long distance travel
Dream destination Thailand relaxes entry rules – but penalties for offenses
Beach on the Rai Leh peninsula in Krabi province in southern Thailand
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Holidays in one of the most popular long-distance travel countries are possible again. However, two PCR tests are required. Anyone who violates the requirements of the authorities must expect high fines.
Tourists who have complete basic protection with the second syringe that is usually necessary can now enter Thailand again without quarantine. The “Test&Go” model, suspended in December for fear of the spread of the omicron variant of the corona virus, was resumed on Tuesday because the virus numbers in the popular holiday country have not risen dramatically in recent weeks. However, the rules have been tightened – and violations can result in fines.
Instead of only having to do one PCR test upon arrival in Thailand, another PCR test is now required on the fifth day after arrival. While the holiday guests are waiting for the test result, they have to isolate themselves in a specialized hotel. All vaccines used in Germany are recognised, including cross-vaccinations. Additional rules apply and checking with the authorities is strongly recommended.
Anyone who disregards the requirements of the authorities should expect a fine of up to 20,000 baht (530 euros), said the spokesman for the Covid crisis center CCSA, Taweesilp Wisanuyothin. “Tourists must obey the laws of Thailand.” Penalties in other countries in the region are much harsher, he stressed. Anyone who does not have appropriate health insurance must also bear all the costs for any Covid treatment and quarantine themselves.
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At the end of December, the government in Bangkok decided to put the “Test&Go” model on hold for fear of rising numbers of cases because of Omikron. Most recently, travelers had to be in quarantine for seven or ten days, depending on their country of origin and vaccination status. Only on the largest islands of Phuket and Ko Samui and in other provinces such as Krabi and Phang-nga could vacationers continue to go on quarantine-free vacations under certain conditions using the so-called sandbox model.
On Tuesday, the authorities reported around 7,400 new infections. Thailand, with its islands, beaches, temples and jungles, relies on tourism and is hoping for an industry recovery. Before Corona, around 40 million international guests came every year.