Thailand Eases Curbs on Travel
An Attempt to Boost the Travel Industry
After months of torpor in its tourism industry, the Thai government finally reopened its borders for tourists from 56 countries, irrespective of their COVID-19 situation. With effect from 9th December, the initiative was taken under a Special Tourist Visa (STV) long-stay programme in order to uplift Thailand’s tourism which was affected by the ongoing pandemic. However, travellers were still required to undergo a mandatory two-week quarantine period during which they had to get tested three times for the virus.
Travellers from countries such as France, Australia, and the United States were able to travel without visas; however, they were required to produce a medical certificate stating that they were free of COVID-19 for 72 hours prior to arrival in the country and depart to a Bangkok city hotel of their choice such as Pathumwan Princess Hotel.