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July 2, 2022

2020-2022: The covid archives (part 2)

Should you ever get nostalgic, here's every pandemic update I wrote, buried in the deepest corner of the internet I can find.

This post may contain affiliate links, from which I receive a small commission on any resulting purchases at no cost to the customer. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. It keeps The Koh Samui Guide ad-free, never sponsored and 100% independent. See privacy policy for more details.

Should you ever get nostalgic about 2020 (and 2021 ... and a decent chunk of 2022)... here's every pandemic update I wrote, buried in the deepest corner of the internet I can find. 27,445 words on covid-era Thailand travel. >>Shudder<<. Below, find everything that was in descending chronology.

Much more fun to read? The Koh Samui Guide. Unlike much of the below, it involves planes and alcohol.

July 2021

Is Koh Samui calling? As of July 15th, the welcome mat is officially out for any eligible travellers who'd like four covid tests and plenty of paperwork to feature in their holiday. Or perhaps you've been waiting for a way to return to Thailand without 14 days' hotel room quarantine. Settle in (no seriously, get a drink if not an entire bottle ... there's a lot of detail) for your step-by-step guide to Samui Plus (the slightly stricter sister programme to Phuket Sandbox). Enjoy and – as always – subscribe for updates as Thailand's covid travel regulations continue to change and, hopefully sometime soon, return to normal.

‍Phuket Sandbox UpdatesThe Phuket Sandbox began on July 1 as a way to welcome fully vaccinated international travellers to the island as safely as possible. You can find all the details, including how to qualify and apply, with hotel recommendations below.

‍After two weeks of the Phuket Sandbox – how’s it going?

‍So far, approximately four thousand people have arrived in Phuket, the majority of whom are foreigners – a mixture of tourists, expats and those with family links to Phuket. Of these four thousand, there have been six – updated – ten positive covid cases and three jailbreaks. Yes, everyone’s favourite type of pandemic participant – three of them – found their way to Phuket and had places to be and people to see. Tracking and restrictions have been tightened as a result – no word on whether the naughty three were returned to their really nice SHA Plus+ sandbox hotels … or put in the stocks.

‍From Phuket Sandbox ... into quarantine

Important ("Read it and understand!"):

‍As for the positive covid cases, here’s a crucial point for both Phuket Sandbox and Koh Samui’s equivalent, Samui Plus: anyone who has been in contact with the covid patient goes into quarantine. The contact might be as random as another passenger sitting nearby on your flight, or someone booked on the same tour group. Just understand, before spending any time or money in preparation for Phuket Sandbox or Samui Plus, that you can take every masked, distanced precaution and still end up in quarantine.

In practice this means you decamp to an Alternative Local Quarantine (ALQ) hotel at no notice, at your own cost. Yep, straight back in time to spring 2020: four walls of a hotel room for 14 nights. Note as well that choice is limited for ALQ hotels – no promises you’ll love those four walls. On Phuket, ALQ options start at THB3400 per night (US$105 or £75) … times 14 nights … for somewhere you don’t want to be. Of those quarantined in one of the Phuket cases, 12 of the 13 have requested to leave Thailand and return home.

In sum, Phuket Sandbox is going well for 99.85% of its participants … minus the very unlucky few spending fourteen days inside a hotel they didn’t choose, following potential covid exposure from total strangers.

Meanwhile, Phuket schools have closed for the next two weeks as both Beta and Delta variants have been confirmed on the island. And it's rainy season.

‍Vaccines in Thailand

‍Good news! Those that were fully or partially vaccinated with Sinovac, particularly medical and other frontline workers, will receive an AstraZeneca booster shot. Vaccine drives have been underway on Samui for the past few weeks and have begun in Bangkok as well. First shots are ongoing and second doses will hopefully begin in September. As mentioned, Japan has donated AstraZeneca doses and the U.S. has donated Pfizer supplies. It’s slow, but it’s happening.

‍July 2021 – Covid Update

‍While Phuket and Samui put out the welcome mat to overseas visitors, the covid situation is as dire as it has ever been in Bangkok and surrounding areas. Case numbers this week (over 90,000 active cases) are at an all-time high. Rather than a return to tourism, a new terminal at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport will be a temporary covid field hospital.“There were 992 deaths in June, more than 15 times Thailand’s total for all of 2020.” – Associated Press

‍Bangkok: This week, Bangkok and its five surrounding provinces went into lockdown (or lockdown-lite). Restrictions include a nightly curfew (9 pm to 4 am), with shops, markets and public parks closed at 8 pm. Residents are allowed to grocery shop, attend a vaccine or doctor’s appointment but are otherwise asked to stay at home. Bars, clubs and other forms of “fun with fellow humans” remain closed nationwide.

In prior lockdowns, people left the city which led to countrywide spread. This week, 80 military checkpoints are in place to prevent people from leaving Bangkok for non-essential travel.

‍Flights: AirAsia has cancelled domestic flights through July. This won’t affect Samui Plus as those flights are sealed routes with Bangkok Airways (details follow below).

‍Samui Plus Your Total Guide to Samui Plus (July 15)

‍And on that note – let’s learn about Samui Plus. To understand the basic concept, start with your total guide to the Phuket Sandbox. Though the names differ, the two programmes are similar from application through to arrival. The specifics of the hotels vary slightly, explained below.

‍To reiterate your risks as a Samui Plus or Phuket Sandbox traveller: Even though you’re fully vaccinated and have tested negative before departure, you will still be hotel-quarantined (at your expense) if you’ve had contact with any positive cases. Even if it’s a guy somewhere on your flight who you didn’t even see. If you’re the positive case … you won’t like it one bit. Samui’s covid patient quarantine is not plush. Not. Plush.

‍Who is eligible for Samui Plus?

Countries: 69 countries are eligible for Samui Plus including Australia, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Netherlands, New Zealand, Singapore, Sweden, UAE, UK, U.S. (Countries that Thailand deems low- and medium-risk). Note that while Thailand might list your country as eligible, the reverse might not be true. Japan, for instance, has just banned arrivals from Thailand owing to the current outbreak and Brits have their Amber List memorised – with Thailand front and centre.

‍Fully vaccinated: As with the Phuket sandbox, you must be fully vaccinated with a WHO-approved vaccine, for at least two weeks, and you must have been in your eligible departure country for at least 21 days. (See more eligibility details in my Phuket Sandbox guide).

‍To apply for either programme:https://coethailand.mfa.go.th/

‍How does Samui Plus work?

‍In practice, it’s the stricter sibling of Phuket Sandbox. If you qualify, you apply for entry and prepare a thick stack of required paperwork (which must all be in English). This includes a Thai tourist visa (if required) and compulsory covid insurance. You book a flight to Bangkok and, on the same ticket, a connecting flight to Samui with Bangkok Airways.

Covid tests before departure and on arrival.

Install not one but two tracking apps on your phone.

Once on Samui, you spend the first day in your hotel room awaiting your covid test results.

From then (if negative), days 1-3 within the hotel grounds.

Days 4, 5, 6 and 7 offer the chance to do some limited sightseeing with an approved tour or transport company.Another covid test.

Day 8 (week 2), if negative, you’re allowed to change to a different hotel – here you get more hotel choices and can travel from Samui to Koh Phangan or Koh Tao if you choose.

Day 12 or 13? Another covid test.

After 14 nights you’re eligible to depart Samui and travel elsewhere in Thailand.

Otherwise, you can travel home – vacation thus vacationed.

‍How is Samui Plus different from Phuket Sandbox? Many aspects are the same but Samui Plus is more strict.

‍Island travel: Phuket Sandbox gives visitors the freedom to travel around the island following a negative covid test on arrival. Samui Plus requires a three-day quarantine period within the hotel property and “sealed” sightseeing possible starting on day 4.

‍Hotel choices: Phuket Sandbox requires visitors to stay in SHA Plus+ hotels, which can be booked directly or through a reservations site like Booking.com. There’s a great selection, with options at all price points. Samui Plus requires 7 nights’ stay at an Alternative Local Quarantine hotel (aka a ‘Samui Extra Plus’ hotel or villa) which must be booked directly. On day 8, you can check into an SHA Plus+ hotel, booked through your preferred method – e.g. direct or Booking.com.

‍What can I not do on Samui with Samui Plus? Let’s start with transport. You can’t rent a car or a scooter. Your only means of transport, when allowed to go places, is through approved transport and tour companies. Once four negative covid tests (before departure, on arrival, on day 6/7 and day 12/13) mean freedom, you’re asked to only dine at SHA Plus+ restaurants. Note that countrywide covid restrictions mean that bars outside of hotels remain closed and that a majority of Samui’s tourist shops, services and businesses are currently closed (get totally up-to-date details in The Koh Samui Guide).

Want an island vacation right now? Choose two hotels you love and bring a stack of books. (Then choose your plane neighbours carefully – one dodgy choice could mean this is all for nought and you’re in hotel room quarantine for 14 days).

‍How to fly to Koh Samui for Samui Plus? Whereas Phuket offers direct international flights, Samui Plus is served with Bangkok Airways connections from Bangkok. Only three daily flights (three in each direction) are available for Samui Plus and they’re supremely sealed from gate to gate:

‍From Bangkok to Koh Samui10:05 depart BKK / 11:35 arrive USM (PG 5125)14:35 depart BKK / 16:05 arrive USM (PG 5151)17:10 depart BKK / 18:40 arrive USM (PG 5171)

‍From Koh Samui to Bangkok12:15 depart USM / 13:45 arrive BKK (PG 5126)16:45 depart USM / 18:15 arrive BKK (PG 5152)19:20 depart USM / 20:50 arrive BKK (PG 5172)To book your flights, it will probably be easier to use a travel agent as both your international flight into Bangkok and your Samui connection (on one of the three flights above) need to be issued on the same ticket. (Thai Airways offers an online booking option if you love internet-DIY). Note that you’ll collect your bags in Samui and will see not one inch of Bangkok.

‍What’s the schedule for Samui Plus?

Note: Day 0 vs Day 1

‍If you arrive on Samui between midnight and 6 pm (on flights PG 5125 or 5151), that’s considered Day 1. If you arrive after 6 pm (PG 5171), that’s considered Day 0.

‍Day 0: Arrival and covid test

‍Arrive in Samui and receive cold lemongrass towels? No. How about a covid test. Go straight to your Samui Extra Plus hotel or villa (aka Alternative Local Quarantine) with approved transport (included with your booking) – no independent arrangements and no stops allowed. You’ll stay in your hotel room until the covid test results – for the sake of this example schedule, let’s assume it’s negative. (Once again: Not. Plush).

‍Days 1, 2 and 3: Hotel days

‍With a negative test result, you’re allowed to wander around your hotel and use its facilities. Do check in advance what’s open and available – photos of lavish buffets or extensive spa services might not represent current options. For reference, AVANI+ Samui offers floating yoga, guided meditation, kayaking and paddleboarding.

‍Days 4, 5, 6 and 7

‍Still covid-free? ‘Sealed activities’ are now available to you. A trip to Angthong Marine Park is likely as it’s an easily contained outing and perhaps visits to a small Samui Plus beach. If you love following a flag, this is your moment. Wherever you go, you’ll get there with an approved tour guide and/or transport company. Again, no car/scooter rentals and no ‘fun and flouncy’ independent island adventures until released on day 15. You can see Samui … but you can’t touch it. (That’s next week).On day 6 or 7 you’ll have your penultimate covid test and a negative result here means you can change hotels on day 8: departing a limited range of ‘Samui Extra Plus’ (ALQ) hotels for the greater choices of SHA Plus+ hotels (see below for details).

‍Days 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14

‍In your second week of being certified covid-free, you can stay at an SHA Plus+ hotel or villa on Koh Samui, or, take an approved ferry service to Koh Phangan or Koh Tao and stay at an SHA Plus+ hotel/villa on either of those islands.

‍Day 15+

‍After 14 nights you’re able to depart any of the three islands and travel to other parts of Thailand – but remember Bangkok is currently in lockdown so ... maybe stay put.

‍Where can I stay on Koh Samui for Samui Plus?

‍There’s a key distinction to make. Samui Plus is 14 nights total (or 15 nights if you arrive after 6 pm), but your options expand in the second week. Nights 0 (if applicable), 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 must be spent at a Samui Extra Plus hotel or villa (aka Samui Extra hotels aka Alternative Quarantine aka AQ hotel aka Alternative Local Quarantine aka ALQ hotel) on Koh Samui. Nights 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14 can be spent at an SHA Plus+ hotel on Koh Samui, Koh Phangan or Koh Tao.

‍Samui Extra Plus hotels

‍You have to stay at one of the following hotels or villas through night 7. Only these ones. It must be booked directly. Packages will include airport transfer, covid tests galore and are typically full board (meals included) with tax and service also included. As a price reference, AVANI+ Samui Resort’s package starts at THB 51,000 per person for 8 days/7 nights (approx US$1560, £1130 or €1325). A second adult or child sharing the room costs THB 31,000 or THB 24,000 respectively. Packages increase for upgraded rooms including those with private pools.

‍Hotels (alphabetically)

‍I’ve linked these to Agoda and Booking.com so you can easily compare rating, facilities and room choices, however, Samui Extra Plus hotels (nights 0-7) must be booked directly.‍

Aura Samui Best Beach

‍AVANI+ Samui (8.7/10)

‍Baan Hin Sai Resort & Spa (7.2/10)

‍The Briza Beach Resort Samui (8.0/10)

‍The Fair House Beach Resort & Hotel (7.8/10)

‍Fair House Villas & Spa (8.4/10)

‍The Lamai Samui (9.2/10)

‍The Samui Beach Resort (7.8/10)

‍The Spa Resorts Samui (7.5/10)

‍Villas (alphabetically)

‍Tawantok Beach Villa

‍Koh Samui SHA Plus+ hotels

‍As with SHA Plus+ hotels available in Phuket Sandbox, you’re welcome to book these hotels through your preferred method – whether directly or on Booking.com. The “Plus” designation indicates that ≥70% of the hotel’s staff is fully vaccinated, so expect these options to expand as vaccine supply increases.

‍For now, my top 5 recommended SHA Plus+ hotels include:

‍Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui (9.6/10)

‍Bo Phut Resort and Spa (9.5/10)

‍Melia Koh Samui (9.5/10)

‍Banana Fan Sea Resort (9.4/10)

‍The Sunset Beach Resort & Spa (9.4/10)

‍So, what do you think of Samui Plus?

‍As an alternative to Alternative State Quarantine (ASQ), it absolutely appeals. As a casual tourist happy to enjoy some slightly restricted hotel time – aware of the potential for quarantine – go for it.Otherwise? If you’re just starting to get a sense of safety, real-life and associated freedoms in your own country, perhaps stay put for the time being. Especially while bars and schools are shut, and parts of Suvarnabhumi Airport house covid patients. Send your support, jump into travel research and take the time to save up for some truly lavish experiences.

To support Thailand in the meantime, please consider sending some help. Whether your preferred cause is people and food banks, dogs, cats or elephants, the environment or education, this list offers nine ways to help and it’s genuinely needed. More to follow soon – subscribe to updates.

‍Resources and Further Reading

June 2021

You know everyone's favourite covid phrase "hopefully soon"? Use it here. Then smile, and stare with hope, patience and beady-eyed determination at the near future. Soon is coming. Read on to see what's new in Thai travel regulations, what's changed ... and how to swap quarantine for a Phuket sandbox.

‍Updates to previous posts

14-Day Alternative State Quarantine (ASQ): For a brief moment, Alternative State Quarantine (ASQ) periods were reduced from 14 days to 7 days if fully vaccinated and 10 days for most other travellers (excluding many African countries). With the rise of the Delta variant and a third/fourth wave ongoing in Thailand, this has been reversed.

‍ASQ is now 14 days for everyone (both Thai and foreign) who comes to Thailand and either has to, or chooses to, stay in ASQ rather than the new Phuket Sandbox option (keep reading – it's detailed below). Additionally, "Outside Leisure Time" has been stopped for ASQ inmates guests so you'll have to make your own entertainment for all 14 days within your room. Were you feeling nostalgic for March 2020? ASQ awaits, with three mandatory covid tests per stay.

‍Golf Quarantine: Golf Quarantine has been cancelled until further notice. No word on Yacht Quarantine, though the requirement to supply your own Bezos-style mega yacht may have limited its subscribers.

‍Thai hotels: Many Thai hotels in major tourist hubs remain "moth-balled" or shut to guests while major refurbishments take place during this understandably quiet period. Just 38% of Thai hotels continue regular operations and, in June, nationwide occupancy was 6%. If you're desperate to travel, my best suggestion is to start window-shopping for 2022. Those that have been closed to tackle maintenance projects will be so excited to welcome you back – truly better than ever. I'll have plenty of suggestions and updates on the way in due course (join my email list to get them all).

‍June 2021 – Covid update / Vaccination in Thailand

‍As of today, 2.6% of the Thai population has been fully vaccinated. The other 97.4%, which includes many expats, wait in the "Hopefully Soon" bracket. (@RichardBarrow has the latest from various embassies on their plans to vaccinate expats – or not). The Bangkok Post reports that covid hospital beds in Bangkok are full or nearly full so ... let's hope these vaccines get going.

Much of this 2.6% (1.8 mililion people) has been vaccinated with Sinovac so ... we watch and wait from a distance of your choosing. Japan just announced that it will donate an unspecified number of AstraZeneca vaccines to Thailand, likely in July. Meanwhile domestically produced AstraZeneca is coming ... hopefully soon.

‍Case numbers and variants

‍After months of successful containment, parts of Thailand have been experiencing waves of higher infection since April, ongoing today. Today (June 22), there were just over 4,000 new cases nationwide with approximately 35,000 people currently receiving medical treatment. While the majority of tested cases (88%) were the Alpha variant (what no one calls "good old regular covid"), the Delta variant was reported in 400 Bangkok cases as of last week.

‍Yellow, orange and red zones

‍Thailand's covid strategy is divided by provinces into five zones (only four are currently in use), depending on the severity of a province's covid case numbers. Rules and restrictions vary by zone, though many are nation-wide.

‍Bangkok: Dark Red Zone (Maximum and Strict Control)

‍Chiang Mai: Yellow Zone (High Surveillance Area)

‍Koh Samui (Surat Thani): Yellow Zone (High Surveillance Area)

‍Pattaya (Chon Buri): Red Zone (Maximum Controlled Area)

‍Phuket / Krabi: Yellow Zone (High Surveillance Area)A Green Zone (Surveillance Area) exists on paper, but it hasn't been assigned to any lucky provinces yet.

‍Domestic travel between zones

‍Currently, if you want to travel from a red/dark red zone to a yellow zone (e.g. from Bangkok to Koh Samui), you must quarantine (at home or a hotel of your choosing) for 14 days, with daily reporting by phone.

Domestic (inter-province) quarantine is not required if:(A) you're fully vaccinated and have proof of such and/or;(B) you've received a negative covid test (RT-PCR) within 72 hours of arrival to the destination province. Elective covid tests are approximately THB 2,500 to THB 4,000 (US$80 to $125) and can be arranged at Bangkok hospitals.

‍Current rules and restrictions

Mandatory masks (nationwide): Masks remain mandatory and must be worn in any public place (even outside) as soon as you leave your house or accommodation. Fines are steep (as this guy will tell you).

‍Alcohol, pubs and bars (nationwide): Pubs and bars remain closed nationwide, including karaoke. Also – read this twice – no alcohol sales or consumption is allowed in restaurants (except restaurants at SHA Plus hotels – explained below – which can serve alcohol to guests. I think.). As Bangkok's April outbreak and subsequent third wave began in nightclubs, this regulation is expected to remain in place for awhile, at least through July.

‍Restaurants: Restaurant restrictions vary depending on the zone.

Yellow Zones (e.g. Samui, Phuket): Business as normal* – normal hours and inside dining is allowed (except alcohol cannot be served ... unless – maybe – it's a SHA Plus hotel).
Orange Zones: Inside dining allowed.
Red Zones: Inside dining allowed until 11pm.
Dark Red Zones (e.g. Bangkok): Inside dining allowed until 11pm but only at 50% capacity in air-conditioned spaces.

*'New' normal – Note that in areas that relied primarily on tourists (e.g. Koh Samui, Phuket), many restaurants are closed (either permanently or moth-balled temporarily to save expenses). You won't starve – there's still plenty of choice and wonderful delivery options if quarantining, but expect fewer choices and a generally quiet island.

‍New and upcoming travel options

July 1: “Phuket Sandbox”

‍July 15: “Samui Plus” (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao)

‍October (maybe?): Krabi, Phang Nga, Pattaya, Chiang Mai and Buri Ram hope to re-open, then Bangkok – provided they have reached a 70% vaccination rate.

Both “Phuket Sandbox” and “Samui Plus” are the first phase of Thailand's reopening to fully vaccinated international tourists without quarantine. But let's get to everyone's favourite part of tropical travel: the fine print, the paperwork, the forms and certificates...

‍Phuket Sandbox (July 1)

‍As of June 22, the Phuket Sandbox plan was approved by the Thai Cabinet and will be signed-and-sealed as official once published in The Royal Gazette. However, as with anything/everything covid – it could all change with little notice depending on case numbers. As we've seen with ASQ duration, golf quarantine and other best-laid plans, things change.

This sandbox scheme will be paused if there are 90 new covid cases in a week on Phuket (for reference, this week had 5). If you want to play in the sandbox, please triple-check that any reservations can be refunded and/or rearranged.

Also – note that an estimated 75% of Phuket tourist businesses are currently shut. This is phase one of "bushwhacking our way towards to the Future Times" – it's not normal (yet). My suggestion is that the sandbox model will suit (A) anyone who has to be in Thailand and prefers going outside to 14 days of ASQ and (B) holiday-makers who will enjoy two weeks of laziness within a resort ... but can deal with last-minute changes if necessary. (If that's not you – no worries – let's plan for next year).

‍Who is eligible to come?

Fully vaccinated visitors from low- and medium-risk countries.

Your vaccine is WHO-approved (for example Pfizer, AstraZeneca, Moderna, Sinovac, etc)
You had the final dose of your vaccine at least 14 days ago
You're flying from a low- or medium-risk country (see below)
You've been in that country at least 21 days (if you're not resident there)

Low- and medium-risk countries include: Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Hong Kong, New Zealand, Norway, Singapore, Sweden, UAE, UK, USA

‍High-risk (excluded) countries currently include: India, Japan, Malaysia, Netherlands, Philippines, South Africa

For the current lists of low-, medium- and high-risk countries, see this website and click on the latest PDF. It's in Thai but Google Translate will get you there. The last page of the PDF is divided into three columns and reads low- to high-risk from left to right

.Is it that simple? Nope. Take the UK, for instance. Thailand's on its Amber List: "You should not travel to amber list countries or territories."

‍Children: Under 12s don't need to be vaccinated. Kids ages 6-18 will be required to have Rapid Antigen Test on arrival at Phuket Airport (at extra cost, typically THB2,500-4,000). Children under 6 are allowed if travelling with fully vaccinated parents.

‍How to get to Phuket: Air France, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, El Al, Emirates, Etihad, Qatar, Singapore Airlines and Thai Airways will all offer international flights to Phuket. Singapore Airlines will offer seven flights per week while Thai will fly from six European hubs. If you want to be on a plane, you've definitely got options (but do note that you need to have been in your flight's origin country for at least 21 days if you're not a resident of that country).

‍Where to stay: You may have previously read about Thailand's Safety and Health Administration certification (aka 'SHA', denoted with a circular blue badge).

‍SHA Plus is the new standard, available to establishments with a ≥70% staff vaccination rate (and other rigorous safety and cleaning protocols). All Phuket Sandbox hotels must have SHA Plus certification.

You have hundreds of choices for SHA Plus Phuket Sandbox hotels, at all price points. Many include villa options with private pools as well as family accommodation with bunks, etc.

‍Top 10 Phuket Sandbox SHA Plus Hotels

How to book your Phuket Sandbox hotel? Booking is possible through any 'normal' way you'd book a hotel – e.g. Booking.com, or a similar site. You must note in your reservation that it's a "Phuket Sandbox" booking. You'll then receive a "SHABA" booking confirmation, which you'll need to get your Certificate of Entry (COE).

For an idea of price ranges, 14 nights (double occupancy) start at ฿9,450 (US$300) for a standard double bed room up to ฿373,490 (US$11,800) for an big ocean-view pool villa (240m²/2600ft²). Some rates include taxes, daily breakfast and airport transfer but exclude other food and drink – check the fine-print of each listing.

‍Airport transfer: Note that your airport transfer must be with a SHA Plus certified transport company, so it'll likely be easier to book this directly through your hotel.

‍Length of stay and other options: Also note that, if you just want to travel to Phuket and then return home, you don't have to stay 14 days. So there's the buried lede – a one-week, quarantine-free Thai vacation IS possible as of July 1. More options? As long as you've made your reservations before arriving in Thailand, you can change from one Phuket SHA Plus hotel to another after seven days.

‍How long is it? Can you leave Phuket?You! Have! Options!

‍If you just want to come to Phuket: You can stay fewer than 14 days if you only visit Phuket and then take an international flight leaving Thailand from Phuket Airport. (You might have to quarantine when you return to wherever you came from ... but that's your problem). To reiterate – this does make a one-week Thailand vacation possible as of July 1.

‍If you want to travel elsewhere in Thailand: Putting the "box" in "sandbox", you'll need to stay in a Phuket SHA Plus hotel for at least 14 days before you're eligible to travel elsewhere in Thailand. It's likely there will be restrictions (tracking apps? wristbands?) and/or penalties to deter any rule-breaking but these haven't yet been announced.

‍Entry requirements and paperwork: Start with Thailand's Entry Requirements for foreigners (also summarised here – the entry requirements are the same for Phuket Sandbox, ASQ in Bangkok, etc). In brief, these include:

1. Get travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage (minimum coverage of US$100,000)

2. Determine if you need a tourist visa. Many countries are eligible for a 45-day stay without a visa (including Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Hong Kong, New Zealand, Singapore, UAE, United Kingdom, U.S.) – see the full list. Otherwise, you'll need to apply for a tourist visa at your local Thai embassy or consulate. Recall that, if you want to come to Thailand with the Phuket Sandbox scheme your country needs to be low- or medium-risk. Otherwise you'll need to come through ASQ in Bangkok.

3. Get your Certificate of Entry (COE)

4. Book your flight (see details above for Phuket Sandbox flights and 21-day stay requirement for non-residents of the departure country)

5. Book your ASQ or Phuket Sandbox Hotel. ASQ hotels must be booked through an official channel (linked above), whereas Phuket Sandbox hotels can be booked via Booking.com or similar.

6. Get a negative covid test (72 hours before departure)

7. Fly to Thailand, present all the above paperwork (and fill out a little bit more)8. Complete 14 days' stay at a SHA Plus Phuket Sandbox hotel (OR Bangkok ASQ) in order to travel elsewhere in Thailand. If you're fully vaccinated, you won't need to quarantine inter-provincially.

‍Then what happens? What do you do? Once you've arrived in Phuket and your arrival covid test is negative, you're welcome to travel around the island like you're having a real live vacation. The only two stipulations are mandatory mask-wearing at all times outside your hotel room and staying in SHA+ Sandbox hotels. (Polite reminder that all bars and pubs are shut nationwide, and that many typical tourist businesses are closed on both Phuket and Samui. My suggestion is to choose a resort or two that you'll love and bring a big stack of books).

‍Between now and July 1: A lot of vaccinations need to happen. Approximately 30% of Phuket is fully vaccinated (62% have their first dose). The aim is to get to 70% by July 1.

‍Samui Plus (July 15): As with the Phuket Sandbox, the "Samui Plus" scheme will be available to fully vaccinated foreign visitors from low- or medium-risk countries (described above).

You've perhaps read of early drafts of the plan, variously called "Samui Sealed" or "Safe and Sealed". It's been in at least five of my blog posts in the last year, usually along the lines of "here's a thing that might happen but probably won't so hold on, eat more carbs and pray to Pfizer". Sixteen months later ... a possible path back to Samui is nearly (maybe) here.

Note: Samui Plus has been approved by Thailand's Cabinet but has not yet appeared in the Royal Gazette so it remains one step from being signed/sealed/delivered. The scheme covers Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao.

‍How does Samui Plus differ from Phuket Sandbox? Whereas Phuket Sandbox affords you playtime (and free will) across the whole island, Samui Plus is more cautious. Thailand entry requirements and pre-arrival paperwork is the same – see details above

‍Days 1, 2 and 3: You must stay on the property of your Alternative Local State Quarantine (ALSQ) hotel (you can leave your hotel room but not the hotel itself). No idea how this is enforced. As Samui is currently a Yellow Zone, dining is available as usual, though hotel bars might be shut.

‍Days 4, 5, 6 and 7: You can go to "specified routes and destinations" on the island. No details available so far, but will probably include a minder guide.

‍Days 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14: You can go to Koh Phangan and Koh Tao (or stay on Samui and work your way through The Koh Samui Guide).

‍Day 15: You're allowed to travel elsewhere in Thailand (again, you're fully vaccinated to qualify for Samui Plus so you won't need to quarantine if travelling to another province).

‍Which hotels will be eligible for Samui Plus? ... No actual details yet ... but the following hotels currently have SHA Plus certification:

Rocky Boutique
Fair House Beach Resort
Banana Fan Sea
Avani Plus

That's all I know so far! Stay tuned. (Join my email list to get all future updates).

‍Then what happens? October? The big goal from Thai government and tourism is that "normal" resumes in October: quarantine-free Thailand travel available to fully vaccinated people. For a destination (like Bangkok or Hua Hin) to reopen in October, it should have 70% of its population vaccinated and 20-30 (or fewer) new covid infections per day. Everything depends on the vaccine rollout picking up some serious speed in order to get a first dose to 42 million more people.

‍Stay tuned. Crossing fingers that the Phuket Sandbox offers those interested – on both the traveller and supplier sides – what they want. Me? No plans to travel yet, but I'm excited to offer you lots of ideas for "hopefully soon". Stay tuned.

‍Resources and Further Reading

April 2021

Longest. "Two Weeks". Ever. With a year's worth of Thailand travel updates regarding covid, quarantine, visa requirements, I've collated and updated everything Thailand/covid/travel into this master Wiki-style post. So dive in, grab your favourite liquid coping mechanism and, together, we'll figure out how you're going to see sand and palm trees this year.

Get updates: join my email list to get updates as they're available.
World Nomads’ Coronavirus (COVID-19) travel restrictions in Thailand
World Nomads’ COVID and travel insurance FAQs
Thailand’s Department of Disease Control coronavirus updates.

Covid in Thailand

‍Thailand is unfortunately experiencing its third wave of covid and case numbers have risen rapidly over the past week – from 26 new cases on April 1 to 985 new cases on April 12. Chiang Mai and Bangkok are at the centre of the new outbreaks, with many cases linked to nightlife venues. As such, entertainment venues have been ordered closed for two weeks in 41 provinces. Koh Samui currently has four cases.

It remains to be seen whether these new case numbers will affect current and future plans – maybe locate the general vicinity of your passport rather than actually dusting it off. Who's loving this and having fun yet?

‍Songkran

‍Water-splashing, Songkran parties and other events are cancelled (again) this year, with pubs, bars and nightlife venues closed in 41 provinces. As such, Songkran will (hopefully) be a more sedate and traditional holiday this year. See what this involves, from merit-making to a thorough spring-cleaning.

As always, Richard Barrow has the latest information including translations of interprovincial travel restrictions, particularly during the Songkran holiday period. (sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6)

‍Quarantine

What's ASQ? It's a Thai hotel room with tons of Netflix, lots of room service, and two or three COVID tests on the side. At the time of writing, there are 100+ approved ASQ hotels in Bangkok – and a shorter list of 'ALSQ' (Alternative Local State Quarantine) hotels in Phuket, Chonburi, Burirum and Prachiburi. (Join my email list to get updates on this and everything else Thailand/COVID).

‍Quarantine ... without day-drinking: Think ten days of quarantine with no alcohol sounds dull? (I think we’ve established it’s not my quarantine brand). To spice things up (while stone-cold sober), many ASQ hotels offer all the virtual content you’ve been meaning to try since last March: yoga, meditation, and online cooking classes.

‍What do ASQ packages include? Unless stated otherwise, package pricing typically includes:

accommodation for up to 15 nights (16 days) – see quarantine duration updates below
full-board (3 daily meals delivered to your room)
two or three COVID tests (woo!)
twice-daily temperature checks (human contact!) and/or 24-hour nurse on-call
airport transfer (one-way) from either Bangkok Suvarnabhumi or Don Mueang Airport

Typical amenities include Wi-Fi, Smart TV and newspaper access through an app. Some hotels offer cleaning every other day, plus a discount on room service, laundry, etc.

‍Quarantine Duration (Updated)

Unvaccinated: If you have not been vaccinated but do have a negative covid test

‍As of April 1, Thailand's mandatory state quarantine has been reduced from 14 days to 10 days (excluding South Africa, Kenya and nine other African countries considered high-risk).

‍Vaccinated (planned but not yet possible): If you have been vaccinated and have a negative covid test

‍At "some time in the future" vaccinated travellers will have a further reduction of the quarantine period: 7 days rather than 10 or 14. A covid vaccine certificate dated 14 days or more prior to arrival in Thailand will be required. As above, this excluded travellers from the 11 African countries with known variants. Such bookings aren't yet possible ... watch this space. Prior reports mentioned that your vaccination must include both doses (if applicable) and you must have received it within three months of your arrival in Thailand.

In both cases, negative covid tests must have been issued within 72 hours of your departure.

‍Any exceptions? Yes. If you’re coming from South Africa, Kenya or nine other African countries, the quarantine period will remain 14 days due to potentially vaccine-resistant virus variants.

‍What if I’m travelling with kids? Not sure yet. Will kids – who can’t be vaccinated – be eligible for 7-day quarantine? Or will they be considered “unvaccinated” and therefore need to quarantine for 10 days with a negative covid test? Watch this space for clarification.

‍Quarantine Hotels (ASQ)Currently, there are over 100 ASQ hotels in Bangkok – including two Anantaras, the Conrad, the Shangri-La and so on. Packages include three daily in-room meals (because you’re not going anywhere), laundry discounts and COVID tests galore. If you’re weighing your options for this situation ... just spend the big bucks and choose a big balcony. (P.S. No alcohol in quarantine, but you’re overdue for a detox, right?). ASQ prices have been dropping and currently start at around THB28,000 per person (US$915).

‍How to Book (ASQ Booking Options)

How to book your ASQ hotel? Previously ASQ had to be booked directly through the hotel, but an official partnership with Agoda means you now can easily price-shop and compare available dates. Three more booking options include:

1. Amazing Thailand Plus: In partnership with THAI Airways: Book your international flight into Thailand and your ASQ hotel in one package.

2. ASQ Paradise: In partnership with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). Currently, search 117 ASQ properties using helpful budget and room size filters. ("Balcony, balcony, balcony"). You can also search by the number of adults and children you'd like to accommodate. Booking through ASQ Paradise includes:

a 15-day prepaid SIM card with unlimited internet.
Access to “Plump Booty” 2-week quarantine workouts
10-day intensive Thai language courses with a private tutor (additional cost)

3. ASQ Ascend Travel: In partnership with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). To use, you must register a free account.

‍Your ASQ FAQs

Q: What does ASQ mean? A: "ASQ" = Alternative State Quarantine. If you want to enter Thailand – as a tourist, a returning Thai citizen, pretty much anyone – you’re spending at least 10 nights/11 days in ASQ. At the time of writing, there are 100+ approved ASQ hotels in Bangkok (including a few apartments). This post also provides an overview of what ASQ packages involve, plus pricing details (and why you might want to get married).

‍Q: Can same-sex couples stay together? A: Yes – if legally married. From what I’ve read, any couple needs a legal marriage certificate in order to share a room during ASQ.

‍Q: Do ASQ packages include food? A: Yes. All packages include three daily meals, delivered pre-packaged like a (hopefully) more delicious airline meal. As food delivery services (unless cooked at home by a relative … don’t ask, no idea) are banned, your snacking is limited to room service options or whatever you're able to rustle up in your kitchen – some ASQ options include small kitchenettes or even full apartment kitchens. Many hotels have made valiant attempts to include healthy options.

‍Q: What if my family/spouse are flying to Thailand on a different flight than me? A: You have to arrive on the same flight to share a room together. The timing of when ‘Day 1’ starts relates to the arrival time of your flight into Thailand. Flights arriving after 6pm (18:00) count as 'Day 0' and therefore have another day of quarantine added. Therefore your itineraries must match.

‍Other Quarantine Options

‍Until then, yachts, villas and golf courses are new and upcoming options for quarantine options. While ‘Alternative Local State Quarantine’ was floated as an idea last October but never took shape, you’ve now got some options that take you slightly beyond four walls of a hotel room.

‍Vaccinations (Domestic)

‍As of last week, 0.4% of Thai people have received their first dose, with 5 million AstraZeneca doses expected in June, with ongoing monthly shipments thereafter. THAI Airways will vaccinate its 4500 Suvarnabhumi Airport staff this week. Phuket hopes to achieve herd immunity with ≥70% vaccinated by its intended July 1 reopening date and has requested 900,000 Astra doses from the government.

The general Thai population will start registering for, and receiving vaccinations in May and June respectively when the bulk of its AstraZeneca supplies will arrive. Vaccinations to date have used primarily Sinovac, prioritising health care professionals, elderly/vulnerable populations and – recently – tourism workers in key markets. These will be Phuket, Surat Thani, Chon Buri, Chiang Mai and Krabi – locations of the proposed Area Quarantine.

‍(sources: 1, 2, 3, 4)

‍Visas / Who Can Enter Thailand?

‍In addition to Thai nationals (and their spouses, parents or children), non-Thai nationals with valid residence permits (or permission to get a residence permit) and non-Thai nationals with valid work permits (and their spouses and children), the following visitors are allowed to enter Thailand today:

Foreign nationals with a Special Tourist Visa or a Tourist Visa (TV) – see below
Foreign nationals travelling for business are eligible for a 60-day non-immigrant visa (with bank statements demonstrating a balance of ≥THB500,000 for the previous six months.
“APEC Business Travel Card” holders – Foreign nationals from one of eighteen “low-risk” APEC countries travelling for business or government purposes
“Sportspersons who will compete in a closed area”
Thailand Elite members
Diplomatic personnel (including their spouse, parents, or children)
Carriers of necessary goods, subject to immediate return upon completion
Flight crew “who are required to travel into the Kingdom on a mission, and have a specified date and time for return”
Non-Thai nationals who are students of educational institutions approved by Thai authorities (including the student’s parents or guardians)
Non-Thai nationals who need medical treatment in Thailand and their attendants (excludes treatment for COVID-19)
Non-Thai nationals who are permitted to enter the kingdom under special arrangement
Non-Thai nationals participating in trade fairs in Thailand
Foreign film crews coming for filming in Thailand
Foreign workers from Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar for food and construction industries

Those who qualify to enter Thailand must meet a variety of entry requirements and, on arrival, quarantine for ten days at their own expense. Thai nationals are allowed to use state facilities, while foreigners must stay at Alternative State Quarantine accommodation (ASQ).

‍Special Tourist Visa (STV)

‍A new visa category for long-stay visitors, dubbed the Special Tourist Visa (STV). The visa will be valid for 90 days, renewable for a second and third ‘batch’ of ninety days (up to a total of 270 days).

‍Who’s eligible for an STV?: Travellers from “low-risk” countries (check with your country's Royal Thai Embassy or consulate), up to 300 visitors per week

‍STV application period: Applications are open now until next year, 30 September 2021.

‍Minimum stay: Including quarantine (reduced to 10 nights), there’s a total 30-day minimum stay.

‍Income requirements: Whereas the STV was launched with a proof of funds requirement of THB 500,000 spanning the past six months, this detail has quietly changed (or disappeared) in some locations. It’s worth double-checking the income requirement on your country’s Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate website. The Thaiger reported a different amount on a U.S.-based Thai Consulate site, whereas European Thai embassies mention no such detail. Just one of many (many) things changing often.

‍Before departure

Travel insurance: Applicants will need to have health insurance coverage up to THB3,000,000 (approx US$95,000).
COVID test: ≤72 hours before departure
Completed paperwork including a consent form that you’ll follow Thailand’s COVID rules, Fit to Fly Certificate and Medical Certificate for General Passengers.
Show proof of payment for your post-quarantine accommodation (e.g. a hotel booking) or a house deed if staying with a friend or relative.

On arrival

10-day mandatory quarantine (and COVID tests galore).

How to apply for a Special Tourist Visa?

‍Three options, in increasing order of price.

‍1. The normal way: Contact the Royal Thai Embassy in your country.

‍2. The Longstay Thailand Company: Receive administrative assistance in getting an STV (I said STV. 10,000 THB (+7%) application service fee to get help with the various hoop-jumping (approx US$315).

‍3. Join Thailand Elite: Got deep pockets and would rather pay someone to do the admin for your Special Tourist Visa? Apply to join Thailand Elite and get a five-year multi-entry visa with all the assistance you need would expect for half a million Baht. Quarantine is still required but … probably comes with decent thread-count and really fancy water. (Memberships starting at THB500,000 / approx. US$16,000 with a 3+ month waiting period).

‍60-Day Tourist Visas (TV)

I can’t tell if this (A) wasn’t clear before or (B) is a new option, but visitors from medium- and high-risk countries are allowed to apply for a regular 60-Day Tourist Visa (the same kind you might have had in the Olden Times). ASQ requirements, administrative-hoop-jumping and everything else still apply – it’s just a shorter stay. (caveat emptor, caveat emptor).

‍Flights / April UpdatesBKK international transit: International transit is now possible at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), with strict covid measures and separation from “gen pop”.

‍Passenger lounges / in-flight food suspended: Due to recent outbreaks, in-flight food and drink services are once again suspended until futher notice, as are Bangkok Airways' passenger lounges. Masks are of course mandatory – all other details available at Bangkok Airways’s COVID page.

‍International flights: In July, THAI is set to resume international flights into Phuket and Bangkok Airways plans to resume its Samui-Singapore and Samui-Hong Kong flights.

‍International Flights to BKK: As of December 1, the following international flights resumed operations to/from BKK. If you qualify for entry to Thailand – e.g. Special Tourist Visa (STV) or Tourist Visas (TR) holders, business and other essential travel – my best suggestion is to clarify details specific to your situation with the local office of your preferred airline, as well as the Royal Thai embassy or your closest consulate. (You’ll also need a Certificate of Entry to fly).

Air France (TBC)
Austrian Airlines (VIE-BKK)
Cathay Pacific (HKG-BKK)
Emirates (DXB-BKK, HKG-BKK)
Etihad Airlines (AUH-BKK)
Eva Air (TPE-BKK, LHR-BKK)
Gulf Air (BAH-BKK)
KLM (TBC)
Korean Air (ICN-BKK)
Lufthansa (FRA-BKK)
Malaysia Airlines (KUL-BKK)
Qatar Airways (DOH-BKK)
Philippine Airlines (MNL-BKK)
Singapore Airlines (SIN-BKK)
Swiss Air (ZHR-BKK)
Thai Airways (LHR, FRA, CPH, HKG, NRT, TPE and SYD to BKK)
Thai Smile (CKG-BKK)

The above is current at the time of writing but options (airlines, routes and frequency) will likely increase in the coming months so use the list as a rough guide and check with your preferred airlines for updates.

‍(sources: 1, 2, 3)

‍Future Plans and Possibilities / International (Inbound) TravelJuly 1 – Phuket:

‍A "sandbox" scheme is planned to begin in Phuket, allowing vaccinated travellers to visit without quarantine.

‍October 1 – Koh Samui: Koh Samui is planning to welcome vaccinated travellers to Samui, with no quarantine requirements.

Both of these plans rely on vaccine rollouts to ≥70% of the respective islands' populations and, presumably, managing the current outbreaks (particularly after the Songkran holiday – Thailand's peak domestic travel period). Cross your fingers and keep them crossed.

However, if you're still glass-half-full after all this time: Keep the final quarter of 2021 in mind as a possible quarantine-free new dawn. (Possible! Maybe!) Hellooo October, November and December. (Cue high-pitched shrieking audible only to dolphins).

‍(sources: 1, 2, 3, 4)

‍Travel Bubbles? Vaccine Passports? Reciprocal travel with “low-risk” (and highly vaccinated) countries is under consideration as are vaccine passports (both allowing vaccinated Thais to travel and facilitating inbound international travel). Watch! This! Space!

‍Don’t want to do any of the above? Hold tight until fourth quarter 2021 (or start planning for 2022). In the meantime, take a look at some deeply discounted Koh Samui hotel rates for later this year – with no prepayment and free cancellation.

‍Your Thailand/COVID FAQs

Q: Is Thailand accepting travellers from the USA? A: You can apply for a 60-day tourist visa. The best place to start is with the Royal Thai embassy or your closest consulate.

‍Q: We have a villa in Koh Samui. Do you know if we can get back to actually live in it during COVID restrictions? A: Following a stay in ASQ, yes, I believe you could – depending on your home country and which visa you have or would qualify for. My best suggestion would be to double-check with the Royal Thai Consulate-General in your country.

‍Q: What does 'SHA' mean? A: "SHA" = Safety and Health Administration certification. A blue “SHA” badge will indicate that the establishment has passed a detailed inspection and follows all recommended COVID health measures.

March 2021

March Updates to Thailand COVID restrictions – and some good news! Just announced this week – good news for any smug souls who are already vaccinated. Mandatory quarantine (such as Alternative State Quarantine and other iterations, see below) has been reduced from 14 days. Even better? What might – might – be possible in October. Read on, nice people ... it's nearly (maybe) time to dig out your passport.

Get updates: join my email list to get updates as they're available.
World Nomads’ Coronavirus (COVID-19) travel restrictions in Thailand
World Nomads’ COVID and travel insurance FAQs
Thailand’s Department of Disease Control coronavirus updates.

Thailand Quarantine Updates

‍Quarantine Duration: What’s changed?

‍(A) If you have been vaccinated and have a negative covid test: your mandatory quarantine period will be 7 days rather than 14. Your vaccination must include both doses (if applicable) and you must have received it within three months of your arrival in Thailand.

‍(B) If you have not been vaccinated but do have a negative covid test: your mandatory quarantine period will be 10 days rather than 14.

In both cases, negative covid tests must have been issued within 72 hours of your departure.

‍When will the quarantine period be reduced? These changes to quarantine duration are expected to begin next month (April). At the time of writing, I haven’t seen the booking periods change on any ASQ hotel booking sites (see below for new booking options).

‍Any exceptions? Yes. If you’re coming from South Africa (and possibly other African countries), the quarantine period will remain 14 days due to potentially vaccine-resistant virus variants.

‍What if I’m travelling with kids? Not sure yet. These details are hot off the press and won’t be put into effect until month next. Will kids – who can’t be vaccinated – be eligible for 7-day quarantine? Or will they be considered “unvaccinated” and therefore need to quarantine for 10 days with a negative covid test? Watch this space for clarification.

‍ASQ Updates and FAQs

‍ASQ prices have been dropping and currently start at around THB28,000 per person (US$915). Please see my ASQ post for full details of what’s included in the price and a humanitarian heads-up about a "no alcohol in quarantine" rule.

‍Q: Can same-sex couples stay together? A: From what I’ve read, any couple needs a legal marriage certificate in order to share a room during ASQ.

‍Q: What if my family/spouse are flying to Thailand on a different flight than me? You have to arrive on the same flight to share a room together. The timing of when ‘Day 0’ starts is pretty strict and therefore your itineraries must match.‍

Amazing Thailand Plus: In partnership with THAI Airways: Book your international flight into Thailand and your ASQ hotel in one package.

‍ASQ Paradise: In partnership with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). Currently, search 117 ASQ properties using helpful budget and room size filters. ("Balcony, balcony, balcony"). You can also search by the number of adults and children you'd like to accommodate. Booking through ASQ Paradise includes:

a 15-day prepaid SIM card with unlimited internet.
Access to “Plump Booty” 2-week quarantine workouts
10-day intensive Thai language courses with a private tutor (additional cost)

ASQ Ascend Travel: In partnership with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). To use, you must register a free account.

‍On the horizon: The end of quarantine? Also announced this week: a possible end to quarantine. (Possible! Maybe!) Keep the final quarter of 2021 in mind as a possible quarantine-free new dawn: HelloooOctober, November and December. Thailand’s health minister has suggested this could be considered if Thailand’s domestic vaccination schedule goes to plan. They hope to have 70% of vulnerable populations, health professionals and those working in tourism vaccinated by October. So plant October, November or December Thailand (quarantine-free) travel in mind as a possibility. (Cue high-pitched shrieking audible only to dolphins).

‍Travel bubbles? Vaccine passports? Reciprocal travel with “low-risk” (and highly vaccinated) countries is under consideration as are vaccine passports (both allowing vaccinated Thais to travel and facilitating inbound international travel). Watch! This! Space!

‍New quarantine options

‍Yacht Quarantine – Active

‍(aka Alternative Yacht Quarantine or AYQ). If you watched Below Deck Phuket and think you could be good at sea, the yachting life awaits – just add {vast sums of money} and a sort of ankle monitor. “Digital Yacht Quarantine” attaches smartwatches to all quarantine-ees – anchored socially distanced up to 10 kilometres offshore. The watches transmit medical vitals like pulse and temperature to officials back on land but, other than that minor intrusion, you enjoy life on board. After 14 days of #boatlife, you’re allowed to head to dock in Phuket. Beach picnic, Sports Fans? One minor detail: BYO Yacht. Calling Captain Lee...

‍Golf Quarantine – Active

‍Logistics are easier for golf quarantine – no need to supply your own golf course. Unlike ASQ in a hotel room, golf quarantine comes with time outside. Lots of it! After a negative covid test on day 3, you’re allowed to use the resort and play golf. It’s currently available to “low-risk” countries (see below). As with ASQ, further covid tests are administered on days 9 and 13 (arrival day is considered day 0).

‍Golf quarantine duration? Nothing is published yet regarding golf quarantine duration being reduced as has been announced with ASQ but stay tuned.

‍Golf quarantine prices? Packages start at THB 111,000 (approx US$3600) and include 15 room nights, 3 daily meals, airport transfer, covid tests and 11 days of unlimited golf. For comparison, the same price would get you a suite at a four-star ASQ hotel in Bangkok. As an avowed non-golfer, I'd take two weeks of "Plump Booty" workouts in Bangkok, how about you?

‍Golf quarantine options: Six Thai golf resorts are available for golf quarantine – five near (or near-ish) to Bangkok and one outside Chiang Mai.

Nakhon Nayok – Artitaya Golf & Resort (1 hour from BKK)
Phetchaburi – Sawang Resort and Golf Club (1h45 from BKK)
Kanchanaburi – Evergreen Hills Golf Club & Resort (2h20 from BKK)
Kanchanaburi – Mida Golf Club Kanchanaburi (2h40 from BKK)
Kanchanaburi – Blue Star Golf Course (2h50 from BKK)
Lamphun – Artitaya Chiang Mai Golf Resort (45min from Chiang Mai)

To book, please see Golf Quarantine Thailand.

‍Countries eligible for golf quarantine

‍As of March 1, golf quarantine is to people coming from “low-risk” countries which include

Australia
Canada
China
Denmark
Hong Kong
Iceland
Japan
Korea
New Zealand
Norway
Singapore
Taiwan
(see full list)

Area Quarantine (including Villa Quarantine) – April/May

‍THIS is the quarantine question many of you have been emailing me about. Can you quarantine on Koh Samui? Or anywhere with a beach? After ‘Alternative Local State Quarantine’ (ALSQ or ALQ) was suggested for major tourist destinations – but never initiated on Koh Samui (and largely scrapped on Phuket) – Area Quarantine (AQ) has emerged as its second iteration. It’s yet not finalised, but here’s what’s known so far. Five popular tourist regions will be used for area quarantine:

Phuket
Krabi
Surat Thani (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao)
Chiang Mai
Chon Buri (Pattaya)

As with golf quarantine, certain resorts will be certified as Area Quarantine options. (Likely fairly high-end resorts). You’ll be required to spend the first three days in your room and, following a negative covid test, will have use of some resort facilities for the remainder of the quarantine period. As mentioned this is currently 15 days but is set to be reduced to either 7 or 10 days depending on your vaccination status.

More details to follow with the plan set to begin in April… or May. As with so much future-forecasting about covid, sources vary. So, once again, stay tuned. Phuket is likely to be the first destination to be up and running. As that means another six or more months before Koh Samui and other islands see any volume of tourists returning, please consider helping out a very struggling economy in any way that you can.

A trial run of “villa quarantine” has begun at Phuket’s Sri Panwa resort – an early hint that Area Quarantine categorically will not suck. After 5 days’ in-room quarantine, guests were allowed to use resort dining and fitness facilities and access the beach within a designated “red zone”. Quarantine guests and “red zone” staff remain in a bubble separate from the rest of the resort.

‍Vaccine Updates

‍The general Thai population will start registering for, and receiving vaccinations in May and June respectively when the bulk of its AstraZeneca supplies will arrive. Vaccinations to date have used Sinovac, prioritising health care professionals, elderly/vulnerable populations and – recently – tourism workers in key markets. These will be Phuket, Surat Thani, Chon Buri, Chiang Mai and Krabi – locations of the proposed Area Quarantine. Johnson & Johnson is in the process of approval.

‍Flights and Air Travel Updates

‍As of this week, international transit is now possible at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), with strict covid measures and separation from “gen pop”. Domestic flights within Thailand have resumed serving food and drinks. Bangkok Airways’s lounges are open at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi, Phuket, Krabi, Chiang Mai, Samui, Sukhothai and Trat airports.

‍Resources and Futher Reading