Thailand hails UK red list removal
Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), UK & Ireland has welcomed the UK’s latest travel updates, removing the Land of Smiles from the red list.
In fact, all Asia Pacific destinations have now been removed.
"After much speculation this week we are so happy to see Thailand come off the UK’s travel red list. It’s a very timely boost for Thailand’s travel industry. We’re heading into peak season with our best weather ahead, particularly along the Andaman coast and insights from our UK tour operators tells us there is huge interest in travel to Thailand," said Chiravadee Khunsub, Director of Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), UK & Ireland.
TAT expects thousands of postponed holidays to be rebooked both for immediate winter sun getaways and departures in 2022.
Thailand has been open to international travellers, including the UK and Ireland, since 1 July under the ‘Sandbox’ scheme which has welcomed 41,000 travellers in Phuket to date.
"One of the UK’s most popular holiday destinations, this is really positive new for the Thai tourism industry and has given us much hope for a positive end to the year" Khunsub added.
Before Thailand was moved to the UK’s travel red list British arrivals accounted for around 20% of ‘Sandbox’ arrivals, the second largest source market into Phuket.
The ‘Sandbox’ initiative, to date, has generated $75 million for the Thai economy.
"Since the 1 October, Thailand has eased its entry requirements further still making it even more accessible to those looking for a holiday this year."
Under the Sandbox initiative, travellers must stay in SHA+ accommodation for the first seven nights of which there are over 5,000 approved hotels.
Travellers have freedom in their chosen arrival destination and are free to spend time at the beach, sightsee, take day trips and tours and dine out.
From November, Thailand’s reopening plans are expected to extend to Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Hua Hin.
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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