Thailand opened its borders to all vaccinated foreign tourists, including South Africans on 1 October.
Vaccinated travellers now entering Thailand are required to stay in one place for seven days before being allowed to move on to other parts of Thailand.
A government statement said: ‘After months of strict travel restrictions due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Thailand is gearing up for a return to normalcy by easing some travel restrictions and quarantine requirements and allowing normal tourists to enter the country.’
Thailand introduced the ‘sandbox’ initiative in Phuket, where fully vaccinated tourists from eligible countries were not required to undergo a mandatory quarantine, but are required to stay in a designated hotel for seven nights, and are welcome to explore the island of Phuket.
After seven days, tourists may visit other parts of the country. Starting in November 2021, there is a proposal of a sandbox initiative for Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chonburi (Pattaya), and Hua Hin, with details to be announced in the coming days.
South Africans are now eligible for the Phuket sandbox, which will be extended to other regions from November. Unvaccinated travellers will be required to undergo a 10-day mandatory quarantine.
Sandbox requirements
- Vaccine Certificate/proof of vaccination
- ThailandPlus alert application on mobile phone
- RT-PCR COVID 19 test before arrival in Phuket
- COVID-19 Insurance
- Certificate of Entry (COE) issued by Thai Embassy/Consulate
- Stay at SHA+ Hotel in Phuket
- Pre-paid RT-PCR COVID 19 tests in Phuket
Picture: Getaway Gallery
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