Thailand reopens popular resort island of Phuket to fully vaccinated foreigners from lower-risk countries
The country is making its first tentative steps towards rejuvenating its tourism industry – despite a surge in infections.
Only double jabbed holidaymakers from lower risk countries can come in, and the first flight in was an Etihad jet from Abu Dhabi.
One of those on board was Frenchman Bruno Souillard, who said he had been dreaming for a year of returning to Thailand and jumped at the opportunity.
“I am very, very happy,” the 60-year-old tourist said.
The so-called “Phuket sandbox” programme comes as the country battles with a surge in Delta cases.
Many have questioned if it is too early to woo back tourists, and whether they will come in significant numbers in any case due to the restrictions they will still face.
Travellers to other parts of Thailand are subject to a strict 14-day hotel room quarantine, but visitors to Phuket are allowed to roam the entire island where they can lounge on the white beaches, use a jetski and enjoy evenings eating out in restaurants, although clubs and bars remain closed.
However, they have to follow mask and distancing regulations and take three COVID-19 tests at their own expense and show negative results.
Fewer than 250 international travellers were expected on the first day compared with the initial target of 1,500.
Following the inaugural flight from Abu Dhabi, passengers were expected to also arrive from Qatar, Israel and Singapore.
