Bangkok, Feb. 1, (dpa/GNA) – Tourists who have at least two coronavirus vaccine shots – currently considered the usual full basic protection against Covid-19 – can enter Thailand quarantine-free again as of now.

The “Test & Go” scheme, suspended in December for fear of the spread of the Omicron variant of the coronavirus, was reinstated on Tuesday because the virus numbers in the popular holiday destination have not risen dramatically in recent weeks.

However, the rules have been tightened – and violators face fines.

Instead of only having to take a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test after arrival in Thailand, another PCR test is now required on the fifth day after arrival.

While waiting for the test result, holidaymakers must isolate themselves in a specialized hotel.

Other rules apply, and it is strongly recommended to get detailed information from the authorities.

Those who disregard the authorities’ guidelines could face a fine of up to 20,000 baht (600 dollars), Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) spokesperson Taweesilp Wisanuyothin told the Bangkok Post newspaper. “Tourists must obey the laws of Thailand.”

Penalties in other countries in the region are much harsher, he stressed. Those without appropriate health insurance would also have to bear all costs for possible Covid-19 treatment and quarantine themselves, he added.

The government in Bangkok had decided at the end of December to put the “Test & Go” model on hold for the time being, fearing an increase in the number of cases because of Omicron.

Most recently, depending on the country of origin and the vaccination status, people entering the country again had to spend seven or 10 days in quarantine.

Only on the largest islands of Phuket and Ko Samui as well as in other provinces such as Krabi and Phang-nga could holidaymakers continue to take a quarantine-free holiday under certain conditions using the so-called “sandbox model.”

On Tuesday, the authorities reported around 7,400 new infections.

Thailand, with its islands, beaches, temples and jungles, relies on tourism and hopes for a recovery in the industry. Before the coronavirus pandemic, about 40 million international guests came every year.

GNA

Bangkok, Feb. 1, (dpa/GNA) – Tourists who have at least two coronavirus vaccine shots – currently considered the usual full basic protection against Covid-19 – can enter Thailand quarantine-free again as of now.

The “Test & Go” scheme, suspended in December for fear of the spread of the Omicron variant of the coronavirus, was reinstated on Tuesday because the virus numbers in the popular holiday destination have not risen dramatically in recent weeks.

However, the rules have been tightened – and violators face fines.

Instead of only having to take a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test after arrival in Thailand, another PCR test is now required on the fifth day after arrival.

While waiting for the test result, holidaymakers must isolate themselves in a specialized hotel.

Other rules apply, and it is strongly recommended to get detailed information from the authorities.

Those who disregard the authorities’ guidelines could face a fine of up to 20,000 baht (600 dollars), Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) spokesperson Taweesilp Wisanuyothin told the Bangkok Post newspaper. “Tourists must obey the laws of Thailand.”

Penalties in other countries in the region are much harsher, he stressed. Those without appropriate health insurance would also have to bear all costs for possible Covid-19 treatment and quarantine themselves, he added.

The government in Bangkok had decided at the end of December to put the “Test & Go” model on hold for the time being, fearing an increase in the number of cases because of Omicron.

Most recently, depending on the country of origin and the vaccination status, people entering the country again had to spend seven or 10 days in quarantine.

Only on the largest islands of Phuket and Ko Samui as well as in other provinces such as Krabi and Phang-nga could holidaymakers continue to take a quarantine-free holiday under certain conditions using the so-called “sandbox model.”

On Tuesday, the authorities reported around 7,400 new infections.

Thailand, with its islands, beaches, temples and jungles, relies on tourism and hopes for a recovery in the industry. Before the coronavirus pandemic, about 40 million international guests came every year.

GNA