Thailand to stay closed until at least March next year

Pileh Lagoon in Ko Phi Phi Island - Thailand

Thailand will remain closed to tourists until at least March next year, according to the country’s Tourism Minister.

The announcement means tourist visas besides the new Tourist Visa (TR) and Special Tourist Visa (STV) will be on hold for now, thwarting hopes of a turnaround in the 2020-2021 season.

Both visas require a 14-day quarantine upon entry to the country and proof of health insurance policy covering all expenses related to COVID-19.

Thailand’s Minister for Sports and Tourism, Pipat Ratchakitprakan, said all talk of potential travel bubbles with “low risk” nations, including Australia and New Zealand, is now on hold, according to The Thaiger.

“The country will continue with opening to businessmen, technical experts, high-level workers and those in the medical field for now,” Ratchakitprakan said.

“Fourteen-day quarantine will continue for now with many countries still in the grip of the pandemic.”

Ratchakitprakan also said Chinese officials are advising caution and have suggested waiting until mid next year before lifting quarantine periods.

The Thaiger reported the minister appears to be appealing to Thai citizens who have indicated via numerous surveys that they are in favour of keeping the borders closed for now.

Travel Weekly has contacted the Tourism Authority of Thailand for comment.


Featured image source: iStock/EPasqualli

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