Thread by @RichardBarrow

I’ve just come out of a meeting with the Governor & deputy governors of the TAT about the #PhuketSandbox plan. The good news is that it will go ahead as it has been approved in principle by the CCSA. The bad news is that the 7 days is now 14 days before you can visit elsewhere.

I will type up some FAQ about the #PhuketReopening as soon as I get home. The CCSA will have their meeting on Monday to officially approve it. Then the cabinet meeting on Tuesday will rubber stamp it before being published in the Royal Gazette a few days later.

To be clear, vaccinated tourists can fly to Phuket from 1st July without having to do quarantine. They have the freedom of the island. But only the island during the first 14 days. If they want, they can stay for only one week and then fly home. But must stay in SHA+ hotels.

Tourists don’t have to book expensive hotels or tour packages. There are already over 400 SHA+ hotels signed up with a wide price range. You don’t have to book a tour if you don’t want to. You can sit on the beach if you like or go anywhere on the island by yourself. Up to you.

Once tourists have completed 14 days on Phuket island and their Covid tests are negative, then they are allowed to go anywhere they like in Thailand. But, please be aware that some provinces might have entry restrictions. Everyone has to obey the rules still in place in July.

One very important information is that it has just been confirmed that you CAN transit at Suvarnabhumi airport before then flying to Phuket. There will be a dedicated terminal and a dedicated flight for these people. So, not just direct flights to Phuket. Transit flights too.

Of course, foreign tourists coming to Phuket have to follow the national rules such as mask wearing & the bars must be closed. But it is hopeful that by July that restaurants and hotels will be allowed to sell alcohol again. Plus, who knows, more things could be relaxed by then.

The #PhuketSandbox is open to anyone. Not just foreign tourists. Returning expats & even returning Thais can take advantage of this if they’re vaccinated. But you have to come from a low to medium risk country and if you want to go elsewhere you must stay on Phuket 14 days first.

The point of the #PhuketReopening is that they need this to help boost the local economy. Which is why you cannot just stay in your own home. You must pre-book a SHA+ hotel(s), before you arrive. That’s your only obligation. But you can then sleep in your own home if you insist.

One small mistake I wish to correct. It was the Center for Economic Situation Administration (CESA) meeting today that approved the #PhuketSandbox in principle. The CCSA is then expected to give its approval on Monday and the Cabinet on Tuesday. Followed by the Royal Gazette.