For many people, 2022 marks the end of the pandemic and the beginning of a return to normalcy. To help overcome what has been a tough period, many are opting to travel abroad on vacation, with Thailand being amongst the most popular choices of destination.
According to a study earlier this year, Thailand has been ranked the fourth most attractive travel destination in the world following the end of the pandemic. The research found that those that sought information on Thailand intended to travel here to relax, enjoy leisure pursuits, and outdoor adventuring.
This global appeal is good news as travel figures indicate that the tourism sector is reviving. If you are considering where to travel for your next holiday, here are a few reasons to consider Thailand.
Government support
The Thai government is very much on board with efforts to stimulate travel to the kingdom. More so given that the Chinese market which has long been a huge source of travellers is still burdened by travel restrictions. The government is supporting marketing campaigns targeted at broadening the variety of travellers, with segments such as wellness and golf enthusiasts being encouraged. Even the domestic market is being boosted by numerous discounted travel packages designed to tempt locals into exploring more of their country.
The government has also extended the duration of Exempt Visa Stamp for many countries. For those from countries that are entitled to visa exemptions, they can enter Thailand with 45 days, while those from countries that qualify for a visa on arrival (VOA), they may enter Thailand by 30 days. This change will take effect from October 2022 to March 2023. Travellers may check their eligibility for these new extensions online.
Eased restrictions
Besides visa extensions, there has also been an easing of travel restrictions that were instituted to help reduce the risk of further spread of the Covid-19 virus. There are no more hotel quarantines, which meant that many travellers had to waste extra time and money to go through. The Thailand Pass and proof of Covid-19 insurance are also no longer required.
These easements mean less stress and expense for travellers to Thailand. While those that are vaccinated will need to have proof of their vaccination, you may still travel to Thailand even if unvaccinated. If unvaccinated, you will however need a Covid-19 test result from a test taken at least 72 hours before departure from your home country. There are also no longer restrictions on where you can travel within the kingdom. Once you get through immigration screening, you are free to travel anywhere within the kingdom.
Standard travel to Thailand has resumed, so, whether you want a tourist visa or business visa, you will find that the requirements now are almost the same as what was required before the pandemic.
Workcations
One of the biggest changes to come from the pandemic has been the adoption of the work-from-home formula by many employers. This has allowed many employees to comfortably work remotely, staying away from interactions that can increase the risk of infection and allow them to save on time and money spent on work commutes. However, for many people, this means they can also travel away from home while also combining work and vacation time.
As long as their vacation destination has reliable internet connectivity, many can now travel abroad while still able to fulfil work obligations. Thailand hotels, resorts, and other accommodations across the kingdom have good access to the internet, making it an excellent choice for workcations.
Infrastructure
During the pandemic when there was minimal local and international travel, the government chose to upgrade its infrastructure. There are now marked improvements in the metro system, monorail network, and some international airports. These upgrades mean that there is a larger capacity for travellers, making it easier to get around within cities and beyond.
The Suvarnabhumi International Airport is currently undergoing some expansion work while there is the construction of a high-speed rail link that will connect Bangkok and China through Laos. These projects mean that not only will travellers be able to more easily explore Thailand, but also the wider region. With some of Thailand’s neighbours having also ended travel restrictions, it may even be possible to explore the region by simply crossing the border.
Accommodation
While travel numbers are increasing, they are still much lower than pre-pandemic figures. This has resulted in many hotels and resorts offering excellent deals on accommodation, even outside of the low season. This means better value for money for travellers across many destinations like Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Koh Samui. With hotel quarantines no longer being required, there is also a greater capacity for accommodation.
Travellers are being encouraged to make advance bookings nonetheless, to secure the kind of accommodation they want and to ensure domestic flights and other travel arrangements will be available. Most airlines have resumed their flights to Thailand, with those offering domestic flights also adding to their schedules. Advance bookings are also being recommended for high-end restaurants which are also seeing increased demand from both locals and foreigners.
Medical insurance
Having Covid-19 insurance is no longer required, however, it is recommended that you have travel insurance. Keep in mind that getting infected with Covid-19 is still a possibility, as is suffering some other illness or an accident.
Thailand does not extend free medical care to foreigners, so you will need to be able to cover this expense. Having the right insurance will help you avoid what may end up being expensive medical bills being paid out of pocket. Travel insurance can also help cover other possible mishaps including lost luggage and flight delays.
Conclusion
Thailand is very much open to travellers in 2022. It offers the same array of attractions that were available before the pandemic including stunning beaches, magnificent temples and palaces, delectable street food and vibrant nightlife. There are also new upgrades to much of the transport systems and more effort on the part of the government to make travel into the kingdom easier. There is no better time than now to discover the wonders of the land of smiles.
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