Thailand welcomes fully vaccinated tourists

The Tourism Authority of Thailand and the Phuket Tourism Association now allow fully vaccinated international travelers to visit Phuket and chosen extension areas as part of its  “Phuket Sandbox 7+7 Extension” program.

From 14 days, the mandatory stay in Phuket has been reduced to seven days for vaccinated travelers under the updated program, after which another seven nights can be spent in any of the extension areas in Krabi (Ko Phi Phi, Ko Ngai, or Railay), Phang-Nga (Khao Lak or Ko Yao), or Surat Thani (Ko Samui, Ko Pha-ngan, or Ko Tao). 

The Phuket Sandbox program has been well-received by tourists from Europe, the United States, Middle East, and some of Asia since it started on July 1. The Phuket Sandbox 7+7 Extension, launched last August 16, aims to further revitalize Thailand tourism, as well as bring back the excitement for tourists who have been yearning to travel.

Visitors can freely roam and enjoy the sights of Phuket, one of Thailand’s most sought-after destinations since the pre-pandemic period. Tourists can also enjoy sea excursions such as yachting and cruising, enjoy traditional dance performances around the island, and enjoy dining, shopping, lifestyle and lodging establishments in the island as long as they are accredited by the Amazing Thailand Safety and Health Administration Plus (SHA Plus). 

You'll never run out of sights and attractions in amazing Phuket. Check out these five must-see places to help you plan your itinerary:

Get a beautiful top view of Phuket at the Karon Viewpoint 

Situated at the south of Kata Noi Beach, Karon is not only one of the many famous viewpoints in Phuket, it also allows you to see three bays in just one vantage point: the Kata Noi, Kata Yai and Karon beaches. Get lost at the sight of sweeping ocean views melding seamlessly into grooves of tree-laden grounds, mountains at the far end, and a barrage of clouds that will make you feel on top of the world. 

Be one with water by scuba diving at Andaman Sea

If you want to enjoy your vacation while still maintaining a bit of social distancing, why not just commune with marine life instead? Book a scuba diving tour with one of the local tour agencies and immerse yourself in crystal clear waters that reveal a rich ecosystem of marine wildlife: coral reefs, fishes of all kinds and colors, seahorses and other hidden ocean treasures. 

Live your best life by sprawling at any of the Phuket beaches

Truly the most remarkable part about Phuket is its never-ending selection of beaches, fit for any vacationer’s lifestyle. From the bustling Patong Beach, to the limitless stretch of Mai Khao Beach, to the relatively untouched Nai Harn and Nai Yang beach, there’s bound to be a beach that suits your preference.

Find peace and serenity in Wat Chalong Temple 

Give a prayer of gratitude and guidance for a renewed opportunity to go on vacation at the Wat Chalong Temple—the biggest and most popular of Phuket’s 29 temples. After observing its strict dress code and its guidelines on silence and proper etiquette, discover tranquility in the presence of beautifully landscaped greenery, golden structures, and the temple’s magnificently intricate details. 

Island Hopping 

It’s not a Phuket trip without an island hopping excursion. Whether privately amongst your travel circle or as part of a tour group, discover the nooks and crannies of Phuket’s islands: from the Phang Nga Bay Sunset Cruise to the James Bond Island Day Tour. Choose the tour that floats your boat. 

Chiang Mai is next on the list of areas with bustling reopening plans. Slated to reopen in October with the theme "Charming Chiang Mai," it aims to highlight the innate beauty and appeal of the Northern Thailand city.

More destinations in Thailand—including Bangkok, Hua Hin, and Pattaya—are also planning to reopen on Oct. 1. 

As Phuket, Chiang Mai and more Thailand cities reopen with strict health measures in place, travelers all over the world are expected to flock to the country and be reinvigorated with the new spirit of safe tourism.  

For information on Phuket Sandbox, visit www.tatnews.org and follow TAT Philippines on Facebook , Instagram and their website www.tourismthailand.sg.