken no longer than 72 hour prior to departure.
  • A 7 to 10 sort of quarantine, if traveling through Thailand’s “Sandbox” scheme.

Notice that different conditions apply depending on the travelers’ destination. Consult with the local government about the specific restrictions. 

Is Thailand open for American tourists? 

Thailand is indeed open to all American business visa holders. For further information on requirements for U.S. citizens to enter the country, visitors should consult the Royal Thai Embassy’s website or go to the Thai embassy in Washington D.C.

Additionally, Thailand is open to all tourists through its “Sandbox” travel sheme.

Impact of COVID-19 in Thailand

Thailand

While Thailand is a success story when it comes to battling the virus, its economy has greatly suffered due to the pandemic.

Prior to Covid-19, Bangkok was the world’s top tourist destination among cities. In April, all incoming flights were banned. With tourism halted, it is estimated that up to 60% of hospitality-related businesses would close by year-end.

The IMF estimated that the economy as a whole will shrink by about 8.5% and over 8 million Thais would lose their livelihood.

Why visit Thailand?

Thailand

For those not into crowds, Thailand offers beautiful natural spaces. With 1,500 miles of coastline, there are beautiful beaches and great diving to be found here.

For those who come for its history and culture. There are ruins dating to the ancient Siamese kingdom, and over 40,000 temples to explore.

One main attraction is the nightlife in places like Bangkok, Phuket, and Pattaya, ranked as the best places for LGBTQ tourists. 

Be sure to check some luxury resorts for reopening deals!

Thailand is a top tourist destination. The country offers so much, from bustling nightlife to serene beaches and flavorful foods rich with spices.

Disclaimer: Travel restrictions and governmental regulations can change rapidly and the information below might be outdated within a few hours. Therefore, double-check all information with your embassy or on official websites. Traveling Lifestyle does not take any responsibility for your decision to travel.