Getting off to an island paradise is now a reasonable expectation for many of us. During the last year, Thailand reopened the country for vaccinated travelers, meaning you can ultimately make that lifetime trip to endless happy destinations involving Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (Bangkok) and Phuket.
Thailand eventually experienced a decrease in the local transmission of COVID-19 and contained it successfully. But it was only possible due to its high standard and well-planned health techniques; still, it was less complicated than in other countries.
If you're craving street food adventures and dreaming of idyllic tropical islands, Thailand is once again a must-visit destination on your travel agenda. Travelers worldwide are eager to find out when and how to visit Thailand.
So what important things do travelers need to know about Thailand Travel if they plan to fly to the Land of Smiles post-pandemic? Here is the complete guide for you!
🧑🎓 Quick Trivia!
Thailand has been extremely successful in containing COVID-19, limiting the number of cases. However, even as the world faces new virus variants, Thailand’s lessons can guide other tourism-dependent countries to encounter the same dilemmas as they prepare for the resurgence of international travel.
Thailand had closed all its borders to contain the spread of COVID-19 in previous years. But now, the country has opened to foreign and local travelers. So, fully-vaccinated travelers can now enter the country without quarantine.
Previously, visitors had to present a negative PCR test on day one; they could move around the country as they pleased until day five. Another test would be taken, with tourists waiting in their hotel until they get a confirmed negative result. After that, they'd freely explore again. They also need to download a tracking app to comply with the rules. But recently, traveling to Thailand doesn't require any testing.
In the past, the "sandbox scheme" allowed tourists to visit specific islands, but with the condition of undergoing tests and staying in designated hotels. The new restrictions were much lenient, although COVID restrictions were still under control. In Bangkok, a curfew meant the city's once-hallowed nightlife scene had to be somewhat subdued if the number of cases continued to increase.
However, strict planning and updated travel restrictions allowed Thailand's health authorities to control the spread and contain COVID-19. In addition, various health programs also helped control the situation, and eventually, Thailand was declared virus free and opened its borders and hidden gems to visitors stepwise.
Travelers who are fully vaccinated, regardless of their country of origin, can now enter Thailand without quarantine. In the past, travelers had to fulfill the following requirements:
However, the Test and Go Program has been removed since July 2022.
Fully vaccinated travelers from any country traveling to Thailand were also not expected to undergo a mandatory quarantine. Instead, they must enter Thailand under the Phuket Sandbox and Samui Sandbox programs. These travelers were required to spend seven nights in a designated SHA Plus Hotel located in destinations such as Phuket, Khao Lak, Krabi, Samui, Koh Phang Ngan, or Koh Tao before even being allowed to go to any other parts of Thailand.
After the pandemic emergency was lifted, the sandbox program was shelved, and visitors were no longer required to undergo quarantine.
International travelers who were unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated had to undergo the mandatory alternative quarantine of 10 days at any accredited Alternative State Quarantine or ASQ Hotels certified by the Ministry of Health. However, this program was also closed once the pandemic ended.
Previously everyone planning to visit Thailand was required to have a valid Thailand Pass, which was mandatory during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Thailand Pass was a web-based system designed to support Thailand’s “Ease of Travel” system and make the documentation process for travelers entering Thailand simpler and more efficient.
But since July 2022, visitors are no longer required to acquire Thailand Pass; instead, they must show clear proof of vaccination or Negative COVID-19 test results.
In addition to the previously required state quarantine, all foreign travelers to Thailand must present a valid travel insurance policy before leaving for Thailand. As part of the visa and Thailand Pass application process, travelers must submit a COVID travel insurance certificate to the Thai embassy. This certificate needed to explicitly state that the health insurance coverage was for a minimum of $50,000 and included coverage for COVID-19.
Despite the removal of quarantine requirements, the necessity for travel insurance remains unchanged, and foreign visitors are strongly advised to carry comprehensive travel insurance coverage.
Foreign visitors and Thai nationals entering Thailand will no longer be obligated to present a fit-to-fly certificate. In addition to the mandatory requirements of the Thailand Pass previously, travelers were also asked to provide flight reservations, hotel bookings, and COVID-19 insurance and furnish a COVID-19 RT-PCR test result conducted 72 hours before their international flight departure from their respective country of origin.
With the spread of COVID-19, Thailand has also executed new screening methods and health controls for airport travel. International arrivals were obligated to provide the following documents upon entry into Thailand:
But as of January 2023, Thailand has lifted all travel restrictions, and foreigners can arrive without showing proof of vaccination or undergoing PCR tests.
If you plan a trip to Thailand, you have definitely chosen well; Thailand is an amazing and interesting country with something for everyone. Don't postpone any of your plans; you're safe in the country.
Thailand sits at the center of the Indochinese Peninsula in Southeast Asia. Sharing borders with Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, and Myanmar, international flights arrive from different corners of the world at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport. In contrast, international train connections are available from many Southeast Asian countries.
Bangkok is the region's major travel hub, and Thailand has excellent international airports. Still, most tourists will arrive in Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (Bangkok) or Phuket. Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (Bangkok) has the modern and impressive Suvarnabhumi Airport, about 25 km east of the city center, where many foreign visitors will arrive. It is well organized with excellent facilities and numerous transport options to get you to Bangkok or other destinations.
Jet lag can be the most unpleasant part of a long trip, but your experience can be improved with some planning. The best sleep is interruption-free, but that's not always possible on the plane. For weary travelers, the first thing you'll want to do is sleep off the jet lag.
Nothing to worry about, and it is very easy. You have to go to the basement of the arrival building and take the airport link railway system to the city. You will get the most comfortable rest at stations linked to the airports. Here are a few stations or areas where you could find suitable accommodations that could be a good choice for staying:
It is an area in the eastern part of Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (Bangkok). Ramkhamhaeng Road is the main road that has existed for a long time since the early days of urban expansion. Ramkhamhaeng University is the district's center and the starting point for expanding this area.
Makkasan Station stops on the Airport Rail Link (Airport Train), connecting Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) to Bangkok city center. The station is situated on Kamphaeng Phet 7 Road, adjacent to the intersection of Kamphaeng Phet 7 Road and Asok Din Daeng Road. This intersection is commonly referred to as the Asoke – Din Daeng intersection.
Phaya Thai Station is a rapid transit station on the Airport Rail Link and Sukhumvit Line. The Airport Rail Link station is above the mainline Eastern Railway at a level crossing on Phaya Thai Road. There is a direct interchange to the BTS Sukhumvit Line.
Government buildings, office towers, condominiums, and Phaya Thai and Si Ayutthaya Road surround the station. Suan Pakkad Palace, a Traditional Thai Antiques Museum and Gallery, is nearby the station's east.
Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, has emerged as one of the most sought-after gateways to Asia. However, no trip to Thailand is complete without a few days in Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (Bangkok).
It’s a city filled with excitement. There are mega shopping malls, street food vendors, night markets, and more. Although not as before, there is always something happening. It will fix its entertainment again: car racing and shows, tech exhibitions, and festivities.
Some remnants of the old days remain in some parts of the city. At the end of the day, you can relax in the green oasis at Lumpini Park or have drinks at one of the rooftop bars while watching the sunset.
The Central World mega-shopping complex in Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (Bangkok) offers one of the most exciting shopping experiences in the Thai capital. There are three ways to get from Makkasan to CentralWorld: bus, taxi, or foot. Whatever your choice, it will take 10 minutes to reach the location.
Traveling by vehicle or renting a car offers Thailand a unique and engaging experience. It provides the freedom to shape your travel plans and ensures your safety. Particularly for longer holiday trips, this mode of transportation is highly advantageous. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you navigate renting a car or motorbike in Thailand.
If you plan to rent a motorbike in Thailand, it’s not as complex as you might imagine. On the contrary, it’s all pretty simple! Make sure that you choose a rental shop that provides insurance. You want to be covered if you do have an accident. However, there are some key points to pay attention to when renting a motorbike.
Hiring a car in Thailand is straightforward and a great way of seeing the country. You must legally drive in Thailand with a Thai or international driver's license.
Renting a car in Thailand typically follows a similar process across different rental companies. Here's an overview of how it usually works:
Signing a Car Rental Contract: When you arrive at the car rental location, you must complete the necessary paperwork and sign a rental contract which should outline the terms and conditions of the rental, including the rental duration, rates, insurance coverage, and any additional fees.
Inspecting the Rental Car: Before accepting the rental car, thoroughly inspect it for any existing damages or issues. Carefully take note of any scratches, dents, or other visible damage. You can even take photos or videos as evidence. This inspection helps prevent any disputes about damages when you return the car.
Picking Up or Dropping Off the Rental Car: Once the paperwork is completed and the car has been inspected, you'll be handed the keys to the rental car. Ensure you understand the fuel policy (full-to-full or otherwise) and any specific instructions from the rental company.
Optional Insurance: While signing the rental contract, you'll likely have the option to purchase additional insurance coverage. This can include collision damage waiver (CDW), theft protection, and liability insurance. Evaluate your existing travel insurance or credit card coverage to see if it includes rental car protection. If not, consider opting for the rental company's insurance to ensure you're covered in accidents or damage.
It's important to carefully read and understand the terms of the rental contract, including insurance coverage, fuel policy, mileage limits, and any additional fees. By being well-informed and thorough during the rental process, you can have a smoother and more enjoyable experience with the car you rented in Thailand.
Thailand's currency is the "baht" (THB). While major hotels and large shops do accept credit cards, "hard cash" in the form of baht is the preferred method of payment in most places.
Don’t change money over Thai Baht before you get to Thailand. You can do that 24/7 in Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (Bangkok) and many cities such as Pattaya and Chiang Mai.
Banks in Thailand are operational daily, with their opening hours differing, typically from 8:30 to 17:30 on weekdays, Monday through Friday. Notably, their operating hours in shopping malls can extend even until 8 pm.
ATMs are everywhere, and now they are open 24 hours a day.
Staying connected while traveling has become remarkably convenient. Free Wi-Fi is readily available in popular tourist areas, and acquiring SIM cards is hassle-free. Therefore, if your visit to Thailand is limited to a week or two, you can manage well using your existing data plan or relying on Wi-Fi access.
Purchasing a local SIM card in Thailand is relatively easy. You can do so by visiting any 7-Eleven store or cell phone shop. Various plans, including those with data, are available to suit your needs. Opting for a cost-effective pay-as-you-go plan offers flexibility unless you require frequent calls or extensive data usage, in which case a prepaid plan might be suitable.
Cell phone store staff generally communicate in English in tourist-centric areas like Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (Bangkok). Simply present your phone, discuss your plan preferences, and they can assist you in installing a local SIM card.
What are you waiting for? Plan your travel to Thailand now and navigate the intricate transformation of Thailand's tourism landscape through my encompassing guide. Witness the country's resilient journey as it adapts and innovates, blending tradition with modernity and introducing cutting-edge safety measures.
From revitalized cultural landmarks to the allure of its natural beauty and delectable cuisine, Thailand emerges as a compelling destination. This guide equips you with insights to explore this new chapter in Thai travel, instilling knowledge and a renewed sense of wanderlust. Embark on your adventure in the "Land of Smiles," fully prepared for the exciting discoveries that await.
Blemish
: a minor mark or imperfection that detracts from the overall appearance of something
Condominium
: a building or complex of buildings containing some individually owned apartments or houses
Jet lag
: a transient sleep-related issue that can impact individuals who rapidly traverse multiple time zones
Pier
: a platform on pillars that extends from the shore into the sea; additionally, a jet bridge is a long, narrow structure extending from an airport terminal, providing passengers with direct access to an aircraft
Skateboarding
: a popular recreational and sports activity, particularly among youths, where a person balances and rides on a small board mounted on wheels while standing
Hi! I'm Dr. Theodore Bennet (Professor Bear), your scholarly travel companion who brings history to life with immersive tours and expert guides. With a Ph.D. in History and years of travel writing experience, I offer authoritative insights for unforgettable journeys.
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