Phuket eases travel restrictions
Phuket Governor, Mr. Narong Woonsiew, confirmed the relaxation of lockdown restrictions for tourists as no new Covid-19 cases were reported in the province for 29 days. The governor stated that he hopes these new protocols can help redeem Phuket’s economy, which heavily relies on tourism. The ease of travel restrictions goes into effect today, 25th January 2021.
Phuket’s Chinese New Year wish
The easing of travel restrictions came after multiple outcries from local businesses. Phuket business representatives met with provincial authorities last Friday, 22nd January 2021, to propose and discuss a possible solution to stimulate tourism for the upcoming Chinese New Year. The proposal was approved today by the governor.
Empty street in Patong, Phuket
Image credit: Bloomberg
According to Bangkok Post, the eased travel restrictions will apply to all travellers, even those coming from the 28 red-zone provinces. However, the governor requires travellers from the 5 crimson-red zone provinces – Samut Sakhon, Rayong, Chonburi, Trad and Chanthaburi – to undergo a 14-day quarantine.
“We hope to regain tourists to help local businesses and hotels to get back on their feet by the upcoming Chinese New Year,” said Governor Woonsiew. “However, you still need to do check-ins via Mor-Chana application and pre-register yourself at the website www.gophuget.com before entering the province.”
A lost paradise
Phuket, one of Thailand’s number one tourist’s hotspots, has been hit hard since the beginning of Covid-19 pandemic, causing the province to lose the majority of their tourists and consequently, the majority of tourism-related businesses. According to Bloomberg, at least 931 shops, vendors and hotels closed themselves since the pandemic.
Empty beaches in Phuket
Image credit: Bloomberg
However, with no new Covid-19 cases reported for 29 consecutive days and recent relaxation of travel restrictions, Phuket may be an ideal place for Chinese New Year celebrations or weekend trips as empty beaches will be waiting for you and your Instagram followers.
Just remember to wear your masks, practice social distancing and stick to Covid-19 precautions, to have the best time safely.
Read more about Thailand tourism-related articles here:
- Tourists Travelling To Thailand Will Now Have To Pay ฿300 Tourism Fee To Enter
- BTS Green Line Prices Rise Could Cost Half Of Average Salary
- Thailand Might Have A “Golf Staycation” Quarantine For Tourists
- World’s Digital Nomads Ranked Chiang Mai As 5th Best City For Remote Work
- I Flew To BKK From Singapore During COVID-19: Here’s What Travelling Under The New Normal Is Like
Featured image adapted from: Fodor Travel
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