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Thailand
Third wave hits expected domestic tourism for Songkran hard, cases rapidly climbing.
Lockdown Status
Partial
Inbound Travel
Open
Outbound Travel
Restricted
Confirmed
34,575
495 per million
7 Day Rolling Ave
+715 ▲
+567% vs prev week
Deaths
97
1.4 per million
Fully Vaccinated
73,561
0.11% of pop.
Source: Cases - John Hopkins University (2021-04-13).
Vaccine - Government of Thailand (2021-04-13).
Retrieved from OurWorldInData.org
Latest Travel Industry News
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11-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundA Suan Dusit poll has shown that 43.88% of respondents do not expect to take part in Songkran activities. Instead, they chose more traditional elements of the festival. The average spend was forecast to be 4,184 THBSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2098323/many-will-skip-songkran-activities-suan-dusit-poll
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11-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundAyutthaya has cancelled its Songkran activitiesSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2098315/ayutthaya-cancels-songkran-festivities
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11-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundThailand registered its highest number of cases yet, 947 on 11 AprSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2098343/record-high-967-new-covid-cases-sunday
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10-Apr-2021 🛬 inbound9 provinces, including Bangkok, Samut Sakhon, Nonthaburi, Ratchaburi and Tak are classified are controlled areas; 14 are classified as high surveillance areas, including Chonburi, Rayong and Ayutthaya; 54 provinces are surveillance areas, including Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Krabi, Phangnga, Phuket and Surat ThaniSource: www.tatnews.org/2021/04/bangkok-and-40-thai-provinces-to-close-entertainment-venues-during-songkran/
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10-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundMore than 3,500 cars were expected to board ferries to Koh Chang on 10 Apr, whilst car traffic to the North and Northeast was heavy, but bus operators said that passenger numbers were only half of what was previously expectedSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2097999/tourists-flock-to-koh-chang
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10-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundHua Hin has seen almost 70% of its guests cancel their hotel rooms for Songkran, whilst Chiang Mai, which has imposed a 14-day quarantine period for certain travellers, has seen 20% cancellations. Pattaya has seen a decline and its occupancy is expected to drop from 90% to 60%. The Northeast, which has also imposed quarantine measures, has seen 20% cancellations. Southern hotels are reporting cancellations of around 15%, as Phuket is still permitting tourists to visit without quarantine. Samui, Koh Tao and Koh Phangan have seen 20% cancellations, and Nakhon Si Thammarat 15%. 38 events have also been cancelled nationwideSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2097827/new-wave-to-dampen-festival-tourism
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10-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundAt least a dozen Bangkok hospitals suspended testing on Fri, due to a lack of kits or capacitySource: www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/thailand-bangkok-10-000-field-hospital-beds-covid-19-spike-14595714?cid=cna_flip_070214
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10-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundThe Bank of Thailand has said that the economy may grow less than previously forecast, with a worst-case sharp contraction in case of virus variants and vaccine efficacySource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/highly-contagious-variant-and-vaccines-efficacy-cloud-thai-economy-and-tourism-350673
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10-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundThe government is offering special insurance policies to cover travellers against COVID-19 infection over the Songkran holiday for a 10 THB premiumSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thai-government-offers-insurance-to-songkran-travelers-and-covid-19-at-risk-groups-350668
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10-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundThe PM has signed an order authorising Bangkok and 40 other provinces to temporarily close their entertainment businesses for at least 14 daysSource: www.tatnews.org/2021/04/bangkok-and-40-thai-provinces-to-close-entertainment-venues-during-songkran/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=bangkok-and-40-thai-provinces-to-close-entertainment-venues-during-songkran
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10-Apr-2021 🛬 inbound29 provinces have so far imposed quarantine for external arrivals, including Kamphaeng Phet, Chiang Mai, Tak, Nan, Phayao, Lamphun, Uthai Thani, Chaiyaphum, Nakhon Phanom, Bung Karn, Buri Ra, Maha Sarakham, Mukdahan, Yasothon, Loei, Sakhon Nakhon, Nong Khai, Nong Bua Lamphu, Amnat Charoen, Chai Nat, Saraburi, Chumpon, Trang, Narathiwat, Pattani, Phang-nga and SongkhlaSource: www.thaipbsworld.com/new-covid-19-infections-leapt-to-789-today-as-a-million-more-vaccine-doses-arrive/
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10-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundVisitors to Thailand who want to qualify for the shorter quarantine will need to be vaccinated with vaccines from Sinovac, AstraZeneca, SK Bioscience, Pfizer, BioNTech, Serum Institute of India, Johnson & Johnson, Moderna and Sinopharm GroupSource: www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/thailand-endorses-specific-covid-19-vaccines-for-foreign-tourists
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10-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundThe government has said that there is no need for a nationwide lockdownSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/nationwide-lockdown-to-tackle-latest-covid-19-outbreak-is-not-necessary-350508
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10-Apr-2021 💉 vaccinePrivate hospitals will be allowed to purchase 10 million doses of vaccine, to help create herd immunitySource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-herd-immunity-requires-at-least-40-million-people-be-vaccinated-350649
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10-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundThe number of new cases in Thailand has increased sharply, with 789 detected on 10 Apr compared to 559 on 9 Apr. Bangkok has started to set up field hospitals which could accommodate up to 10,000 patientsSource: www.thaipbsworld.com/new-covid-19-infections-leapt-to-789-today-as-a-million-more-vaccine-doses-arrive/
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10-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT have lowered their expectations for the Songkran holidays by 50%, due to the growing number of cases. Last week, it forecast 3.2 million domestic trips with a revenue of 12 billion THB, but it has started to see mass cancellations being reported across the country, as well as quarantine periods being imposed on travellers from Bangkok and other areas with clustersSource: thethaiger.com/news/chiang-mai/tourism-officials-slash-songkran-travel-expectations-by-half
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10-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundThe latest wave of cases is linked to Thailand’s nightlifeSource: www.thaipbsworld.com/how-party-fever-in-bangkoks-decadent-nightlife-scene-spawned-thailands-3rd-wave/
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09-Apr-2021 👨✈️ aviationAirlines are calling for the government to close domestic travel over the Songkran period to prevent a third wave, warning that tourism will lose even more over the long-run. Thai AirAsia have a load factor of 80-85% over Songkran. Thai Lion Air forecast a load factor of 70% for Songkran, but expect cancellations. They also agreed with travel restrictions to be imposed for “long-term benefits”Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2097215/airlines-nervous-over-songkran
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09-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT are organising a golf tournament aimed at expats in the country as part of its domestic travel campaignSource: www.bangkokpost.com/sports/2097323/tat-targets-expats-in-bid-to-resurrect-sport-tourism
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09-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundPhuket province will implement stricter screening for arrivals, but will not impose quarantineSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/phuket-island-remains-open-to-visitors-during-songkran-holidays-350460
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09-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundPattaya will close its entertainment places for 2 weeksSource: www.pattayamail.com/news/pattaya-bars-pubs-clubs-and-karaoke-bars-will-be-closed-for-2-weeks-2-350373
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09-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundThe government has said that bus and rail passengers who want to cancel their trips over Songkran will be entitled t a full refund, so long as they cancel at least 24 hours in advanceSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2097135/transport-ministry-issues-rules-on-travel-refunds
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09-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundA health official has warned that the latest wave of cases in Thailand could take more than 2 months to get back under control, but perhaps longer in Bangkok. Thailand confirmed that the UK variant is behind the fast spread of casesSource: www.reuters.com/article/health-coronavirus-thailand/update-2-thailand-says-bangkok-covid-19-outbreak-may-take-months-to-contain-idUSL1N2M107M
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09-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT is partnering with Thai AirAsia to promote “Must Visit Second Tier Cities” in a new campaign. 15 provinces are being promoted: Chiang Rai, Nan, Phitsanulok, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Trang, Ranong, Chumphon, Narathiwat, Udon Thani, Ubon Ratchathani, Roi Et, Nakhon Phanom, Sakon Nakhon, Buriram and LoeiSource: www.marketscreener.com/quote/stock/AIRASIA-GROUP-6497323/news/AirAsia-nbsp-TAT-collaborates-with-AirAsia-to-promote-second-tier-cities-32921120/
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08-Apr-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways will fly 11 routes in Apr, mainly for business travel and repatriation needs, with 7 routes to Asia and 4 to EuropeSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2021/04/thai-confirms-april-flights/
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08-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundThe Thai PM has said that the new outbreak was controllable stillSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/covid-19-is-controllable-says-thai-prime-minister-350231
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08-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundThe University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce see consumer spending to be cut by 60 billion THB to 100 billion THB with the most recent outbreak, with a risk that the economy will contract in Q2Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2097031/new-outbreak-seen-shaving-b60bn-off-spending
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08-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundBangkok has cancelled its Songkran celebrations to prevent crowd gatheringsSource: www.pattayamail.com/travel/bangkok-cancels-songkran-events-while-provinces-await-decisions-from-their-governors-350315
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08-Apr-2021 💉 vaccine25,000 people in Koh Samui have been vaccinated, and they are planning to vaccinate 70% of its population by JulSource: thethaiger.com/coronavirus/25000-people-injected-with-covid-19-vaccine-this-week-in-koh-samui
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08-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundPhuket has ordered the closure of all entertainment venues for 10 days, following Hua Hin’s similar decisionSource: thepattayanews.com/2021/04/08/phuket-orders-closure-of-all-entertainment-venues-on-island-for-ten-days-hua-hin-four-days/
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08-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundThe Thai Hotels Association has criticised the government for its inefficient vaccination program, calling for a “pro-active strategy” and to accelerate the speed of the rollout. The Association of Domestic Travel has said that the latest wave of infections will be more disastrous for the tourism industry, as it has rapidly spread in Bangkok. The Thai Chamber of Commerce has said that if lockdown measures are imposed over Songkran, it could cost the economy 5 billion THBSource: www.chiangraitimes.com/thailand-national-news/news-asia-thailand/tourism-operators-furious-over-governments-vaccination-program/
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07-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundThe Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), 12 organisations and 10 MICE cities have signed an MoU to boost hygiene standards, called Unlock MICE Cities with High Standard of SafetySource: www.ttgmice.com/2021/04/07/tceb-spearheads-move-to-heighten-health-and-safety-measures-in-mice-cities/
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07-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundMultiple Australian government sources have said that Australia could be looking at setting up a travel bubble with ThailandSource: www.9news.com.au/national/australia-new-zealand-travel-bubble-what-countries-are-next/dac6894f-4697-416c-bde6-090b3bd9efd5
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07-Apr-2021 👨✈️ aviationBangkok Airways expects to return to profit only in 2024, assuming that all routes and international demand resume. This year, they forecast their revenue to be 3.39 billion THB with 1.61 million pax, down from 1.89 million in 2020. It has requested bank loans of 2.5-3.5 billion THB, and is reducing its fleet size from 39 to 30 in 2022. It is operating 8 domestic routes, down from 17 previously. It hopes to start operating Koh Samui-Singapore and Koh Samui-Hong Kong routes in Jul if travel bubbles go through. Overall, it plans to restart 30% of its 20 international destinations in 2021Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2096251/bangkok-airways-eyes-profit-in-2024
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07-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundSony Pictures Entertainment and Amazon Falls will establish a new theme park based on films from its Columbia Pictures studio such as Jumaji and Ghostbusters. It plans to open in OctSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2096303/sony-pictures-to-set-up-amusement-park-in-thailand
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06-Apr-2021 👨✈️ aviationThe Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) say there will be 36,150 domestic and international flights in Apr, a 7% increase MoMSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2095435/caat-seeks-jabs-for-air-ground-staff
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06-Apr-2021 👨✈️ aviationThe Thai Airways labour union have petitioned the Department of Labour Protection and Welfare to see if the orders to change employment contracts were consistent with the debt restructuring plansSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2095487/new-staff-contracts-draw-thai-labour-unions-ire
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06-Apr-2021 💉 vaccineThe Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) have asked the government for 20,000 aviation frontliners to be prioritised in the vaccination rolloutSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2095435/caat-seeks-jabs-for-air-ground-staff
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06-Apr-2021 👨✈️ aviationSuvarnabhumi International Airport has started its vaccination drive, hoping to vaccinate all 30,000 staff by the end of MaySource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2095823/suvarnabhumi-airport-staff-getting-covid-shots
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06-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Minister has said that Thailand and Singapore are discussing a travel bubble, and they are also looking at countries such as Vietnam and Laos. They hope to start travel bubbles in OctSource: www.traveldailymedia.com/thailand-travel-bubbles-asean-countries/
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06-Apr-2021 🌏 outboundThe Thai Travel Agents Association (TTAA) is concerned that a slow vaccination rollout will mean a slow restart to tourism within Asia by Q4. Thai outbound travellers are not on a priority list for vaccines, so will need to wait for their distribution. They do not expect outbound tourists to exceed 1 million in 2021, if outbound travel restarts in Q4 at the earliestSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2095575/travel-agents-worried-slow-jab-distribution-delays-restart
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05-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundThailand is in discussions with Hong Kong over a travel bubble schemeSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2095019/hoping-for-a-miracle
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05-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundThe level of household debt in Thailand is at its highest since 2003Source: www.channelnewsasia.com/news/business/thai-households-struggle-record-debt-covid-19-14558490?cid=cna_flip_070214
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05-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundEntertainment spots in some areas of Bangkok were ordered closed from 6-19 Apr, following 194 cases reported on Monday, 25% of which were linked to Bangkok with transmission from nightclubsSource: www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/thailand-considers-closing-nightclubs-to-contain-new-coronavirus-clusters
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04-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundTravellers from 28 countries are interested in visiting Phuket, although the Phuket Tourist Association has said that although interest is shown, it remains to be seen whether the travellers will be permitted to undergo outbound leisure travel by their own countriesSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2094495/28-countries-drawn-to-phuket-relaunch
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04-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundA Suan Dusit poll has shown that before the outbreak, 39.37% travelled 2-3 times per month, 25.69% once a month. After the pandemic, 59.29% did not travel at all, whilst 24.74% travelled 2-3 times per month. Once the government’s incentives were launched, that changed to 37.94% 2-3 times per month, 31.46% did not travel at all and 16.36% once a month. 67.7% were satisfied with the We Travel Together program, whilst 67.58% were satisfied with the Tour Tiew Thai programSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2094747/majority-agree-with-govts-travel-stimulants-suan-dusit-poll
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03-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundQuarantine will be reduced to 7 days for international arrivals who have been fully vaccinated for at least 14 days before the travel date, are coming from countries with no mutated strains, and are vaccinated with Sinovac, AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Covishield, Johnson & Johnson or Moderna. A 10 day quarantine will be in place for those who are not vaccinatedSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/11-groups-of-people-currently-permitted-to-enter-thailand-349548
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03-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Minister is considering offering free domestic flights for international travellers, once aviation workers are vaccinated. This would be a way to incentivise travellers to stay longer in the country after their initial period in Phuket was finished. One of the possible destinations includes Koh Samui, and the government has already discussed the idea with Bangkok AirwaysSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-plans-to-offer-free-domestic-flights-for-foreign-tourists-349668
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02-Apr-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai VietJet will trial the IATA Travel Pass project on its semi-commercial flights from Bangkok – HCMC in JunSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2093515/state-mulls-free-flights-in-sandbox
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02-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundThe Pattaya Business and Tourism Association will organise monthly tourist events to draw the crowds, including concerts, sports competitions and cultural showsSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/pattaya-business-leaders-to-organize-self-tourism-driving-events-349316
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02-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundThe government’s 2 co-pay schemes ended on 31 Mar and generated 102.065 billion THB in spend, 52.2 billion THB of which was generated by consumersSource: www.thaipbsworld.com/co-payment-stimulus-scheme-has-ended-with-102bn-spending-in-six-months/
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02-Apr-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai Vietjet have launched a “Fly Green Fund”Source: www.traveldailymedia.com/thai-vietjet-unveils-fly-green-fund-to-support-environment/
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02-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundThe WTTC have certified the Amazing Thailand SHA certification program to be aligned with their own SafeTravels protocols. This means that Thai stakeholders who have qualified for SHA will be entitled to display the WTTC SafeTravels logo tooSource: www.tatnews.org/2021/04/wttc-certifies-amazing-thailand-sha-on-par-with-safetravels-protocols/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=wttc-certifies-amazing-thailand-sha-on-par-with-safetravels-protocols
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02-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT have launched a new TV advert, “Wait No More”, in international markets under the campaign “Amazing Moments, Amazing Thailand”. It promotes Thailand as a top travel destinationSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/thailand-new-tat-video-to-attract-foreign-tourists/199489.vnp
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02-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundSongkran spending is expected to be 17% lower than 2019’s 113 billion THB, according to the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC). They conducted a survey which showed that the most popular activities anticipated for the festival will be merit-making, eating and celebrating at home, and the traditional water blessing ceremony. 34.9% said that they will cut their spending. For travel, 39% are planning to travel within their own province, 15.5% will travel to other provinces and 10% go back to their home province, whilst 26.5% said they would stay at home. Those who will travel to tourist destinations expect to do one-day trips (44.2%), spending 5,810 THB on average. Popular destinations included Chonburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan and TratSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2093459/survey-weak-spending-during-songkran-festival
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02-Apr-2021 👨✈️ aviationThe Transport Minister still considers a 2nd terminal at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport necessary, but will ensure that the project is transparentSource: www.thaipbsworld.com/transport-minister-to-push-for-2nd-terminal-at-suvarnabhumi-airport/
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02-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundThailand’s monsoon season this year may be the heaviest in 30 years, and is expected to start in MaySource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30404428
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02-Apr-2021 💉 vaccineThe Health Ministry will start to issue vaccination certificates once the WHO has standardised the format, expected in Jun. From 1 May, the general public will be able to book their appointments via LINE or an app under developmentSource: coconuts.co/bangkok/news/vaccination-to-come-with-travel-docs-in-thailand-appointments-start-may-1/
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01-Apr-2021 👨✈️ aviationThe Phuket International Terminal has now reopened as of 1 Apr, and has received a Thai Airways flight from FrankfurtSource: www.thephuketnews.com/phuket-airport-prepares-for-international-visitors-79538.php
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01-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundItalthai Group will recapitalise its hotel business in Thailand, as it sees that partial reopening will not provide an “instant remedy” and their best-case scenario for 2021 is breaking even with an occupancy level of 40%. They predict that 20% of hotels in Thailand will close, with tourism only returning in 3 yearsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/property/2092887/italthai-preps-recapitalisation-plan-for-thai-hotels
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01-Apr-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways will sell some of its in-flight meals at 7-Eleven stores and supermarkets nationwideSource: coconuts.co/bangkok/news/thai-airways-food-due-for-arrival-next-month-at-7-eleven/
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01-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundCentara Hotels and Resorts will reopen 3 properties in Thailand in April 2021, in Krabi, Hat Yai and PattayaSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2021/04/centara-reopens-more-hotels/
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01-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundThailand’s Emergency Decree has been extended for 2 months, until 31 MaySource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-emergency-decree-two-month-extension-takes-effect-from-1-april-31-may-349361
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01-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundThe Thai Baht is the worst performing currency in Southeast Asia in Q1Source: asia.nikkei.com/Business/Markets/Thai-baht-is-worst-performing-currency-in-Southeast-Asia
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01-Apr-2021 💉 vaccineThe Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has requested an allocation of 40,000 doses to vaccinate aviation staff by JulSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30404392
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01-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundCentara Hotels have reported that bookings for the Songkran period have been outstanding for the month, with Bangkok, Pattaya, Hua Hin and beach destinations receiving more than 70% forward bookings, and may be fully booked for 11-14 Apr. Bangkok Airways have said that the load factor for flights over the period is difficult to predict, but will increase frequencies to 20 flights per day to Koh Samui. Thai Lion Air predict load factor to increase near 100% from current below 50% levels for the holiday week, with top destinations including Chiang Mai, Hat Yai and Phuket. Thai Lion Air aims to maintain a load factor of 70% in 2021Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2093071/operators-banking-on-songkran
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01-Apr-2021 🛬 inboundThe government is planning to attract 1 million high-income international tourists and foreign investors in S-Curve industries to Thailand. Proposals will include amending regulations on foreigners owning property to attract more high-income retireesSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2092787/govt-lures-wealthy-foreigners
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31-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundAgoda has seen no international searches from Thais in March 2021 or December 2020 make it to the top 30 listSource: themalaysianreserve.com/2021/03/31/agoda-zero-international-destination-searches-among-malaysians/
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31-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe ‘Dream Vacations & Travel Fair 2021’ fair organised at centralwOrld Bangkok generated sales of over 100 million THBSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/pr/2092591/central-pattana-shopping-center-travel-fairs-awaken-thai-tourism
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31-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundSITE (Society of Incentive Travel Excellence) Thailand is establishing an APAC cluster to boost partnership with 3 other chapters, including China, India, and ANZACSource: www.ttgmice.com/2021/03/31/site-thailand-takes-lead-in-establishing-apac-cluster/
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31-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe Thai Cabinet approved the plan to reopen Thailand with a 7-day quarantine for travellers from 1 Apr into Phuket, Krabi, Phang Nga, Pattaya and Chiang Mai, from 1 Jul with no quarantine into Phuket, and from 1 Oct, no quarantine either in Krabi, Phang Nga, Pattaya and Chiang MaiSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/03/31/cabinet-approves-plan-to-reopen-thailand-to-foreign-tourists
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30-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT have said that beaches in Phuket have been revitalised over the pandemic periodSource: thethaiger.com/hot-news/environment/phuket-beaches-show-silver-lining-of-covid-pandemic
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30-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundPattaya has organised the Pattaya Bikini Surf Skate Day with over 100 skateboarders from across Thailand taking partSource: www.pattayamail.com/news/skateboarding-in-pattaya-the-new-fad-to-attract-sports-tourism-348906
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30-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundChiang Mai is organising a Northern Thai Tourism Fair from 26-30 MarSource: www.pattayamail.com/chiangmaimail/chiang-mai-organizes-northern-thai-tourism-fair-event-348883
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30-Mar-2021 💉 vaccinePhuket aims to vaccinate 100,000 people in Apr. It expects 300,000 doses in May, 200,000 in Jun and 260,000 in JulSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/phuket-targets-100000-people-for-inoculation-in-april-before-reopening-349042
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30-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundBangkok should be included in tourism sandbox scheme from October, the Tourism Council of Thailand have said. They forecast that by including it, international tourist arrivals could increase by 3 million in 2021. The TCT also called for bilateral travel bubbles with low-risk countries such as China, Hong Kong, Singapore or South KoreaSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2091907/operators-call-for-sandbox-scheme-to-include-bangkok
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30-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe TCT’s tourism index for Q1 fell to 36 from 62 in Q4 2020, the second lowest reading since March 2020Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2091907/operators-call-for-sandbox-scheme-to-include-bangkok
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30-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundBorder officers along the borders with Myanmar will be prioritised for vaccinationSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2091627/border-officers-prioritised-for-vaccine
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29-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Association of Koh Samui has said that they hope to receive their first batch of 1,000 vaccinated international visitors by 1 Jul under the “Wonder Island” scheme. Bangkok Airways would provide flights for travellers from Singapore, the US, Europe and Australia, and Koh Samui has 10 alternative local state quarantine hotels for them to choose from. They would be tested on day 2, and if negative, would be allowed to undergo tourist activities between days 3-7 on “sealed routes”. From day 8-14, they could travel around Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao, and after day 15, could undertake interprovincial travelSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2091055/samui-plans-for-1-000-foreign-tourists-in-july
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29-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) has launched a new campaign, “MICE Winnovation”, to promote technology use in MICE events. It is also promoting hybrid events in case in person events need to be cancelled. It has 4 pillars: a MICE Innovation Catalogue; Technomart Activities; Digital Literacy; and Inno-Voucher. The Inno-Voucher includes financial support for MICE entrepreneurs who want to use technology. They said that around 70% of MICE events in Thailand were cancelled last yearSource: www.ttgmice.com/2021/03/29/tceb-rolls-out-mice-winnovation-to-spur-use-of-technology-at-events/
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29-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Council of Thailand estimate that 1.45 million of Thailand’s tourism workers lost their jobs, with 400,000 in Q1. They estimate that pre-pandemic, there were 4.5 million tourism jobsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2091575/thailand-loses-1-45m-tourism-jobs-from-pandemic
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29-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Council of Thailand estimate that 2 million international tourists will visit Phuket in 2021, generating 105 billion THB in H2. It sees 700k of those coming from China, Hong Kong and Macau, 250,000 from ASEAN countries, 250k from Japan, South Korea and Taiwan, 200,000 from India, Israel and the UAE and 600,000 from Australia, Europe and the US. Within Europe, they see the UK, Germany, France and Sweden to be key, and may start arriving during the winter. Overall, it expects 3 million arrivalsSource: www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-03-29/thailand-sees-chinese-leading-tourists-to-phuket-after-reopening
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28-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT has launched a new domestic tourism campaign, Worship Activities Tradition (WAT) focusing on temples and other places of worship. It has created 15 routes across the country which will allow tourists to worship as well as experience local cultureSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-launches-new-tourism-campaign-highlighting-temples-and-places-of-worship-348718
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28-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe Tour Tiew Thai domestic stimulus is expected to generate 15.5 billion THB in revenueSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2090663/stimulus-project-hoped-to-generate-b15-5bn
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28-Mar-2021 💉 vaccineThe Thai government is planning to roll out 30 million doses by AugSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2090791/govt-eyes-30m-jabs-by-august
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28-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe Phuket Chamber of Commerce has welcomed the government’s approval of the Phuket Sandbox scheme, but stressed that vaccinating the island’s population was key to reopeningSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2090655/phuket-joy-over-govt-reopen-plan
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28-Mar-2021 🛬 inbound11 countries will still need to undergo a 14-day quarantine on arrival to Thailand: South Africa, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Botswana, Zambia, Kenya, Rwanda, Cameroon, Congo, Ghana and TanzaniaSource: thethaiger.com/hot-news/tourism/11-countries-must-still-do-full-14-day-asq-quarantine-when-travelling-to-thailand?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=11-countries-must-still-do-full-14-day-asq-quarantine-when-travelling-to-thailand
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28-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe Ministry of Tourism and the Faculty of Engineering at Kasetsart University are partnering to create safety standards for land tourism, adventure sports and ziplining. They will be implemented in Chiang Mai, Phuket, Kanchanaburi, Udon Thani, Chon Buri and BangkokSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2091019/govt-to-launch-safety-standards-for-tourists
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27-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe Minister of Tourism revealed a 3-stage plan for reopening 6 tourism provinces (Phuket, Krabi, Phangnga, Surat Thani (Koh Samui), Chonburi (Pattaya) and Chiang Mai) to vaccinated travellers which has been approved: 1. Apr-Jun: vaccinated travellers arriving into these provinces will be able to quarantine for 7 days 2. Jul-Sep: vaccinated travellers can visit Phuket without quarantine under the “Phuket Tourism Sandbox” scheme. Tourists will be limited to “sealed routes” in Phuket for 7 days, before they can visit other locations 3. Oct-Dec: sandbox model expanded to 5 other tourist provinces 4. Jan 2022 onwards: full reopening expected The TAT expects that 100,000 international travellers will visit Phuket between Apr-Jun, and more from Jul onwards, with a total of 6.5 million international visitors in 2021. Herd immunity must be achieved by vaccinating 70% of Phuket’s population before reopening, with the first round of vaccinations on 15 Apr, the second from 15 May. Vaccinated travellers would need to show a vaccine certificate, passport or the IATA Travel passSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2090307/phuket-to-rekindle-tourism
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27-Mar-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways has said that its listing on the stock exchange will remain risky as it only expects to regain positive shareholder equity from 2030Source: asia.nikkei.com/Business/Transportation/Thai-Airways-warns-of-extended-delisting-risk
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27-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundPattaya will hold a Kite on the Beach event from 9-19 AprSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/pattaya-to-host-kites-on-the-beach-april-9-19-348575
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26-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundA new president of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn, has been electedSource: www.ttgasia.com/2021/03/26/atta-names-new-president/
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26-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe State Railway of Thailand has restarted its train services to Samut SakhonSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-resumes-train-services-in-samut-sakhon-348603
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26-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThailand’s Feb 2021 international tourist arrivals were just 5,471, -99.7% YoYSource: corporatetravelcommunity.com/visitor-arrivals-to-thailand-down-99-7-in-feb-2021/
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26-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundPattaya’s Mayor will chair a commission to improve Pattaya’s MICE offering and marketingSource: www.pattayamail.com/news/pattaya-mayor-to-head-another-mice-committee-348571
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26-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundSiam Commercial Bank has launched a Joint Venture with Traveloka to offer financial services to Thai customersSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2090139/scb-forms-jv-with-indonesian-travel-app-traveloka
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26-Mar-2021 💉 vaccineThe Pattaya Business & Tourism Administration have urged the government to focus on vaccinating the population, rather than coming up with catchphrasesSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/pattaya-business-tourism-boss-wants-more-vaccinations-less-catchy-slogans-348484
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25-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundASQ Stay, a platform to book ASQ hotels in Thailand, is seeing more customer bookings everyday and may expand to other destinationsSource: www.ttgasia.com/2021/03/25/new-platform-helps-travellers-book-asq-stays-in-thailand/
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25-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe Bank of Thailand has cut its 2021 economic forecast to 3% from 3.2%, and its forecast for international arrivals to 3 million from 5.5 millionSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2089195/bot-reduces-annual-growth-forecast-to-3-
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25-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe Finance Minister expects that Thailand will receive 40 million international arrivals in 5 yearsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2089215/arkhom-40m-arrivals-by-2024
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25-Mar-2021 💉 vaccine8 Thai tourism organisations have called for an accelerated vaccination plan for Phuket and Koh Samui, with 70% of the population’s to be vaccinated between 15 Apr-30 JunSource: thethaiger.com/hot-news/tourism/accelerated-vaccination-plan-for-phuket-koh-samui-recommended-by-tourism-sector
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25-Mar-2021 💉 vaccineThe Johnson & Johnson vaccine has been approved for local emergency use in ThailandSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2089591/fda-approves-johnson-johnson-vaccine
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24-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe “sandbox” proposal for Phuket has been approved. This means that from 1 Jul, foreign travellers can enter the island without quarantine. Phuket plans to acquire 930,000 doses of vaccine before opening, and foreign visitors will be tracked by an appSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2088963/no-quarantine-plan-for-foreign-visitors-to-phuket-from-july
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24-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundIt is hoped that the Phuket sandbox model will allow Phuket residents to rise above the poverty line once more, as the average income has fallen from 40,000 THB/ month to just 8,000 THBSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2088963/no-quarantine-plan-for-foreign-visitors-to-phuket-from-july
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24-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundMICE stakeholders have said that they do not anticipate a boost to MICE arrivals numbers to Thailand, as quarantines will add to the cost, even if it is a reduced quarantineSource: www.ttgmice.com/2021/03/24/thailands-reduced-quarantine-too-weak-to-benefit-mice-business-travel/
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24-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundHilton is targeting converting 2,000 of its rooms in Thailand over 2 years, focusing on Hilton Hotels & Resorts, DoubleTree by Hilton and Hilton Garden InnSource: www.ttgasia.com/2021/03/24/hilton-banks-on-conversions-to-bolster-growth-in-thailand/
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24-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundInterprovincial travel to Samut Sakhon has been permittedSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2088939/69-new-cases-samut-sakhon-reopens-to-visitors
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24-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe State Railway of Thailand has added 16 train services from Bangkok to the North and Northeast over Songkran, which they expect to accommodate up to 100,000 passengers dailySource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/more-train-services-from-bangkok-to-north-and-northeast-during-songkran-break-348251
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24-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundBangkok has announced 3 measures over Songkran from 10-15 Apr, including: activities with more than 300 people need to seek permission first, banquets of more than 100 must submit an event plan, and lengthy eating and drinking should be avoidedSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30404066
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24-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe Airlines Association of Thailand (AAT) have said that vaccinations for airlines must take place in the next 2 months, so that it can be aligned with the Phuket sandbox plan. The AAT are calling for the reopening plan to be implemented in Jul, not OctSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2088579/airlines-seek-july-reopening-date
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24-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe We Travel Together domestic tourism stimulus scheme is set to cover 2 million more people in a 3rd extension until 31 Aug with a budget of 5.7 billion THB. Hotel bookings would need to be done 7 days in advance, to allow checks for fraudulent bookings, and hotels will have to submit the number of rooms they have, as well as their room rates. The Tour Tiew Thai scheme has also been approved, which will subsidise up to 40% of payment for package tours, up to 5,000 THB per pax. Packages must be for a minimum of 3D2N, a minimum price of 12,500 THB and must travel from Sun-Thu. It is aiming to subsidise 1 million participants, and will run from 1 May-31 Aug, with a budget of 5 billion THBSource: www.chiangraitimes.com/tourism/thai-lawmakers-extend-we-travel-together-domestic-tourism-scheme/
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24-Mar-2021 💉 vaccineHuman trials are about to start for Thailand’s home developed vaccine, from the Government Pharmaceutical Organisation and Mahidol University’s Faculty of Tropical Medicine. It hopes to produce 25-30 million doses per year from 2022, if trials are successfulSource: www.thaipbsworld.com/inactivated-thai-vaccines-expected-to-be-approved-by-year-end-and-begin-manufacture-next-year/
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24-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundPhuket bus operators are asking the government for help, including negotiating with banks for payment installations to avoid bankruptcySource: www.thaipbsworld.com/phuket-tour-bus-operators-seek-government-help-after-a-year-of-unemployment/
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23-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThailand will propose tom yum gung to be included on the UNESCO intangible cultural heritage listSource: www.thaipbsworld.com/thailand-to-nominate-tom-yum-kung-for-unesco-intangible-cultural-heritage-list/
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23-Mar-2021 🛬 inbound66% of respondents in a Suan Dusit poll have said that the rise in unemployment has caused stress, whilst 47% said that their savings had decreased due to COVID-19Source: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/most-thais-worry-about-unemployment-during-covid-19-pandemic-348195
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23-Mar-2021 💉 vaccineMinor International has called on the government to speed up its vaccination program by allowing companies to import vaccinesSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2087991/hoteliers-urge-state-to-utilise-decree-to-speed-up-vaccines
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23-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe government has approved financial measures of 350 billion THB for businesses, with 250 billion THB of soft loans from the central bank and 100 billion THB for asset warehousingSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2088407/govt-approves-b350-bn-of-support-measures-for-businesses
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23-Mar-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai AirAsia has launched Domestic Fly-Thru services via Don Mueang AirportSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2021/03/air-asia-introduces-domestic-fly-thru/
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23-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundAsset World Corp is looking to acquire distressed hotels, as they believe that the tourism industry “will come back very quickly” when it repens in OctSource: www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-03-23/thai-billionaire-betting-on-tourism-rebound-eyes-troubled-hotels
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22-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe CCSA has in principle approved Koh Samui’s reopening plan, “Samui Wonder Island”. It would see foreign travellers transferred from the airport to the hotel in a private car with protective barriers, travellers would need to quarantine in their hotel rooms until day 2/3, when they would be tested. If negative, they would be allowed to travel to certain certified spots on the island, likely in a tour group. After 7 days, they will be tested again, and are then able to visit any destination in Koh Samui. After 14 days, with a final test, they can travel across Thailand. It would be implemented for low-risk countries, and the director of the Tourism Association of Koh Samui forecasts that they could expect their first group of Singaporeans by 1 Jul at the earliestSource: thepattayanews.com/2021/03/22/koh-samui-planning-to-implement-safe-and-sealed-samui-wonder-island-protocol-to-welcome-foreign-tourists-by-july/
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22-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe Thai Hotels Association (THA) has urged the government to help workers who have lost their jobs, and believes that the tourism industry will suffer as older tourism workers are made redundant because older workers understand tourism behaviour and have relationships with regular guestsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2087527/uncertainty-for-the-elderly
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22-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe Thailand Tourism Forum 2021 took place on 22 Mar in a face to face format with over 400 attendees. At the event, STR revealed that Thailand’s hotel occupancy patterns will have returned by the end of Q1 to those of the end of 2020Source: www.hospitalitynet.org/news/4103560.html
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22-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundAirbnb’s recent survey has shown: • Travel with immediate family was the top reason for domestic travel for Thais, with 68% saying they feel more connected with families, and 47% planning to travel with family for their first trip • Thais are willing to spend 5,000-15,000 THB on travel in 2021 • 74% want to travel between 1-3 nights • 73% consider sustainability when choosing destinations and accommodationSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2021/03/airbnb-tracks-thai-travels-during-covid/
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22-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe Foreign Correspondents’ Club of Thailand (FCCT) has expressed concern over journalists being injured by rubber bullets during the protests on 20 MarSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30403997
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22-Mar-2021 💉 vaccineThe Health Minister has said that there are enough vaccines for locals on Phuket and Koh Samui before tourists returnSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30403986
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22-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe CCSA has clarified that both Thais and international travellers will need to undergo quarantine for 10 days on arrival from 1 Apr, and will be tested twice, between day 3-4 or day 9-10. Those undergoing quarantine will be able to leave their hotel room during certain hours, to be able use the hotel gym or swimming pool, exercise outdoors or buy food/ products, but must stay in the quarantine facilitiesSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2087879/quarantine-period-cut-to-10-days
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21-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThailand is planning a new cash handout scheme for low-income civil servants, under the We Bond Together campaignSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-prepares-new-cash-handout-scheme-for-1-million-low-income-civil-servants-347943
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20-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundPolice used water cannons and rubber bullets to disperse protesters at an anti-government rally in BangkokSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2086947/police-crack-down-hard-on-latest-rally
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20-Mar-2021 💉 vaccineThailand is in negotiation with Sinovac for 5 million more doses after receiving 800,000 on 20 Mar. The government has also reaffirmed that it will support the private sector to import vaccines. As of 18 Mar, 61,791 people had received their first vaccination shotSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2086939/thailand-in-talks-to-buy-another-5m-sinovac-shots
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20-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundTourism operators are expecting Thais to take trips over Songkran to visit family, rather than for leisure purposes. The Association of Domestic Travel (ADT) has called for the government to implement new tourism policies, including a co-pay scheme for tour packages, to stimulate demand. In Jan, there were 4.51 domestic trips generating 23 billion THB, down -63.7% and -75.3%. 216 tour operators withdrew their licences in Jan, and an additional 180 did so in FebSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2086831/tourism-help-sought-ahead-of-songkran
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19-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe Eastern Economic Corridor has an opportunity to become an aviation hubSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2086035/eec-holds-promise-as-aviation-hub
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19-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe Thai Chamber of Commerce confidence index fell to a 26-month low in Feb to 29.6 from Jan’s 29.8. Businesses are worried about the return of tourists to the country, as well as a possible decline in Songkran spendSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2086059/confidence-index-at-26-month-low-as-recovery-slips-away
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19-Mar-2021 👨✈️ aviationThe Department of Airports has said that around 120 round trip flights are being operated a daySource: www.thephuketnews.com/new-krabi-airport-terminal-to-open-in-october-79387.php
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19-Mar-2021 👨✈️ aviationKrabi’s 3rd terminal is expected to open in Oct, which will double its passenger capacity of 4 million pax per yearSource: www.thephuketnews.com/new-krabi-airport-terminal-to-open-in-october-79387.php
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19-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundWater fights for Songkran will be once more banned in 2021, although traditional water pouring on the hands of older people, religious activities and interprovincial travel will be allowedSource: www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/thailand-songkran-water-fights-covid-19-14445102?cid=cna_flip_070214
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19-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundChiang Mai welcomed just 6 million tourists in 2020, down 46.6%, with 90.6% domestic travellers. Its average hotel occupancy in 2020 was 41.8%, a decrease from 32.4% in 2019. Around 50% of its hotels have reopenedSource: www.ttgasia.com/2021/03/19/chiang-mai-plots-reopening-to-indian-se-asian-tourists-in-april/
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19-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundChiang Mai wants to open its borders to international travellers, including from India and SE Asia from 1 Apr. It will promote weddings, wellness, adventure and halal food. They would plan to welcome travellers with the IATA Travel Pass or the ASEAN Health Passport, and would be able to visit limited areasSource: www.ttgasia.com/2021/03/19/chiang-mai-plots-reopening-to-indian-se-asian-tourists-in-april/
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19-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundCentara Pattana has launched a summer marketing campaign, Central Summer Plays, to boost domestic tourism until 4 May, including cashback offers from credit cards and prizes of resort staysSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2086171/summer-plays-to-spur-tourism-push
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19-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe government has approved the easing of quarantine requirements. From 1 Apr, visitors will no longer need a fit-to-fly document. From 1 Apr-30 Sep, arrivals without a vaccination certificate (VC) or COVID-free certificate (CVC) will be quarantined for 10 days, and be tested twice, whilst those who have the VC and CVC will be quarantined for 7 days and tested once. Those who have a VC but not a CFC will be tested twice. During the quarantine period, they will be allowed to use hotel facilities, as well as go to controlled areas for cycling and outside shopping. From 1 Jul to 30 Sep, they will also be able to eat at hotel restaurants, and have health massages. Quarantine would remain at 14 days for arrivals from countries which have mutated versions of the virusSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2086511/quarantine-to-be-eased-from-april-1
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18-Mar-2021 👨✈️ aviationThe Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has said that it still believes that 8 Thai airlines will not go bankrupt (Thai Airways, Thai Smile, Nok Air, AirAsia X, VietJet Air, Thai Lion Air, Asia Atlantic Airlines and City Airways), and is considering airline requests such as the limitation on shuttle buses to the airport, an extension to the permission for modification of passenger planes to cargo planes and shortening the notice period for cancelling a scheduled flight to 2 weeks from 4 weeksSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2085363/8-covid-hit-airlines-get-caat-boost
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18-Mar-2021 💉 vaccineThe Federation of Thai Industries has said that they will procure 100,000 doses of Sinovac, to be used and paid for by private businessesSource: www.theedgemarkets.com/article/thai-business-group-says-sinovac-shots-ordered-private-vaccination-scheme
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18-Mar-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai Vietjet will reopen its flights from Chiang Rai-Hat Yai and Chiang Mai-Nakhon Si Thammarat from 19 MarSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2021/03/thai-vietjet-resumes-cross-country-routes/
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18-Mar-2021 👨✈️ aviationAir traffic in Thailand is unpredictable, according to Nok Air, with airlines still experiencing losses as the load levels remain weak. They also claim that the competition is intense, thanks to non-low-cost air carriers also selling ticket prices at low levels. Just 1% of air travel is booked 3 months in advance, with an average lead time of 7-10 days, making it unpredictable. Nok Air is currently operating 22 planes, with the airline planning to add more hours of service per day in Apr if conditions approveSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2085483/airlines-still-struggle-thanks-to-competition
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18-Mar-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways is disputing $7.4 billion USD in claims from aircraft lessors and Rolls-Royce HoldingsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2085763/thai-airways-disputes-7-4bn-of-aircraft-lessor-claims
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18-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT and Golf Asian are hosting the Amazing Thailand Expat Golf Tournament in PattayaSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2021/03/tat-and-golf-asian-host-expat-golf/
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17-Mar-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai AirAsia have launched a new level to its FlyRuaRuaPass, for 10kg checked baggage on any domestic flightSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2021/03/airasia-offers-baggage-pass/
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17-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThailand is aiming for 4% growth in 2021, with recovery in Q4, under the expectation that tourism will growSource: www.reuters.com/article/thailand-economy-idUSL1N2LF06N
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17-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Minister has proposed a 4-part strategy for reopening, which would include: • Stage 1- wellness leisure and area quarantine – allowing quarantined travellers to use hotel facilities after 3 days. Until May • Stage 2 – “sealed routes” for tourists, allowing them to visit restricted destinations and attractions. From Jun-Sep • Stage 3 – “Sandbox”. No quarantine for vaccinated travellers on arrival for those from countries which have vaccinated at least 70% of their population. Restricted to Chonburi, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Samui, Koh Tao, Kho Phangan and Krabi. From Oct – Dec • Stage 4 – “self-quarantine” for vaccinated travellers with vaccination passportSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/thai-tourism-ministry-proposes-variations-of-covid-19-quarantine-347388
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17-Mar-2021 💉 vaccineThailand aims to finish its vaccination program in 2021, with 60% of the population vaccinatedSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-targets-vaccine-shots-for-60-of-population-to-restore-economy-and-tourism-347577
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17-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundUNESCO World Heritage Centre have responded to the Bangkloi Karen people’s petition that it delay its consideration of the Kaeng Krachan national park be considered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site until the land dispute is settledSource: www.thaipbsworld.com/unesco-world-heritage-centre-has-acknowledged-the-plight-of-bangkloi-karen-villagers/
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17-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT has welcomed the 63 contestants of the Miss Grand International 2020 beauty contest, after their 14-day quarantineSource: www.tatnews.org/2021/03/thai-tourism-officials-welcome-miss-grand-international-2020-contestants/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=thai-tourism-officials-welcome-miss-grand-international-2020-contestants
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16-Mar-2021 👨✈️ aviationNok Air has been given a 1-month extension for its rehabilitation plan submission, until 15 AprSource: www.flightglobal.com/airlines/troubled-nok-given-extension-to-submit-rehabilitation-plan/142910.article
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16-Mar-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways and Thai Smile will pilot the use of the IATA Travel PassSource: www.travelweek.ca/news/singapore-airlines-will-be-the-worlds-first-airline-to-launch-iata-travel-pass-march-15/
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16-Mar-2021 💉 vaccineThailand plans to order another 5 million vaccines in Apr and May, before the locally produced vaccines can be readySource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-to-import-five-million-doses-before-locally-produced-vaccines-ready-in-june-347444
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16-Mar-2021 💉 vaccineThe Thai PM has received the first dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine in ThailandSource: www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/thailand-prayut-chan-o-cha-receives-astrazeneca-covid-19-vaccine-14417792?cid=cna_flip_070214
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16-Mar-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways International will operate 13 special flights in Mar 2021, including to various East Asian, SE Asian and European destinationsSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2021/03/tg-schedules-special-flights/
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16-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundState Quarantine hotels are calling for the government to allow Thai returnees on semi-commercial flights. Currently, these hotels can only accept Thai returnees on repatriation flights which have long waiting lists and more expensive ticketsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2084375/sq-hotels-want-wider-base
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15-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT Tokyo office have been promoting golf quarantine packages at the Japan Golf Fair in YokohamaSource: www.tatnews.org/2021/03/thailand-golf-quarantine-promoted-at-japan-golf-fair-2021/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=thailand-golf-quarantine-promoted-at-japan-golf-fair-2021
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15-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundBangkok won a UN-Habitat award for the renovation of Klong Ong Ang canalSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/bangkok-wins-un-habitat-award-for-canal-renovation-project-347172
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15-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe State Railway of Thailand is opening 30 more train routes from 13 Mar in anticipation of people looking to travel for SongkranSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-reopens-30-more-train-services-coinciding-with-upcoming-songkran-festival-347199
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15-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe new cluster of cases at Bangok’s Bang Khae district will not become a new wave, the government has saidSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2083527/cluster-wont-be-new-wave
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15-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundDusit International have said that Thailand should focus on quality tourism, with products which encourage high spendingSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2083635/dusit-urges-emphasis-on-quality-tours
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14-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThailand has said that it is set to start signing vaccination passport agreements with other low-risk countries from Apr, and that the vaccination passport scheme will “take shape” over the next 3 monthsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2083123/travel-deals-on-agenda-as-jabs-start
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14-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundTour operators are hoping that Songkran will boost domestic tourism after it was declared to be a 6-day holiday from 10-15 AprSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/special-reports/2083159/gearing-up-for-a-muted-songkran
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14-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThai people have seen more debt since the pandemic according to a Suan Dusit poll, with 75% of respondents saying that family and personal debt issues have grown during the pandemic. 63.77% said that they had done less travellingSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2083399/thais-become-more-in-debt-in-covid-era-suan-dusit-poll
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13-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) have forecast that Thailand could welcome 8 mil international arrivals in 2021, but only if the country was reopened without quarantine by Jun. They forecast that 200,000-300,000 could arrive in Jun, 500,000 in Jul, 1.5 mil by Oct and 2.5 mil by Dec. However, they estimate that these numbers could be reduced by 50% if the country does not remove quarantine. They also estimated that just 25% of the 4 million tourism workers in the country still had jobs, and have said that the government needs a 3-month roadmap to reopeningSource: www.pattayamail.com/news/travel-association-sees-8-million-tourists-but-only-if-thailand-reopens-by-june-346866
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13-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundKoh Samui is holding a promotional event in Bangkok, "Wonder Islands Samui, Phangan, Tao", which it expects to boost tourism by more than 5,000 hotel bookings and increase average occupancy in Apr to 60-70% from 10% currentlySource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2082927/samui-prepares-no-quarantine-plan
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13-Mar-2021 👨✈️ aviationThe Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) might stop giving routes to 8 airlines if they cannot provide convincing business rehabilitation plans, a source has said. It has classified 8 airlines as being in critical condition: Thai Airways, Thai Smile Airways, Nok Air, AirAsia X, VietJet Air, Thai Lion Air, Asia Atlantic Airlines and City Airways. The CAAT have also announced that they will reduce landing fees at Betong Airport by up to 80% in the first year, as an encouragement for more airlines to fly thereSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2082883/financially-stricken-airlines-face-curb-on-new-routes
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13-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThailand’s Retail Sentiment index grew 43% in Feb vs Jan, showing that spend and frequency of shopping has risenSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/shopping-sentiment-in-thailand-rises-43-in-february-compared-to-january-346921
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13-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT has launched a new TV ad, Miss You, sending a message that Thailand can’t wait to welcome visitors backSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2083047/tat-sends-out-miss-you-video
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13-Mar-2021 💉 vaccineThailand’s private hospitals are looking at selling the COVID-19 vaccines for 2,000 THB per dose. Thonburi Healthcare Group has already received advanced orders from some tourism and manufacturing businesses. This comes after the Health Minister announced that private hospitals will be allowed to import the vaccine privatelySource: www.chiangraitimes.com/health/thailands-private-hospitals-eye-potential-profits-for-vaccine-jab/?utm_source=feedly&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=thailands-private-hospitals-eye-potential-profits-for-vaccine-jab
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13-Mar-2021 💉 vaccineThe health ministry will resume its AstraZeneca vaccine rollout next weekSource: www.thaipbsworld.com/health-ministry-will-resume-astrazeneca-vaccination-next-week/
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13-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundKoh Samui is also planning to open to vaccinated visitors from 1 Oct, allowing them to miss quarantine. Vaccinated travellers would also be able to visit Koh Tao and Koh Phangan, and are aiming to vaccinate 70% of its populationSource: www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/coronavirus-thailands-koh-samui-island-plans-to-open-to-vaccinated-tourists-in-october
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12-Mar-2021 💉 vaccineThailand has delayed its rollout of the AstraZeneca vaccineSource: www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/highlight/2021/03/12/thailand-cancels-todays-astrazeneca-vaccine-rollout-for-pm-cabinet/
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12-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT Pattaya said that their Jan tourist numbers were just 1% of those in 2020, with just 26,000 hotel check-ins. Their goal is to increase Pattaya’s hotel occupancy to 30% from its 22% rateSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/locked-down-pattaya-saw-only-1-of-2020-tourists-in-january-346711
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12-Mar-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways is considering selling 2 of its A380s, and have put out a request for an indication of interestSource: simpleflying.com/thai-airways-mulls-a380-sale/
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12-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Minister will propose that the shorter quarantine periods go into effect from 1 Apr, and that medium-risk countries such as Germany, the UK, the USA, China, Japan, South Korea and India, will be welcomedSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-plans-to-welcome-visitors-from-april-1-with-shorter-quarantine-periods-346892
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12-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundBangkok’s Wat Arun will be lit up in green to celebrate St Patrick’s Day on 17 MarSource: coconuts.co/bangkok/news/bangkoks-temple-of-dawn-will-go-green-for-st-patricks-day-because-that-totally-makes-sense/
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12-Mar-2021 💉 vaccineThe PM and the cabinet cancelled their schedule AstraZeneca vaccines on 12 Mar, due to fears over blood clots and after some European countries suspended giving the vaccineSource: coconuts.co/bangkok/news/prayuth-backs-out-of-astrazeneca-vaccination-on-unfounded-eu-scare/
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12-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThailand is looking a “pawn shop” style rescue plan, asset warehousing, for tourism businesses, allowing them to park their assets with lenders in exchange with credit, and then reclaimed within a specified periodSource: www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-03-11/thailand-plans-pawn-shop-style-rescue-for-hotels-hit-by-covid
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12-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThailand’s consumer confidence index grew to 49.4 in Feb, from 47.8 in JanSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2082311/consumer-confidence-index-perks-up
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12-Mar-2021 👨✈️ aviationThe labour union of Thai Airways has said that the new proposed employee contracts are illegal and unfair. The new contracts will see salaries and benefits cutSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2082243/thai-union-says-new-contracts-are-illegal
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11-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe Pattaya Business & Tourism Association have claimed that more than a million international tourists had wanted to visit Thailand, but chose not to because of the 14-day quarantineSource: www.pattayamail.com/news/pattaya-business-tourism-association-boss-claims-quarantine-pushed-million-tourists-to-other-countries-346687
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11-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe government will give a 5,000 THB handout for those using tour guide services, a move which has been welcomed by the Association of Domestic Travel. 40% of tour guide costs would be subsidised under the Tour Tiaw Thai schemeSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/tourists-get-5000-baht-handouts-for-using-thai-tour-guide-services-346610
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11-Mar-2021 💉 vaccinePhuket is aiming to vaccinate 78% of its population by OctSource: thethaiger.com/news/phuket/phuket-aims-for-mass-covid-19-immunisation-by-october
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11-Mar-2021 🛬 inbound10-year passports will be reintroduced for Thai passport holdersSource: coconuts.co/bangkok/news/10-year-passports-finally-arrive-in-time-for-thais-to-travel-again/
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11-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundPhuket will be proposed as the pilot for the “Sandbox” model by the Tourism Minister to open up tourism. This model is similar to travel bubbles, and may be started with China in Jul. Around 70% of the island must be vaccinated, around 900,000 doses required. It will also be trialled in Krabi and Phang Nga. The 3 regions were chosen because combined they generated 600 billion THB in 2019 from tourism. The Tourism Minister is also looking at reopening the country in other ways, including vaccinated travellers who would be tested and then undergo a 7-day quarantine in an “Area Local Quarantine” hotel, with day 1 self-isolating, and then subsequently allowed to use the hotel facilities. On 1 Apr, the government will make a “timeline announcement” on how the government will reopen the country, with “step-down reductions” every 2 months. The Area Quarantine model will also be piloted in 7 provinces: Phuket, Krabi, Surat Thani (including Koh Samui, Koh Pha-ngan and Koh Tao), Chiang Mai, Chonburi (including Pattaya and Jomtien), Bangkok and Phang Nga (including Kao Lak). All will be brought for approval on 19 MarSource: www.thephuketnews.com/phuket-to-pilot-sandbox-model-to-receive-foreign-tourists-from-july-tourism-minister-79305.php
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11-Mar-2021 🛬 inbound29 pharmaceutical companies have been brought together with marijuana growing businesses to develop new products for the health industry, which could lead to new revenue streams for tourismSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-develops-marijuana-for-health-industry-leading-to-avenues-for-tourism-346788
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11-Mar-2021 👨✈️ aviationFlights from India will be permitted to land in Koh Samui, Krabi and U-Tapao Rayong-Pattaya International Airport, in addition to Bangkok, Chiang Mai and PhuketSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/flights-from-india-approved-to-land-in-u-tapao-rayong-pattaya-intl-airport-346771
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11-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundChinese tour operators have been in touch with Thai tour operators after China announced that it would be issuing a digital vaccination certificate to its citizens. ATTA have urged the government to hold discussions with China ASAP to see if they can arrange travel bubbles with ChinaSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2081683/tourism-eyes-chinese
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11-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe government has hinted that if all sectors, both private and public cooperate with the government’s COVID restrictions, the country could reopen by Oct. It will also discuss downgrading Samut Sakhon to an area on high alert, from maximum controlSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2081531/restrictions-to-end-by-october
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10-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe Mukda Suan Sua (Mukda Tiger Park & Farm) will have its operating licence withdrawn after it was discovered that 2 of its tiger cubs were thought to have been smuggled in. The closure may be indefiniteSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2081035/tiger-park-set-for-permanent-closure
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10-Mar-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai AirAsia are aiming to increase revenue from their Bangkok Suvarnabhumi hub to 20% in 2021, up from the current 10%, and aiming for a ratio of 25-30% by 2022. It is also looking at introducing new routes from the airport to Surat Thani, Ubon Ratchathani, Udon Thani and Khon KaenSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2081091/airlines-intensify-promotions-to-seize-domestic-demand
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10-Mar-2021 👨✈️ aviationBangkok Airways is also looking to introduce a bundle of tickets, and is asking for a 4 billion THB loan from financial institutions to keep operating. It has cancelled its plans to add new aircraft, and will reduce its fleet size to 30 in 2022. They are also proceeding with their plan to build the Eastern Airport City Project at U-Tapao, which is scheduled for construction in Q1 2022Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2081091/airlines-intensify-promotions-to-seize-domestic-demand
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10-Mar-2021 💉 vaccineAdditional doses of vaccine will be allocated to tourist destination provinces, to boost travel confidenceSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2080883/tourist-spots-to-get-extra-shots
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10-Mar-2021 👨✈️ aviationHundreds of airport workers demonstrated in Bangkok on Wed to dispute their new contractsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2081503/airport-workers-stage-protest-over-labour-conditions
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10-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe Marriott Thailand Travel Show will run from 15-28 Mar at Siam Paragon in BangkokSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/pr/2081279/marriott-international-hosts-travel-fair
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10-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundChiang Mai hotels have dropped their rates by up to 90% to attract more domestic tourists in the off peak season. The Thai Hotels Association’s northern chapter have said that occupancy rates in Mar have dropped to less than 3%, whilst Songkran is expected to have just 3-5%Source: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/chiang-mai-boosts-hotels-occupancy-towards-songkran-celebration-346441
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10-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThailand will look at reducing quarantine periods for vaccinated non-Thai citizens to 7 days. Vaccinated travellers would need to have received the vaccine between 14 days to 3 months prior to entry. Non-vaccinated travellers would see their quarantine period shortened to 10 days. This could potentially take place in Apr. South African travellers would still need to undergo a 14-day quarantineSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-launches-vaccine-passports-7-10-days-quarantine-period-346431
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10-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT and Tinder continued their Single Journey tours, with a secret rooftop getaway in Pattaya BaySource: www.pattayamail.com/news/tinder-tat-hook-up-with-pattaya-secret-rooftop-for-singles-tours-346376
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10-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundMaya Bay in Krabi will not yet reopen to the public. It will only reopen after the facilities have been upgraded and tourist management implemented to ensure its sustainability. Works on the jetty are slated to be completed in May, but a limit of 370 visitors per trip will be imposedSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30403547
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10-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThailand will launch the Digital Yacht Quarantine project. This will give smart watch health trackers to those quarantining aboard yachts, allowing authorities to monitor them offshore. It expects the project to attract more than 100 yachts and 300-500 visitorsSource: www.tatnews.org/2021/03/phuket-launches-thailands-first-digital-yacht-quarantine-project/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=phuket-launches-thailands-first-digital-yacht-quarantine-project
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10-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe cabinet will not extend the We Travel Together scheme, scheduled to end on 30 Apr. Instead, the tourism ministry has been asked to redesign the program to avoid fraudSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2080959/cabinet-wont-extend-tour-scheme
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09-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe Kasikorn Research Center see just 2 million international arrivals in 2021, and the development of vaccination in key source markets, as well as in Thailand itself, are key to recovery. They expect the country’s GDP to grow by 2.6% in 2021, but it could be less if fewer than 2 million arrivals are receivedSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2080351/reopening-hinges-on-jab-strategies
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09-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundWater splashing at Songkran is likely to be permitted, the government has saidSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2080763/songkran-water-splashing-likely-to-be-allowed
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09-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundLuxury hotels are slashing their rates to attract the domestic market, causing smaller hotels to stay closed, according to the Thai Hotels Association (THA)Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2080815/5-star-hotels-squeeze-small-operators-with-discounts
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09-Mar-2021 👨✈️ aviationThe Airlines Association of Thailand (AAT) has said that more layoffs in the Thai aviation industry are inevitable in 2021. The total number of aviation staff is now just 16,000, down from 25,000-30,000 pre-COVID. Bangkok Airways cut 20% of its 3,000 staff, and flew just 30% of its fleet. The AAT will ask the government to prioritise aviation workers for vaccination, accelerate vaccination passports and ask the Transport Ministry to prepare international flight regulationsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2080327/airline-layoffs-ahead-as-travel-stalls
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09-Mar-2021 💉 vaccine800k doses of Sinovac are expected to arrive in Thailand on 25 MarSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30403485
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08-Mar-2021 👨✈️ aviationSingapore Airlines flew it inaugural flight to Phuket on 4 MarSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2021/03/singapore-airlines-flies-to-phuket/
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08-Mar-2021 💉 vaccineThailand will issue COVID vaccine certificates, in the same yellow booklet format as those who have taken yellow fever. A paper and electronic version will be available for 50 THB at hospitals who provide the vaccination, and will expire after one yearSource: coconuts.co/bangkok/news/thai-covid-passports-coming-next-month-for-the-vaccinated/
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08-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundChiang Mai recorded just 1 million tourists in 2020 compared to 11 million in 2019. This year, they forecast the number to increase to 25% of 2019’s level. The Tourism Council of Chiang Mai has said that tourism operators should focus on MICE and cultural festivals to avoid relying on seasonalitySource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2080015/desperate-chiang-mai-hotels-turn-to-discounts
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07-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe area hotel quarantine proposal will be brought to the entre for Covid-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) for approvalSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2079391/new-plan-for-hotel-quarantine
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06-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Minister and TAT will visit Phuket next week to discuss their reopening plan, to understand the local community sentiment. If there is an agreement with the plan, the TAT has said that “we can speed up the policy implementation”Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2079147/phuket-reopening-up-for-discussion
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06-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundHundreds of Thai protestors gathered in Bangkok to demand the release of their leaders from prisonSource: www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/hundreds-of-thai-protesters-rally-to-demand-leaders-release-14349772
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06-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThailand has banned protests, assemblies and mass gatherings in Bangkok and 5 other provinces, ahead of a scheduled protest on 6 MarSource: thepattayanews.com/2021/03/06/royal-gazette-announces-ban-on-protests-assemblies-and-mass-gatherings-in-bangkok-five-other-provinces-to-prevent-the-spread-of-covid-19/
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06-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT Phuket is planning a new series of festivals and events until Nov 2021, including a Seafood festival, the Art Vasion, and the Roi Rim Phuket FestivalSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/phuket-rolls-out-new-events-and-festivals-for-2021-346024
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06-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe Thai Hotels Association has praised the decision to vaccinate tourism workersSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/thai-hotels-group-applauds-push-to-vaccinate-tourism-workers-345943
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05-Mar-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai AirAsia has told the government that the country may lose its reputation as an aviation regional hub if the reopening cannot be sped up, or airlines’ competitiveness not strengthened. Their passenger goal in 2021 remains 9.4 mil pax, and it expects 15% of that to come from the international market in Q4Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2078431/thai-airasia-nudges-authorities-to-open-up
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05-Mar-2021 💉 vaccineA panel at the Public Health Ministry has suggested that private companies should be permitted to import 15-20 mil doses by the year-endSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2078451/private-firms-may-get-vaccine-import-nod
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05-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundSongkran will be permitted to go ahead in Apr, but there will be social distancing and venue capacity limits for activitiesSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/thailand-annual-songkran-activities-to-reboot-tourism-and-economy-besides-available-vaccines-345783
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05-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe government has pledged to revitalise tourism, boost domestic spending and exports and investment to allow it to reach a 4% growth target in 2021Source: en.vietnamplus.vn/thailand-persists-with-4percent-gdp-growth-target-this-year/197136.vnp
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05-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThailand has launched a vaccine passport and plans to rollout vaccination to staff of 58 alternative local quarantine hotels in Q3. The tourism industry is set to receive 50,000 of the 200,000 Sinovac vaccines which have already arrived into the countrySource: www.ttgasia.com/2021/03/05/thailand-launches-vaccine-passport-inoculation-drive-for-hotel-staff/
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05-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT is planning to add 2 million room nights to its We Travel Together program, as well as implement a new stimulus for tour operators from Mar-Jul. They will also propose a travel pass ticket scheme for airlines, where the purchase is subsidised once the user flies the first flight linked to a hotel booking in the same destination. The program for tour operators, called Tour Teaw Thai (Travel around Thailand) would see the age group restriction lifted and would aim for 1 mil travellers over 3 months. Each operator would be allowed to receive 3,000 paxSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2078431/thai-airasia-nudges-authorities-to-open-up
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05-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundBang Kachao in Bangkok is planning to be declared a special tourist area, which would allow sustainable tourism activities to be developedSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2078367/new-tourism-plan-afoot-for-bang-kachao
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05-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha have now been reopened in Bangkok, as well as certain other tourist attractionsSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/grand-palace-and-popular-tourist-sites-in-bangkok-are-now-open-345854
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04-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe Chonburi Tourism Industry Council have forecast it will take 4 years and for Thailand to reach 65% vaccination levels before Pattaya tourism can return to 2019 levelsSource: www.pattayamail.com/news/pattaya-tourism-needs-4-years-herd-immunity-to-recover-fully-citc-says-345584
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04-Mar-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai AirAsia will increase its flights between Bangkok and Phuket to 6 times per day and is preparing to bring back 100% of its domestic network by Apr for SongkranSource: www.thephuketnews.com/airasia-ramps-up-bangkok-phuket-flights-to-six-a-day-79236.php
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04-Mar-2021 👨✈️ aviationThe Finance Ministry expressed its support for Thai Airways’ restructuring plan, which includes raising $1.6 bil USD in new capital and reducing the number of staff by 13,000 by 2022Source: corporatetravelcommunity.com/thailands-finance-ministry-expresses-support-for-thai-airways-restructuring-plan/
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04-Mar-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai AirAsia saw all of its 80,000 FlyRuaFly travel passes with unlimited travel on domestic routes from 1 Apr-16 Dec, sell out within 48 hours. Thai Vietjet also launched a special 5 THB fare promotionSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/03/04/5-baht-fares-dangled-as-thai-airlines-celebrate-vaccine-rollout
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04-Mar-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways is confident that all of its creditors will accept the rehabilitation plan on 12 May, and that it will then be able to resume its commercial flights to Europe in JulSource: www.pattayamail.com/travel/thai-airways-to-resume-flights-to-europe-after-rehabilitation-plan-endorsed-345612
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04-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB) has urged the government to speed up its decision on allowing vaccinated travellers into the country, as well as look at travel bubbles with those countries who have low-moderate levels of infectionSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2077811/economic-titans-urge-passport-idea
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04-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe PM has ordered a study into the use of vaccination passports for the new normal, but will proceed “in line with other countries”Source: www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/covid-19-thai-pm-orders-study-vaccine-passports-boost-tourism-14315032?cid=cna_flip_070214
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04-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe Health Ministry has said that those who are vaccinated will be given a book which can be used for travelSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30403305
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04-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundA pilot of electric commuter boats on the Chao Phraya River will be runSource: www.bangkokpost.com/travel/2078055/e-commuter-boats-to-ply-chao-phraya
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04-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThailand is planning to discuss a vaccination passport in accordance with WHO regulations, and will also discuss how the quarantine period could be shortenedSource: www.pattayamail.com/travel/thailand-contemplates-vaccine-passport-and-shortening-quarantine-period-345635
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04-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundChiang Mai was the world’s 3rd most polluted city on 3 Mar, with PM2.5 dust levels in excess of 200Source: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2077759/chiang-mai-3rd-most-polluted-city
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04-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThailand will launch an “area quarantine” from Apr. It will be trialled in Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi, Surat Thani (Koh Samui, Koh Pha Ngan) and Chonburi (Pattaya). Tourists will need to self-isolate in their hotel rooms for the first 3 days, and then be tested. If they test negative, they will be able to access all the hotel/ resort facilities for the remainder of their 14-day quarantine. It will be operated via 29 travel agents and the TATSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30403320
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04-Mar-2021 👨✈️ aviationThe Transport Ministry will consider funding construction of airports in the Northeast and South to help domestic tourism. Potential airports are in Bueng Kan province, Satun province, Mukhadan province and PhatthalungSource: www.nationthailand.com/business/30403317
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04-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Ministry expects a travel bubble plan with countries who have a similar vaccine distribution in Q3/Q4Source: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2078275/thailand-plans-to-allow-foreign-tourists-to-quarantine-in-resorts
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04-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe Thai Teaw Thai tourism fair will be held from 4-7 Mar, and it expects tour operators to offer low prices, as the hotel subsidy in We Travel Together have expired. They forecast transactions from the fair to generate 100-150 mil THB, and 20,000 visitors, far from the previous 300-400 mil THB and 250,000 visitors. There will be 550 boothsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2078007/bargains-galore-at-thai-teaw-thai-fair
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03-Mar-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways have released some of the details of its rehabilitation plan, which include reducing its staff by half, cutting the type of aircraft from 12 to 5, maintaining a fleet of 86 aircraft, reducing unprofitable routes and cutting maintenance expenses. No new aircraft will be purchased in the near future. Thai Smile will continue to operate, but will need to make adjustmentsSource: www.thaipbsworld.com/thai-airways-plans-to-cut-staff-by-50-or-staff-costs-by-18-billion-baht-annually-over-next-2-years/
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03-Mar-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways must raise 30 bil THB by Jun 2021 to pay for operational costsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2077063/thai-seeks-to-raise-b50bn
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03-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT Pattaya and Thailand Travel Agents Association (TTAA) invited people to visit Chonburi through a special networking dinner, as well as a tabletop sales with tourism businesses for Thai tourists who usually travel abroadSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/super-holiday-deals-boost-domestic-tourism-to-pattaya-345548
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03-Mar-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai VietJet is planning to launch unlimited passes in Apr for the post-Songkran period. Its price will be 12,000 THB, which is three times the price of competitors’, but offers more flexible terms such as allowing bookings just 3 hours prior to departureSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2077319/buffet-raises-flight-funds
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02-Mar-2021 👨✈️ aviationNok Air has finished 50% of its debt negotiations with creditors, and its larger stakeholders have said that they want to acquire stakes in competitor airlines. They expect to reach 70% load factor by Apr, lower than 2019’s 95%Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2076759/nok-air-eyes-stakes-in-rivals
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02-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundOver 15 major companies launched the #OpenThailandSafely campaign on 2 Mar, calling for the government to reopen the country by 1 Jul. It argues that 1 Jul is the best date to reopen, as it many source markets will already have vaccinated their travellers, it gives time for Thailand to vaccinate healthworkers and frontline tourism staff, as well as gives time for international travellers and Thai companies to prepare for reopeningSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/thailands-tourism-sector-seeks-to-reopen-country-by-1-july-345435
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02-Mar-2021 👨✈️ aviationThe new Betong airport in Yala is set to open in Apr, with Nok Air expected to be the first airline to operate flights there from Bangkok. Bangkok Airways also plans to launch flights from Betong to Phuket and Hat YaiSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2077043/yala-to-open-new-airport-in-april
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02-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundRussian tourists would be the most likely to use the area quarantine in Phuket once launched, with tour agents in Russia saying that demand is sufficient for regular flights of 300-400 Russian touristsSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/03/02/thailand-poised-to-adopt-vaccine-passports-to-kick-start-tourism
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02-Mar-2021 👨✈️ aviationThe Thai Airways labour union is protesting amendments to employee contracts which would mean fewer leave days and shorter holidaysSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2076603/union-rips-thai-move-to-cut-leave-days
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02-Mar-2021 💉 vaccineThe general public who want to get vaccinated will be able to register in May, ahead of the expected Jun rollout. It will be done via the Doctors Ready app, a new platform for the vaccination programSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2076503/shot-registration-to-kick-off-in-may
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02-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundPhuket will continue with its plans to reopen to international tourists by Oct, and is looking into when their top source markets will have completed mass vaccinations to establish who to market toSource: www.thaienquirer.com/24813/phuket-to-welcome-vaccinated-travellers-by-october-despite-pushback-from-government/
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02-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe President of the Phuket Hotels Association estimates that current hotel occupancy in Phuket is just 8%, and that 80,000-100,000 staff have lost their jobsSource: www.thaienquirer.com/24813/phuket-to-welcome-vaccinated-travellers-by-october-despite-pushback-from-government/
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01-Mar-2021 👨✈️ aviationThailand saw a 34% increase in domestic air pax from Jan 2021 to Feb 2021, with Thai Vietjet contributing 40%. It carried 197,630 pax in FebSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/pr/2076431/thai-vietjet-forgest-ahead
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01-Mar-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT and 80 tourism operators on Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Ko Tao are offering special discounts until 30 AprSource: www.tatnews.org/2021/03/samui-phangan-tao-offers-discounts-to-tourists-until-30-april-2021/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=samui-phangan-tao-offers-discounts-to-tourists-until-30-april-2021
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01-Mar-2021 💉 vaccineThailand will produce 61 million doses of AstraZeneca in 2021, and plans to conclude the vaccination process within 2021Source: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-will-produce-61-million-astrazeneca-doses-and-complete-vaccination-within-this-year-345375
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01-Mar-2021 🛬 inbound16 protestors were injured at a rally after Bangkok police fired rubber bullets and water cannons. One police officer died from a sudden cardiac arrestSource: coconuts.co/bangkok/news/fury-after-bangkok-cops-fire-rubber-rounds-at-marchers-injuring-16/
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28-Feb-2021 💉 vaccineThailand started its vaccination campaign with the first Sinovac dose received by Health Minister AnutinSource: www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/thailand-starts-covid-19-vaccination-campaign-14299976?cid=cna_flip_070214
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28-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundKhao Sok National Park has been declared an ASEAN Heritage ParkSource: businessmirror.com.ph/2021/02/28/thailands-khao-sok-national-park-is-50th-asean-heritage-park/
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28-Feb-2021 💉 vaccineThe 117,600 doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine which arrived into Thailand will tentatively be able to be used by mid-Mar. Vaccinations in Samut Sakhon will start on 28 Feb with the Sinovac vaccineSource: www.thaipbsworld.com/astrazeneca-vaccine-will-be-ready-for-use-in-mid-march/
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28-Feb-2021 🛬 inbound10,000 people visited Koh Larn on the first day of the long weekend, 26 Feb, returning to pre-COVID numbersSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/pattaya-koh-larn-island-holiday-tourism-rebounds-to-pre-covid-levels-345127
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27-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe State Railway of Thailand will restart 14 train services on 1 March, in response to rising demandSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2075487/14-rail-services-resume-monday-as-virus-curbs-ease
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27-Feb-2021 👨✈️ aviationThe Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) have announced that transiting will be permitted at Thai airports from 1 March. Airlines operating domestic flights will also be able to serve in-flight meals and drinks from 4 MarchSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2075267/airlines-get-nod-to-transit
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27-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundA joint TAT-YouGov survey has shown that 9% of people worldwide (up to 6 million) are hoping to travel to Thailand in 2021Source: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/6-million-people-hoping-to-travel-to-thailand-in-2021-344984
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27-Feb-2021 🛬 inbound90% of rooms on Koh Kut have been booked for the long weekend, with expected visitors of 3,500, generating 12 million THB for the island. 15,000 tourists are also expected to visit Koh Chang this weekendSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2075263/tourists-flock-to-eastern-provinces
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27-Feb-2021 🌏 outboundThe number of staff at tourism companies is at just 20% of pre-pandemic levelsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2075363/tour-operators-flail-amid-industry-disruption
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27-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe Association of Domestic Travel has cut its domestic 2021 trips goal to 150 million from 200 millionSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2075363/tour-operators-flail-amid-industry-disruption
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26-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundA TAT survey has shown that 68% of Finnish people would not take a trip to a country which still had a mandatory quarantine, whilst 62% would choose Thailand as their ideal winter destinationSource: scandasia.com/tat-survey-finns-not-likely-to-travel-to-thailand-if-quarantine-continues/
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26-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe Bank of Thailand have admitted that tourism and aviation sectors will take longer to return to pre-pandemic performanceSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/bank-of-thailand-sees-tourism-and-service-sectors-slowest-to-return-to-pre-pandemic-performance-345010
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26-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundMany provinces across Thailand are waiving their quarantine requirements for domestic travelSource: www.tatnews.org/2021/02/provincial-entry-and-exit-rules-as-thailand-further-eases-covid-19-control-measures-from-22-february-2021/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=provincial-entry-and-exit-rules-as-thailand-further-eases-covid-19-control-measures-from-22-february-2021
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26-Feb-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways carried 5.9 million pax in 2020, -76.1% YoYSource: corporatetravelcommunity.com/thai-airways-pax-down-76-1-cargo-down-71-5-in-2020/
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26-Feb-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai Vietjet have said that at the end of 2020, they were operating 120 domestic flights per day, but this dropped to 30/ day in Jan. In Feb, they increased this to 80, but they may have to wait until Apr to resume their routes 100%Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2074731/tat-expecting-44-fewer-trips-during-long-weekend
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26-Feb-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai AirAsia have shared that they carried 9.498 mil pax in 2020, with an average load factor of 75%, and a net loss of 4.76 bil THBSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2074731/tat-expecting-44-fewer-trips-during-long-weekend
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26-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT estimates there will be 1.09 million domestic trips, a decline of 44%, over the long weekend 26-28 Feb. They forecast spending to reach 3.9 billion THB, -38% YoY, and average hotel occupancy of 16%, due to the 2nd wave of cases. They expect trips to Bangkok to be day trips only, with an average occupancy rate of just 13%Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2074731/tat-expecting-44-fewer-trips-during-long-weekend
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25-Feb-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways recorded a net loss of $4.7 billion USD in 2020, the largest ever annual loss for a Thai company. It expects its H1 2021 financial performance to remain ‘negative’, but with some improvementSource: www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-02-25/thai-airways-posts-record-4-7-billion-loss-as-debt-revamp-looms
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25-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundErawan Group is planning to increase the number of Hop Inn hotels in Thailand to 100 from 46 over the next 5 yearsSource: www.ttgasia.com/2021/02/25/erawan-group-marches-on-with-apac-expansion/
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25-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundKoh Samui’s first delivery of vaccines is due before the end of Feb, and vaccinations are due to take place early Mar, with frontliners prioritised and tourism workers receiving 22% of the 2,500 dosesSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2074323/first-vaccinations-on-koh-samui-next-month
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25-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundKoh Samui has proposed that international visitors be allowed to quarantine on their yachts, at villa hotels and at wellness centres, as they have seen requests for these. Indian families have also enquired about visiting on chartered flights for weddings and spa treatmentsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2074323/first-vaccinations-on-koh-samui-next-month
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25-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThailand will now permit superyachts to visit Thai waters and offer their yachts for charter without having to pay VAT on the vessel’s value, after 6 years of campaigning for the change to regulations. This will allow superyacht tourism to be further developedSource: www.thailandyachtshow.com/thailand-to-become-the-worlds-third-superyacht-destination-finally/
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25-Feb-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways will sell its Laksi training centre, its Nok Air shares, Bangkok Aviation Fuel Services (BAFS) shares and Boeing 737- 400 to raise more funds, after court approvalSource: www.thaipbsworld.com/thai-airways-to-sell-assets-to-raise-more-funding-thai-pbs-world-tonight-24th-february-2021/
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25-Feb-2021 👨✈️ aviation7 Thai airlines (Bangkok Airways, Thai AirAsia, Thai AirAsia X, Thai Smile Airways, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air and Thai Vietjet) have formed an association, the Airlines Assocaiton of Thailand (AAT) to coordinate over the pandemic and vaccine passports. Their short term priority is the soft loan request, submitted in Aug. They also plan to hold a meeting with IATA about the travel passSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2074071/airlines-band-together-for-survival-travel-pass
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25-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThai AirAsia will resume all of its Bangkok routes in Mar, followed by direct flights between provincial cities in Apr, to be timed for the Songkran holidaySource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2021/02/airasia-schedules-flight-resumptions/
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25-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundPattaya will restart its tourism promotion with the “Light of Pattaya” event, a 4D projection exhibition which will allow tourists to take photos. Other events are not likely to resume until AprSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/light-of-pattaya-selfie-space-to-mark-restart-of-tourism-events-344706
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25-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe National Security Council is considering fewer days of mandatory isolation, as well as access to hotel facilities for travellers in quarantine, as the government looks for measures to make Thailand more attractive to visitors, as well as host more international sports eventsSource: coconuts.co/bangkok/news/shorter-quarantines-on-table-again-as-vaccine-arrival-gives-thai-tourism-hope/
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25-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThai AirAsia has said that it has ‘no plan’ to receive new planes in 2021, and expects to reduce its fleet to 54 by the end of the yearSource: centreforaviation.com/news/thai-airasia-has-no-plan-to-receive-new-aircraft-deliveries-in-2021-1054708
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25-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundSamut Sakhon may have its lockdown restrictions eased next week. The market which formed the epicentre of the 2nd wave expected to reopen on 1 MarchSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2074443/samut-sakhon-may-ease-covid-control-next-week
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25-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundTravellers arriving into Thailand will need to download the ThailandPlus app for use around the countrySource: www.tatnews.org/2021/02/foreign-tourists-are-now-required-to-download-thailandplus-app-prior-to-arrival/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=foreign-tourists-are-now-required-to-download-thailandplus-app-prior-to-arrival
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24-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThailand saw 7,694 international visitors in Jan 2021, down 99.8% YoYSource: www.reuters.com/article/thailand-economy-idUSL4N2KU1S2
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24-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe Phuket government has clarified some of the safety measures in place for the ‘villa quarantine’, including that hotel staff must stay within the resort area whilst the 14-day quarantine is completed, and repeated testing for themSource: www.thephuketnews.com/resort-staff-must-stay-on-site-during-phuket-villa-quarantine-79135.php
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24-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThailand’s economy slowed down in Jan due to the COVID-19 restrictions, the Finance Ministry has revealed. They are maintaining their forecast of 5 million international visitors in 2021, and will review their GDP growth target of 2.8% in AprSource: www.reuters.com/article/thailand-economy-idUSL4N2KU1S2
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24-Feb-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai Vietjet will resume its Phuket-Chiang Rai route, with 4 weekly round trips from 26 FebSource: thethaiger.com/news/phuket/thai-vietjet-resumes-phuket-chiang-rai-flights-launches-promotion-on-air-fare
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24-Feb-2021 💉 vaccine4 tourism destinations will be prioritised for Thailand’s vaccine distribution: Chonburi, Phuket, Surat Thani (including Koh Samui) and Chiang Mai, as well as 9 provinces which have significant outbreaks, including Bangkok and Samut SakhonSource: thepattayanews.com/2021/02/24/four-major-tourist-destinations-now-listed-as-top-priority-for-covid-19-vaccine-distribution-in-thailand/
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24-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe prioritisation of 4 tourism destinations for Thailand’s vaccine distribution (Chonburi, Phuket, Surat Thani including Koh Samui, and Chiang Mai) is linked to their significance for reviving tourism, and a potential “Area Quarantine” ideaSource: thepattayanews.com/2021/02/24/four-major-tourist-destinations-now-listed-as-top-priority-for-covid-19-vaccine-distribution-in-thailand/
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24-Feb-2021 👨✈️ aviationBangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport will now allow transit passengers. Transit would be limited to 12 hours, and passengers will be limited to a certain area in the terminal and cannot visit the shops. They would not have to undertake COVID-19 screening, but will need to wear face masks and have fit-to-fly/ COVID-19 free certificates and health insuranceSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2073267/covid-19-restrictions-eased-at-airport-entertainment-venues
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24-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundBangkok loosened more COVID-19 measures on 23 Feb, including permitting restaurants to sell alcohol and be open until 11pm, entertainment venues, pubs and bars can reopen, fitness centres are allowed to resume and meetings and conventions can open with limited capacity of 300 paxSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2073267/covid-19-restrictions-eased-at-airport-entertainment-venues
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24-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundHotels are concerned that the lifting of the alcohol ban may be delayed in certain provinces, as provincial governments are permitted to consider the rule independently. Bangkok complied with the lifting order on 23 Feb, which should increase the number of customers at hotel restaurants by 30-40%, according to the Thai Hotels AssociationSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2073347/hoteliers-jittery-over-booze-ban
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24-Feb-2021 💉 vaccineThe first batch of 200,000 Sinovac vaccines have arrived into Thailand, delivered by Thai Airways. It is part of a 2 million dose agreement. Vaccinations are due to start on 1 Mar, with initial targets including medical frontliners and those targeted for control and economic support in 13 provinces: amut Sakhon, Bangkok, Pathum Thani, Nonthaburi, Samut Prakan, Tak, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Songkhram, Ratchaburi, Chon Buri, Phuket, Surat Thani and Chiang MaiSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2073735/first-covid-19-vaccine-arrives
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24-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT has said that Thailand needs a plan for reopening for those with vaccine passports by Jun, so that the country can reopen to international tourists in Q4. They should soft launch marketing campaigns before Q3, as well as area quarantines. The TAT have also said that Qatar Airways requested the 14-day quarantine rule to be waived at beach destinations in Q3, in which case it would reopen flights to Phuket if there was a loosening by MarSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2073715/bangkok-poll-majority-want-vaccination-against-covid-19
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24-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT has said that Thailand needs a plan for reopening for those with vaccine passports by Jun, so that the country can reopen to international tourists in Q4. They should soft launch marketing campaigns before Q3, as well as area quarantines. The TAT have also said that Qatar Airways requested the 14-day quarantine rule to be waived at beach destinations in Q3, in which case it would reopen flights to Phuket if there was a loosening by MarSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2072711/tat-wants-vaccine-passport-policy
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24-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Minister expects 5 million international visitors in 2021, but this could increase to 15 million in 2022 and 30 million in 2023Source: www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/thailand-covid-19-vaccine-passport-welcome-tourists-q3-2021-14272164?cid=cna_flip_070214
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24-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT will partner with Wego to promote Thailand’s tourism destinations to Middle Eastern travellersSource: tradearabia.com/touch/article/TTN/379268
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24-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe government has said that easing of restrictions for vaccinated travellers will take place step by step, but could include shortening mandatory quarantine to 3 days for those vaccinated, or removing that regulation altogether. Chonburi, Krabi, Phang Nga, Chiang Mai and Phuket will offer ‘hotel area quarantines’ from Mar, with 5,000-6,000 rooms available. These will allow travellers to move within the hotel grounds freelySource: www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/thailand-covid-19-vaccine-passport-welcome-tourists-q3-2021-14272164?cid=cna_flip_070214
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23-Feb-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways has denied that it is planning to buy 30 planes by 2025. If demand bounced back, they would look at leasing options. The airline remains committed to downsizing its fleet over the next 5 yearsSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30402957
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23-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe unemployment rate dropped in Q4 2020 vs Q3 2020 to 1.86%. The highest it reached was Q2 at 1.95% in 2020. However, the jobless rate in 2020 increased to its highest level in 16 years, 1.69%Source: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2073191/jobless-rate-dips-in-q4-but-remains-near-multi-year-high
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23-Feb-2021 🛬 inbound59 foreign tourists under the villa quarantine initiative arrived into Phuket on 21 Feb, originating from the UK, USA, France and Finland. The golf quarantine tourists who arrived the week prior are expected to stay in Thailand for 2 months and generate 13 million THBSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2072607/tourists-in-phuket-under-villa-quarantine
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23-Feb-2021 💉 vaccineThailand’s vaccination program will form 2 phases. Phase 1 will cover medical frontliners, people with comorbidities, those aged 60 years and over and disease control workers, whilst phase 2 will include other medical and health personnel, tourism workers, workers who travel internationally including pilots and flight attendants, the general public, expats and workers in the industrial and service sectors. Phase 1 will be completed with Sinovac’s 200,000 doses, whilst phase 2 will see 1.8 million more Sinovac doses arriving in Mar/Apr and 26 million AstraZeneca from Jun-Aug, 35 million from Sep-DecSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2073071/covid-vaccination-priorities-announced
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23-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT organised its second “Single Journey” trip to Ko Khai in Phang Nga, in partnership with Thai Smile Airways, Drive Digital and Tinder. Under the campaign, 9 different routes have been set upSource: www.tatnews.org/2021/02/tat-organises-second-single-journey-trip-to-ko-khai-in-phang-nga/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=tat-organises-second-single-journey-trip-to-ko-khai-in-phang-nga
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23-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundPattaya is preparing plans to propose itself as an area quarantine for touristsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2073047/pattaya-for-area-quarantine
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23-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundA yacht quarantine, which would allow yacht owners to undergo the 14-day quarantine on board their vessel without having to undergo another on arrival, has been proposedSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2073127/air-transit-passengers-now-welcome-yacht-quarantine-proposed
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23-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThailand has further eased its lockdown restrictions from 22 Feb, with many provinces’ risk downgraded. There are now 4 areas: • Maximum controlled area (dark red) – Samut Sakhon. Restaurants, shopping centres are permitted to be opened but must close at 9pm. Hotles are permitted to be open but with visitor contact tracing systems. Entertainment, education and MICE remain closed. • Controlled area (orange) – 8 provinces, including Bangkok, Nonthaburi and Ratchaburi. Entertainment, restaurants, shopping malls, spas, gyms, allowed to be open. Gambling venues remain closed • High surveillance area (yellow) – 14 provinces, including Chonburi, Rayong, Ayutthaya. Entertainment, restaurants, shopping malls, spas, gyms, allowed to be open with extended hours vs orange areas. Gambling venues remain closed • Surveillance area (green) – 54 provinces, including Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Krabi, Phuket, Surat Thani. Entertainment, restaurants, shopping malls, spas, gyms, allowed to be open with normal hours. Gambling venues remain closedSource: www.tatnews.org/2021/02/thailand-further-relaxes-covid-19-control-measures-from-22-february-2021/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=thailand-further-relaxes-covid-19-control-measures-from-22-february-2021
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23-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT has said that 60 packages have been sold in the UK under the Linger Longer campaign for the Easter holidays, whilst a group of Finnish tourists who had booked the golf quarantine scheme cancelled due to the uncertainty over the initial quarantine period of the staySource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2073187/thailand-mulls-waiving-quarantine-for-vaccinated-tourists
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23-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe Thai PM has said that the quarantine requirement for vaccinated travellers may be waived. The government would come up with a plan to track the tourists during their staySource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2073187/thailand-mulls-waiving-quarantine-for-vaccinated-tourists
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22-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundPhuket has launched the “Amazing Thailand Surfskate Series 2021”, under its #HaveYouEver initiative aimed at domestic tourismSource: www.thephuketnews.com/surfskate-event-held-to-boost-phuket-tourism-79108.php?fbclid=IwAR2-J8Xe13DdF6NrJRjOY_25deuJf3x9MdqQiI0BcfI70F13hg_p7IuqPWY
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22-Feb-2021 💉 vaccineSinovac has been granted emergency use authorisation in ThailandSource: www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-thailand/thailand-gives-emergency-use-authorisation-for-sinovacs-covid-19-vaccine-official-idUSKBN2AM1BX
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22-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) will hold a virtual MICE event from 24-25 Feb. It will feature 30 booths from Thai exhibitors, as well as webinars from MICE leaders and online workshops on Thai culture. It is expected to attract 3,000 participants worldwide, with the majority (80%) from APAC. It hopes that this will boost Thailand’s chances of hitting its $2.1 million USD 2021 MICE targetSource: www.ttgmice.com/2021/02/22/tceb-debuts-thailand-mice-virtual-expo/
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22-Feb-2021 👨✈️ aviationThe PM has expressed confidence in Thai Airways’ debt rehabilitation planSource: news.bloomberglaw.com/bankruptcy-law/thai-premier-expresses-confidence-in-thai-airways-revival-plan
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22-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundBangkok will increase the green areas per person to 10sqm as part of its Green Bangkok 2020 planSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/green-bangkok-2030-project-develops-empty-areas-for-public-park-344543
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22-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe government has extended its emergency decree until 31 MarSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2072547/govt-extends-emergency-decree-ahead-of-vaccine-rollout
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22-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT has proposed a competitiveness enhancement fund of 30 billion THB to help transform businesses for change in customer demand. The idea needs further discussion with the Tourism Ministry. As part of the preparation, the TAT have been tasked to create a registration system which would allow operators to share the obstacles they have in developing the businessSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2072263/tat-touts-competitive-enhancement-fund
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22-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe Prasat Hin Pan Yod stone formation, part of the Satun Geopark (a UNESCO geopark) in southern Satun province, has been closed until further notice after rockfallSource: coconuts.co/bangkok/news/collapse-closes-famed-stone-castle-in-unesco-listed-thai-geopark/
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21-Feb-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways is planning to buy 20-35 planes in 2025, subject to creditor approvalSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30402859
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21-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe Ministry of Foreign Affairs has released detailed statistics on the 81,489 visitors who entered Thailand from 4 Apr 2020 – 13 Feb 2021: • 12% were work permit holders or their spouses/ children • 10% were those under special agreement, e.g. business travellers, tourists & retirees • 4% spouses/ children of Thai nationals • 3% students • 3% medical tourists and their carersSource: www.facebook.com/richardbarrowthailand/posts/278609376958666
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20-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundAfter the opposition brought a no-confidence vote on the PM and his cabinet, they are now facing possible charges of lèse majesté from the censure debateSource: www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2021/02/20/govt-seeks-to-slap-mp-with-royal-insult-charge-for-debate-expose/
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20-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundA few hundred protestors staged a rally outside Parliament on SaturdaySource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2071611/activists-hold-no-confidence-rally
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20-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe PM and his 9 cabinet ministers survived the no-confidence motion at the end of a 4-day debate, as widely expectedSource: www.thaipbsworld.com/thai-pm-and-nine-ministers-survive-opposition-censure-motion/
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20-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT is looking at new tactics for stimulating domestic air travel, saying that 1.3 million of the 2 million airline seats on the We Travel Together scheme are still available. Instead, they are looking at a potential unlimited pass, which would be offered for 2,000 THB from local airlines, giving travellers flexibility to make advanced purchases. They will also propose a new allotment for the hotel subsidy part, as there is still budget for 6 million rooms from phases 1 and 2 of the scheme. A 3rd phase could be extended until SepSource: www.pattayamail.com/travel/thailand-to-accelerate-demand-for-air-travels-and-hotel-rooms-with-more-flexible-subsidies-344253
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20-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT has found 934 business operators, 448 hotels and 486 vendors, who have allegedly committed fraud in the We Travel Together domestic campaign, with the total amount coming to 1.7 billion THBSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2071383/massive-fraud-in-tourism-scheme
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19-Feb-2021 💉 vaccineThai Airways will fly in the first 200,000 doses of Sinovac on 24 FebSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thai-airways-will-touchdown-with-first-200000-vaccine-doses-from-china-on-feb-24-344130
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19-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundAfter the launch of the GSB loan programme for tourism businesses, a total of 5 billion THB was requested on the first day of applicationsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2070683/tourism-firms-lap-up-gsb-loan-offer
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19-Feb-2021 🌏 outboundThe Tourism Authority of Thailand are looking to attract cryptocurrency holders, predominantly from Japan, as a way to attract high spenders. They are conducting a study on the feasibility of accepting cryptocurrencies at tourism destinationsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2070775/tat-targets-holders-of-cryptocurrencies
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19-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT have revised down their 2021 tourist arrivals forecast to 8 million from 10 million, with receipts at 428 billion THB, with an average spend of 53,500 THB/ pax. However, the National Economic and Social Development Council estimates tourism arrivals of 3.2 million only in 2021. The TAT is planning an international sales campaign for Apr, aiming to bring back tourists in Q3. Overall, its 2021 tourism revenue is still at 1.2 trillion THB, with the expectation that domestic tourism spend will increase to 816 billion THB and 150 million trips, an increase from the previous target of 120 millionSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2070775/tat-targets-holders-of-cryptocurrencies
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19-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThailand will welcome the first group of tourists under the golf quarantine program, with 41 South Korean tourists who will stay for 2 months. They will spend the first 14 days in Nakhon Nayok Province, before going to Chiang MaiSource: thepattayanews.com/2021/02/19/thailand-to-welcome-first-group-of-foreign-tourists-from-south-korea-under-golf-quarantine-campaign-tonight/
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19-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundKoh Larn saw 4,000 tourists over the long weekend, with all accommodation on the island fully bookedSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/pattaya-city-and-koh-larn-hotels-ready-to-accommodate-holidaymakers-344106
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19-Feb-2021 💉 vaccineThe ChulaCOV vaccine developed in Thailand will start the first stage of human trials in May, hoping to produce 5 million doses by the end of the yearSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2070607/chula-developed-jabs-to-be-tested-in-may
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19-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundHundreds protested outside Parliament on 19 Feb ahead of the no-confidence voteSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2071263/hundreds-rally-outside-parliament-against-government
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19-Feb-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways has cut around 240 senior management positions as part of its restructuring process. The move plans to make management more efficientSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2071171/thai-airways-says-it-has-cut-about-240-executive-positions
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19-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundMelia Koh Samui is providing land for a community farm to help provide food for rescued elephantsSource: www.ttgasia.com/2021/02/19/melia-koh-samui-steps-up-to-feed-elephants/
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19-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) has said that tourism recovery depends on the government’s vaccine distribution, and the faster it is distributed, the faster the recovery will beSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2070703/arrival-recovery-hinges-on-state-managing-vaccines
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18-Feb-2021 💉 vaccineVaccinations will be for all, including migrant workers and expats, the government has confirmed. The first vaccine delivery would be on 24 Feb, with first doses aimed at medical personnel and those 60 years and above. Later deliveries of vaccines to reach tourism and service workers. Vaccination certificates will be issued to those vaccinated to allow them to travel abroad, including business travellers and studentsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2070455/covid-vaccinations-for-everyone-in-thailand
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18-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe CCSA’s business resumption sub-committee is proposing that COVID-19 prevention measures are eased in 54 provinces (currently 34), with Samut Sakhon the lone state under the maximum control, and Bangkok still falling in an orange zoneSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2070427/disease-control-restricions-to-be-relaxed-in-more-provinces
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18-Feb-2021 👨✈️ aviationA new case of fraud at Thai Airways has been seen with allegations that 26 employees faked their own deaths to claim funeral payouts, whilst employees continued to work for the airlineSource: simpleflying.com/thai-airways-staff-fake-deaths/
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18-Feb-2021 👨✈️ aviationThe Airports of Thailand only expect 2019 air traffic levels until 2024, forecasting 335,459 flights in 2021, down 62.6% vs 2019. They also estimate just 31.9 million pax, 77.5% down from 2019. Its 2022 estimate is 32.2 million pax, 2023 146.4 million pax – but these are based on quarantine being lifted by Dec. Domestic flights in Jan 2021 were at 15,000 per day from Nov-20’s 127,000/ daySource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/aot-downgrades-air-travel-forecasts-through-2024-344075
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18-Feb-2021 🛬 inbound70 visitors from Indonesia will undergo villa quarantine in Phuket at the Sri Panwa Phuket Hotel. They will stay in a state quarantine facility for 5 days from arrivals, then they would be able to use the facilities of the hotel afterwardsSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/sri-panwa-hotel-in-phuket-as-villa-quarantine-for-70-visitors-from-indonesia-343991
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18-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe Bank of Thailand has said that the lack of international tourists represents a risk to the country’s medium-term economic growthSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2070031/mpc-wary-of-tourist-dearth
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17-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT have said that the average hotel occupancy rate for 2021 so far was 29.6%, whilst Bangkok’s was at 27.3%Source: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/thailand-luxury-hotels-turn-to-monthly-rentals-to-survive-343827
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17-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe Thai Hotels Association has said that applying for bank loans is difficult due to the lack of clarity on the future. They estimate that 50% of hotels have closed, whilst the rest are strugglingSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2069563/tourism-veering-from-bad-to-worse
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17-Feb-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai AirAsia have said that the lack of airline seat redemptions in the We Travel Together campaign indicates that travellers are driving to destinations to avoid flying, and that many operators may have closed down due to financial problems by the time international tourists come back to Thailand. The airline is operating just 20 flights/ day with 10 planes, down from 40 prior to the 2nd wave. They have said they do not have any details of the Exim Bank’s soft loans proposal, and have no idea of the timeline when it may be considered by the governmentSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2069563/tourism-veering-from-bad-to-worse
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17-Feb-2021 💉 vaccineAn MP has said that Thailand’s economy is losing around $8.3 billion USD/ month through a slow vaccine rolloutSource: www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-02-17/thailand-losing-8-3-billion-as-vaccine-delayed-lawmaker-says
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17-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundPattaya business owners are urging the city to complete roadworks, which they claim are putting off tourists from visitingSource: www.pattayamail.com/news/pattaya-roadwork-scaring-off-tourists-businesses-claim-343915
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17-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe Government Savings Bank (GSB) will provide a 10 billion THB fund for tourism-related business loans, using their property as collateral. Loans would be from 1-50 million THB depending, for a 3-year period with low interest ratesSource: www.thaipbsworld.com/thailands-gsb-to-extend-low-interest-loans-to-help-tourism-related-smes/
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16-Feb-2021 👨✈️ aviationThe government is planning to spend 2 billion THB to buy land for new roads to Suvarnabhumi Airport to reduce trafficSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2069963/plan-to-ease-suvarnabhumi-airport-traffic
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16-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Council of Thailand’s (TCT) Q4 survey has shown that 60% of locals and 50% of tourism operators want to see the borders reopen, initially to China and then other low-risk countries. 39% of locals would welcome low-risk foreigners on VIP tours with no quarantineSource: www.ttgasia.com/2021/02/16/thais-keen-to-reopen-borders/
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16-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundLaguna Phuket will host events from 31 Mar to encourage domestic tourism, the Laguna Phuket Revive 555 Festival, which will kickstart tourism ahead of SongkranSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2021/02/phuket-stages-mega-events/
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16-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundBangkok Airways will reopen its passenger lounges at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi airport, as well as most of its domestic destinationsSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2021/02/bangkok-airways-reopens-lounges/
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16-Feb-2021 💉 vaccineThe Center for Covid-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) have said that tourist areas such as Phuket and Pattaya would be a priority for vaccines, and that whilst the first phase of vaccines would be given to the vulnerable and frontline workers, tourism workers were part of the planSource: thepattayanews.com/2021/02/15/thai-covid-19-center-for-situation-administration-says-tourism-dependent-cities-will-get-high-vaccine-priority/
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16-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundReturnees from Africa may face a 21-day quarantine on arrival to Thailand due to fears of the South African variantSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2068679/govt-considering-21-day-quarantine-for-returnees-from-africa
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16-Feb-2021 💉 vaccineThe vaccination drive will begin before the end of the monthSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2068667/first-covid-shots-by-month-end-says-anutin
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15-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundHotels are asking the government to lift the ban on drinking alcohol at hotels, so that they can generate additional revenueSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2068223/hotels-urge-govt-to-lift-booze-ban
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15-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe Kasikorn Research Centre estimates that Bangkok residents’ spending on Chinese New Year will decline by 10.4% YoY to 11.7 billion THB, whilst a TCT survey showed that only 61% of Thai tourists are planning a trip in Q1, down from 83% in Q4Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2068299/state-measures-have-muted-effect
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15-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundA 4,000 THB handout has been approved for company employees who do not have state welfare cards and a combined bank balance of less than 500,000 THB by the end of 2020Source: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2068627/b4-000-handouts-approved-for-salaried-workers
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15-Feb-2021 👨✈️ aviationThe domestic share of Thailand’s airlines in 2020 were: • Thai AirAsia: 4.9 million pax, 35.7% market share • Thai Vietjet Air: 2.4 million pax, 17.3% - the first time it has surpassed Nok Air and Thai Lion Air • Nok Air: 2.2 million pax, 16% • Thai Lion Air: 2 million, 14.7% • Thai Smile: 1.6 million pax, 11.5% and • Bangkok Airways: 664k pax, 4.8% shareSource: centreforaviation.com/members/direct-news/thai-vietjet-ranked-second-for-2020-market-share-551625
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15-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundNew attacks on police and rangers in Thailand’s Narathiwat state have been reported, in a “fresh wave of southern violence”Source: thethaiger.com/news/south/insurgency/surge-of-violence-over-the-weekend-in-thailands-deep-south
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15-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThailand’s GDP fell by 6.1% in 2020. Q4 saw -4.2% growth. Service exports dropped 60% YoY, whilst export of goods was also weakened. The government has revised its 2021 GDP forecast to 2.5-3.5% growthSource: asia.nikkei.com/Economy/Thailand-GDP-shrinks-at-fastest-pace-in-over-2-decades
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14-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThailand’s Emergency Decree has been extended until 28 Feb 2021Source: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-extends-emergency-decree-until-28-february-2021-to-curb-covid-19-343552
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13-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundPhuket generated just 108.46 bil THB in 2020 in tourism revenue, massively down from 2019’s 440 bil THB, 91% of which was from Jan-Mar. The Prince of Songkla University has forecast that Phuket’s falling tourism economy in 2021 may lead to income per capita falling below the province’s poverty lineSource: www.thephuketnews.com/phuket-tourism-economy-expert-warns-plunging-incomes-may-soon-fall-under-poverty-line-78987.php
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13-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundKoh Samui tour operators are calling for the government to speed up vaccination to improve the possibility of a tourism recovery in Q3. Its 2020 numbers were 400,000, compared to 2019’s 2.5 million. The Tourism Association of Koh Samui have said they are already receiving advanced bookings from Sep and Oct from long-haul markets such as Germany and the UK. They also plan to launch a new campaign, “Samui Journey”, which will introduce new tourism attractions. Just 200 out of 1,000 hotels on the island are still operating, and the occupancy rates have fell to 10%Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2067531/samui-tourism-firms-suggest-faster-vaccination-scheme
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13-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Authority Thailand Pattaya office have launched a new campaign, “Check In Chonburi Free 500”, giving tourists 500 THB to spend in vouchers for attractions, restaurants and spas. 130 tourism businesses have signed up so far, with more expectedSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/check-in-chonburi-campaign-offers-500-baht-coupons-for-pattaya-tourists-343521
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13-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThai protestors and police clashed following a peaceful protest at the Democracy Monument in Bangkok. Police said up to 20 officers had been injured, and 7 demonstrators arrestedSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2067647/police-and-protesters-face-off-again
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13-Feb-2021 👨✈️ aviationThe Department of Airports has said that domestic air travel has grown to 10,000 pax daily from just 4,000 pax daily in Jan. 15 of the country’s 29 airports have reopened for domestic flights, and the rest are expected to soon. Around 120 round-trip flights are being operated daily. Prior to the 2nd wave, there were 30,000-40,000 pax per day, around 80% of pre-COVID levelsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2067367/domestic-air-travel-more-than-doubles-in-a-month
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13-Feb-2021 💉 vaccineThailand is planning to distribute its first batch of Sinovac vaccines, with the majority to go to areas such as Samut Sakhon with the highest lockdown ordersSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-reveals-plans-for-first-2-million-doses-of-covid-19-vaccinations-343439
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12-Feb-2021 💉 vaccineThe first doses of Sinovac will arrive in late FebSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-to-receive-first-batch-of-covid-19-vaccine-from-chinas-sinovac-in-late-february-343253
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12-Feb-2021 💉 vaccineThe government has forecast that 1.9 million doses will have been administered by AprSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2066679/two-million-jabs-by-april
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12-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe government is planning a 27.1 billion THB financial aid packageSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2066767/ministry-preps-b37-1bn-financial-relief-package
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12-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundMass tests will be conducted in Samut Sakhon to decide whether to ease restrictionsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2066723/mass-tests-to-decide-virus-curb-easing
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12-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT are still planning to welcome back international tourists in Q3, and have said that it is important for the tourism industry that vaccine distribution is started. If tourism frontliners are included in the 2nd phase of vaccination, then they would not need to procure their own vaccinesSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2067043/lacking-vaccination-plan-tat-sees-q3-return-for-foreigners
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11-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe Metropolitan Police Bureau have said that they are considering full deployment of its crowd control tools, after some police officers were hurt on Wed in a clash with pro-democracy protestorsSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30402541
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11-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundPro-democracy protestors have vowed to continue and increase their protests in 2021, targeting 2 million protestors per day. They continue to push for 3 key demands: the resignation of the PM, a re-write of the Constitution and the reform of the monarchySource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/politics/2066059/democracy-youth-pledge-more-rallies
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11-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundPhuket tourism operators are protesting the government’s decision to ban local governments and private businesses from purchasing COVID-19 vaccines on their own, submitting a petition signed by 14 business associations. The Thai Hotels Association has said that more than 100 hotel employees were laid off this week due to insufficient funds for payrollSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2066247/phuket-up-in-arms-on-jab-order
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11-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe Retailer Sentiment Index dropped further in Jan, but the Thai Retailers Association believes that it will improve in the next 3 monthsSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thai-retailer-sentiment-index-drops-further-amid-new-covid-19-infections-343174
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11-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT Phuket has extended its “Phuket Great Time” campaign. The campaign offers 100 special deals from tourism businessesSource: www.bangkokpost.com/travel/2066419/tat-extends-phuket-great-time-offer
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11-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThailand will hand out cannabis seedlings to villagers to grow in Buri Ram provinceSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-starts-distributing-cannabis-seedlings-for-villagers-to-grow-as-household-plants-343145
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11-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundPattaya’s Mayor has said that the city’s future is to make it more like Singapore, Dubai or Miami, where tourism is not the key component. His “Neo Pattaya” master plan has been accepted by the Eastern Economic Corridor. Pattaya also needs to attract more domestic tourists, and “quality Thais”Source: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/mayor-pivots-to-quality-thais-to-make-pattaya-more-like-dubai-singapore-miami-343018
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11-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundPhuket has launched a new online campaign, “Have You Ever”, aimed to be more experiential focusedSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2066123/two-tourist-hotspots-eye-resurgence
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11-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundPattaya’s tourism businesses are calling for the city to start organising big events to attract visitorsSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/high-time-to-restart-tourism-events-pattaya-business-owners-say-343000
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11-Feb-2021 💉 vaccinePhase 1 of Thailand’s vaccination drive will take place from Feb-May, and see healthcare frontliners, people above 60 years old and those with congenital diseases being vaccinated with Sinovac’s 2 million doses. Phase 2 will run from Jun-Dec and will see 61 million doses distributed across the country to groups including those engaged in tourism and aviationSource: www.thaipbsworld.com/first-phase-of-plan-for-two-million-doses-of-the-sinovac-vaccine-unveiled/
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11-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundPattaya will not organise a Chinese New Year celebrationSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/despite-0-covid-19-cases-pattaya-cancels-chinese-new-year-343050
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10-Feb-2021 👨✈️ aviationHua Hin Airport will be upgraded to be able to accommodate larger planes and long haul flights by 2023Source: corporatetravelcommunity.com/hua-hin-airport-to-be-upgraded-to-accommodate-larger-aircraft/
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10-Feb-2021 💉 vaccineThailand will start clinical trials of its home-developed vaccine in MarSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2065935/thai-vaccine-human-trials-to-begin-in-march
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10-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundHundreds of Thai protestors gathered to demand the release of 4 activists in custody. Many banged pots and pans, similar to the Myanmar protests. Police fired tear gas at protestors outside the Pahumwan police station after some were arrestedSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/politics/2066047/protests-move-to-police-station-tear-gas-fired
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10-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundLocal governments and private hospitals will be banned from procuring their own COVID-19 vaccine supplies, the government has announced, in a change of policySource: www.khaosodenglish.com/news/crimecourtscalamity/2021/02/10/local-govt-private-hospitals-blocked-from-starting-vaccine-drive/
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10-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe Thai Transportation Operators Association has said that just a tenth of its member’s 40,000 tour buses are still operatingSource: www.malaymail.com/news/life/2021/02/10/thailands-tuk-tuks-tour-buses-and-boats-marooned-at-lunar-new-year/1948784
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10-Feb-2021 👨✈️ aviationAirAsia Thailand’s Q4 “exceeded expectation” as it surpassed pre-COVID levels for domestic capacity by 7%. In Dec it operated at 116% of pre-COVID domestic capacity and carried 2.8 mil pax in Q4, an increase of 50% QoQSource: www.thestar.com.my/business/business-news/2021/02/10/airasia-on-steady-recovery-path
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09-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe Tourism council of Thailand (TCT), Thai Chamber of Commerce and Board of Trade are all separately calling for the implementation of vaccine passports, allowing vaccinated travellers to skip quarantine on arrivalSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/major-thai-tourism-groups-call-for-vaccine-passport-342880
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09-Feb-2021 👨✈️ aviationThe Finance Minister has said that he has many reservations about giving soft loans to airlines, saying that other sectors may call for soft loans if they provide them to the aviation industry. Thai Lion Air have said that airlines are not including soft loans from the government in their future planning, as they had already been much delayedSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2064807/minister-lukewarm-to-calls-for-airline-loans
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09-Feb-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways have denied claims that they are laying off 400 pilots, as well as the report that they would procure 9-10 Boeing 787sSource: www.pattayamail.com/travel/thai-airways-thai-denies-laying-off-400-pilots-amid-restructuring-plans-342851
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09-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundBusinesses and Phuket officials have met to brainstorm new measures to revive Phuket’s tourism. All stakeholders agreed to rehabilitate the province for 9 months, and the meeting urged the government to consider its proposal to allow vaccinated international travellers to visit Phuket from 1 Oct without a quarantine. A roadshow promoting Phuket will also be organised in key Thai provinces, and the Federation of Phuket Industries said that more halal food should be available, to attract Muslim touristsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2064711/new-ideas-eyed-to-aid-phuket
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09-Feb-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways expect to submit their rehabilitation plan by 2 Mar. The progress of drafting the plan has been slow because of the airline’s numerous creditors and debt rehabilitation plannersSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2064775/thai-rehab-plan-on-the-way
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08-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundBangkok and Phuket have been named 8th and 14th in TripAdvisor’s Top 15 Popular Destinations – WorldSource: www.tatnews.org/2021/02/tripadvisor-names-bangkok-and-phuket-among-top-15-most-popular-destinations-worldwide/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=tripadvisor-names-bangkok-and-phuket-among-top-15-most-popular-destinations-worldwide
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08-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Minister will ask for 5 million doses of vaccine for the tourism industry, as well as push a vaccine passport initiativeSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/342773-342773
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08-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe government have dismissed the idea of applying the WHO vaccine passport regulation, saying that research has still not been completed as to whether the vaccines are effective in stopping the spread of COVID-19, and thata 14-day quarantine is the best way to counter thisSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2064131/health-chiefs-reject-serum-passport-idea
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07-Feb-2021 💉 vaccine23.6% of Thais do not want vaccination, a survey by the National Institute of Development Administration has shownSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2063979/almost-25-of-thais-dont-want-vaccination-poll
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07-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry are looking at setting up travel bubble arrangements with Brunei, Singapore, Thailand, other ASEAN nations and countries such as Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand. However, it is subject to bilateral discussionsSource: www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2021/02/07/ministry-in-talks-for-regional-travel-bubble-arrangements
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07-Feb-2021 💉 vaccineThe Thai-produced vaccine could be released as early as Apr, the government has indicated, saying that good progress has been madeSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/made-in-thailand-covid-19-vaccine-could-be-ready-in-april-342691
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07-Feb-2021 💉 vaccineThailand will not in the foreseeable future join COVAX due to lack of control over the vaccine manufacturer, timelines and the cost, but negotiations are still ongoingSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2063771/govt-goes-cool-on-joining-vaccine-pact
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06-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundPhuket has eased its entry requirements for inter-provincial travellers for those travelling by roadSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/phuket-relaxes-entry-protocols-for-inter-provincial-travelers-342671
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06-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe president of the Thai Transportation Operators Association has said that 30% of bus operators have gone bankrupt, and a quarter of its members’ 40,000 coaches sold – he predicts another 10,000 will be sold by the year-end. They are calling for unemployment support for their employees, as well as an extension on loan repaymentsSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/thailand-tour-bus-industry-driven-off-cliff-by-pandemic-342638
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06-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe Pattaya Business & Tourism Association doesn’t expect domestic tourism to be at sufficient levels to justify opening for Chinese New Year, and most hoteliers are looking towards Songkran insteadSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/pattaya-hotels-writing-off-chinese-new-year-look-to-songkran-342598
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06-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundBangkok has seen a spike in cases in 6 western districts, linked to factory workers, and enhanced screenings will be carried outSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2063403/spike-in-capital-sees-screening-ramped-up
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06-Feb-2021 🛬 inbound: Employees from private companies can start to register for 4,000 THB financial aid from 16 Feb, including those who do not hold a state welfare cardSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2063399/dates-set-for-covid-relief-applications
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05-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThap Lan National Park will reopen on 6 Feb, but activities will be limited to day ones, with overnight stays and water activities still prohibitedSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2063235/thap-lan-national-park-reopening
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05-Feb-2021 💉 vaccineThe vaccination rollout will start in Jun, with 15 million doses given per month using AstraZenecaSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thais-will-start-receiving-vaccinations-in-june-at-a-rate-of-5-million-doses-a-month-342556
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05-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundKrabi’s tourism arrivals in 2020 was just 1.5 million, down from 2019’s 6 million. Tourism revenue dropped to just 29 billion THB from 120 billion THB. The Krabi mayor is confident that the crisis will soon be over, and wants to double the number of tourist arrivalsSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30402155
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05-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundCentral Plaza Hotel group are planning to launch 8 hotels across 7 countries in 2021, believing in pent-up demand from markets like Singapore, Malaysia and South KoreaSource: www.theedgemarkets.com/article/thai-hotel-operator-central-plaza-plans-launch-eight-hotels-2021
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05-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe government has said that it is prepared for more fiscal stimulus should economic growth fall under its forecastSource: www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-02-04/thai-finance-ministry-open-to-more-stimulus-if-gdp-misses-target
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05-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) are calling for the police to file charges against those who defrauded the We Travel Together domestic tourism stimulus schemeSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2062787/tourism-authority-of-thailand-to-press-for-charges-next-week
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05-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundBangkok has cancelled its Chinese New Year celebrationsSource: coconuts.co/bangkok/news/no-bull-bangkok-cancels-chinese-new-year-celebrations/
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04-Feb-2021 💉 vaccineThailand will import AstraZeneca’s vaccine from Asia instead of Europe after the EU imposed export controls. It will import 50,000 of 150,000 of the “early doses” later this month. Sinovac will also deliver the first 200,000 of 2 million doses in late FebSource: www.straitstimes.com/asia/thailand-to-get-vaccine-from-asia-after-eu-enforced-export-control-says-minister
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04-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundCentara Hotels & Resorts will reopen its properties, and expects that its hotel business will reach pre-pandemic levels by 2023Source: www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-02-04/thai-operator-to-reopen-hotels-as-worst-of-pandemic-seen-behind
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04-Feb-2021 💉 vaccineThe Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking is calling for the government to prioritise tourism workers in the vaccination rolloutSource: thethaiger.com/coronavirus/industry-representatives-call-on-government-to-prioritise-vaccination-include-tourism-workers-in-first-rollout
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04-Feb-2021 🛬 inbound46 Thai provinces have not had any COVID-19 cases for 7 daysSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2062111/most-areas-free-of-virus-for-one-week
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04-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe Benjakitti Forest Park in Bangkok, a new huge green lung for the city, is set to be complete by 2022Source: forum.thaivisa.com/topic/1204707-video-green-space-in-bangkok-huge-new-forest-park-to-open-in-thai-capital/
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04-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe Amazing Thailand Marathon Bangkok 2021, scheduled for 14 Mar, has been postponed to 27 JunSource: www.bangkokpost.com/sports/2062127/tats-marathon-put-back-by-3-months
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03-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundPhuket is planning to hold its own private vaccination drive for its 250,000 residents, aiming to vaccinate at least 70% of the island to create herd immunity, allowing it to reopen fully to vaccinated foreign tourists by 1 OctSource: www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/thailand-phuket-covid-19-private-vaccine-tourists-reopen-14103896
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03-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThailand’s top 12 hotel booking channels in 2020 included: #1 Booking.com, #2 Agoda, #3 Direct hotel bookings, #4 Expedia Group, #5 Hotelbeds, #6 Trip.com, #7 Traveloka, #8 Goibibo and MakeMyTrip, #9 Fusion Holidays, #11 WebBeds and #12 Mr & Mrs SmithSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2021/02/thailands-top-booking-sites-in-2020/
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03-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundWunderman Thompson have seen a change in trends in Thailand, including more hotels offering family-sized packages to accommodate multi-generational travel. Workcations and staycations are also key trendsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2061651/changes-in-behaviour-predicted
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03-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundSome tourists are starting to return to Koh Larn, with tour operators estimating they are at about 10% of a normal weekdaySource: forum.thaivisa.com/topic/1204525-thai-and-foreign-tourists-begin-returning-to-koh-larn-operators-bullish-about-the-future/
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02-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThailand’s 6th Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair will be postponed from Feb to May, and will be held as a virtual showSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2021/02/thailands-gem-show-to-go-virtual/
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02-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThailand’s household debt is expected to grow further with the new outbreak. As of Sep 2020, it was at 86% of GDP, up from Sep 2019’s 79%Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2061187/households-pile-up-debt-as-new-virus-wave-weighs-on-income
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01-Feb-2021 🛬 inbound: Denmark has also seen an increase in travel bookings to Thailand for H2 2021, following the announcement by the government that they expect vaccinations to be complete by end Jun 2021Source: scandasia.com/vaccine-sparks-nordic-travel-bookings-to-thailand/
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01-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT will launch a new international campaign in Q2, targeting international travellers who would buy packages in advance for winterSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2060395/tourism-holds-its-breath-on-vaccines
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01-Feb-2021 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Minister is still optimistic that Thailand could receive 5 million international arrivals in 2021, saying that this would be considered a “success” if they do. Government sentiment and local sentiment from China, India and Malaysia would also be key, as in 2019 they accounted for 40% of the arrivals. The Ministry also plans to discuss tourism workers being included in the priority list for vaccines, and has urged the PM to allocate 5 million doses for this group. The Public Health Ministry is working on a vaccine passport framework, too, which when ready would allow tourists to enter ThailandSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2060371/tourism-minister-remains-upbeat-on-attracting-5-million-visitors
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31-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is planning a tourism concept called “SEXY”: Safety & hygiene, Environmental sustainability, extra eXperiences and Yield. The Yield part will focus on high-value tourism, reflecting the TAT’s move from mass tourism towards responsible tourismSource: www.pattayamail.com/travel/thailand-promotes-sexy-concept-in-new-normal-tourism-recovery-strategy-341959
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31-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe government expects 10 million people to register for the government’s We Win economic relief app by the end of the registration period, with 7 million already signed upSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2059803/up-to-10m-sign-ups-expected-for-new-covid-19-cash-package
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31-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundStranded foreign tourists are able to stay in Thailand until 30 May, the Immigration Bureau has announcedSource: thethaiger.com/hot-news/visa/visa-amnesty-extended-to-may-30-this-year-for-stranded-tourists
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31-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe International Aviation College of Nakhon Phanom University is urging for government financial help, otherwise it could be forced to shut downSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2059783/nakhon-phanom-universitys-aviation-college-pleads-for-govt-help
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31-Jan-2021 💉 vaccineA Suan Dusit poll has shown that 65.99% of Thai respondents want to be vaccinated, but would rather wait to see the side effects, with just 20.7% saying that they would want to be vaccinated right awaySource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2060055/most-thais-want-covid-19-vaccination-suan-dusit-poll
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30-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundChon Buri and Pattaya have seen their restrictions eased as it moves into an orange zone from 1 Feb. More businesses are allowed to open, including restaurants and bars. Schools will be allowed to reopen, but activirits with more than 300 people are not yet allowed. The governor also ordered a hotel closure on 28 Jan at the industry’s request, to allow hotel staff to claim unemployment benefitsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2059723/chon-buri-eases-curbs-bars-allowed-to-reopen
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30-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Thai Travel Agents Association (TTAA) have suggested that Thailand start travel bubble arrangements by Jul for quarantine-free travel with ASEAN low-risk countries such as Singapore, Vietnam and LaosSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2059615/tourism-chiefs-urge-vaccine-prioritisation
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30-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Association of Thai Travel Agents has called for the government to prioritise vaccines for people in major tourism destinations as part of its 2nd phase of rollout from May-Dec, to create herd immunity in each province. Those working in the service sector should also be prioritisedSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2059615/tourism-chiefs-urge-vaccine-prioritisation
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30-Jan-2021 💉 vaccineThe AstraZeneca delivery may be delayed due to the EU limiting vaccine exports, and the vaccinations are unlikely to start on 14 FebSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/astrazeneca-covid-19-vaccine-delivery-to-thailand-delayed-due-to-eu-limited-exports-341848
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30-Jan-2021 💉 vaccineThe Thai government plans to have vaccinated 70% of its population by the end of 2022Source: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-arranges-to-vaccinate-70-of-population-by-end-of-2022-341942
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30-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Council of Thailand is aiming to establish the Tourism Labor Bank assistance program for displaced tourism workers, They will develop a tourism establishment database to monitor the impact of COVID-19 on tourism jobs and prevent further losses. Tourism workers could join upskilling training and reskillingSource: www.pattayamail.com/coronavirus/thailand-tourism-labor-bank-plans-support-scheme-to-rescue-2-million-workers-341933
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30-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundNew colour coding and lockdown measures will be implemented from 1 Feb across the country: • Maroon – maximum control – Samut Sakhon. All entertainment venues closed, schools closed, amusement parks closed, MICE closed. Hotels allowed to open, but must use tracking system to check on numbers of guests • Red – high control – Bangkok, Pathum Thani, Samut Prakan, Nonthaburi. Entertainment venues closed, restaurants can operate until 11pm, schools can open with small class sizes, MICE limited to 100 pax, massage open • Orange – medium control - Kanchanaburi, Chanthaburi, Chachoengsao, Chonburi, Chai Nat, Trat, Tak, Nakhon Nayok, Nakhon Pathom, Prachinburi, Phetchaburi, Rayong, Ratchaburi, Lopburi, Samut Songkhram, Sa Kaew, Saraburi, Suphanburi, Ayutthaya and Ang Thong. Entertainment allowed to operate, restaurants open until 11pm, MICE with maximum of 300 pax, schools can open with small classes, conventions/ exhibitions allowed • Yellow – High surveillance - Kamphaeng Phet, Chaiyaphum, Chumphon, Nakhon Ratchasima, Nakhon Sawan, Narathiwat, Buri Ram, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Phang Nga, Phetchabun, Yala, Ranong, Songkhla, Sukhothai, Surat Thani and Uthai Thani. Entertainment and restaurants open until midnight, people travelling from high-risk areas to be screened • Green – Under Surveillance – rest of countrySource: www.pattayamail.com/news/pattaya-designated-as-medium-control-zone-from-feb-1-restaurants-pubs-bars-karaokes-back-in-business-341802
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29-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundAttractions in Loei are reopening, including the Chiang Khan Skywalk and the Phu Kradueng and Phu Pa Po national parksSource: www.thaipbsworld.com/two-thai-provinces-ease-restrictions-as-no-new-covid-19-infections-found/
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29-Jan-2021 🛬 inbound800 hotels, restaurants and shops are accused of defrauding the We Travel Together tourism stimulus schemeSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2059043/800-businesses-accused-of-cheating-co-payment-scheme
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29-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundOutbound tour operators are planning to restart tour packages with limited options at the year-end, but the TTAA have said that operators are waiting for more concrete plans from the government on border openings. They predict that outbound tours may operate with groups of 10 pax, and this trend to last for a couple of years. They will also sell premium domestic packages for those less confident for outbound travelSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2059179/operators-to-restart-limited-packages-by-year-end
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29-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundA 4,000 THB financial relief package for employees under social security is being considered by the cabinetSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2058839/govt-eyes-b4-000-aid-handouts
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29-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundSchools in Bangkok will reopen on 1 FebSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/thailand-schools-prepare-for-reopening-next-week/195610.vnp
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29-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Krabi Tourism Council have said that 450 hotels are temporarily closed out of 900, whilst the Tourism Association of Koh Samui has said that up to 100 hotels in Koh Samui have been put up for sale, with 70—80% of shops closed. The Thai Travel Agents Association has said that 50 outbound travel agents have gone bankrupt, whilst 400-500 have closed out of a previous 850Source: asia.nikkei.com/Business/Business-trends/COVID-wave-crushes-Thailand-s-already-hobbled-tourism-sector2
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29-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT continues to work on overseas promotion initiatives in Europe and Canada. In particular, Finland has reported 10 times the volume of its Winter Package 2021 to Thailand, after Finnish tourists’ high trust in vaccines is driving travel desireSource: www.tatnews.org/2021/01/tat-stays-active-in-overseas-tourist-markets-with-new-initiatives/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=tat-stays-active-in-overseas-tourist-markets-with-new-initiatives
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29-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe PM has reassured the public that the outbreak, availability of hospital beds and disease control measures are still in acceptable levels, and that whilst the number of cases is high, this is down to mass screeningSource: www.thaipbsworld.com/pm-assures-the-covid-19-outbreak-in-thailand-is-at-acceptable-level/
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29-Jan-2021 💉 vaccineThailand’s plan to locally produce the AstraZeneca vaccine is still on track for mass vaccinations in June, with a capacity of 18 million doses per month, an official has confirmed. However, it is still not clear how much of those would go to Thailand or to other SE Asian countriesSource: www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/covid-19-thailand-distribute-local-made-astrazeneca-vaccine-june-14070396?cid=cna_flip_070214
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29-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundSports tournaments and beauty contests will be permitted in Thailand, but participants must undergo a 14-day quarantine. No spectators would currently be permittedSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2059391/sports-tournaments-beauty-contests-allowed
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29-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundAgoda has said that family travel is the dominant types of travellers for their customers so far in Thailand in 2021Source: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2021/01/year-of-the-ox-travellers-stay-home/
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29-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundSmiling Albino, a DMC in Thailand, is looking to create upscale train travel on the State Railway of Thailand’s SRT Prestige railway cars, with themed train tours such as 1920s, Halloween and festive holiday tripsSource: www.travelweekly-asia.com/Travel-News/Attractions/Choo-choo-your-way-to-themed-luxury?utm_source=enews&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=TWAedaily
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28-Jan-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways has now had its proposed rehabilitation plan deadline extended to 2 MarSource: aviationweek.com/air-transport/airlines-lessors/thai-airways-buys-time-creditor-talks-thai-exim-offer-aid
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28-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Finance Ministry has cut its 2021 GDP forecast to 2.8% from a previous 4.5% growth. It expects just 5 million tourists, down 25% YoY and lower than the 8 million previously predictedSource: www.thestar.com.my/business/business-news/2021/01/28/thai-fin-ministry-cuts-2021-gdp-growth-outlook-on-tourism-slump
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28-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundA survey by the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) has shown that 60% of locals and 50% of tourism operators wants Thailand to reopen the borders to international tourists with a 14-day quarantine still in place. 60% of operators believe that tourists should use the Special Tourist Visa scheme and undergo a 14-day quarantineSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2058519/survey-finds-interest-in-reopening-borders
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28-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe TCT’s Thailand Tourism Confidence Index for Q4 2020 fell to 62, below the medium level of 100. 85% of businesses continued to operate, but 50% have reduced the number of employees or employees’ wages. The Q1 2021 Tourism Confidence Index has fell lower to 53 points, due to the virus resurgenceSource: www.pattayamail.com/travel/thai-tourism-industry-in-crisis-posing-a-serious-threat-to-the-countrys-economy-341620
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28-Jan-2021 💉 vaccineThailand plans to vaccinate 19 million frontliners and vulnerable groups such as those over 60 years old, in phase 1 of the vaccination rollout, starting on 14 FebSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2058187/govt-aims-to-vaccinate-19m-in-first-phase
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28-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT Seoul office have launched a new B2B minisite, Again Thailand Minisite, aiming to connect Thai businesses with outbound Korean travel agentsSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2021/01/new-b2b-minisite-reaches-korean-agents/
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28-Jan-2021 👨✈️ aviationThe Exim Bank is planning to propose soft loans for the aviation industry to the Finance Ministry, helping airlines’ liquidity to allow them to retain employees. Loans would principally be offered to Thai-owned airline businessesSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2058319/exim-proposing-airline-aid
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28-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundCentara Hotels & Resorts have launched a “Work from Hotel Centara” campaign across Thailand for extended staysSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2021/01/centara-sells-work-from-hotel-package/
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27-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Thai Hotels Association Eastern Chapter has said that the lifting of a 14-day quarantine period for visitors to Chon Buri offered hope to the industry. Pattaya businesses are working together with the local TAT office to promote the city for Songkran festival, and also rebrand it with a focus on daytime activitiesSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2057599/tourist-lift-tipped-for-pattaya
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27-Jan-2021 💉 vaccineRegistration for vaccinations has been pushed back to 12 FebSource: www.khaosodenglish.com/news/crimecourtscalamity/2021/01/27/vaccine-registration-pushed-back-1st-sign-of-delay-in-inoculation-drive/
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27-Jan-2021 👨✈️ aviationBangkok Airways will resume its Bangkok – Trat and Bangkok – Sukhothai flights from 1 FebSource: www.tatnews.org/2021/01/bangkok-airways-resumes-domestic-flights-to-trat-and-sukhothai-from-1-february-2021/?utm_source=feedly&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=bangkok-airways-resumes-domestic-flights-to-trat-and-sukhothai-from-1-february-2021
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27-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundMost schools nationwide, with the exception of Samut Sakhon province, will reopen on 1 FebSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2058167/most-schools-outside-samut-sakhon-to-reopen-nationwide
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26-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Tourism & Sports Ministry have said that they are looking to attract international film crews to film in Thailand, especially those which would spend over 100 mil THB with well-known directors or A-list actors. 2020 income from films was 1.73 bil THB, down from 2019’s 4.86 bil THB. In H1 2021, 136 film crews have applied to film, with potential revenue of 850 bil THBSource: www.thephuketnews.com/tourism-department-seeks-b3bn-from-film-productions-78783.php
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26-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundSTR and C9 Hotelworks saw the hotel occupancy of Thailand fall to 23.5% in 2020, compared to 72% in 2019. STR forecasts hotel occupancy to grow to 37.7% in 2021. The Thai Hotels Association has called 2021 “dangerous” as many hotels may be forced to close, especially after the Jan lockdown. Only 30-40% of hotels in major Thai tourism destinations remain openedSource: www.ttgasia.com/2021/01/26/thai-hotel-outlook-remains-bleak-for-2021/
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26-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThailand recorded its largest increase in daily cases, 959Source: www.thaipbsworld.com/ccsa-reports-highest-single-day-jump-in-covid-19-cases-in-thailand-on-tuesday/
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26-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe TCT have said that 1 million more tourism workers could lose their jobs in Q1 2021, and relief measures are desperately needed, including wage subsides, utility bill cuts and a debt moratorium. It estimates 1 million workers have already lost their jobsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2057479/new-covid-outbreak-could-cost-1m-tourism-jobs-in-q1
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26-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT is looking at the idea of a vaccine passport which would allow travellers to skip quarantine, as well as all-inclusive packages as part of its Project Phoenix initiative. They expect long-haul travellers to start arriving from Apr, but those nearer might arrive later. Thailand will also push for a standardised system across ASEAN to facilitate international travelSource: coconuts.co/bangkok/news/thailand-sees-recovery-in-covid-passports-for-quarantine-free-travel/
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26-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Council of Thailand will launch a new campaign, “Welcome back to Thailand again”, for vaccinated travellers in Q3 2021. They forecast that if the campaign is successful, 400,000 hotel jobs and 400,000 tourism businesses could be savedSource: www.ttgasia.com/2021/01/26/thailand-to-warmly-welcome-inoculated-travellers/
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25-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundChatuchak’s visitors have dropped by up to 90%, with many vendors having no sales at allSource: thethaiger.com/news/bangkok/chatuchak-market-is-in-worst-crisis-in-5-decades-due-to-covid-19-vendors-say
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25-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThailand’s 2020 international arrivals dropped 83% to 6.7 million only. Dec saw just 6,556 tourists in Dec, a 99.8% fall. 2020 spend was $11 billion USD, down from 2019’s $63.75 USD in 2019. The planning agency forecasts just 5 million international arrivals in 2021Source: www.reuters.com/article/thailand-economy-tourism/thailands-december-tourist-arrivals-down-998-y-y-to-6500-idUSL4N2K02E7
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25-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT should look at more promotional campaigns in Q2 to offset the opportunity cost of Q1’s 138 bil THB. TAT have set a 1.2 trillion THB tourism revenue target in 2021, with the domestic market generating 58% and international market 42%Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2056463/tat-urges-q2-global-campaign-to-offset-loss
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25-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT is launching VR tours of Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket and Surat Thani’s top attractionsSource: www.thailand-business-news.com/tourism/82383-tat-launches-virtual-tours-to-4-top-destinations-in-thailand.html
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25-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundA TAT survey from between 10-12 Jan has shown that 34.7% of tourism related businesses have closed and gone out of businessSource: thethaiger.com/news/national/more-than-a-third-of-thai-tourism-related-businesses-closed-down
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24-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundPhuket will lift the 14-day mandatory quarantine on people arriving from Bangkok and Samut Prakan to encourage domestic tourismSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2055915/phuket-eases-covid-restrictions-for-some-visitors
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24-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Minor International group and Dusit International both support he idea of vaccinated travellers allowed to skip quarantineSource: www.ft.com/content/d4a4dec0-57b5-41a4-8a42-f898c4089df3
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23-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Deputy Public Health Minister has said that restrictions in Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, Trat, Sa Kaeo, Prachin Buri, Nakhon Nayok and Chachoengsao are expected to be easedSource: www.thaipbsworld.com/covid-19-restrictions-on-businesses-in-eight-eastern-provinces-to-be-eased/
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23-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThailand’s Eastern provinces (Chonburi, Rayong, Chanthaburi and Trat) are waiting for a relaxation in their restrictions, given that the number of cases has dropped and just 1 case has been detected in the 4 provinces over the past 2 daysSource: thepattayanews.com/2021/01/23/frustration-grows-as-eastern-provinces-remain-under-tough-covid-19-restrictions-and-closures-despite-lack-of-cases-thai-government-says-no-decision-until-the-very-end-of-the-month/
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23-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundPhuket tourism industry players are calling for the province to end the 14-day mandatory quarantine from those arriving from Bangkok, to try to revive its industry. They also urged the governor to start preparing for international tourists to arrive from Oct, allowing those who are vaccinated to enter, so long as the Phuket population were 70% vaccinatedSource: www.thephuketnews.com/phuket-tourism-industry-calls-to-end-quarantine-for-bangkok-arrivals-pitches-plan-to-revive-tourism-by-october-78759.php
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23-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Pattaya Business & Tourism Association are planning a domestic marketing campaign once the lockdowns are lifted to promote Chonburi. They are also looking at offering affordable health insuranceSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/business-leaders-prep-all-out-marketing-plan-for-pattayas-reopening-341249
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23-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundSchools in Thailand’s 28 red zone provinces will be allowed to resume onsite learning from 1 Feb, but if infection rates increase, this decision may have to be reconsidered. However, those in Samut Sakhon would likely still be closedSource: www.thaipbsworld.com/will-schools-reopen-on-february-1st/
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23-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe government’s co-pay scheme generated 70 billion THB through the economy between 1 Oct 2020 to 21 Jan 2021. 51% of that amount was spent by the registrant, the remaining amount through the governmentSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2055583/co-pay-scheme-generates-b70bn
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23-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundA TAT survey has shown that the key needs for tour operators include aid measures to reduce costs (92.6%), including a wage subsidy scheme, and the lowering of electricity and water bills, a debt holiday (81.2%), lower interest rates and suspension of principal payments (79.9%) and financial aid (78.8%). 63.5% of the 1,884 tourism businesses surveyed were still operatingSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2055627/survey-highlights-tourism-concerns
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22-Jan-2021 👨✈️ aviationThe Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has extended its relief measures for airlines in Q1, including a 50% discount on landing charges for international and domestic flights, a waiver of parking charges for airlines who have suspended operations, 50% reduction on parking charges for those other airlines and an extension of 50% discount for air navigation services for domestic flights, 20% for international flightsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2054951/further-relief-awarded-to-covid-battered-airlines
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22-Jan-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways have said that they are still on track with their debt rehabilitation planSource: www.retailnews.asia/thai-airways-is-on-track-with-its-rescue-plan/
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22-Jan-2021 💉 vaccineSinovac is unlikely to be the first vaccine delivered and rolled out in Thailand, the Health Minister has confirmed, as it has still not been registered in China. Instead, the first batch of AstraZeneca of 50,000 should arrive in early Feb, followed by more in Mar and AprSource: www.thaipbsworld.com/a-guide-to-thailands-largest-ever-vaccination-programme/
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22-Jan-2021 👨✈️ aviationThe Airports of Thailand are extending the payment terms for its concession charges, official rentals and service fees. For Feb to Jul instalments, it will be extended to 18 months, whilst Aug-Dec will be extended to 12 monthsSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2021/01/aot-eases-airport-credit-terms/
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22-Jan-2021 💉 vaccinePattaya-Nongprue are calling to buy their own vaccines, saying that they could vaccinate 80,000 residents from their own budgetsSource: www.pattayamail.com/news/pattaya-nongprue-joins-queue-to-directly-buy-coronavirus-vaccines-341096
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22-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Council of Thailand are planning to partner with the Federation of Thai Industries, to offer its 100,000 workers special packages to drive domestic tourismSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2055191/vaccination-packages-mulled
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22-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Council of Thailand have floated the idea of vaccination tour packages for Q2. They would be one-month long, and would cost 150,000 THB, including a 14-day quarantine and vaccination costs. Tour operators could potentially partner with private hospitalsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2055191/vaccination-packages-mulled
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21-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Thai Finance Minister has forecast growth of 3-4% in 2021, less than previously forecastSource: www.channelnewsasia.com/news/business/thai-economy-may-grow-3-to-4-per-cent-covid-19-14012920?cid=cna_flip_070214
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21-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT is working on activities to keep awareness of Thailand high in China, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea and TaiwanSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-new-normal-tourism-stay-top-of-mind-among-chinese-east-asian-region-travelers-341076
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21-Jan-2021 💉 vaccineThe Thai Food and Drug Administration has approved the AstraZeneca vaccine, and 200,000 doses should arrive in Q1, with 50,000 in Feb and the remaining 150,000 in Mar and Apr. The local production for AstraZeneca could start to take place in MaySource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2054799/astrazeneca-vaccine-approved-50-000-doses-due-in-february
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21-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Bangkok Metropolitan Authority will now allow 13 services to reopen in the city from 22 Jan, including elderly care centres, party venues for maximum 300 pax and spa and Thai massage parlours. However, pubs and bars, boxing stadiums, children’s childcare centres and water parks must remain closedSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2054771/bma-allows-13-kinds-of-business-to-reopen-in-bangkok
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21-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe government’s co-spending payment scheme saw all 1.34 million rights being registered in just 9 minutesSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-co-payment-subsidy-rights-taken-in-9-minutes-bangkok-chonburi-highest-spending-340982
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21-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundA 300 THB fee will be collected from foreign visitors in 2021, to establish a tourism fund, allowing operators to claim from it during crises. The final plan and guidelines are still in process and would be submitted for approval in FebSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2054563/new-tourism-fee-aimed-at-creating-financial-fund
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20-Jan-2021 👨✈️ aviationThe Airports of Thailand (AOT) have said that they recorded a loss of over 10 billion THB in fiscal year 2021, its first operating loss in its 40-year historySource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/airports-of-thailand-loses-a-historic-10-billion-baht-caused-by-covid-19-340873
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20-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThailand is planning to introduce a curriculum to promote marihuana in recipes and products, in conjunction with community businesses to grow the plant. The Health Minister has said that these would be the “new must-taste menu” once the country is opened againSource: www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-01-20/thailand-targets-tourism-boost-with-marijuana-meals-cosmetics
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20-Jan-2021 🛬 inbound210 billion THB of financial aid has been approved, under the campaign ”Rao Chana”. A total of 7,000 THB will be distributed per person over 2 months, covering 31 million people impacted by the pandemicSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2053575/b210bn-hardship-aid-gets-nod
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20-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundForeigners who have Thai residency and would usually need to return to the country within one year, will be allowed to stay abroad until further noticeSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2054159/immigration-bureau-extends-re-entry-visas-for-foreigners-with-thai-residency
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20-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundKanchanaburi hotels will be permitted to reopen, so long as they follow disease control measuresSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2054131/kanchanaburi-hotels-allowed-to-reopen
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19-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe government has said that the number of cases are lower, but they are still concerned over the outbreak in Samut SakhonSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2053431/covid-cases-fall-tuesday-but-hotspots-worrying
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19-Jan-2021 🌏 outbound65-70% of outbound travel agents closed indefinitely, according to the Thai Travel Agents Association (TTAA), whilst 10% have given up their licences, particularly after the 2nd wave. 2,598 tour operators closed down permanently in 2020, with deregistration the highest in Q4, at 765, with 293 of these in Dec alone. The TTAA have also postponed their Thai International Travel Fair to 26-29 Aug from its Feb date. They have said that in 2020, 1 million Thai tourists travelled outbound, with a spend of 50 billion THBSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2053307/tour-firm-exits-peak-last-month
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18-Jan-2021 💉 vaccineA YouGov survey has shown that Thai people are the most wiling to be inoculated out of 24 countries surveyed, at 83%Source: www.khaosodenglish.com/news/crimecourtscalamity/2021/01/18/thais-most-willing-to-take-vaccine-out-of-24-surveyed-countries/
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18-Jan-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai AirAsia will ask 75% of its staff to take no-pay leave for 4 months starting from Feb, after the airline downsizes to match demand. The airline is now flying only 10 planes, compared to 40 prior to the 2nd wave. Thai AirAsia thinks there is little hope of financial support from the government and is trying to secure its own loans insteadSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2052947/thai-airasia-to-furlough-75-of-workforce
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18-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe ASEAN Tourism Association has warned that 70% of Thailand’s travel associations could close permanently in Thailand if there was no government assistanceSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2021/01/gloomy-picture-for-asean-travel-agents/
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18-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe government is preparing a new soft loan program to help SMEs, which would be made available through the Small and Medium Enterprise Development Bank of Thailand (SME D Bank)Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2052599/industry-ministry-preps-sme-soft-loans
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18-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Thai Hotels Association (THA) has said that up to 80% of its 930 members stopped operations in 2020. However, the THA predicts that the independent and SME hotels are at the highest risk of closure, and expects more hotels to close in 2021Source: www.ttgasia.com/2021/01/18/small-thai-hotels-go-quiet-amid-travel-crisis/
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18-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundPrivate hospital, Thonburi Healthcare Group, have ordered 1 million doses of Sinovac with the option of buying 9 million more. They plan to use the 1 million doses to vaccinate half of its staff across its hospital network. Vibhavadi Medical Centre has also ordered 10,000 doses of the Moderna vaccineSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2052935/private-hospitals-reserve-covid-19-vaccines-ahead-of-approval
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17-Jan-2021 👨✈️ aviationChiang Mai International Airport is now serving just Bangkok, with only 1,300 pax per day passing through the airports, down 85% prior to the 2nd waveSource: www.pattayamail.com/chiangmaimail/chiang-mais-international-airport-serving-only-1-city-340678
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17-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Chiang Mai Tourism Business Association donated more than 1.1 million THB to Chiang Mai elephant camos for the provision of food for the elephantsSource: www.pattayamail.com/travel/chiang-mai-tourism-group-raises-1-2-million-baht-for-hungry-elephants-340669
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16-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe order to close hotels and resorts in Kanchanaburi was surprising to many in the tourism industry due to the low number of cases. The governor has said the closure will not last more than one monthSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2052015/river-kwai-bridge-vendors-bemoan-lack-of-tourists
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16-Jan-2021 👨✈️ aviationNok Air has said that it can continue its business operations for another 6 months, but it has had to revise its rehabilitation plan given the new domestic travel situation in Thailand. The airline has said that predicting the number of pax is still hard, and load factor had dropped to 40% before the 2nd wave. If the virus is not contained by Feb, it may have to implement leave without pay for staffSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2051907/nok-air-six-months-liquidity-remaining
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16-Jan-2021 👨✈️ aviationThe expansion of Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport has been approved by a panel, to ensure that it can cope with the traffic once demand increases. It will now seek opinions from IATA and ICAO before being submitted to the cabinetSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2051751/panel-approves-airport-expansion
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16-Jan-2021 👨✈️ aviationDon Mueang International Airport in Bangkok underwent a spot audit of its following of the Amazing Thailand SHA certificate and was found satisfactorySource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailands-don-mueang-intl-airport-gets-amazing-thailand-sha-sanitation-safety-certification-340483
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15-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundNon-performing loans of SMEs is now valued at 229 billion THB, with tour operators and small restaurants the worst hit, the Federation of Thai SMEs has saidSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thai-smes-non-performing-loans-rise-to-bt229-billion-restaurants-and-tour-operators-hit-hardest-340375
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15-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Bank of Thailand have set that they may cut their growth forecast for 2021 due to the new wave. This new wave could impact its forecast by 1-4% depending on the severitySource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2051651/central-bank-to-cut-growth-forecast-after-second-covid-wave
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15-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe National Tourism Policy Committee have approved the guidelines for collecting 300 THB from each international visitor. This will be used for managing local tourist destinations, as well as insurance benefits. The Tourism Minister expects Thailand will receive 10 million international arrivals this yearSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2051039/tourism-fee-to-help-insure-foreigners-visiting-the-kingdom
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15-Jan-2021 💉 vaccineThailand has asked more information from Sinovac on its clinic trials before deliverySource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/01/15/thailand-requesting-sinovac-to-provide-more-clinical-trials-data
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15-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundBloomberg claim that at least 931 registered tourism-related businesses closed down in 2020Source: www.bnnbloomberg.ca/thailand-sold-itself-as-a-paradise-covid-retreat-no-one-came-1.1549383
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15-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Thai Hotels Association has said that hotels are delaying whether to join the Alternative State Quarantine (ASQ) program, as bookings have slowed down. The ASQ-ALQ Club Thailand have seen occupancy drop by 30% to 6,000-7,000 rooms per day from 9,500 in Dec, with a low response expected in FebSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2051299/hoteliers-hesitant-to-embrace-asq-scheme
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15-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Thai government is looking at 2 cash payments of 3,500 THB in Feb and Mar for those severely affected by the new outbreak, as well as electicity and household bill cuts and business soft loansSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thais-severely-affected-by-new-covid-19-outbreak-will-get-3500-baht-monthly-in-february-march-340384
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15-Jan-2021 👨✈️ aviationNakhon Phanom University’s International Aviation College is investigating the disappearance of 200 million THB from its budgetSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2051611/b200m-missing-from-university-aviation-schools-budget
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15-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundBangkok is being affected by “unhealthy” levels of hazeSource: www.thaipbsworld.com/health-threatening-pollution-over-10-areas-of-bangkok-and-suburbs-on-friday/
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14-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Association of Domestic Travel is still confidence about achieving the government’s goal of 200 million domestic tourists, but cautioned that more support through stimulus measures would be required. Their goal is to restarts interprovincial trips by Mar. Only 20% of their members are currently operating. They also proposed a co-pay domestic tour program, with the government subsidising 50% of tour packages, limited to 3,000 THB for 2 million packagesSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2050751/association-of-domestic-travel-upbeat-on-domestic-tour-goal
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14-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Thai cabinet have decided to cut electricity and water fees, as well as increase internet speed to help Thai householdsSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-cuts-utility-bills-to-ease-hardships-during-the-covid-19-pandemic-340293
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14-Jan-2021 💉 vaccineAstraZeneca and Sinovac are both seeking vaccine registration in ThailandSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/astrazeneca-and-sinovac-biotech-seek-covid-19-vaccine-registration-in-thailand-340300
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14-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundPattaya hotels continue to call for the government to order the temporary closure of hotels there, so that their employees can claim unemployment benefitSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/pattaya-mayor-criticizes-tourism-groups-for-going-over-his-head-to-call-for-economic-relief-340243
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14-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Thailand Yacht Show 2021, which was to take place in Phuket, has been postponed from 11-14 Feb to later in the yearSource: www.thephuketnews.com/thailand-yacht-show-2021-postponed-78655.php
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14-Jan-2021 👨✈️ aviationA man under the influence of drugs managed to breach airport security at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport, and drive his car onto the runwaySource: forum.thaivisa.com/topic/1201593-major-security-breach-at-suvarnabhumi-airport-as-man-high-on-drugs-drives-car-onto-runway-video/?utm_source=newsletter-20210115-0539&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=news
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14-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundPattaya hotels continue to call for the government to order the temporary closure of hotels there, so that their employees can claim unemployment benefitSource: www.thaipbsworld.com/pattaya-hotels-want-to-be-closed-so-employees-can-claim-state-benefits-2/
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14-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundJapan has suspended its Business Track and Residence Track programs to allow overseas business travellers to visit the country, including from Cambodia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand and VietnamSource: e.vnexpress.net/news/news/japan-suspends-business-visit-program-for-vietnam-10-other-economies-4220774.html
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13-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundGolf quarantines have now been approved, with 6 resorts available, 3 in Kanchanaburi, 1 in Nakhon Nayok, 1 in Phetchaburi and 1 in Chiang MaiSource: www.tatnews.org/2021/01/golf-quarantine-in-thailand-now-available-at-six-government-approved-golf-resorts/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=golf-quarantine-in-thailand-now-available-at-six-government-approved-golf-resorts
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13-Jan-2021 💉 vaccineLocal administrations will be permitted to purchase their own COVID-19 vaccines and conduct their own campaigns. The government in general is planning to provide 2 million free doses to frontlines in Feb, and in May to launch a mass free vaccination drive with 60 million doses of the AstraZeneca vaccineSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2049975/local-bodies-can-provide-covid-jabs-says-anutin
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13-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Bank of Thailand have extended financial relief measures until Jun 2021Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2049915/bot-offers-borrowers-debt-holiday
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13-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Cabinet has approved 2 cash handouts of 3,500 THB for those severely affected by the pandemic, cuts to electricity and water fees, an increase of internet speed and a 200 billion THB fund for soft loans to SMEs with 10,000-50,000 to each debtor at low interest ratesSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2049843/govt-approves-covid-handouts
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13-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Thai Chamber of Commerce and the Federation of Thai Industries have welcomed the government’s new handouts, saying that will start to help, but more aid packages need to be provided to hotels to retain their employeesSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2049967/private-sector-deems-latest-relief-measures-insufficient
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13-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundCommunity based homestays and tourism attractions are having their health and safety standards enhanced through the Amazing Thailand SHA scheme. They are also planning through the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA) to roll out 4-5 new campaigns to promote tourism confidenceSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/homestays-in-thailand-get-health-safety-upgrade-for-postcovid19-travels/194651.vnp
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13-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Ministry of Tourism will propose a new Hotel Quarantine program, with international arrivals being limited to their hotel rooms for the first 10 days, and then allowed to use hotel facilities for the last 4 daysSource: www.pattayamail.com/news/thai-hotels-propose-10-days-quarantine-for-foreigners-easing-loans-and-taxes-to-rescue-tourism-340209
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12-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Movenpick BDMS Wellness Resort Bangkok are now welcoming local Thais and expats who want to undergo self-quarantineSource: www.ttgasia.com/2021/01/12/movenpick-bdms-wellness-resort-bangkok-offers-recuperation-safe-haven-for-locals/
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12-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Ministry of Tourism has gathered inputs from the tourism industry on ideas for financial aid, and will submit them to the PM for considerationSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/thai-tourism-ministry-gets-companies-input-on-covid19-remedies/194630.vnp
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12-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) estimate that 30% of its 10,000 registered inbound tourism companies have closed down permanently and 50% temporarily. The remaining 20% have pivoted to the domestic marketSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2049291/atta-seeks-vaccinated-arrivals
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12-Jan-2021 💉 vaccineThailand is aiming to vaccinate 33 million people by the end of 2021Source: www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/thailand-aims-to-inoculate-at-least-half-the-population-against-covid-19-in-2021
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12-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) are calling for the government to exempt vaccinated travellers from quarantineSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2049291/atta-seeks-vaccinated-arrivals
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12-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT have said that they will delay the implementation of a domestic travel campaign targeting senior citizens to Mar or AprSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/thai-tourism-ministry-gets-companies-input-on-covid19-remedies/194630.vnp
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12-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThailand has one of the highest tourism revenue losses globally in 2020, according to Official ESTA, coming in 4th place with an estimated $37,504 million USD of lossSource: thethaiger.com/hot-news/tourism/thailand-ranks-4th-in-the-world-for-highest-loss-of-tourism-revenue-official-esta
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12-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundPhuket will carry out screening measures for those entering the province, including those arriving from 20 “red zone” provinces to self-quarantine for 14 days, and those from “high risk” areas to have a swab test. The self-quarantine may be more of a guideline, rather than enforced requirementSource: thethaiger.com/news/phuket/screening-measures-to-enter-phuket-travellers-from-red-zone-provinces-to-self-quarantine
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11-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundAccording to TV4 Nyheterna, Swedish holiday bookings have increased greatly in the last few weeks due to the positive news about the vaccines. Ticket.se have seen an increase of more than 50% of winter bookings for winter 2022 to Thailand, amongst other destinationsSource: scandasia.com/vaccine-in-sweden-sparks-a-boost-in-travel-booking-to-thailand-for-winter-2022/
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11-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Council of Thailand are calling for a long-term debt moratorium, electricity bill cuts and more skill training courses for tourism workersSource: www.thaipbsworld.com/tourism-sector-propose-debt-moratoria-and-electricity-subsidy/
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11-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundHousehold debt is at the highest levels it has been in 12 years, at ~480,000 THB per householdSource: www.thaipbsworld.com/household-debt-in-thailand-highest-in-12-years/
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11-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundChiang Mai Tourism Industry Council have said that no cash handouts will be given to tourists who contract COVID-19 in the province, after earlier pledges to pay 100,000 THB in the early Dec outbreakSource: www.khaosodenglish.com/news/crimecourtscalamity/2021/01/11/chiang-mai-walks-back-promise-to-pay-infected-tourists-100000-baht/
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10-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Thai Hotels Association Eastern Chapter estimates that 80% of tourism businesses in Pattaya have already closed, and blames the government for the 2nd wave due to “corrupt” officialsSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/pattaya-tourism-groups-blame-corrupt-government-for-causing-covid-19-second-wave-340016
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10-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Ministry has said that Thailand should focus on long-stay and wealthy foreign visitors, something which the Tourism Council of Thailand agrees with. The TAT expects just 10 million tourists in 2021, the majority in the last third of the year, and 21 million in 2022 in best-case scenarios. The Airports of Thailand forecast its airports will welcome 446,986 scheduled commercial flights and 47.9 million pax, with air traffic not returning to 2019 levels until 2023Source: www.pattayamail.com/travel/after-years-of-lip-service-thailand-in-2021-may-finally-put-quality-tourists-ahead-of-mass-tourism-339931
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10-Jan-2021 👨✈️ aviationDomestic air travel has dropped by 60% since the start of 2021, the Department of Airports has said. Its 20 airports dropped from an average of 30,000 domestic pax/ day to 12,000. In 2021, the Aeronautical Radio of Thailand (ART) said that domestic and international flights dropped 55% to 464,944 in 2020Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2048311/domestic-air-travel-take-a-steep-nosedive
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09-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Thai Hotels Association (THA) are calling for the government to provide a 50% wage subsidy scheme, with payment capped at 7,500 THBSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2048011/tha-let-inoculated-tourists-visit-without-quarantine
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09-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Thai Hotels Association (THA) are calling for the government to start preparing guidelines for vaccinated passengers to skip the 14-day quarantineSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2048011/tha-let-inoculated-tourists-visit-without-quarantine
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09-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe We Travel Together scheme has so far generated 5.12 million room nights worth 13.6 billion THB, and 357,752 air tickets worth 952 million THB as of 6 Jan. 5,343 hotels have received bookingsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2048011/tha-let-inoculated-tourists-visit-without-quarantine
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09-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundPeople travelling to and from Samut Sakhon, Rayong, Chon Buri, Chanthaburi and Trat provinces need to have official documents stating the need for their travel. They will also need the Mor Chana app installed on their phones, and will be checked for feverSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2048199/documents-required-to-enter-5-provinces
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09-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Eastern Hotel Association is asking the Chon Buri government to officially close hotels in the province, to allow the staff to collect government benefitsSource: thepattayanews.com/2021/01/08/eastern-hotel-association-asks-chonburi-governor-to-force-close-hotels-to-allow-staff-to-collect-social-security/
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09-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Public Health Ministry has said that it is confident that the new outbreak will slow down by the end of Jan, as it has not seen new cases in 7 days in 20 provincesSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2047919/ministry-confident-second-wave-will-end-this-month
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09-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Finance Ministry will propose relief measures for borrowers in 33 provinces affected by the restrictions, including a debt holiday, suspension of principal repayment and interest reductionSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2048071/finance-ministry-preps-relief-for-33-affected-provinces
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09-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT expects tourism revenue to increase 44.6% in 2021 to 1.3 trillion THB, with just 500 billion THB coming from international revenue. It forecasts 120 million domestic trips, and in 2022 180 million domestic trips. They have called 2021 a “transitional year” for Thai tourism, and see a late rush in the latter part of the year. It also wants to see the average amount spent by international visitors increase from 47,000 THB in 2019 to 62,000 THB in 2022, and Thai domestic expenditure to increase from 4,700 THB to 4,900 THBSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/pent-up-demand-will-see-explosion-of-foreign-tourists-to-thailand-in-late-2021-339803
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08-Jan-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai AirAsia has said that the 2nd wave has “destroyed the low-cost carrier”, and that travel sentiment has “plunged lower than last year.” Its numbers dropped by more than 50% with the cancellation of many flights and some flights having just 20-30 pax in total on board. They are still waiting to hear from the government on financial aidSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2047431/thai-airasia-latest-virus-outbreak-destroyed-us
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08-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundPeople must wear face masks in Phuket in public areas, or face a 20,000 THB fineSource: www.thephuketnews.com/phuket-under-face-mask-order-b20k-fine-78579.php
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08-Jan-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways are reducing their international network to 10 cities until 27 Mar, including Hong Kong, Manila, Osaka, Seoul, Sydney, Taipei, Tokyo Narita, Copenhagen, Frankfurt and LondonSource: www.businesstraveller.com/business-travel/2021/01/08/thai-airways-to-reduce-international-network-until-march/
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08-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau had 52 sales leads during the IBTM World Virtual 2020, estimating they are worth 743.40 million THB in revenue if they materialisedSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2021/01/tceb-tots-up-sales-leads/
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08-Jan-2021 💉 vaccineThailand’s vaccine program will receive 200,000 doses from Sinovac in Feb, which will be given to medical personnel in the 5 provinces under maximum COVID-19 controls: Samut Sakhon, Rayong, Chon Buri, Trat and Chanthaburi. Mar and Apr would see 800,000 and 1 million doses. By May, 26 million doses will be accepted for general vaccinationSource: www.theedgemarkets.com/article/covid19-vaccination-thailand-begin-five-provinces
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08-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundConsumer sentiment dropped for the first time in 3 months to 50.1 in Dec, down from Nov’s 52.4, amid uncertainty with the 2nd waveSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2047399/consumer-sentiment-falls-amid-increasing-infections
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08-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Central Bank forecasts inbound arrivals to be 5.5 million in 2021, down from its initial projection of 9 million. Thailand received 6.7 million tourists from Jan-Nov 2020, down 81.4% YoYSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2047399/consumer-sentiment-falls-amid-increasing-infections
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08-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Council of Thailand have said just 30% of tourism businesses are still operatingSource: www.scmp.com/week-asia/health-environment/article/3116831/coronavirus-resurges-thailand-tourism-businesses-go
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08-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Thailand Hotels Association Southern Chapter has said that hotels are temporarily closing again in Phuket, but does not have an exact number of how many. They warned that the crisis in Phuket “will reach its peak this year […] both small and big businesses are going to die in the same way this year.” Phuket International Airport confirmed that airlines had reduced the number of flights to Phuket for the remainder of Jan, and that from 1-5 Jan, 38,915 pax used the airport, compared to 115,741 in 2020, down 69.4% YoYSource: www.thephuketnews.com/phuket-hotels-start-closing-again-78589.php
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08-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThai Vietjet have launched the Thailand Power Pass, an unlimited flight pass for their domestic network, with a validity of 6 or 12 monthsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/pr/2047835/thai-vietjet-launches-thailand-power-pass-for-domestic-services
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08-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) have said that Thailand is still open to Special Tourist Vias holders, and that the recent outbreak has not had any impact on the numbers so farSource: www.khaosodenglish.com/news/crimecourtscalamity/2021/01/08/we-are-open-special-tourist-visa-is-still-on-despite-outbreak/
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08-Jan-2021 💉 vaccineThai residents will be able to start signing up for the first round of vaccines at the end of JanSource: www.khaosodenglish.com/news/crimecourtscalamity/2021/01/08/registration-for-vaccination-campaign-to-open-this-month/
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08-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundSightseeing trains will be suspended from 9 Jan, and 30 regular passenger trains will be suspended from 13 Jan to help contain the spreadSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2047851/all-sightseeing-trains-suspended-to-stem-virus-spread
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08-Jan-2021 👨✈️ aviationU-Tapao International Airport near Pattaya has cancelled all flights until at least 31 JanSource: www.pattayamail.com/travel/u-tapao-rayong-pattaya-international-airport-suspends-flights-until-jan-31-339756
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08-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Thai Hotels Association northern chapter has said that hotel occupancy in Chiang Mai has fallen to 10%, with some hotels temporarily closingSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2047419/high-season-lost-operators-ask-for-50-salary-subsidies
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07-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundSpending more time with loved ones is what Thais are most looking forward to for travel in 2021, according to a new survey from Agoda. 14% are also committed to consciously supporting less touristy destinationsSource: www.ttgasia.com/2021/01/07/travelling-more-with-loved-ones-top-2021-priority-survey/
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07-Jan-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai Smile now has 428 bookable flights, down 48% YoY, but still more than Thai Airways, who has just 20 flightsSource: www.anna.aero/2021/01/07/thai-smile-now-has-21-times-more-flights-than-thai-airways/
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07-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce has said that the Thai economy could lose 300 billion THB in Q1 due to the drop in consumer confidence and restrictionsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2047187/b300bn-economic-impact-forecast-for-q1
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07-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundTravellers who travel from the 28 red zone provinces and conceal their travel timeline could be given a 2-year prison sentence or a 40,000 THB fineSource: thethaiger.com/news/national/red-zone-restrictions-tighten-legal-action-for-concealing-travel-information
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07-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundAll travellers from any of the 28 red zone provinces will need to undergo swab tests and a 14-day quarantine on arrival to Phuket, pending the release of the official announcementSource: www.thephuketnews.com/red-zone-arrivals-face-quarantine-in-phuket-78566.php
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07-Jan-2021 🛬 inbound4 new electric rail routes will be added in Bangkok in 2021, including the Pink Line, Yellow Line and 2 Red Lines routesSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2046807/new-rail-links-to-ease-jams
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07-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe government has confirmed that people who have cancelled or postponed hotel bookings under the We Travel Together domestic stimulus scheme will not lose their privileges, and they are still working together with OTAs and hotels to find a solution for tourists who have already paidSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2046739/travel-scheme-users-wont-lose-privileges
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07-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe 2 million additional doses which the Thai government has secured are from SinovacSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2046655/pm-bolsters-pledge-to-give-free-jabs
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06-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Ministry has said that Thailand will need to rebuild its image as a safe destination once moreSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2046135/tourism-banking-on-health-image
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06-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) have launched EASE UP, a package of incentives to attract Singaporean incentives. It includes $50 USD grants per person or a dining experience of up to 300,000 THB per event, for events taking place no later than 30 Sep 2021. Delegates will also receive free airport transfers, sightseeing or CSR teambuilding activities for up to 20 delegates and for up to 20 paying guestrooms, hotels will match the same number of rooms on a complimentary basisSource: www.ttgmice.com/2021/01/06/tceb-unveils-ease-up-initiative-to-court-singapore-mice/
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06-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Phra That Phanom festival in Nakhon Phanom has been postponed due to the 2nd waveSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2046511/phra-that-phanom-festival-postponed
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06-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundNusasiri, a real estate developer, and the World Medical Alliance have partnered with the Thai Elite Privilege Card scheme to increase investment and tourism in ThailandSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/pr/2046611/nusasiri-partners-with-elite-thailand-to-lure-global-investors-and-tourists-to-thailand
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06-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundAll entertainment, bars and pubs must close for 14 days in Chiang MaiSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/chiang-mai-shuts-down-pubs-entertainment-after-infected-woman-goes-barhopping-339568
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06-Jan-2021 👨✈️ aviationBangkok Airways has temporarily reduced some of its routes, as well as postponed the launch of new routes from 8 Jan until further notice, including the new routes Bangkok-Hat Yai, Bangkok-Khon Kaen and Bangkok-Mae SotSource: www.pattayamail.com/travel/bangkok-airways-announces-temporary-flight-reductions-route-suspensions-and-closure-of-lounge-services-339550
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06-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundWhilst UK arrivals are still permitted entry into Thailand, they must stay in their room for the majority of their quarantine stay, until their 2nd swab test comes back negativeSource: thethaiger.com/news/national/no-travel-ban-on-british-arrivals-quarantine-facilities-tighten-rules
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06-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundCertain national parks will close accommodation and attractions across ThailandSource: www.tatnews.org/2021/01/tat-update-attractions-at-thai-national-parks-close-temporarily/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=tat-update-attractions-at-thai-national-parks-close-temporarily
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05-Jan-2021 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways’ debt rehabilitation submission deadline has been extended until 4 FebSource: news.bloomberglaw.com/bankruptcy-law/thai-air-says-court-extends-rescue-plan-submission-to-feb-4
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05-Jan-2021 💉 vaccineThe Thai PM has said that Thailand has ordered an additional 35 million AstraZeneca doses, creating a total of 63 million doses pipeline so farSource: www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/covid-19-thailand-orders-35-million-doses-astrazeneca-vaccine-13897378?cid=cna_flip_070214
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05-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundChon Buri have tightened restrictions and people must wear a face mask outside of their home, or face a 20,000 THB fineSource: thethaiger.com/news/chon-buri/chon-buri-tightens-covid-19-restrictions-including-fines-for-not-wearing-a-mask
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05-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Emergency Decree will be extended until 28 FebSource: thepattayanews.com/2021/01/05/thai-cabinet-officially-approves-another-emergency-decree-extension-nationwide-until-end-of-february/
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05-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundOver 10,000 schools have been closed across Thailand until 31 JanSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2045995/10-000-plus-schools-shut-until-jan-31
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05-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Thailand Tourism Forum has been postponed from 18 Jan to a later, unspecified dateSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2021/01/ttf-postpones-10th-edition/
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05-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundMore than 100,000 workers have lost their jobs or been suspended due to the new lockdown restrictions. Insured workers will now be able to claim under the Social Security Act and will be entitled to 50% of their daily wage for the whole lockdown period for a maximum of 90 days and a maximum ceiling of 500 THB as a daily wageSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2045519/compensation-scheme-kicks-in-for-100-000-cast-out-of-jobs
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04-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe TAT organised an Amazing Thailand Health and Wellness Virtual Trade Meet 2020, with 49 Thai suppliers and 82 buyers from 27 countriesSource: www.ttgasia.com/2021/01/04/thailand-maintains-focus-on-health-and-wellness-tourism/
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04-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThailand’s MICE industry saw a drop of 60% in its fiscal year of 1 Oct 2019-30 Sep 2020, with 500,090 foreign MICE visitors contributing 29.8 billion THB and 10 million domestic MICE travellers, generating 31.5 billion THB, according to the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB)Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2045187/tour-operators-eye-niches
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04-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundInsurance companies have introduced a seasonal travel insurance package which provides compensation should the holder contract COVID-19Source: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/new-travel-insurance-packages-offer-covid-19-coverage-339371
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04-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Ministry is considering seeking an extension to the We Travel Together scheme until 31 OctSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2044915/arkhom-asks-hoteliers-to-allow-travel-scheme-postponements
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04-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundBangok’s restaurants will still be allowed to serve dine-in customers between 6am-9pm, after the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration overturned a government decision to limit restaurant operating hoursSource: asia.nikkei.com/Spotlight/Coronavirus/Bangkok-lets-restaurants-open-at-night-after-Thai-PM-s-request
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03-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundStricter measures have been declared for 28 red zone provinces, from 4 Jan to 1 Feb. Provinces will be split under tier 1 and tier 2 restrictions. Tier 1 includes restricting operating hours, restrictions of activities which would generate crowds, interprovincial travel advised against, people being requested to work from home and target school closures. Tier 2 would include more businesses closed, interprovincial travel bans, all residents working from home and curfewsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2044555/crackdown-in-virus-red-zones
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03-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Association of Koh Samui has said that Koh Samui has lost 50 billion THB in revenue in 2020, and of 660 hotels, only 180 are now openSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/special-reports/2044563/tourism-sector-gets-recovery-hopes-up
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03-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Deputy Health Minister has unveiled plans for Pattaya, Rayong and Chanthaburi to be sealed off, with no-one able to enter or leave without permission, called Level 2. It is waiting approvalSource: www.pattayamail.com/news/pattaya-3-east-provinces-to-be-sealed-off-for-month-under-health-ministry-proposal-339300
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03-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundBangkok has announced maximum disease control in 3 districts: Bang Phlat, Nong Khaem, Bang Khun Tien. This will allow districts to close businesses which have high-risks of transmission. It has also closed service venues, water parks, amusement parks, children’s playgrounds, internet cafes, cockfight pits, daycare centers, boxing stadiums, martial arts schools, gyms, bathhouses, massage parlors, stadia, conference halls and similar venues, pre-schools, school buildings and facilities, tutoring schools and educational institutes until 17 JanSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/bangkok-closes-higher-risk-establishments-exercises-maximum-control-level-in-3-districts-339286
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03-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThailand’s second phase of the co-pay scheme opened for use on 1 JanSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-kicks-off-2nd-phase-of-co-pay-scheme-spending-subsidy-339292
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03-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThailand’s national parks will still be open for tourists, but visitors should register in advanceSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-national-parks-still-open-for-tourists-amidst-covid-19-venue-closures-339282
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03-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe majority of Thai respondents in a NIDA poll believe that the economy will get worse in 2021Source: thethaiger.com/news/national/majority-of-thais-think-economy-will-get-worse-nida-poll
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02-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Social Security Office will reduce the contribution required from employers and employees to the worker welfare fund for 3 months, from Jan-Mar 2021Source: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2044283/govt-cuts-welfare-fund-payments-due-to-covid
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02-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe local ferry operator in Koh Samui had to add more services to meet demand due to queues to enter the islandSource: thethaiger.com/hot-news/tourism/new-year-holiday-draws-homegrown-tourists-to-phuket-koh-samui
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02-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Council of Thailand has said that some hotels in Pattaya have seen less than 10% occupancy. The Thai Hotels Association eastern chapter has also called for the government to quickly contain the outbreak to create consumer confidence to travel in Feb for Chinese New YearSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2044439/operators-urge-decisive-measures
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02-Jan-2021 💉 vaccineThailand will increase the number of vaccines and speed up the timeline for inoculations. It has also acquired another 26 million doses from AstraZenecaSource: thethaiger.com/coronavirus/thailand-looking-to-speed-up-covid-19-vaccination-timeline
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02-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe government will compensate employees who lose work due to COVID-19 by paying 50% of their salary for up to 90 daysSource: thethaiger.com/coronavirus/government-confirms-social-security-net-for-workers-laid-off-due-to-virus-restrictions
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01-Jan-2021 🛬 inboundThe additional long holidays the government has announced will boost domestic tourism, the Thai Chamber of Commerce has saidSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/extra-holidays-in-2021-to-benefit-thailand-domestic-tourism-before-covid-19-vaccine-availability-339108
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31-Dec-2020 👨✈️ aviation6 airlines (Thai Smiles Airway, Nok Air, Viet Jet Air, Thai Lion Air, Bangkok Airway and Thai AirAsia) have agreed to waive destination change or date change fees for bookings made under the We Travel Together domestic tourism stimulus programSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2043615/6-airlines-waive-extra-booking-fees
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31-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA) is working to promote the Chiang Khan model for sustainable tourism development. It plans to encourage expats to visit 15 community-based tourism destinations in Loei provinceSource: www.pattayamail.com/travel/dasta-promotes-chiang-khan-as-world-class-sustainable-tourism-destination-339008
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31-Dec-2020 💉 vaccineThailand has secured 2 million more doses of the vaccine, which could be delivered between Feb-Apr, but the manufacturer was not namedSource: www.theedgemarkets.com/article/thailand-secures-additional-two-million-doses-covid19-vaccine
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30-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThailand has banned large gathering and events across the countrySource: www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/thailand-covid-19-new-year-gatherings-banned-control-outbreak-13866734
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30-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundPattaya and Banglamung district ordered all non-essential shops to close on 30 Dec, and restaurants only to serve takeaway food. Schools are closed, after a cluster was discovered linked to an illegal gambling denSource: abcnews.go.com/Health/wireStory/thai-tourist-city-pattaya-covid-19-lockdown-74969854
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30-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe TAT have said that they see opening up the country to international tourists taking place in Q3/Q4Source: www.bangkokpost.com/life/social-and-lifestyle/2043303/re-telling-2020-with-forecasts-for-thailands-future
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30-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thai Hotels Association (THA) will ask the Thai government for more support, including suspending their outstanding debt, soft loans and 50% wage subsidiesSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2020/12/30/thai-hotels-want-soft-loans-salary-co-payment-after-new-outbreak-hurts-tourism
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30-Dec-2020 👨✈️ aviationFrom 31 Dec, all domestic flights will not be permitted to serve food and drinks, and newspapers, magazine and brochures are prohibited. Face masks must be worn at all times on boardSource: www.tatnews.org/2020/12/caat-announces-food-and-drinks-ban-on-domestic-flights/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=caat-announces-food-and-drinks-ban-on-domestic-flights
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30-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundForeigners who have been vaccinated will still need to undergo the 14-day quarantineSource: newsinfo.inquirer.net/1377703/foreigners-who-have-been-vaccinated-still-need-to-quarantine-upon-arrival-in-thailand
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30-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundUndocumented workers from Myanmar, Laos and Cambodia have been instructed to record their details at the Foreign Workers Employment Agency (FWEA), and make their registration possible without fear of prosecution or deportationSource: www.pattayamail.com/news/thailands-land-borders-rather-than-airports-are-boosting-new-covid-19-outbreak-338871
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30-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe We Travel Together scheme has now been amended so that tourists who make hotel bookings can cancel or postponeSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2043127/changes-to-we-travel-together
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30-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundKoh Chang has seen hotel bookings drop by 15% since the new outbreak in DecSource: www.pattayamail.com/pattayamail/koh-chang-sees-15-cancellation-for-new-years-hotels-338803
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30-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundPattaya has seen its hotel room bookings drop by 30% since the cancellation of the Pattaya Countdown, whereas before they had been almost fully booked. The Chamber of Commerce of Lower Central Region 1 estimate that the cancellation of holiday events will cost the region 1 billion THBSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/coronavirus-2nd-wave-costing-thailand-domestic-tourism-billions-338810
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30-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Minister has said “domestic tourism has frozen completely”Source: www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-12-30/thailand-to-extend-travel-subsidies-as-outbreak-halts-bookings
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29-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundDomestic tourism from Jan-Nov generated 78.3 million trips, a 49.2% decrease YoY, contributing 428 billion THB, a drop of 56.3% YoY. Its Nov international arrivals totalled 3,065 touristsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2042683/200-000-rooms-booked-with-subsidy-expansion
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29-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundChiang Mai will require travellers to register the details of their accommodation and where they plan to visit in the CM Chana app – visitors from high-risk areas in Samut Sakhon and Rayong must undertake RT-PCR tests and a 14-day quarantineSource: www.thaipbsworld.com/bangkok-closes-entertainment-venues-chiang-mai-imposes-travel-restrictions/
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29-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe hotel subsidy scheme for We Travel Together has resumed, with more than 200,000 bookings in the first 12 hours. The TAT believe these bookings are from demand as the booking period has been extended until AprSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2042683/200-000-rooms-booked-with-subsidy-expansion
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29-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThailand have added 4 new public holidays in 2021, creating extra long weekends, with a public holiday for Chinese New Year and an additional one for Songkran, creating a 6-day weekendSource: coconuts.co/bangkok/news/4-new-holidays-were-just-added-to-2021-in-thailand/
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29-Dec-2020 👨✈️ aviationSemi-commercial flights from Bangkok to HCMC are scheduled to launch on 8 Jan by Thai Vietjet once per weekSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/thai-vietjet-to-launch-semicommercial-flights-from-hcm-city-to-bangkok-starting-january-2021/193978.vnp
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29-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe PM has said that there will not be any travel restrictions imposed over the New Year holidays, but that he would prefer it if people only travelled if necessarySource: www.thaipbsworld.com/no-travel-restrictions-over-new-year-break-but-pm-wants-thais-to-stay-home-with-families/
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29-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundKrabi has closed spas, pubs and bars until 30 Dec, whilst local schools are closed until 3 JanSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailands-krabi-paradise-on-covid-19-alert-shuts-entertainment-and-leisure-spots-338783
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28-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe Bank of Thailand has relaxed its rules for the 500 billion THB of soft loans, to allow smaller companies to benefitSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2042471/bank-of-thailand-eases-rules-on-b500bn-soft-loans
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28-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe government has warned that new cases could rise to thousands by mid-Jan, if nothing is doneSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2042459/daily-covid-cases-could-pass-5-digits-govt-warns
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28-Dec-2020 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways will ask for an extension to its deadline to submit its business rehabilitation plan, to 2 FebSource: www.thestar.com.my/business/business-news/2020/12/28/thai-airways-to-request-more-time-for-revamp
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28-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe TAT have announced that as of 26 Dec, total tourism revenue was 830 billion THB in 2020, with 330 billion from foreigners, 500 billion from domestic touristsSource: www.pattayamail.com/travel/thailand-tourism-ends-2020-down-74-no-revival-seen-until-2022-338692
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28-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundMore than 20% of hotel bookings in Chiang Mai’s Mon Jam area have been cancelled, accounting for around 1 million THB in lost revenueSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30400346
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28-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundJan-Nov tourism arrivals dropped to 6.7 million in 2020, down 81% YoY – 6.69 million of those arrived in Q1Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2042439/3-065-foreigners-allowed-in-during-november
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27-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundChiang Mai tourism groups will work together to develop tourism in Mae RimSource: www.pattayamail.com/chiangmaimail/chiang-mai-business-groups-partner-to-boost-mae-rim-tourism-338610
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27-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundArrivals to Chiang Mai from Samut Sakhon now have to report to public health officers, undertake a 14-day quarantine and an RT-PCR testSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2041787/arrivals-to-chiang-mai-face-checks
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26-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundElectric ferries have been launched on Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River. In phase 1, services will be free until 14 FebSource: www.pattayamail.com/travel/bangkok-launches-new-environment-friendly-electric-ferries-on-chao-phraya-river-338460
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26-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundA new directive from the government to limit COVID-19 spread has banned gatherings and limited the movement of migrant workers until 15 JanSource: www.tatnews.org/2020/12/tat-update-regarding-latest-emergency-decree-directives-on-covid-19-control-measures/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=tat-update-regarding-latest-emergency-decree-directives-on-covid-19-control-measures
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26-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundA new online booking platform for ASQ/ ALQ hotels has been launched, in a joint initiative with the Digital Council of Thailand, Ascend Travel and Horganice. It has more than 100 hotels listedSource: www.tatnews.org/2020/12/tat-supports-launch-of-new-asq-alq-booking-platform/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=tat-supports-launch-of-new-asq-alq-booking-platform
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26-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe PM has warned that if prevention guidelines are not followed then there will be a national lockdown by MarSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2041455/fresh-lockdown-warning
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26-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundSpending during the New Year holiday is estimated to stay below 100 billion THB for the first time in 10 years, at 91.5 billion THBSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2041463/new-year-spending-to-stay-below-b100bn-due-to-fear
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26-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundNo refunds will be available for those who have booked New Year vacations under the “We travel together” program, but they are able to postpone it for up to 12 months. The government is still looking at ways to launch the 2nd phase of the scheme, which was put on hold after detecting fraudSource: www.khaosodenglish.com/news/crimecourtscalamity/2020/12/26/no-refunds-for-year-end-trips-under-travel-subsidy-program/
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26-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe government is looking at allocating long holidays every month in 2021 to stimulate domestic tourism. They are set to proposed a 5 billion THB campaign for senior travellers on 29 Dec, and if there is any budget left after the stimulus programs expire, the Tourism Ministry will work with the private sectorSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2041459/long-holidays-to-stimulate-travel
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26-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Ministry has urged tourism operators to work on plans to attract foreign tourists in 2021, and has said that the summer time could be a good time to open travel bubbles. They will also propose an “area quarantine” after the New YearSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2041459/long-holidays-to-stimulate-travel
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25-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundBangkok and many provinces have cancelled their New Year celebrations, as it is in an orange zone. Orange zone restrictions include banning public activitiesSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2040775/ban-on-mass-gatherings
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25-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThailand’s new cases appear to have eased off, with the majority of cases migrant workersSource: coconuts.co/bangkok/news/cautious-optimism-as-thailands-covid-19-outbreak-appears-to-level-off/
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25-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundChonburi’s governor has invited tourists to visit, despite cancelling the New Year and Children’s Day eventsSource: www.pattayamail.com/news/after-canceling-big-events-chonburi-governor-invites-tourists-to-visit-338339
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25-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundWhilst a physical New Year’s Eve countdown has been cancelled in Bangkok, organisers are still proceeding with the fireworks display, which will be live-streamed and televisedSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/pr/2041315/amazing-thailand-countdown-2021-concert-cancelled-replaced-with-spectacular-fireworks-display-for-nationwide-virtual-celebration
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25-Dec-2020 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways estimates that its turnaround plan will receive court approval by mid-2021Source: asia.nikkei.com/Business/Transportation/Thai-Airways-targets-mid-2021-for-approval-of-turnaround-plan
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25-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe TAT is estimating that only 2.75 million domestic trips will take place over the New Year holiday from 31 Dec to 3 Jan. Thai Lion Air have seen demand slow down significantly due to the new outbreak, with load factors around 70%, down from its forecast 80-85%. Average hotel occupancy is forecast to be at 37%Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2040879/fewer-trips-seen-as-infections-rise
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25-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundASQ bookings have slowed down, but the situation is “not serious”, according to the ASQ-ALQ Club ThailandSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2040863/new-surge-in-covid-19-cases-slow-hotel-bookings-for-asq
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24-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThailand will not be placed under a national lockdown, but 4 zones will be imposed, depending on the severity: red (maximum control), orange (more than 10 cases), yellow (no more than 10 cases and control still possible), green (no cases). Just Samut Sakhon is under a red zone, with at-risk premises closed, operating hours limited, transport restricted and work from home maximised. Schools are closed, crowds are banned and maximum prevention measures are in force in workplaces and factories. Bangkok, Samut Songkhram, Ratchaburi and Nakhon Pathom are in orange zonesSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2040639/no-lockdown-but-covid-control-zoning-of-provinces
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24-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundA pilot program for an “exclusive travel area” for quarantine in Chonburi would include health tourism aspects, including massage and food with anti-viral propertiesSource: www.pattayamail.com/news/chonburi-pattaya-rayong-plan-exclusive-travel-area-to-make-quarantine-more-338344
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24-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe TAT has launched a new smart map app called the “Thailand Smart Tourism Platform” which will allow tourists to access information about new normal travel. It is currently only in Thai, and it has plans to launch it in English and ChineseSource: www.pattayamail.com/pattayamail/thailand-launches-smart-map-platform-for-safe-travel-in-the-new-normal-338307
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24-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe Bank of Thailand has cut the 2021 GDP forecast to 3.2% from 3.6%, as the new outbreak if likely to delay tourism’s recoverySource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2040335/bot-decreases-growth-outlook-to-3-2-in-2021
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24-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundPrivate hospitals will provide free COVID-19 tests for at-risk groupsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2040247/free-covid-19-tests-for-at-risk-groups
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24-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Minister has said that there is not much hope of attracting international visitors in Q1 2021, and that Thailand should expect a long “drought” without international touristsSource: www.chiangraitimes.com/tourism/tourism-minister-gives-bleak-outlook-for-thailands-tourism-industry/
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24-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundChiang Mai will stage its New Year celebrationSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2040315/chiang-mai-green-lights-ny-countdown
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23-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundLockdown measures have now been put in place in Samut Songkram until 4 Jan, with the closure of public venues and events, Samut Prakan until 4 Jan and 3 sub-districts of Chiang Mai, Tha Ton, Malika and Mae AiSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30400078
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23-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe senior citizen travel subsidy scheme would include 5,000 THB for 1 million senior tourists, and the TAT forecast that this could generate 18.8 billion THB in revenues, employing 50,000-100,000 tour guidesSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2039843/iron-out-senior-travellers-package-urges-tourism-minister
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23-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe Association of Domestic Travel (ADT) has urged the government to implement strict measures on those bringing in illegal migrants. The Thai Hotels Association western chapter has seen Hua Hin occupancy levels drop to 30% from the expected 50-60%Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2039747/tour-operators-on-edge
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23-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundSeminars with limited attendees will be permitted in Phuket, but Phuket Walking Street will be closed for 2 weeksSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2040135/phuket-meeting-decides-what-activities-can-go-ahead
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23-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundAll municipal schools and nurseries operated by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration will close for 11 daysSource: www.thaipbsworld.com/bma-closes-all-municipal-schools-and-nurseries-for-11-days-officials-to-work-from-home/
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23-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe Foreign Ministry has said that from 9 Jul – 13 Dec, only 50,625 Certificates of Entry had been granted, with just 7,000 to genuine tourists. The rest were business travellers, students, returning expats or medical patientsSource: www.pattayamail.com/news/thailand-draws-0-33-of-2019-tourists-from-july-dec-338169
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22-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe TAT forecast that domestic trips will reach just 95 million in 2020, losing 5 million due to the latest outbreak, and generating around 500 billion THBSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2039111/tat-new-infections-weigh-on-trips
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22-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe tourism industry is set to lose 17 billion THB in lost revenues due to cancellations or postponements of trips over the New YearSource: www.khaosodenglish.com/news/crimecourtscalamity/2020/12/22/its-over-outbreak-dashes-last-hopes-for-year-end-tourism-festivities/
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22-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundPattaya’s New Year Countdown Music Festival has been cancelledSource: www.pattayamail.com/news/pattaya-new-year-countdown-music-festival-canceled-338111
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22-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe Phuket Hotels Association has called another potential lockdown disastrous, and we will see “hotel, restaurant and boat owners mothball their businesses”Source: thethaiger.com/coronavirus/lockdown-could-be-final-straw-for-tourism-in-thailand
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21-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe lockdown in Samut Sakhon will cost the economy 1 billion THB per daySource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2038523/samut-sakhon-to-suffer-huge-financial-losses
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21-Dec-2020 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways have cancelled their New Year’s Day 3-hour, non-landing flight due to concerns over the spike in casesSource: www.khaosodenglish.com/life/2020/12/21/thai-airways-cancels-new-year-magical-heart-shaped-flight/
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21-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe TAT are offering a “Happy DIY Set” to foreign visitors staying in ASQ accommodation. The set showcases Thai handicrafts and teaches visitors how to recreate themSource: www.tatnews.org/2020/12/tat-offers-happy-diy-set-to-quarantined-tourists/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=tat-offers-happy-diy-set-to-quarantined-tourists
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20-Dec-2020 🛬 inbound10,300 people will be tested by Wednesday in Samut SakhonSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2038403/10-000-to-be-tested-after-samut-sakhon-outbreak-spreads-to-bangkok
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20-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundKhon Kaen requires all travellers returning to the province from Samut Sakhon to report to local authorities and undergo screeningSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2038411/khon-kaen-joins-korat-testing-travellers-from-samut-sakhon
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20-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe number of local infections has grown to 576, with 19 locally transmitted in Bangkok, all linked to a shrimp market in Samut SakhonSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2038403/thailand-confirms-576-new-coronavirus-infections
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20-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundWorkers in Bangkok are being encouraged to work from home for the next 14 daysSource: thethaiger.com/coronavirus/bangkok-metropolitan-administration-cancels-ny-countdown-events-asks-workers-to-work-from-home
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19-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundSamut Sakhon province has been put under a lockdown until 3 Jan, with movements in and out of the province banned and a curfew in place from 10pm – 5am, after 12 local infections grew to 548 following the testing of 1,192 people in the province. The majority are workers from Myanmar. All entertainment, schools, shopping malls, cinemas and spas will be closed, and restaurants can sell takeaway onlySource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2038103/samut-sakhon-locked-down-as-new-cases-top-500
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19-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe We Travel Together subsidy for domestic tourism is expected to continue before the year end, with an extension set to be announced next week for 40% subsidy on 1 million room nights. The delay is faster than expected, due to the massive decline in bookings over the year-end holidays. The Thai Hotels' Association hopes that the rule allowing guests to stay in areas where they live is not revoked, as they had started to see a return of staycation packages. Hotel occupancy in Nov grew to 40% from 30% in Oct, and was set to hit 50% in DecSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2037911/travel-subsidy-continuing
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19-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe list of golf resorts for alternative state quarantine facilities will be announced next week. Golf quarantine would be limited to those travellers from low-risk countries, and must take 3 COVID-19 tests during quarantine to allow them to play golf and undertake fitness activities. 6 golf courses have appliedSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2037767/quarantine-golf-courses-to-be-named
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19-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe United Nations High Commission for Human Rights has condemned Thailand’s use of the lèse majesté laws to charge 35 protestors, including one minorSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30399832
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19-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe Golf Course Association of Thailand said that once their members found out the details of the golf quarantine, including additional costs and the safety protocols, many members lost interest. Any course which is open to quarantined tourists would need to be closed to the general publicSource: www.pattayamail.com/news/thai-government-bogeys-golf-quarantine-proposal-337837
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19-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundNo Pattaya hotels are suspected of fraud in the We Travel Together schemeSource: www.pattayamail.com/news/no-pattaya-hotels-suspected-of-we-travel-together-fraud-tat-337854
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19-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe Airports of Thailand predict that international air travel will come back strong in Q4 2021, and are currently drawing up 2021-2022 plansSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2037787/aot-plans-for-air-travel-revival-next-year
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18-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) is asking for a central fund to subsidise tourism businesses, offer low-interest loans, extend loan repayment and pay half of tourism workers’ salariesSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/visa-exemption-stamps-not-enough-to-revive-tourism-atta-337640
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18-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundTourists from 56 countries will now be allowed to enter Thailand visa free, but will still need to obtain a certificate of entry from their local embassy and a booking at a quarantine hotel. They would be subjected to a 2-week quarantine period, and the usual 30 day tourist visa would be extended to 45 daysSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2037135/thailand-eases-curbs-on-travel
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18-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) organised an Amazing Thailand Health and Wellness Virtual Trade Meet, with 51 Thai suppliers and 86 buyers from 27 countriesSource: www.tatnews.org/2020/12/tat-successfully-organises-amazing-thailand-health-and-wellness-2020/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=tat-successfully-organises-amazing-thailand-health-and-wellness-2020
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18-Dec-2020 🛬 inbound515 hotels and restaurants are being investigated for fraudulent claims from the government’s We Travel Together domestic tourism stimulus scheme. Frauds include fake check-ins, or setting room rates at a higher price than usualSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2037207/515-hotels-stores-in-fraud-net
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18-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) has said that foreign visitors will still not return to Thailand, even if it is visa-free, util the quarantine period is unlocked. The only ones who are likely to return are long-stay and retired travellers who will spend 3-6 months in Thailand. The number of arrivals may increase to ten of thousands, but not 3 million per month as in 2019. They predict that it will take 3 years to return to the same levelsSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/visa-exemption-stamps-not-enough-to-revive-tourism-atta-337640
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18-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe Finance Ministry is considering giving residency visas to foreigners who invest 3 million THB in propertySource: www.nationthailand.com/property/30399773
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17-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe 2nd phase of Thailand’s co-payment scheme was fully booked by 5 million people within 2 hoursSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-second-phase-co-payment-scheme-fully-booked-in-2-hours-337588
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17-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe government is studying whether a 10-day quarantine process is feasible, changing COVID-19 testing for arrivals from 2 days to 3 days until 15 Jan, to be able to study the results and come to a decisionSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2036983/more-frequent-covid-19-testing-in-preparation-for-shorter-quarantine
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17-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundPandaw Cruises will restart river cruises and Halong Bay cruises by Jul 2021Source: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2020/12/pandaw-sets-2021-sailing-dates/
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17-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe TAT has said that the delay in the 1 million room nights through the We Travel Together scheme has slowed tourism sentiment, with tourists who planned to use the scheme for travel over the year-end unable to. TAT are unsure of the outlook for the holidays, as sentiment has also been impacted by the new cases in the north of Thailand. However, 3 million room nights have still been booked, and they are confident that 15 million trips will be reached in Nov and Dec, resulting in 100 million trips in 2020Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2036695/sentiment-wanes-on-subsidy-freeze
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17-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe Public Health Ministry is looking at ways to cut the fees for COVID-19 tests at private hospitals. Mandarin will also be added as a language to the Thailand Plus application from Jan onwardsSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30399759
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17-Dec-2020 👨✈️ aviationBritish Airways is pausing its flights to Bangkok until at least Nov 2021Source: mainlymiles.com/2020/12/17/british-airways-axes-kuala-lumpur-suspends-sydney-and-bangkok-till-november/
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17-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe TAT is organising a Living Art Festival from 17-19 Dec in PhuketSource: www.pattayamail.com/travel/thai-fun-for-all-style-tourism-the-living-art-festival-2020-dec-17-19-in-phuket-337576
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16-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundTAT, Thai Smile, Drive Digital and Tinder have launched ‘Single Journey’ tours for single travellers around Thailand. They are preparing 9 routes, and will organise 3 pilot tours. The first is on 20 Dec and is free for up to 100 Thai travellers with a cruise along the Chao Phraya River. The 2nd is on 9 Jan, with 50 seats and a beachside party in Phuket, whilst the 3rd is on 23 Jan, with a train tour to Lop BuriSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thai-smile-airways-and-tinder-jointly-promote-domestic-routes-for-single-thais-337545
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16-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThailand is designing a new smart visa for digital freelancers – applicants must have an employment contract with a foreign firm for at least 6 months, as well as qualifications and professional experience. They would be permitted to stay in Thailand for up to 4 years without a work permitSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2020/12/16/thailand-to-offer-smart-visas-to-foreign-digital-freelancers
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16-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThai Smile is increasing the number of flights to Phuket in 2021. The Phuket Tourist Association (PTA) have also called for international flights to be reinstated to the island to serve increased demand. They have seen just 20 rooms being used for the Alternative State Quarantine (ASQ) scheme, but have 2,554 available. An estimated 200,000 Thai tourists arrived into Phuket in Nov, keeping the local industry afloat, but more could come if airfares were cheaperSource: www.thephuketnews.com/thai-smile-flights-hoped-to-spark-tourism-boost-for-phuket-78345.php
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16-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundA Phuket restaurant, Pru, has been given Thailand’s first “Green Star” by Michelin for its eco-friendlinessSource: www.khaosodenglish.com/life/food/2020/12/16/phuket-luxury-restaurant-1st-to-win-green-michelin-star/
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15-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe government has announced that all provinces are safe for tourists, and celebrations can go aheadSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2035727/new-year-celebrations-allowed-all-provinces-covid-safe
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15-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundAfter unusual redemptions, the We Travel Together domestic tourism stimulus scheme has been halted. On 9 Dec, there were 225,922 room nights still left, whilst on 11 Dec, this had changed to zeroSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2035351/fraud-charges-taint-travel-scheme
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15-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundChiang Rai officials assured Thais that the situation in the province was under control, and has seen no local infections since early DecSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2035275/chiang-rai-assures-it-is-safe-to-visit
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14-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundBangkok has reported PM2.5 levels above the safe levels in all but one district of the capital, with haze covering the city for most of the weekendSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2035067/dust-haze-covers-bangkok
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14-Dec-2020 💉 vaccineThai Baiya Phytopharm is now making good progress towards producing vaccines and start human testing from Apr-JunSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30399580
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14-Dec-2020 👨✈️ aviationThe proposed transfer of 4 airports from the Department of Airports to the Airports of Thailand has run into difficulties with the legal regulationsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2034667/airport-transfers-hit-turbulence
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14-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThai protesters are taking a break after months of protests, and will return next year “with more intensity and bigger turnout”Source: www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/thailand-protests-pause-return-next-year-arnon-nampa-13770240?cid=cna_flip_070214
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14-Dec-2020 👨✈️ aviationTrang Airport’s runway is being extended, whilst Surat Thani is having its runway reinforced and an apron expanded. Betong Airport will also open in the next few monthsSource: www.tatnews.org/2020/12/thailands-airports-get-upgrades-for-2021-return-of-foreign-visitors/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=thailands-airports-get-upgrades-for-2021-return-of-foreign-visitors
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14-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThonburi Healthcare Group are looking to partner with hotels to offer healthcare and wellness packages. The TAT is also planning to promote health and wellness tourism with 5 campaigns, including telemedicine services for overseas Thai and working with health insurance companies to include Thailand as a destination in their insurance packagesSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2034871/hospitals-and-hotels-grab-onto-panacea
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14-Dec-2020 👨✈️ aviationThai Smile launched its inaugural flight between Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport and LoeiSource: www.tatnews.org/2020/12/thai-smile-airways-launches-inaugural-suvarnabhumi-loei-flights/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=thai-smile-airways-launches-inaugural-suvarnabhumi-loei-flights
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14-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) have launched specialised training for DMCs to design health-compliant itineraries for the entry of quarantine-free overseas investors. MICE workers can be specially appointed as International Visitor Assistants (IVAs), who will accompany investors throughout the tripsSource: www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/tceb-leveraging-mice-personnel-to-support-governments-special-arrangement-for-the-entry-of-overseas-investors-301191801.html
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14-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundConcerts and festivals for the New Year will be permitted, but organisers must strictly follow rules to stop the spread of COVID-19Source: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2035139/end-of-year-festivities-allowed-if-coronavirus-rules-enforced
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13-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundBus passengers from Bangkok are being reminded to check in using the Thai Chana app for contact tracing purposes over the 4-day long weekend. The Transport Company is expecting to serve 100,000 daily pax from Bangok’s 3 bus stationsSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/bangkok-residents-traveling-upcountry-on-buses-must-check-in-on-thai-chana-covid-19-app-337271
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13-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundAccording to a new public opinion survey, 68.9% of Thais want to be vaccinatedSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2034319/thais-want-vaccination-when-ready
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13-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundAn economist has estimated that the second wave of COVID-19 will cost the tourism industry 14.1 to 16.9 billion THB over the New Year, as people are discouraged from travellingSource: www.nationthailand.com/business/30399541
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12-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe Pattaya authorities and the TAT have affirmed their commitment to promote tourism, as well as the ‘Neo Pattaya’ concept, which will see the city’s tourism infrastructure receiving an upgradeSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/pattaya-tat-reaffirm-commitment-to-tourism-promotion-337160
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12-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe governor of Phuket has encouraged domestic airlines to increase their flights to the island, as there are only 60-70 dailySource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2033999/phuket-tackles-overpriced-taxi-fares-for-tourists
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12-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThailand’s event marketing is expected to lose 5.6 billion THB in revenue in 2020Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2034163/pandemic-hits-event-marketing-revenue
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12-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundHotels and resorts in Sangkhla Buri district were fully booked until the New Year, with 3,000 visitors entering the district daily over the 4-day long weekend, generating 10 million THB in businessSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2034279/sangkhla-buri-hails-tourist-crowds
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12-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe BMA Gold Line, a driverless mass transit line in Bangkok, will start operations on 15 Dec. The last section of the Green line will also be operationalSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2034267/gold-line-to-open-wednesday
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12-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe government has clarified that tourists will not have to undergo a 14-day quarantine upon returning from Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai, after companies stated that tourists would have to do soSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30399501
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11-Dec-2020 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways will delay the resumption of domestic flights between Chiang Mai and Phuket from 25 Dec to 1 Jan, due to the cases detected in Chiang MaiSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2033479/bug-spread-delays-thai-airways-flight-reboot-plan
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11-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe Interior Ministry wants to extend visa exemption for foreign tourists from 56 countries from 30 to 45 days, with the extension running until 30 Sep 2021. The Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration's (CCSA) have agreed that vias exemptions will be granted to 3 groups of countries: those 56 countries, an additional 6 countries which have bilateral agreements for stays of 30 days in Thailand (Hong Kong, Laos, Macau, Mongolia, Russia and Vietnam) and 4 countries which have bilateral agreements for 90-day stays. However, visa exemptions will not be granted to Myanmar and Cambodia. Visa on arrival will remain until 30 DecSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2033363/freer-visa-rules-to-cabinet
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11-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundA poll by Bangkok University has shown that 54% of respondents have no plans to travel during the long weekends of Dec. For those who are, Chiang Mai is a popular destination (25%), followed by Chiang Rai (9%), Nan (6.6%), Phetchabun (6.4%) and Loei (5.1%). 61.4% of respondents had chosen not to register under the We Travel Together campaignSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30399432
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11-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe government has said that there are no unaccounted COVID-19 cases in the 7 provinces where infected persons have travelled, with more than 6,000 people traced and testedSource: thethaiger.com/coronavirus/health-officials-say-all-covid-patients-in-thailand-have-been-accounted-for
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11-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thai Hotels Association’s Upper Northern Chapter have called on the TAT to boost domestic tourism and reassure Thai travellers that there were no lockdown measures imposed on the provinces. Hotels have seen their occupancy rates drop to 50% already, from the 70-80% anticipateSource: www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-12/11/c_139582397.htm
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10-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe governor of Chiang Rai has led a clean up operation to disinfect tourist attractions and crowded areas such as shopping malls and the airport, to reassure travellers of the province’s safetySource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30399409
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10-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThailand will help Mekong countries to obtain the vaccine once it receives a licence to manufacture it by mid-2021Source: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2032763/pm-gives-virus-vaccine-pledge
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10-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundPhuket officials have organised several events to attract tourists over the long weekend, as well as more sports events in 2021Source: www.thephuketnews.com/phuket-officials-push-events-to-support-tourism-78277.php
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10-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe Pavilions Hotels & Resorts have signed a new resort in Krabi, the Pavilions Anana Krabi to join in Feb 2021Source: www.asiatraveltips.com/news20/1012-KrabiResort.shtml
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09-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe TAT and the National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT) have signed an MoU to create star gazing domestic tourism packages for 7 routes: Chiang Mai, Chaiyaphum, Nakhon Ratchasima, Songkhla (Hat Yai), Phatthalung, Sa Kaeo, Kanchanaburi, and SukhothaiSource: www.tatnews.org/2020/12/tat-invites-domestic-tourists-on-amazing-astronomy-tours-from-now-until-march-2021/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=tat-invites-domestic-tourists-on-amazing-astronomy-tours-from-now-until-march-2021
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09-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundGolf quarantines will now be permitted as an alternative to local state quarantine options, with golfers permitted to enjoy golfing during the period. They can apply for either a Single-Entry Tourist Visa (TR) or a Special Tourist Visa (STV)Source: www.tatnews.org/2020/12/thailand-approves-golf-quarantine-for-foreign-golfers/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=thailand-approves-golf-quarantine-for-foreign-golfers
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09-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundA YouGov survey has shown that 8/10 Thais are in debt, with 2/5 saying they have more debt now than pre-pandemicSource: www.khaosodenglish.com/news/business/2020/12/09/2-in-5-thais-went-in-debt-since-virus-struck-report-says/
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09-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundPattaya will spend 775 million THB in 2 development projects to boost tourism: Neo Koh Lan and Old Town Na Klua over the next 3 yearsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2032115/pattaya-to-splash-out-b775m-to-help-revive-tourism-industry
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09-Dec-2020 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways has withdrawn its flights to Brisbane and Perth until 27 Mar 2021, and will close its Brisbane office from 18 DecSource: www.executivetraveller.com/news/thai-airways-brisbane-perth-melbourne-flights
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09-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe TAT expects 3.11 million Thais to travel over the 4-day long weekend, spending more than 12.6 billion THB, with a boost to hotel occupancy of up to 40%Source: www.nationthailand.com/news/30399348?utm_source=category&utm_medium=internal_referral
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09-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe Special Tourist Visa (STV) can now be applied from all countries, not just those at low-risk. Travellers must still undergo a 14-day quarantineSource: www.pattayamail.com/featured/yet-another-visa-amendment-thailands-special-tourist-visa-336859
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09-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thai tourism stimulus packages led to an increase of air traffic of 56% between June and July 2020, in a case study presented at an IATA press conferenceSource: simpleflying.com/thailand-air-passenger-boost/
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09-Dec-2020 👨✈️ aviationThai AirAsia have said that they are approaching pre-COVID-19 capacity levels, and are confident of “exceeding 85% load factors for December”Source: www.asiatraveltips.com/news20/912-ThaiAirAsia.shtml
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09-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thai Federation Northern region wants to take legal action against the illegal returnees who spread COVID-19 in the country, for damaging tourismSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thai-tourism-group-threatens-to-sue-people-who-brought-covid-19-into-the-country-336833
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09-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe TAT Intelligence Centre’s most recent survey has shown that domestic tourist confidence is climbing, with confidence up to 89% from Sep’s 85.5%. Top destinations for Dec include Chiang Mai, Chonburi, Bangkok, Phetchabun and Krabi, whilst travel by private vehicle was preferred (56%). The top reason for travel was relaxation (72.5%)Source: www.pattayamail.com/chiangmaimail/chiang-mai-and-chonburi-top-choices-for-domestic-tourism-336844
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09-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundRevenues in Phuket from tourism are likely to fall by 200 billion to 320 billion THB in 2020, the Phuket Tourism Association has saidSource: asia.nikkei.com/Life-Arts/Life/Phuket-goes-local-amid-COVID-19-tourism-slump
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08-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundAirbnb has launched a new domestic Thailand campaign, “Stay Thai, Your Style”, highlighting the diversity of Thailand and encouraging residents to explore. They are also promoting Airbnb ExperiencesSource: www.traveldailymedia.com/stay-thai-your-style-airbnb-unveils-domestic-travel-campaign-for-thailand/
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08-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe Department of Airports has been ordered to accelerate its investments, in particular to increase runway lengths at Trang, Buriram and Khon KhaenSource: www.nationthailand.com/business/30399225
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08-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundOnly 825 tourists from 29 countries have entered Thailand on the Special Tourist Visa, and just 6 yachts, since it openedSource: www.theedgemarkets.com/article/thailand-open-its-doors-more-tourists-boost-industry
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08-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism and Sports Ministry in partnership with the Public Health Ministry are preparing to launch a medical marijuana tour in SE Asia for 2021, and are identifying plantations which could be part of the tour. They aim to showcase all processes, including growing, regulations and how to earn from farmingSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2031735/ministries-prepare-marijuana-tour
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07-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundUdon Thani TAT office is planning to promote tourism in the 3 Northeastern provinces during the cold season, called “More Cool Isaan”. They will also promote weekday trips by offering special packages and complementary meals to avoid overcrowding of tourist sitesSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30399211
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07-Dec-2020 👨✈️ aviationA committee will be set up to decide the fate of Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport’s North Expansion, and if it requires a new passenger terminalSource: www.thaipbsworld.com/transport-ministry-proposes-a-committee-to-decide-on-suvarnabhumi-2nd-terminal/
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06-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundState land in Phuket has now been allocated to the Ministry of Public Health to develop it into a health tourism centreSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/phuket-designated-as-international-medical-center-for-foreign-groups-336574
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06-Dec-2020 👨✈️ aviationMore information about Thai Airways’ alleged corruption will be given on 14 Dec to the National Anti-Corruption CommissionSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2030647/thai-airways-inquiry-to-get-major-new-evidence
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06-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundChiang Rai will not cancel tourism-related events, despite an outbreak of casesSource: www.thaipbsworld.com/chiang-rai-council-of-industries-will-not-cancel-festive-events-despite-covid-19-outbreak/
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06-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Authority of Thailand's Chiang Mai Office estimate that the number of cancellations to the province are less than 10%. The Northern Thai Hotels Association have also said that hotel reservations are higher than 80%Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2030635/govt-allays-lockdown-fears-despite-new-infections-in-northern-provinces
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05-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has warned hotel operators not to raise rates to take advantage of the government’s domestic subsidy, and if they are found to be doing so, they will be banned from future schemesSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/hotels-continue-to-defraud-thai-government-gouge-tourists-by-raising-rates-to-collect-more-subsidies-336554
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05-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundChiang Mai’s hotel occupancy has dropped due to worry over the safety of the northern region. The Thai Hotels Association of Northern Upper region has recorded 1,700 hotel room nights cancelled, with groups such as local administrative organisations, cancelling more reservations. They had expected the hotel occupancy rate to increase, as in Nov it was 60-70%Source: www.nationthailand.com/news/30399151
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05-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundAll provinces must open emergency health centres as a precautionary measure in case of COVID-19 spreading following an outbreak in Chiang RaiSource: www.thaipbsworld.com/emergency-health-centres-to-open-nationwide-ahead-of-possible-covid-19-spread/
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05-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThailand’s Health Ministry has reassured the public that the northern region of the country is still safe and under control. Chiang Rai is still open to tourists, but the numbers have been subduedSource: www.thaipbsworld.com/minister-anutin-assures-northern-provinces-are-safe-for-travel-during-the-festive-season/
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05-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe President of Skål International Bangkok has said that the damage to Thailand’s tourism industry will cause “deep long lasting structural economic damage that is set to worsen rather than improve” and that the industry is being “left to fend for itself and potentially fail”Source: thethaiger.com/hot-news/tourism/thailand-will-remain-closed-to-general-tourism-until-at-least-the-2nd-quarter-of-2021-minister-2
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05-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Ministry has said that the government is looking at March/ April 2021 as the earliest start date for general tourism. However, Thailand will “continue with opening to businessmen, technical experts, high level workers and those in the medical field for now. 14 day quarantine will continue for now”. They revealed that the Chinese officials are suggesting waiting until mid-2021 to reopenSource: thethaiger.com/hot-news/tourism/thailand-will-remain-closed-to-general-tourism-until-at-least-the-2nd-quarter-of-2021-minister-2
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05-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundPhuket and Krabi are now being offered as destinations for the ‘Amazing Plus Thailand’ quarantine packages offer for international visitorsSource: www.thephuketnews.com/phuket-krabi-now-listed-on-tat-led-inbound-tourism-campaign-78216.php
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05-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundPattaya businesses want the government to organise weekly events to attract domestic tourists, as during the fireworks festival and other events, hotels were nearly booked out. However, weekday hotel occupancy remains weakSource: www.pattayamail.com/news/pattaya-businesses-want-weekly-events-to-drive-thai-tourism-336438
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05-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThailand has been voted the top destination in Asia and the 4th worldwide, according to German online travel agent TourlaneSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-tops-asian-destination-for-travelers-planning-holidays-in-2021-by-germans-tourlane-336459
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04-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe consumer confidence index rose to 52.4 in Nov, thanks to the economic stimulus measures from the government, an increase from 50.9 in Oct, and is now at the highest since MarSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/tourism-and-economic-incentives-reboot-thai-consumers-spending-towards-years-end-336355
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04-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundA second phase of the co-payment scheme for 5 million people has been approved, giving 3,500 THB subsidies. It will run from 1 Jan-31 Mar. The 10 million people who have already registered will receive an additional 500 THBSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-popular-co-payment-scheme-extended-for-five-million-more-registrants-336368
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04-Dec-2020 💉 vaccineThe Public Health Ministry have said that 13 million Thais will be vaccinated by mid-2021, for free, although private suppliers may charge for itSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2029667/13m-thais-to-be-jabbed-by-mid-2021
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04-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundA locally transmitted case in Chiang Rai was confirmed after coming into contact with 10 Thai women who crossed the border from Myanmar into Thailand illegally, skipping screening and 14-day quarantine. 3 more locally transmitted cases have been detectedSource: thethaiger.com/coronavirus/more-local-covid-19-cases-linked-to-women-who-worked-in-myanmar-border-town
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04-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe TAT has said that the resurgence of COVID-19 is likely to hamper international travel, and a survey by their offices has shown that tourists are unlikely to take overseas trips before next summer, and even China’s rebound may be slower than expected. They want to aim for 170 million domestic trips and 1.2 trillion THB in 2022, and that mid-2021 to mid-2022 could see 8 million international visitorsSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/mass-tourism-to-thailand-might-never-return-336376
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04-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe government has approved changes to the domestic tourism stimulus, including: • Airline ticket rebates of 3,000 THB (up from 2,000 THB) for selected destinations (Phuket, Krabi, Phang Nga, Songkhla, Surat Thani, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai) • Daily vouchers of up to 900 THB (up from 600 THB) which can be used for entrance fees, F&B, massage or even car rentals • 15 nights of hotel bookings can be subsidised at a 40% rate, capped at 3,000 THB/ night • Civil servants get an additional 2 days leave if they use the campaign • Tourism packages sold via tour operators for those over 55 years old on working days to be subsidised at 5,000 THB per pax with a minimum package price of 12,500 THB • Extended until 30 AprilSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2029087/govt-extends-subsidy-and-welfare-plans
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04-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundHyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit will cooperate with 5 partners to launch the “One Million Baht Club”, a privilege package, for guests who are looking for a semi-permanent stay in BangkokSource: www.traveldailymedia.com/tourism-recovery-one-million-baht-club-privilege-plan-launched-for-first-time-in-thailand/
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04-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundTourism businesses in Chiang Rai have called on the governor to make assurances to the public that the area is safe to travel to after locally transmitted cases were detected thereSource: www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-12/04/c_139563882.htm
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03-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundMontara Hospitality Group have revealed their plans for a health and wellness residential community on Phuket, the Tri Vananda. Healthcare will include consultation, physiotherapy, cognitive health care and health diagnostics, as well as traditional medicineSource: www.ttgasia.com/2020/12/03/montara-hospitality-reveals-details-of-thai-wellness-project/
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03-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundChiang Rai’s ‘Colours of Doi Tung’ festival will take place every weekend and public holiday in Dec and JanSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/chiang-rai-colours-of-doi-tung-festival-returns-on-weekends-and-public-holidays-dec-jan-336314
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03-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe Finance Ministry estimates it will take Thailand 4 years to recover to pre-pandemic levelsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2029135/ministry-sees-four-year-test-for-tourism-sector
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03-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe TAT estimate that they need to accelerate spending per international pax of 30% to offset the only estimated 8 million tourist arrivals in 2021, saying “no mass tourism”. They also want to increase the amount of domestic spending to 5,000 THB per trip from 4,700 THB, with the hope of earning 700 billion THB in 2021. Thailand’s Jan-Oct domestic trips numbered 65 million, 15 million of which were in OctSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2029203/tat-aims-to-bump-up-average-spending-per-trip
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03-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe TAT, Thai Airways, Thai Hotels Association and Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) are partnering to launch the “Amazing Thailand Plus” offer for foreigners who want to enter Thailand. It offers 400 packages, which include special fares for flights, their Alternative State Quarantine hotels and post-quarantine tours and transfers. The offers are for booking from Dec 202 until Mar 2021Source: www.tatnews.org/2020/12/tat-partners-thai-tourism-industry-to-launch-amazing-thailand-plus-offers/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=tat-partners-thai-tourism-industry-to-launch-amazing-thailand-plus-offers
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03-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) is concerned that a second wave of cases would hamper domestic tourism recovery, and that containing any spread is a priority for the governmentSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2029147/nesdc-frets-over-second-outbreak-contingencies
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03-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundPrivate sector representatives in Chiang Mai have offered tourists to the region payouts of 100,000 THB for each COVID-19 infection and 1 million THB for each COVID-related death, to encourage confidence to travelSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/chiang-mai-governor-confirms-new-infected-case-not-affecting-tourism-in-high-season-336107
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03-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) and Thailand Incentive and Convention Association (TICA) are raising the idea of creating a multi-country alliance in the events industry, under a branding theme “Asia Convention for Asia”. They propose the other members should be China, Japan, Korea and TaiwanSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2020/12/thailand-moots-regional-alliance/
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02-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundSiteminder have said that Thailand’s recent 4-day long weekends are having a positive impact on domestic hotel bookings. Since 14 Oct, hotel reservation volumes have improved by 77%, with Phuket’s hotel booking momentum the strongest seen in 8 monthsSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2020/12/special-holidays-support-hotels/
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02-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thai PM won a legal challenge which could have seen him forced from his post after a court found him not guilty of a conflict of interest by living in an army residence after leaving the militarySource: www.malaymail.com/news/world/2020/12/02/thai-pm-wins-crucial-legal-battle-to-stay-in-office/1928174
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02-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thai Hotels Association has given the government a 9-point list of measures it wants support with, including: removing the 14-day quarantine from low-risk countries, reducing the quarantine period from 14 to 10 days, allow guests staying at ASQ hotels to roam the resorts fee instead of confining them to their rooms, increase the number of government seminars and events, extend the “We Travel Together subsidy”, offer 1,000 THB travel vouchers to expats, reduce bills for hotels, reduce construction and property tax for hotels and extend the 2% reduction in Social Security contributions for a yearSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/thai-hotels-association-submits-9-point-bailout-plan-to-government-336074
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02-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe Business Traveller has named Bangkok the top leisure city in APACSource: www.businesstraveller.com/awards/business-traveller-asia-pacific-awards-2020-results/
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02-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and Locanation have launched a new website, ‘ASQ Paradise’, which will provide international visitors with information about standards for quarantine and reservations for the ASQ hotelsSource: www.thailand-business-news.com/tourism/81885-tat-locanation-launch-new-hotel-bookings-platform-touting-quarantine-paradise.html
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02-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundA superyacht was now been cleared to arrive into Thailand, with the crew undergoing quarantine on boardSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2020/12/superyacht-quarantines-in-phuket/
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01-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thai-Chinese Chamber of Commerce has proposed a Guangzhou – Phuket tourism route to the government, in addition to 19 other Chinese cities which have had no reports of COVID-19Source: thepattayanews.com/2020/12/01/thai-chinese-chamber-of-commerce-to-petition-the-thai-government-under-proposed-guangzhou-phuket-tourism-route-to-reopen-country-to-chinese-tourists/
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01-Dec-2020 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways will resume its domestic services between Bangkok-Chiang Mai and Bangkok-Phuket from 25 DecSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2028411/thai-reveals-new-flights-from-xmas
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01-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundPattaya have said that their fireworks festival attracted 100,000-200,000 visitors a day, generating more than 400 million THB in revenueSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2028411/thai-reveals-new-flights-from-xmas
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01-Dec-2020 👨✈️ aviationThe Airports of Thailand are reviewing Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport’s northern expansion plansSource: www.nationthailand.com/business/30398841
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01-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThe government plans to increase the price of its Thailand Privilege Card “Easy Access” tier, which allows 5-year residency, by 20%Source: asia.nikkei.com/Economy/Thailand-hikes-price-of-5-year-visa-as-foreigners-seek-COVID-haven
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01-Dec-2020 🛬 inboundThai AirAsia forecasts it will earn only 40% of last year’s revenue in 2020, and will end the year with 9.3 million pax, down from 22.2 million in 2019. They are aiming to fill 3.94 million seats in Dec, as demand is highSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2027971/taa-banking-on-new-units-for-income
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01-Dec-2020 👨✈️ aviationThai Vietjet have launched their new service from Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport to Chiang Mai International AirportSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/thai-vietjet-commences-latest-service-to-chiang-mai/191351.vnp
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30-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) is calling for the government to reopen to mass tourism, suggesting that they should choose ‘low-risk’ countries including China (22 provinces only), Vietnam, Laos, Taiwan, New Zealand, Australia, Dubai and MacauSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/thai-travel-agents-emphatically-demand-no-quarantine-tourism-335845
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30-Nov-2020 🛬 inbound5 key leaders of the Thai protest movement have been charged under the royal defamation lawsSource: www.malaymail.com/news/world/2020/11/30/thai-protest-leaders-charged-with-royal-defamation/1927553
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29-Nov-2020 💉 vaccineThailand signed a deal with AstraZeneca for 26 million doses of their vaccine, expected to be delivered mid-2021Source: businessmirror.com.ph/2020/11/29/thailand-philippines-sign-for-astrazeneca-covid-19-vaccine/
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29-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Dhara Dhevi hotel in Chiang Mai is closing operationsSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30398783
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29-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundPhase of the co-pay scheme will open on 2 Jan 2021 after good feedback and 28 billion transactions taking placeSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-co-pay-subsidy-campaign-next-phase-starts-again-in-january-335743
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29-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundSecurity officials expect the anti-government protests to carry on into DecemberSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2026935/no-end-in-sight-security-officials-say-anti-govt-protests-will-continue-next-month
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28-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe extension of the emergency decree has been officially extended until 15 Jan 2021Source: www.pattayamail.com/news/thailand-allows-businesses-to-fully-reopen-long-staying-visitors-to-return-on-a-special-tourist-visa-335631
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28-Nov-2020 🛬 inbound3 international yachts arrived into Por Bay, Phuket, and have begun their quarantine process. Less than 10 yachts in total have asked for permission to dock in PhuketSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2026675/three-yachts-dock-in-phuket-at-reopening
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28-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe head of TAT Pattaya’s office believes that high season, from Nov-Apr, still provides opportunities for the local tourism trade to earn revenue, thanks to the many events organisedSource: www.pattayamail.com/news/tat-pattaya-boss-predicts-high-season-wont-be-total-washout-335613
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28-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundPattaya’s spa and massage industry has seen employment drop by 96% due to the lack of touristsSource: www.pattayamail.com/news/pattaya-massage-spa-industry-shrinks-96-335678
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28-Nov-2020 🛬 inbound28 Nov: The Tourism Council of Thailand have said Thailand will finish 2020 with tourism revenue of 900 billion THB, two-thirds of which was generated in Q1, and the rest from domestic tourism. They also believe that the We Travel Together campaign has not achieved its aim, as domestic tourism has historically accounted for 30% of Thailand’s tourism revenue, and this year it will fall around 33%. They urged government organisations to integrate and communicate better, and the National Tourism Policy Commission should play a larger roleSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/thailand-has-no-strategy-to-reopen-borders-tourism-council-chief-says-335606
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28-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Council of Thailand have said that the Thai government does not have a strategy to open up the country, and that the STV is irrelevant. They believe that the Thai government overreacted to isolated local cases of COVID-19, and does not see the country opening up to mass tourists until summer 2021Source: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/thailand-has-no-strategy-to-reopen-borders-tourism-council-chief-says-335606
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28-Nov-2020 💉 vaccineThe Thai PM expects Thailand to begin producing a vaccine by mid 2021, and Thailand sees it as a priority to be amongst the first countries to have it, to revive the economySource: www.pattayamail.com/news/thai-pm-if-we-speed-up-vaccine-procedures-we-can-soon-welcome-a-lot-of-visitors-to-our-country-335523
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28-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thai PM has stated that until a vaccine is approved, produced and implemented, the country will not open to substantial tourismSource: www.c9hotelworks.com/news/thailands-tourism-reopening-now-vaccine-dependant
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28-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundMore hotels are being encouraged to sign up as an Alternative State Quarantine (ASQ), and a new collaboration with Agoda has seen 37 ASQ and ALSQ hotels sign up for the scheme in the first phaseSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2026611/agoda-gears-up-for-online-quarantine-booking-plan
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27-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundA Thai-Singapore travel bubble could boost the Thai economy, according to the US-ASEAN Business councilSource: www.businesstimes.com.sg/asean-business/a-thai-singapore-travel-bubble-could-boost-thai-economy-us-asean-business-council
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27-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has said that “normal” tourism revenue, 80% of pre-pandemic (2.5 trillion THB), may only return in 2022. 2021 remains opaque, as there are many unpredictable factors. They said that after a meeting with the Chinese embassy, it seems unlikely that Chinese tourists will travel en masse to Thailand unless there is a track record of vaccines. Thailand may see a moderate number of international tourists in Q2 or Q3 2021 from long-haul markets. They expect that the redemption of its We Travel Together campaign will be full used by the end of this yearSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2026175/tourism-prospects-opaque
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27-Nov-2020 🌏 outboundThe Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) expects outbound Thai travel will take at least 2 years to recoverSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2026175/tourism-prospects-opaque
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27-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThai protestors called for an end to coups in ThailandSource: www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/thai-protests-coup-makers-rumours-13652502
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27-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundTAT are organising a “Village Tourism Festival” in Bangkok from 27-29 Nov to promote community-based tourismSource: www.tatnews.org/2020/11/tat-organises-the-village-tourism-festival-to-promote-community-based-tourism/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=tat-organises-the-village-tourism-festival-to-promote-community-based-tourism
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27-Nov-2020 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways is organising a new spiritual flight which will depart on 1 Jan, flying in a heart-shaped flight route with a famous astrologer, who will bless them with positive energy to start the yearSource: coconuts.co/bangkok/news/thai-airways-to-bomb-thailand-with-prayers-on-new-years-day/
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27-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThailand expects 1,200 international visitors in Nov and Dec, with tourists expected to spend between $6,600-13,200 USDSource: www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/thailand-to-see-more-visitors-signal-for-reopening-tourism-chief-13651506
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27-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundA clouded leopard was spotted near the Thai-Cambodia border in Isaan, for the first time in 20 yearsSource: coconuts.co/bangkok/news/clouded-leopard-spotted-in-thai-northeast-for-first-time-in-20-years/
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26-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundPattaya’s beachfront hotels are booked up for the Pattaya fireworks festival on 27-28 Nov, with hotels away from the beach seeing 80% occupancy levelsSource: www.pattayamail.com/featured/pattaya-beachfront-hotels-100-booked-for-fireworks-weekend-335224
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26-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundKhao Lak is becoming more popular as a destination for Thai travellers, with 2,283 keys being planned for opening in 2022-2023Source: www.ttgasia.com/2020/11/26/khao-lak-finds-favour-with-thai-tourists-in-a-pandemic/
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26-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thai PM has said that martial law will not be used against protestersSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/politics/2025483/pm-rejects-martial-law-talk
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26-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundOctober saw 1,201 foreign tourists, with 471 arriving from China, 231 Cambodia, 178 from the Middle East and 116 from Europe. All travelled under the STV program. Its Jan-Oct international pax numbers have dropped 79.5% YoY to 6.69 million. Thailand’s state planning agency now predicts 6.7 million tourists for 2020, and 5 million in 2021Source: www.bangkokpost.com/travel/2025927/first-trickle-of-tourists-in-october-as-curbs-ease
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26-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThailand’s GDP for 2020 is forecast to contract by 6.4%, an improvement from earlier forecasts of a 10.3% decline according to Krungsri ResearchSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2025643/recovery-momentum-picks-up-in-q3
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26-Nov-2020 👨✈️ aviationThai Smile are planning to open up more flights between Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport and seven more provincesSource: www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-11/26/c_139545021.htm
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26-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundA Booking.com survey has shown that Thai travellers: • Have the strongest intent to take trips to destinations accessible by cars (73%) • Look for free cancellation policies (85%) • Look for off-the-beaten track journeys (80%) • Want to make responsible travel choices which will support local recovery efforts (84%) • Look at potential travel destinations as often as once a week (68%)Source: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2020/11/thais-ready-to-travel-again/
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25-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Pattaya tourism industry is hoping that the new Single Entry Tourist Visa (SETV) will boost arrivals to the country, despite requiring a 14-day quarantine. Some hotel owners have said that their regular customers have already applied for the visa, and although are not keen on the idea of a quarantine, are willing to go through it to enter the countrySource: www.pattayamail.com/news/pattaya-puts-faith-in-leisure-tourism-entry-loophole-335085
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25-Nov-2020 👨✈️ aviationThai Lion Air expects 2021 to be a tough one, and are planning to expand domestic networks and strengthen local demand in H1. They have resumed flights at 60% of the frequency to pre-pandemic. They plan to bring 3-5 aircraft back into their fleet for domestic routes in 2021Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2025067/tla-adopts-a-realistic-approach
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25-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThailand’s leading virologist has said that it could be a challenge to get 60% of the Thai population vaccinated next yearSource: www.pattayamail.com/news/11-mil-thais-traveled-on-public-transport-during-long-holidays-chonburi-highest-road-accidents-335053
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25-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thai Hotels Association (THA) is urging the government to look at travel bubbles with other countries such as Singapore, Vietnam, South Korea and Taiwan, with Singapore being rated as having the highest potential. They will also propose other measures to assist hotels, including wage subsidies and establishing a hotel fund where operators can buy back propertiesSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2025155/tha-urges-government-to-pursue-travel-bubble-strategy
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25-Nov-2020 💉 vaccineThailand’s leading virologist has said that it could be a challenge to get 60% of the Thai population vaccinated next yearSource: www.thaipbsworld.com/virologist-says-it-will-be-difficult-for-40m-thais-to-get-covid-19-vaccine-in-2021/
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24-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundExpedia Thailand’s new 2021 Travel Trends Report has seen: • Thai travellers falling into either a short-haul destination traveller, or an island escapist • Top 10 trending destinations for 2020 include: Bangkok, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Hua Hin, Rayong, Chonburi, Khao Yai, Chiang Rai and Songkla • Flexibility will be most important for Thai travellers • The average booking window for a flight is now 14 days prior, the shortest booking window in yearsSource: www.ttgasia.com/2020/11/24/thai-travellers-dreaming-of-island-escapes-short-haul-travel-for-2021/
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24-Nov-2020 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways expects that its debt rehabilitation plan will be approved by the courts end-March to Apr 2021Source: news.bloomberglaw.com/bankruptcy-law/thai-air-expects-court-to-approve-rehabilitation-plan-by-april
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24-Nov-2020 👨✈️ aviationAirAsia Group expect AirAsia Thailand to exceed its pre-COVID capacity in Q4Source: www.malaymail.com/news/money/2020/11/24/airasia-groups-net-loss-widens-to-rm851.78m-in-q3/1925779
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23-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Phuket Tourism Association has launched packages aimed at attracting 14,000 foreign diplomats and international organisations’ staff to visit PhuketSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2023959/campaign-to-pull-in-envoys
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23-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundAgoda have said that the best pockets of recovery they have seen are in Taiwan, Thailand and VietnamSource: www.cnbc.com/2020/11/24/asia-is-leading-the-way-in-travel-recovery-booking-holdings-agoda.html
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23-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundA new app, Thailand Plus, has been developed for tracing foreign tourists in Thailand. It will have similar functionality to the Mor Chana app, the Thai contact tracing appSource: www.thaipbsworld.com/government-to-introduce-thailand-plus-application-for-foreign-tourists/
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23-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe TAT Phuket Office has announced that 53,970 tourists visited Phuket over the long weekend 19-22 Nov, generating 300 million THB in revenue. Checks with hotels showed an occupancy was around 35%, with most guests staying at least 2 nights. They also said that hotel bookings in Phuket had been increasingSource: www.thephuketnews.com/long-weekend-generates-b300mn-for-phuket-says-tat-78068.php
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23-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundChiang Mai’s Royal Park Rajapreuk saw 1,500 tourists per day visiting over the 4-day long weekendSource: www.pattayamail.com/chiangmaimail/royal-park-rajapruek-chiang-mai-bustling-with-tourists-on-long-weekend-334903
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23-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThailand is no longer the top destination for Chinese outbound travellers, as Japan and South Korea have moved up the preference list insteadSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2024179/thailand-no-longer-top-overseas-destination-for-chinese-tourists
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22-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThailand seems to have changed its requirement of 500,000 THB in savings for those who are applying for the Special Tourist Visa (STV), with embassies around the world either not mentioning a specific amount, or an amount which is much lowerSource: www.chiangraitimes.com/tourism/thailand-reduces-income-requirement-for-special-tourist-visas/
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21-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thai hotel industry has called for debt relief, tax changes, wage subsidies and reopening the borders to support themSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/thai-hotel-industry-tells-govt-to-reopen-borders-to-provide-huge-bailout-334622
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21-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe TAT have announced that 681 tourists have applied for and received the STV in NovSource: thethaiger.com/hot-news/tourism/rejoice-thailand-681-tourists-will-arrive-in-november
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21-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundChiang Mai’s tourism is improving due to the cooler weather, with hotels reporting 40% occupancy in Nov compared to 15% in Oct. Chiang Mai International Airport is seeing 22,000 pax/ day on average, and they estimate that on long weekends it could reach 25,000. Before, it would receive 40,000/ daySource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2020/11/21/cool-weather-helps-chiang-mai-tourism-recover-from-covid-19-slump-govt-announces-10-new-imported-virus-cases
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20-Nov-2020 🛬 inbound5.29 million Thai people set out on trips on 18 Nov according to the Ministry of TransportSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2022423/5m-join-holiday-exodus
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20-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundVillagers on Phuket have now modified their motorbikes with sidecars to allow tourists to stop at Mai Khao Beach, where tourists can watch planes landing, as part of a community tourism projectSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/phuket-sidecar-and-roofed-motorcycles-take-tourists-to-watch-aircraft-landing-at-mai-khao-beach-334483
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20-Nov-2020 🛬 inbound3 million Thais are expected to travel domestically for the 19-22 Nov holiday weekend, generating 12.6 billion THB in revenue. The TAT predict a hotel occupancy of only 37%, citing the fact that hotel bookings in Krabi have been cancelled after one lone case of COVID was detected and that another long weekend was approachingSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30398083?utm_source=category&utm_medium=internal_referral
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20-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe TAT is confident that the number of domestic tourists over the next 2 months will bring the total domestic tourists to 70 million in 2020, and that the recent local cases will not put tourists off. Jan-Sep domestic trips were 52.7 million, down 54.1%, whilst average spending dropped 14.4% per trip. Oct’s hotel occupancy rates were 34.4%. The TAT also plan to introduce the “Best Selfie in Thailand” competition with an airline-blogger partnership from mid-Dec, and will also launch a campaign focusing on caravans for cross-regional tripsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2022723/high-season-to-push-domestic-trips-to-70m
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20-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundTaxis in Bangkok travelling to and from the airports will be able to charge a special fee for luggageSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30398295
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20-Nov-2020 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways have confirmed that between 1 Jan – 27 Mar, they will be flying internationally to London, Frankfurt, Copenhagen, Sydney, Osaka, Manila, Taipei, Hong Kong, Tokyo and SeoulSource: www.bangkokpost.com/travel/2023031/thai-confirms-winter-schedule
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20-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundNakhon Si Thammarat could see 800 million THB in tourism spend over the long weekend as tourists come to pay respects to a popular child spirit, Ai Khai, at Wat Chedi. Local hotel occupancy has been around 80%Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2023027/child-spirit-casts-magic-spell-on-southern-tourism
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19-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundWork permits will be granted to holders of the Thai Elite Card who plan to invest at least $1 million USD in Thailand over 5 years. A plan for the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) to partner with local hotels and Thai Airways to offer tourism packages plus hotel stays was also approved, which will be offered from 1 Dec – 31 Mar targeting 2,000 visitors and revenue of 200 million THB/ monthSource: www.nationthailand.com/business/30398174
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19-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundEmbassies seem to have removed the requirement of 500,000 THB in savings for the 60-day tourist visaSource: thepattayanews.com/2020/11/19/financial-requirement-of-500000-thai-baht-for-six-months-reportedly-dropped-for-sixty-day-thailand-single-entry-tourist-visa/
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19-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundMinor International have said that they have lost more than 2 billion THB in Thailand from Jan-Sep, whilst the Erawan group have said that hotel occupancy has been at 20% for more than 5 monthsSource: thethaiger.com/hot-news/tourism/we-must-establish-travel-bubbles-thai-tourism-operators-demand-action
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19-Nov-2020 💉 vaccineThailand has reserved 26 million doses of the AstraZeneca vaccineSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-reserves-26-million-doses-of-vaccines-to-ensure-access-at-base-prices-334231
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19-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThailand will hold the BWF Para Badminton World Championships in 2023Source: www.bangkokpost.com/sports/2021955/thailand-selected-to-host-2023-para-world-cships
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19-Nov-2020 👨✈️ aviationThai Smile Airways launched a new direct route from Chiang Mai to Nakhon Si ThammaratSource: www.pattayamail.com/chiangmaimail/thai-smile-launches-chiang-mai-nakhon-si-thammarat-service-334329
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19-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe 3rd round of registration for the government’s co-payment stimulus program saw 700,000 people claiming their spot within an hour. As of 19 Nov, it had generated 18.79 billion THB in revenuesSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2022355/third-co-payment-round-fully-booked-in-one-hour
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19-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Center for COVID-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) has approved in principle the reduction of quarantine from 14 to 10 daysSource: www.pattayamail.com/coronavirus/returnees-and-tourists-to-thailand-10-day-area-quarantine-plan-approved-334474
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19-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundDiethelm Travel has released all non-core staff indefinitely from Jan 2021, to allow staff to find other opportunities. The company said that the STV was “completely useless”Source: www.ttgasia.com/2020/11/19/diethelm-travel-thailand-releases-non-core-staff-to-find-other-jobs-until-business-returns/
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19-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thai PM has said that all laws would be used against protestors, after paint was thrown at the Thai police HQ in response to the police use of water cannon and tear gas on the 17 Nov protestSource: www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/emboldened-thai-protesters-vow-to-expand-set-of-demands
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18-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe TAT, hotels and airlines have created an “Expat Travel Bonus” with a discount of 1,000 THB per night at over 300 participating hotels, and up to 50% off airfaresSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2021675/new-travel-deals-target-foreigners-residing-in-thailand
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18-Nov-2020 👨✈️ aviationNok Air has reported losses of 3,936 million THB in Q3, with revenue down 47.7% YoYSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2020/11/nok-air-reports-heavy-losses/#:~:text=BANGKOK%2C%2018%20November%202020%3A%20Nok,the%20same%20period%20of%202019.
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18-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundAcademics have called for the government to speed up aid for the tourism industry with customised aid packagesSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2021255/govt-told-to-speed-up-aid-to-struggling-tourism-sector
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18-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundPattaya has reported that 300,000 foreign and local residents have left the townSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/pattayas-population-shrinks-by-300000-amid-tourism-shutdown-334155
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18-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe TAT and ICONSIAM are organising a big ‘Amazing Thailand Countdown 2021’ event on 31 Dec, which will take place in Krabi, Sukhothai, RoiEt, Ratchaburi and Phetchabun, as well as at several attractions in Bangkok. It will culminate in eco-friendly fireworks, made of Thai sticky riceSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/bangkok-organizes-amazing-thailand-countdown-2021-at-chao-phraya-river-park-334193
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18-Nov-2020 👨✈️ aviationThai Vietjet has received 2 new aircraft, bringing its total number to 13. T expects to receive 2 more in DecSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/thai-vietjet-adds-two-aircraft-to-its-fleet-to-meet-route-expansion-plan/190637.vnp
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18-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe State Railway of Thailand has launched an online ticketing service called D-TicketSource: newsinfo.inquirer.net/1362273/thai-train-tickets-can-now-be-bought-online
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18-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism & Sports Minister again called for a travel bubble with China, saying that he believes Thailand is prepared to handle COVID-19 cases and that the economic benefit outweighs the riskSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/thai-minister-doubles-down-on-no-quarantine-must-open-country-to-foreigners-334073
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18-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thai government’s COVID-19 task force has approve the extension of the state of emergency until 15 JanSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2021743/govt-extends-emergency-to-2021-to-curb-virus-resurgence
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18-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundEmbassies have been reporting an interest in the 60-day single entry tourist visa, with the Association of British Travel Agents stating that they had at least 4,000 customers who have shown interest so far, with a take-up rate of 50% at leastSource: www.pattayamail.com/travel/thailands-new-60-days-tourist-visa-selling-like-hot-cakes-334131
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18-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe TAT has redesigned its Thailand Muslim Friend app, adding 110 new restaurants, 70 new mosques and 75 new hotelsSource: www.tradearabia.com/news/TTN_375255.html
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18-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe PATA Thailand chapter is calling for a new, strong leader for the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) in the upcoming electionsSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2020/11/pata-chapter-calls-for-a-strong-industry-leader/
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17-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundAt least 18 people were hurt in protests in Bangkok, as police fired tear gas and water cannons at protestorsSource: www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/thai-parliament-protest-water-cannon-tear-gas-13577400
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17-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thai economy shrunk by 6.4% in Q3 YoY, with full-year contraction forecast at 6%, an improvement vs the -7.5% original predictionSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2020671/economy-shrinks-6-4-in-busy-q3
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17-Nov-2020 👨✈️ aviationAirAsia has said that its domestic sales in Thailand has reached 93% of pre-pandemic levelsSource: www.theedgemarkets.com/article/airasia-confident-posting-stronger-results-international-travel-set-resume-covid19-vaccine
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17-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Southeast Asia Hotel Investors’ Summit will take place in Bangkok on 1-2 Dec in a physical eventSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2020/11/hotel-investors-gather-in-bangkok/
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17-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe TAT are calling to improve the domestic tourism stimulus program, extending it from 10 nights’ subsidy to 15, and that the 40% discount on flights be applied at the point of sale, rather than having to be claimed backSource: thethaiger.com/hot-news/tourism/tourism-authority-calls-for-expansion-of-domestic-travel-stimulus-scheme
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17-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Kasikorn Research Center projects that 77.3% of Thai tourists will make domestic trips in Q4, whilst the TAT’s social listening report for 1-10 Nov has found that Chiang Mai and Phuket are the most mentioned destinations on social mediaSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2020787/tat-infection-fears-mar-holiday
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16-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) believe that 2 million tourism workers could be unemployed if foreign tourists do not return in high numbers to Thailand. They stated that 150,000 workers in tour businesses have already been laid off, but just 10% of those is permanent so farSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30398032?utm_source=category&utm_medium=internal_referral
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16-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundPhuket has submitted a proposal to allow it to open to foreign yachts, with detailed plans. Por Bay would be the sole gateway for vessels and would moor in an area 6.2km from the shore during their 14-day quarantine. 60 leisure boats have shown interest in docking, including 27 super yachts and 33 cruise boats with 600-700 people each, which could generate 2.1 billion THB for the economySource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2020091/phuket-applies-to-reopen-for-super-yachts
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16-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism and Sports Ministry held a brainstorming session with hoteliers to get updates from the tourism industry as well as plan recovery solutions for a 2-year revival plan, “Thailand Tourism Year”, or as the TAT has dubbed it, the “Phoenix Initative”. The Thai Transportation Operations Association has also called for the government to speed up its process to allow tour operators to take part in the domestic stimulus program, as fixed costs mean that they do not have sufficient income, and only 3-5% of tour bus operators can access soft loansSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2020187/tourism-ministry-hoteliers-to-brainstorm-ideas
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16-Nov-2020 👨✈️ aviationBangkok Airways have cut their fares from Bangkok – Samui to just 2,000 THB one-way in the hope to revive bookings to the island – last year, fares were averaging 4,500 THBSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2020/11/pg-slashes-fares-to-samui/
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16-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe TAT is looking for more niche markets for Thai tourists, after seeing the success of the Thai Airways’ spiritual-themed flight, including pilgrimage tours around the country for singles who want to pray for marriage. They are also looking to pilot river cruises for single tourists with recreational activities to Ayutthaya in the build up to Valentine’s Day. They are also looking at wellness, and have confirmed their Amazing Thailand Marathon for Mar, and stargazing tours during the cool season to Khao Yai and Chiang MaiSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2020191/tat-takes-to-niche-markets
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14-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThere are now at least 10 hotels up for sale in Ao Nang, Krabi, including 3-5* hotels. A report by Sanook News estimates that just 10% of businesses are open stillSource: thethaiger.com/hot-news/tourism/krabis-ao-nang-businesses-shut-up-or-sell-up
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14-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThai protestors climbed the Democracy Monument in Thailand and hung up a giant banner with anti-government slogans written on it. Several thousand attended the demonstrations on SaturdaySource: www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/thai-protests-bangkok-anti-government-monarchy-nov-14-13546748
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14-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Deputy PM has said that the 10-day quarantine proposal is being prepared for submission to the Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) next week, but should only be implemented for those from low-risk countriesSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2019307/quarantine-debate-next-week
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14-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundJust 331 foreigners used the Special Tourist Visa in Oct, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) have revealed, whilst 501 foreigners arrived on retirement visas, and 296 on the Thai Elite Card. They have said that 1,000 travellers have requested to visit Thailand via various visas, especially from Scandinavia. 900 Thai Elite Card holders have also applied to be let in. The TAT are advocating for making entry requirements more lenient, in particular the “fit to fly” certificateSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/only-331-foreigners-used-stv-to-thailand-in-october-333721
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14-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundSingha Park is partnering with the TAT and Chiang Rai Province to organise 4 events to help domestic tourism, including a Farm Festival, Northern Lights Countdown Festival, Village of Illumination Festival and the Singha Park Chiangrai Valentine’s Balloon Fiesta 2021Source: www.chiangraitimes.com/thailand-national-news/chiangrai-news/singha-park-organizes-tourism-events-with-tat-and-chiang-rai-province/
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13-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundInvestments into Thai sovereign debt have increased to the highest in 17 months in Nov, after positive news about the Pfizer vaccineSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2019167/foreign-funds-pile-into-thailand-as-vaccine-progress-boosts-tourism-hopes
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13-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundBangkok Airways will open 3 new routes: Bangkok – Mae Sot, Bangkok – Hat Yai and Bangkok – Khon KaenSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/bangkok-airways-draws-tourists-to-phuket-krabi-and-phanga-open-three-new-routes-333439
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13-Nov-2020 🛬 inbound235 people have been placed under quarantine after having contact with a Korean soldier who tested positive for COVID-19 on his return homeSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2018599/dozens-more-placed-under-quarantine
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13-Nov-2020 👨✈️ aviationQatar Airways are planning to resume twice weekly flights to Phuket from 4 DecSource: thethaiger.com/news/phuket/qatar-airways-to-offer-biweekly-flights-from-phuket-to-doha
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12-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thai economy has passed its lowest point and is expected to contract less than expected, the National Economic and Social Development Council have saidSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2018355/economy-passed-lowest-point-to-contract-less-than-expected
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12-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundTravelRevive, a conference held by ITB Asia and Singapore Tourism Board, will be a hybrid event held on 25-26 Nov at Marina Bay SandsSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2020/11/travelrevive-adopts-hybrid-format/
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12-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) has asked the government to strike a travel bubble agreement with China, which would be managed via tour companies to effectively manage the tourists whilst in destination. They estimate this could generate 300,000 travellers per month and 15 billion THB revenueSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2018511/atta-seeks-green-light-for-more-china-tourists
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12-Nov-2020 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways International’s Q3 results showed a net loss of 21.5 billion THB ($709 million USD), whilst its Jan-Sep net loss was 49.5 billion THBSource: asia.nikkei.com/Business/Transportation/Thai-Airways-walks-tightrope-in-securing-cash
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12-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Ministry is due to hold talks with the Chinese Embassy in Nov to find a way to allow Thai and Chinese tourists to visit one another’s country. They remain hopeful that this could take place by Feb next year. South Korea will also allow its golfers to travel to Thailand, so long as they follow quarantine procedures. The Tourism Ministry also plans to hold talks with Japan, Vietnam, Australia and New ZealandSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2018331/tourism-minister-warns-of-domestic-slowdown
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12-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Minister has warned of a slowdown in local demand with a struggling economy if a plan to reopen to tourists in 2021 isn’t put into place. Demand from locals is at just 40% of 2019 levels, despite an increase. "We have a precarious year for domestic tourism waiting for us in 2021, with the number of trips and receipts possibly going down to 15% of 2019." He also said that “big things” shouldn’t be expected from the STV, but that it can help to prepare locals for international arrivals. He noted that 50% of tourism-related businesses will “permanently close if they cannot receive any effective measures from the government until the middle of next year”Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2018331/tourism-minister-warns-of-domestic-slowdown
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11-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe first e-ferry was officially launched in Phuket. They will eventually run 10 routesSource: www.thephuketnews.com/thailand-first-e-ferry-arrives-in-phuket-77945.php
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11-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundTripAdvisor has now put a special notice on the Koh Chang Sea View’s page: “This hotel or individuals associated with this hotel filed criminal charges against a Tripadvisor user in relation to the traveler writing and posting online reviews. The reviewer spent time in jail as a result.”Source: www.nytimes.com/2020/11/11/world/asia/thailand-hotel-tripadvisor-jail.html
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11-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThai Immigration have reported that they have had 10 yachts apply to dock in Thailand, mostly from Malaysia and Singapore. The majority are planning to dock in PattayaSource: thepattayanews.com/2020/11/11/thai-immigration-bureau-says-multiple-yachts-have-applied-to-dock-in-thailand-under-special-tourist-visa-including-in-pattaya/
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11-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Deputy PM has said that the mandatory quarantine period will remain at 14 days for nowSource: www.pattayamail.com/news/reopening-thailand-to-foreign-tourists-continues-with-14-day-quarantine-period-333206
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11-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThailand has relaxed its tourist visa requirements, allowing visitors in for 60 days from medium-risk countries, including from Europe. Visitors will need to apply in advance, have at least 500,000 THB in savings, health insurance coverage of $100,000 USD, outpatient insurance of 40,000 THB, take a COVID-19 test 72 hours prior to arrival and carry out a 14-day quarantine on arrivalSource: thethaiger.com/hot-news/tourism/tat-says-government-has-relaxed-tourist-visa-criteria-for-european-nations
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11-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe PM welcomed the idea of a golf quarantine, although has said that it will still need approval from the CCSASource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2017431/govt-mulls-golf-quarantines
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11-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundRoad toll fees will be waived over the long weekend holidays from 19-22 Nov and 10-13 DecSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2017403/tolls-waived-over-long-weekends
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11-Nov-2020 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways is auctioning off many in-flight items, as well as planning to lease 3 of its office buildings to generate more cashSource: www.thaipbsworld.com/thai-to-auction-off-in-flight-items-lease-out-office-buildings-to-generate-income/
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10-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundYaowarat Road in Chinatown, Bangkok, will get a makeover in Jan, with more orderly and environmentally friendly food vendor standsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2016851/yaowarat-road-to-get-fresh-makeover
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10-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe TAT have won the ‘Most Proactive Tourist Board Initiative’ in the Elegant Resorts Awards 2020, particularly due to the strong B2C and B2B campaigns it has run in the UKSource: www.pattayamail.com/travel/thailand-wins-most-proactive-tourist-board-initiative-in-uk-based-luxury-travel-awards-333026
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10-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundAll STV arrivals so far have been COVID-19 free according to the Health MinistrySource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30397627
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10-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe 10th Thailand Tourism Forum (TTF) 2021 will take place as a physical event in Bangkok on 18 JanSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2020/11/hospitality-event-goes-on/
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10-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thai army chief has ruled out the possibility of a military coup to end the protestsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/politics/2016811/no-chance-of-coup-says-army
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10-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundA new wellness hospital and resort development, Natai Medical Center and Resort, is being planned in Phangnga, projected to cost 3.5 billion THB in totalSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2016923/wellness-project-eyed-in-phangnga
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10-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundAs of 8 Nov, the We Travel Together campaign had 2,275,361 accommodation bookings and 1,828,842 air tickets redeemed. There will also be extra public holidays on 19 and 20 Nov, creating a 4-day long weekend, and 10-13 Dec will also be a 4-day long weekendSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-boosts-domestic-tourism-with-multiple-campaigns-in-high-season-333037
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10-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is launching a video campaign, Trailblazer Thailand, to showcase Thailand’s lesser-known destinations, especially luxury experiences and community-based tourismSource: www.tatnews.org/2020/11/tat-launches-trailblazer-thailand-virtual-experience-video-series/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=tat-launches-trailblazer-thailand-virtual-experience-video-series
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09-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe PM is urging his advisory team to finish a proposal to rebuild Phuket’s tourism industry. Phuket once employed 170,000-180,000 tourism workers, but now supports just 80,000. He also instructed the Labour Ministry to consider giving 7,500 THB/ month to tourism workers for 12 months to help keep their employees nationwide. The Phuket Tourism Association forecasts that Phuket may lose 200-320 billion THB in tourism revenue in 2021. From Jan-Oct, it had 150 billion THB in revenue, a drop of 80% YoYSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2016355/state-pushes-for-phuket-recovery
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09-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundA new 90% accurate COVID-19 test kit has been unveiled by the Department of Medical Sciences, which will cost just over 100 THB per kit, compared to imported 300-500 THB kitsSource: www.chiangraitimes.com/tourism/low-cost-covid-19-test-kit-developed-for-special-tourist-visa-tourists/
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09-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundOne new local case has been detected in Krabi whose origin cannot be tracedSource: www.khaosodenglish.com/news/crimecourtscalamity/2020/11/09/health-authorities-alarmed-by-new-local-covid-19-case-in-krabi/
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09-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thai Hotels Association has said that 70-80% of 14,000 registered hotels have reopened, but many are not back to full operations. Nearly all hotel operators are not at a break-even point, and are unable to repay debts or interest due. The President of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) has said that 90% of inbound operators of 10,000 companies are still closed – if inbound tourism is not reopened by Q1 2021, they expect 50% to close permanentlySource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2016383/the-living-dead
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09-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe former president of the Thailand Hotels Association is asking the government to think about travel bubbles to reboot tourismSource: www.thaipbsworld.com/tourism-industry-asks-government-to-reconsider-travel-bubble/
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09-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThai religious tourism has fallen in 2020, with 43.9% of respondents in a survey saying that they travelled less often to religious venues vs 2019. The survey estimated that the annual revenue for religious tourism was around 10.8 billion THB/ yearSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30397603?utm_source=category&utm_medium=internal_referral
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09-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundPolice have admitted that teargas was used on protestors during their 16 Oct demonstrationSource: www.khaosodenglish.com/news/crimecourtscalamity/2020/11/09/police-admit-teargas-was-used-in-protest-crackdown/
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08-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundProtestors demonstrated in Bangkok again on 8 Nov, this time carrying letters for the king. The protestors have been warned not to hold public gatherings within 150m of the Grand PalaceSource: www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/thailand-protests-king-monarchy-reform-letter-prayut-government-13492562
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07-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundHalf of the 800 Thai Travel Agents Association (TTAA) members are temporarily closed, and those which are open have switched focus to domestic travel to surviveSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2015655/thai-travel-agents-association-urges-quarantine-free-tourism
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07-Nov-2020 🌏 outboundThe Thai Travel Agents Association has said that there is pent-up demand for outbound tourism, and travel bubbles should be set up, starting with SE Asia. If no quarantine was required, this will generate more tripsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2015655/thai-travel-agents-association-urges-quarantine-free-tourism
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07-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Frenchwoman who tested positive for COVID-19 in Koh Samui likely contracted the virus from hotel food trays, as she had similar strains to those in neighbouring rooms at her quarantine hotelSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2015571/virus-passed-on-via-hotel-food-trays
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06-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) are developing 3 scenic routes for tourism in southern, central and northeast Thailand, including the “Thailand Riviera” route. They aim to create these networks of routes to improve Thailand’s tourism competitiveness, with completion of some of the routes expected by 2023Source: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-develops-three-scenic-tourist-routes-offering-picturesque-road-travel-332539
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06-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThailand is hoping to have a travel bubble with China as a “New Year’s gift” to the Thai tourism industry, hoping to welcome Chinese tourists with no mandatory quarantine by Chinese New YearSource: www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-11/06/c_139497043.htm
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06-Nov-2020 👨✈️ aviationThai AirAsia is cutting airfares to encourage domestic travel, with up to 30% offSource: www.ttgasia.com/2020/11/06/thai-airasia-slashes-airfares-rolls-out-ad-campaign-to-spur-recovery/
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06-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe TAT are holding the “Expat Festive Deal 2020” travel fair in Bangkok from 20-22 NovSource: www.tatnews.org/2020/11/tat-organises-expat-festive-deal-2020-to-bring-expats-plenty-of-festive-season-fun/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=tat-organises-expat-festive-deal-2020-to-bring-expats-plenty-of-festive-season-fun
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06-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe proposal for quarantine to be shortened from 14 to 10 days has now been submitted to the Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration for approvalSource: thethaiger.com/coronavirus/10-day-quarantine-proposal-passes-first-stage-of-approval
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06-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thai PM has said that he would happy to have a better person replace him as PM of ThailandSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/politics/2014727/prayut-seeks-mr-right-to-take-over-top-job
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06-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundPattaya businesses are calling for Chinese and Russian tourists to be able to fly unto U-Tapao airport and quarantine in Pattaya city under the “Pattaya Model”Source: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/chinese-and-russian-tourists-needed-in-pattaya-via-u-tapao-international-airport-fast-track-332444
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06-Nov-2020 👨✈️ aviationThai Vietjet has launched its inaugurual flight from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport to Surat Thani. It also plans to launch flights to Chiang Mai and Nakhon Si ThammaratSource: www.asiatraveltips.com/news20/611-ThaiVietjet.shtml
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06-Nov-2020 👨✈️ aviationA new terminal at Khon Kaen airport is set to open in Apr 2021Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2014811/khon-kaens-new-terminal-to-open-in-april
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06-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Minister has said that they will introduce a golf quarantine to attract golfers from Japan, Taiwan, China and South Korea, hoping to get 20-30 golfing resorts to join the Alternative Local State Quarantine (ALSQ) schemeSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2015135/tourism-and-sports-ministry-looks-to-china-tour-bubble
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05-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thai government has approved the expansion and extension of loan plans for SMEs, raising the credit limit to 100 million THB from 20 million THB. Qualification requirements will also be eased, to make it easier for tourism SMEs to access fundingSource: asia.nikkei.com/Business/Companies/Pandemic-hit-Thai-SMEs-win-new-debt-relief-from-government2
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05-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe inaugural “Glow Fest Krabi” festival will take place on 14 Nov at Dusit Thani Krabi Beach ResortSource: www.tatnews.org/2020/11/dusit-thani-krabi-beach-resort-launces-glow-fest-krabi/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=dusit-thani-krabi-beach-resort-launces-glow-fest-krabi
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05-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe first batch of Chinese tourists under the STV have now completed their quarantine and will now tour the countrySource: www.thaipbsworld.com/chinese-tourists-to-start-travelling-around-thailand-after-completing-quarantine/
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05-Nov-2020 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways is selling 34 of its older planes, hoping to sell them by 13 NovSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2014571/thai-airways-puts-34-planes-up-for-sale
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05-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundPattaya is planning 5 events aimed at domestic tourism in NovSource: www.pattayamail.com/news/pattaya-plans-five-november-events-to-stoke-tourism-332265
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04-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Ministry is targeting 10 million domestic trips per month during high season – it reached 8.5 million in SepSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2013487/tourism-and-sports-ministry-targets-10m-high-season-trips
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04-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe TTAA welcomes the new expansion of credit for tourism businesses, but has warned that they must still be flexible in the reference regulations such as requiring collateral, as that would limit the number of operators who could avail of the schemeSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2013487/tourism-and-sports-ministry-targets-10m-high-season-trips
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04-Nov-2020 👨✈️ aviationThailand airlines are grateful for the extension of the tax cut for jet fuel. Thai AirAsia have said that the domestic airfares are already cheap, and so would need to discuss with the government if asked to reduce fares further. Likewise, Thai Lion Air are amenable to requests to lower the fare, but that the current airfare prices reflect the true cost – previously they had been driven down by competition. Thai Lion Air have said that their average load factor is now 75%, but it is unpredictableSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2013499/low-cost-flights-may-get-cheaper
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04-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Phuket Tourism Association has said that COVID-19 has cut 200-300 million THB from the local economy, as from Jan-Oct it earned only 150 billion THBSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30397281?utm_source=category&utm_medium=internal_referral
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04-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundMaya Bay may reopen to tourists next year, but experts still need to be consulted on its impact to the environment. A maximum of 350 people would be allowed to visit dailySource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30397270?
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04-Nov-2020 👨✈️ aviationNok Airlines has received court approval to start a debt rehabilitation processSource: www.bloombergquint.com/onweb/thai-budget-carrier-nok-air-gets-green-light-to-restructure-debt
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03-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thai cabinet will consider rescue packages for southern Thai businesses heavily impacted, including soft loans for airlines and tourism companies. The Labour Minister also said they would seek a 1.5 billion THB fund to hire unemployed people in the Andaman coastal provinces. The Phuket government proposed that the We Travel Together domestic stimulus package should be extended until 31 Dec 2021, and weekend flights from Bangkok should be increasedSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2012751/cabinet-to-map-out-recovery-for-south
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03-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thai PM has stressed that Phuket and Koh Samui’s tourism economy should be rebuilt. 2 international airlines, Emirates and Qatar Airways, both officially landed in Phuket, carrying STV tourists, although the number and nationality were not revealed. They are scheduled to operate on a semi-commercial basis twice a weekSource: thepattayanews.com/2020/11/03/thai-prime-minister-urges-long-term-measures-to-rehabilitate-tourism-industry-in-phuket-first-two-international-airlines-announces-official-flights-to-island/
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03-Nov-2020 👨✈️ aviationThe Thai government has approved a tax cut on jet fuel from 4.726 THB to 0.20 THB, effective 3 Nov until 30 Apr 2021 , to help airlines reduce costsSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2020/11/03/thailand-govt-showers-more-soft-loans-for-troubled-tourism-sector-10-new-imprted-covid-19-cases-on-tuesday-nov-3
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03-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe Transport Minister has said that Phuket is 100% ready to welcome STV touristsSource: www.traveldailymedia.com/phuket-thailand-100-ready-to-welcome-tourists/
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03-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThai Airways will fly a special flight on 30 Nov for Buddhist passengers who want to chant mantras over 99 sacred sites, part of their new “Magical Flying Experience” campaignSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2012775/skies-to-open-for-worshippers
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02-Nov-2020 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways have announced semi-commercial routes to 7 destinations: London, Frankfurt, Copenhagen, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Taipei and Sydney. They will be used for returnees, people with families in Thailand, businessmen, students and transit passengersSource: forum.thaivisa.com/topic/1190210-thai-announce-semi-commercial%C2%A0flights-between-europe-asia-australia-in-november-and-december/
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02-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundMore new hotels have opened or are set to open in Thailand, including the Banyan Tree Krabi, The Gems Mining Pool Villas Pattaya and the Yoo Beach Club and the Yoo2 Hotel in PattayaSource: www.travelweekly-asia.com/Travel-News/Hotel-News/Beach-days-ahead-as-Thailand-ramps-up-seaside-openings?utm_source=enews&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=TWAedaily
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02-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundThe TAT is hopeful that the first group of Scandinavians will arrive into Thailand this year, signalling a revival for the European market. Their 2021 goal will be to increase the trip duration, rather than volume. It will also launch the Amazing Thailand Plus Package, a one-stop website for tourists interested in entering the country on the STV, which is expected to start mid-NovSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2012295/tat-awaits-upsurge-from-european-travellers-next-year
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02-Nov-2020 🛬 inbound20-30% of Hua Hin’s tourism businesses have not yet reopened. Hua Hin is looking to promote itself as not only a weekend destination, but offer community-based tourism as an add-on to MICESource: www.travelweekly-asia.com/Destination-Travel/Hua-Hin-looks-to-reinvent-itself-after-pandemic?utm_source=enews&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=TWAedaily
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01-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundForeigners who test positive for COVID-19 would not be taken to Thai public hospitals, a doctor has made clear – instead they would go to a partner hospital in the private sectorSource: thethaiger.com/coronavirus/foreigners-who-test-positive-for-c19-in-thailand-wont-be-able-to-use-the-public-health-system
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01-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundWiang Kum Kan archaeological site in Chiang Mai will host new activities twice a month, with a campaign that offers information and incentives to travel through the areaSource: www.pattayamail.com/chiangmaimail/wiang-kum-kam-starts-campaign-to-drive-chiang-mai-tourism-331803
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01-Nov-2020 🛬 inboundMarriott International has signed a contract to add 4 new properties in Thailand, including Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Thailand's first JW Marriott Marquis hotel in Bangkok and two Autograph Collection hotelsSource: www.hospitalitynet.org/news/4101438.html
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31-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe Bank of Thailand have revealed that the economy improved in Q3, with long holidays and government spendingSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/thai-economic-indicators-show-good-signs-in-q3-tourism-shrinks-due-to-intl-travel-limits-331739
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31-Oct-2020 👨✈️ aviationBangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport’s terminal extension is now 90% complete, and set to open in 2022. It will increase the airport’s capacity by 15 million to 60 million pax per year. A third runway is also under construction, and will be completed in 2023, allowing 90 million pax/ yearSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/bangkoks-suvarnabhumi-airport-able-to-serve-60-million-passengers-in-2022-331708
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31-Oct-2020 👨✈️ aviation4,977 staff at Thai Airways Intl have applied for voluntary redundancySource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/4977-thai-airways-staff-to-voluntarily-resign-331716
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31-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe PM will visit Phuket to meet with tourism operators, as well as hold a Cabinet retreatSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/phuket-targeted-as-world-class-heath-tourism-331720
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31-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThai health authorities are guaranteeing the safety of shortening the quarantine period from 14 to 10 days for those coming from countries of low transmissionSource: www.pattayamail.com/news/thailand-guarantees-safety-of-quarantine-from-14-to-10-days-for-air-arrivals-331732
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31-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thai Hotels Association (THA) has said that many hotels are reluctant to apply for Alternative Local State Quarantine (ALSQ) status due to uncertainty, different provincial health regulations and inbound tourists only allowed to fly directly to destinations. Those hotels which are ALQ have seen minimal profit as there are extra costs involved such as mandatory testsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2011483/hotels-baulk-at-alsq-certification
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30-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) predicts that a target of 250 billion THB from domestic tourism could be reached, and if the political situation stablished, potentially further revenue as people who would usually travel at the year-end may travel domestically instead. Pattaya, Hua Hin and Chiang Mai are all top of the list for Bangkok holidaymakersSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/pattaya-and-chiang-mai-on-top-list-for-high-season-tourism-331728
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30-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundA study has put Phuket at the top of its list of cheapest travel destinations, with a 1-night hotel stay less than $30 USD. It was also 5th in a list of the top destinations which have had the largest price drops between 2020 and 2019 – Bangkok was 4thSource: thethaiger.com/news/phuket/phuket-tops-travel-destination-list-of-cheapest-hotel-prices-dertour-2020-price-index
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30-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundBangkok Airways has launched the Bangkok Airways Elite Card, which allows members unlimited travel on domestic flights in 2021 for 100,000 THBSource: www.ttgasia.com/2020/10/30/bangkok-airways-unveils-unlimited-domestic-flight-card/
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30-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThailand will develop a “Smart Band”, which will be used to track inbound tourists. It would track their location, body temperature, blood pressure and heart rate. It would initially be trialled on a group of incoming tourists on 1 NovSource: thepattayanews.com/2020/10/30/thailand-announces-smart-band-mandatory-tracking-device-for-foreign-tourists-who-visit-the-country-during-covid-19-pandemic/
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30-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundTests have shown that a Frenchwoman who contracted COVID-19 in Koh Samui did not become infected at the quarantine facilitySource: thethaiger.com/coronavirus/tests-show-samui-woman-did-not-contract-virus-at-quarantine-hotel
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30-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundBangkok World, a new retail and entertainment project, will delay its opening to 2022 due to the pandemicSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2010747/bangkok-world-opening-to-be-delayed
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30-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Authority of Thailand has said that all inbound tourist sin the first phase of reopening must stay in alternative state quarantines (ASQ) in Bangkok, as direct flights to other provinces have been delayed and Bangkok has the “best equipped” public health system. Tourists will be allowed to stay in alternative local state quarantines (ALSQ) in provincial areas if there is enough demand in the 2nd phase of reopeningSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2010731/tat-says-all-arrivals-must-stay-at-asq-facilities-in-bangkok
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30-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe Loy Krathong festival is forecast to generate only 9.4 billion THB, the lowest revenue for 9 years. A survey showed that 36.3% said they would not join the festival due to the economy, political demonstrations and COVID-19Source: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailands-loy-krathong-festival-this-weekend-to-circulate-9-4-billion-baht-in-provinces-331469
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30-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe TAT will allow unlicensed hotels which have taxpayer identification to be part of the We Travel Together domestic stimulus, as only 1.9 million out of 5 million room nights have been booked, and 100,000 air tickets out of 2 million. The TAT is also talking to OTAs such as Agoda, Traveloka and Ascend Travel to sell tour packages on their sites without charging tour operators a commission fee. They would also be able to buy air tickets with instant discountsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2010731/tat-says-all-arrivals-must-stay-at-asq-facilities-in-bangkok
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30-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundJapan will lift its entry ban on travellers from China, Taiwan, South Korea, Australia, Brunei, New Zealand, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam from 1 Nov, but will continue to suspend its visa waiver agreements, meaning that tourists would still not be allowed to travel. Japan has also lowered its travel advisories from Level 2 (advises against all travel) to Level 3 (advises against nonessential travel)Source: www.bangkokpost.com/world/2011303/japan-lifts-entry-ban-for-thailand-with-conditions
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29-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundForeign tourists and crew on foreign yachts will be permitted to apply for the Special Tourist Visa scheme once they arrive at immigration checkpointsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2010091/cabinet-okays-reopening-to-tourists-yacht-crews
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29-Oct-2020 👨✈️ aviationBangkok Airways will launch its flights between Krabi and Bangkok from 1 NovSource: www.asiatraveltips.com/news20/2910-KrabiThailand.shtml
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29-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundKoh Phangan was voted the third best island in Asia by the readers’ choice awards from the Conde Nast TravelerSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2009983/phangan-voted-third-best-island
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29-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe cabinet has approved a 66.68 million THB project by the Tourism and Sports Ministry to organise training for 12,000 tourism workers, a 19.12 million THB project to upgrade sand dunes in Chumphon to become an ecotourism destination and a 4 million THB project to upgrade the service quality of tourism entrepreneurs in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon and RanongSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2010091/cabinet-okays-reopening-to-tourists-yacht-crews
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29-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundPattaya wants to introduce its own “Pattaya model” of the Special Tourist Visa (STV) to attract Russian and Chinese tourists. The Mayor is planning a private-government committee to plan the model, and would look at targeting tourists from low-risk cities, as well as opening up U-Tapao airport to welcome direct international flightsSource: thepattayanews.com/2020/10/29/pattaya-city-to-introduce-pattaya-model-to-potentially-attract-chinese-and-russian-tourists-under-special-tourist-visa-scheme/
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28-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThailand may focus on building up its tourism arrivals from China, with the TAT forecasting a rebound of 7.45 million in 2021, assuming travel restrictions are relaxed. They anticipate a high period could be July, after the Chinese school holidays start, and international travel may be permitted by then. They will also focus more on millennials, as they believe that this group will be the first to take outbound trips as they are less concerned about health risksSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2009427/tat-building-chinese-market-part-of-stv
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28-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThailand and China have signed a 50.63 billion THB contract to begin construction of a high-speed railway between Bangkok and Nakhon RatchasimaSource: www.theedgemarkets.com/article/thailand-china-ink-deal-build-highspeed-railway
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28-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe emergency decree has been extended until 30 NovSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2009867/emergency-decree-extended-to-end-nov-to-curb-coronavirus
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28-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thai PM has said that he will not resign, but will form a working group to discuss solutions with the demonstratorsSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thai-prime-minister-says-he-is-not-quitting-amid-turmoil-of-national-issues-331456
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28-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundPhuket will ask the government for 2.9 billion THB to build a health tourism centreSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/phuket-will-survive-as-health-tourism-center-and-food-city-331476
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27-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundRatchaphruek Hospital has been awarded the Global Healthcare Accreditation's Certification of Conformance with COVID-19 Guidelines for Medical Travel ProgramsSource: www.prnewswire.com/ae/news-releases/ratchaphruek-hospital-achieves-gha-s-covid-19-certification-of-conformance-for-medical-travel-885908777.html
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27-Oct-2020 🛬 inbound145 tourists arrived into Bangkok from Guangzhou under the Special Tourist Visa (STV) schemeSource: thethaiger.com/news/national/145-more-on-special-tourist-visa-arrive-in-bangkok
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26-Oct-2020 🛬 inbound20,000-30,000 pax visited Trat over the long weekend, with an estimated hundreds of millions of THB generated, with hotels and resorts seeing 90% bookingsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2008095/holiday-sees-tourist-spots-full-to-brim
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26-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThailand is creating a list of low-risk countries, which will be used to consider reducing quarantine periodsSource: www.nationthailand.com/business/30396709
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26-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe Six Senses Ko Yao Noi and the Phuket Hotels for Islands Sustaining Tourism in Thailand (PHIST) both won awards in the HICAP 2020 Sustainable Hotel AwardsSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/phukets-ecotourism-efforts-won-hicap-2020-sustainable-hotel-awards-331241
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26-Oct-2020 👨✈️ aviationAirAsia Thailand operated 96% of its pre-COVID capacity in Sep, up 59% from Jul. In Q3, it carried 1.8 million pax with a load factor of 65%. It plans to exceed its pre-COVID domestic levels by the end of Q4Source: simpleflying.com/air-asia-thailand/
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25-Oct-2020 🛬 inbound5,526 tourists climbed Doi Inthanon, Thailand’s highest mountain, on Saturday of the long weekendSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2007943/tourists-flock-to-doi-inthanon-for-long-weekend
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24-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) has called for all government agencies to work closely with one another to avoid misunderstandingsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2007443/tourism-operators-seek-cooperation
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24-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThailand’s pro-democracy protests called for the resignation of the PM by 10pm on 24 Oct, but after calls went unmet, are calling for a new protest outside the German Embassy in Bangkok on 26 OctSource: asia.nikkei.com/Politics/Turbulent-Thailand/Thailand-protesters-plan-rally-at-German-Embassy-after-PM-s-silence
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24-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundPattaya saw a good number of visitors on the first of 2 consecutive long weekends, with hotel bookings hitting the 50% levels this weekendSource: www.pattayamail.com/news/chulalongkorn-weekend-boosts-pattaya-331004
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23-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundDespite China banning outbound tours for the foreseeable future, officials maintain that Chinese arrivals under the Special Tourist Visa (STV) are permittedSource: thethaiger.com/hot-news/tourism/chinese-travellers-can-depart-china-and-travel-to-thailand-on-the-stv
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23-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThailand has been added to the EU’s list of epidemiologically safe third countries, whose residents should be allowed to enter for non-essential purposes like tourism. Member States are encouraged to gradually lift external borders for Thailand’s residentsSource: www.schengenvisainfo.com/news/eu-adds-singapore-to-its-list-of-epidemiologically-safe-countries-removes-canada-georgia-tunisia/
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23-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundA French woman on Koh Samui has tested positive for COVID-19 after arriving on 30 Sep, and undergoing a 14-day quarantine, where she tested negative. Authorities say that this could be a locally transmitted caseSource: apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-bangkok-thailand-health-baf31722fb5740ab4617305339c218bd
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23-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe TAT has clarified that the medical insurance required for visiting Thailand can be obtained online before arrivalSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/compulsory-medical-insurance-for-foreign-visitors-traveling-to-kingdom-of-thailand-330929
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23-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundBangkok Airways are resuming more local routes, including Samui-Phuket, Phuket-Hat Yai and Phuket-Pattaya/Rayong (U-Tapao)Source: thethaiger.com/hot-news/tourism/bangkok-airways-add-3-new-local-routes-to-their-schedule
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23-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundTourism business closures have doubled because of COVID-19, an auditing firm has estimatedSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2006727/mazars-flags-tourism-related-closures
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23-Oct-2020 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways has prepared a plan for its lessors that includes reductions in fleet size and types of aircraft it operates, as well as cuts for lessorsSource: www.flightglobal.com/fleets/thai-pitches-simplified-fleet-and-rental-haircuts-sources/140758.article
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23-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe government has clarified that tourists entering under the STV are allowed to choose the location of their quarantine hotels, whether in Bangkok or in the provinces, after a report that tourists who wanted to choose a hotel in Pattaya were blocked. The TAT have said that 13 Hong Kong tourists have been approved under the STV, and that 13 tourists from Shenzhen, two from Singapore, 118 from Shanghai and 147 from Guangzhou have submitted requests to the TAT. If there is sufficient demand, semi-commercial flights may be allowed to bring the tourists inSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2006819/china-stvs-exempt-from-ban
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22-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) has agreed to 2 quarantine packages for tourists: wellness quarantines at medical spas and wellness resorts, and a long-term care package for elderly travellers. The two models for wellness quarantines would come into effect after a 14-day quarantine, and include a 7-10 day health program package, with 40 different venues considered, and a one-month package for older travellers including physical therapy, yoga and basic exercise. An additional package related to golfing is also being consideredSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30396610?utm_source=category&utm_medium=internal_referral
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22-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundNo international tourism arrivals were announced for Sep in ThailandSource: corporatetravelcommunity.com/thailand-reports-no-visitor-arrivals-in-sep-2020/
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22-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundSevere flooding in Cambodia has resulted in 36 deaths, affecting 312,224 peopleSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/floods-kill-36-people-in-cambodia/189079.vnp
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22-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe number of international arrivals from Jan-Sep has dropped 77.3% YoY, and revenue dropped 77% YoY. Overall tourism receipts are down 70.6% YoY, whilst domestic tourism trips dropped 54.7% YoY to 52.7 million trips. Sep’s domestic trip numbers were the highest since the outbreak, at 8.58 million, but are still down 35% YoY. The tourism minister expects that the number of domestic trips will reach 9-10 million in high season due to the extended stimulus and better weather. Overall hotel occupancy in Sep remained at 27.9% and domestic air flight volume was 16,229 in SepSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2006183/first-batch-of-tourists-covid-free
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22-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe first group of Chinese tourists under the STV were COVID-free, the government announcedSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2006183/first-batch-of-tourists-covid-free
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22-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundBangkok’s “severe” state of emergency has now been liftedSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30396600
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22-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe Ministry of Public Health hopes to reduce quarantine from 14 to 10 daysSource: www.khaosodenglish.com/news/crimecourtscalamity/2020/10/22/officials-aim-to-reduce-quarantine-for-tourists-to-10-days/
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22-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundOverseas yachts can now dock in Thailand, but tourists and crew members will need to quarantine for 14 days on board the yacht and be tested for COVID-19 3 times prior to entry. Officials estimate there are around 60 yachts with 600-650 crew and tourists who want to dock in Thailand, which could generate 2.1 million THBSource: thethaiger.com/news/national/foreign-yachts-allowed-to-dock-in-thailand-tourists-to-quarantine-onboard
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21-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundKhao San Road is holding a fair from 30-31 Oct, to showcase the new look and promote “Modern Thainess”Source: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2005431/khao-san-road-to-reopen-with-special-fair
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21-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe Bank of Thailand has estimated that tourism-related income in 2020 has fallen by 1.6 trillion THB, equivalent to 10% of GDP. They predict that GDP will return to pre-pandemic levels in Q3 2022Source: www.pattayamail.com/coronavirus/thailand-tourism-related-income-fell-by-1-6-trillion-baht-this-year-330595
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21-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe extension of the nationwide state of emergency until 30 Nov has been approved by the CCSA, and is waiting approval by the cabinet next weekSource: www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-10-21/thailand-approves-extension-of-emergency-amid-return-of-tourists
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21-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundApplications for the Thai Elite Visa are doubling every month, according to Thailand Privilege Card, with 11,500 applications now receivedSource: www.pattayamail.com/news/thailands-elite-visa-is-a-cash-beneficiary-of-the-coronavirus-pandemic-330605
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21-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe TAT said that the We Travel Together domestic stimulus scheme has generated 1.6 million room nights and 4.7 billion THB. They are planning to provide an easier way to redeem bookings of 3.4 million available rooms by 31 Jan, and have met global hotel operators to discuss plansSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2005547/tat-says-countrys-reopening-must-proceed-with-small-steps
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21-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thai Hotels Association (THA) will offer expats a 1,000 THB discount on 5,000 room nights under the Expat Travel Bonus scheme. It is also calling for the government to move its domestic stimulus program onto e-commerce platforms such as Lazada or ShopeeSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2005531/tha-touts-expat-discounts
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21-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundAn island between Phi Phi and Krabi mainland has had a large part collapse into the sea, damaging the coralSource: www.thephuketnews.com/island-collapse-dumps-30-000-tonnes-of-rock-onto-phi-phi-national-park-reef-77709.php
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21-Oct-2020 🛬 inbound39 Chinese visitors arrived into Thailand under the STV on 20 Oct, and will now undergo a 14-day quarantineSource: www.khaosodenglish.com/news/crimecourtscalamity/2020/10/21/39-chinese-are-thailands-1st-foreign-tourists-in-7-months/
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21-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe TAT has rolled out its 2021 Tourism Plan which will target healthy tourists. They will highlight natural beauty, cultural sites and authentic Thai food. They expect Thai people to make 120 million domestic trips and spend 800 billion THB. For inbound tourism, they expect 20 million visitors, generating 1.5 trillion THBSource: www.khaosodenglish.com/news/crimecourtscalamity/2020/10/21/tats-new-strategy-hopes-to-attract-more-tourists-amid-covid-19/
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20-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe government will allocate as much as 4 billion THB to develop Phuket’s medical tourism industry into a world-class hubSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2004831/treasury-allots-b4bn-for-medical-hub
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20-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe Bank of Thailand has approved the extension of its 500 billion THB soft loan scheme by 6 months, as well as allowing companies listed on the Market for Alternative Investment to apply, something which affected SMEsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2004827/bot-okays-extension-of-b500bn-soft-loan-plan
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20-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe appointments for interviews for the STV at the Shanghai consulate for Thailand are fully booked into Nov, and Chinese travellers are facing difficulties obtaining flightsSource: asia.nikkei.com/Economy/Chinese-scramble-for-Thailand-s-new-special-tourist-visa
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20-Oct-2020 👨✈️ aviation10 international airlines are selling tickets to Thailand, including Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines, Lufthansa, Swissair, Austrian Airlines, EVA Air and KLMSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30396488?utm_source=category&utm_medium=internal_referral
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20-Oct-2020 🛬 inbound100 tourists from Guangzhou are expected to arrive on 26 Oct from Guangzhou into BangkokSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30396488?utm_source=category&utm_medium=internal_referral
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20-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Council of Thailand are urging the government to engage with protestors without triggering a coup, as that would worsen the economy and affect the country's image on the global stage.” A prolonged dispute could hurt tourism. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has said that “it is too early to assess the impact on tourism as mass gatherings have occurred recently and there has been no violence.”Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2004791/tourism-body-urges-dialogue-to-end-strife
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19-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundTour operators in Samui are urging the government to help make flights and ferries cheaper for tourists to the islandSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2004283/samui-ready-to-petition-for-cheap-flights
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18-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundAn additional 3 local transmitted cases in Mae Sot have been detected, the family members of the Myanmar nationals who tested positive on 17 OctSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2004091/3-more-local-covid-transmissions-in-mae-sot
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17-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThousands of protestors gathered in Bangkok on 17 Oct after a police crackdown on 16 Oct, where police advanced into crowds with shields and batons. It was the 4th consecutive day of mass protestsSource: www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/thousands-occupy-bangkok-streets-in-4th-day-of-protests
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17-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThailand is in talks with China to establish quarantine-free travel by Jan, subject to the limited reopening in 2020 being a success. Instead, tourists would need to be tested and have a mobile tracking app installed. The Tourism Minister believes that if an agreement with China is struck, further agreements could be made with Japan, South Korea, Singapore and Taiwan, and expect arrivals of 5-10 million in 2021Source: www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/thailand-in-talks-with-china-on-quarantine-free-travel-corridor
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17-Oct-2020 🛬 inbound38 flights at Chiang Mai International Airport will be rescheduled or cancelled to avoid accidents with sky lanterns during the Yi Peng FestivalSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2003559/lanterns-see-chiang-mai-flights-halted
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17-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) has been advised to cut quarantine down to 10 days from 14, and a decision is expected at the end of the monthSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2003539/quarantine-for-covid-may-be-cut-to-10-days
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17-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe Bank of Thailand extended its debt moratorium until 30 Jun 2021 fir SMEs with credit lines below 100 million THBSource: www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-10/18/c_139448009.htm
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16-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe first group of 120 STV tourists is expected to arrive on 20 Oct at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport from Guangzhou. The second group of 120 people, also from Guangzhou, is expected into Phuket on 26 Oct. They will stay in Thailand for 30 days, and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) will provide them with activities to do during their 14-day quarantine periodSource: www.thephuketnews.com/first-stv-arrivals-due-next-week-from-china-77658.php
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16-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundAround 500 Thai Elite Card members have been approved to visit Thailand. The scheme received 900 new applications in Aug and Sep, compared to 400 pre-pandemicSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2002903/ccsa-clears-500-elite-card-members
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16-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thai cabinet has confirmed a state of emergency in Bangkok for one month from 15 OctSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/politics/2003319/cabinet-confirms-state-of-emergency-curfew-if-protests-escalate
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16-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundA new test kit is being developed which does not need blood or swabs, and would take 3-5 days for accurate results, the Public Health Minister has saidSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30396323?utm_source=category&utm_medium=internal_referral
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15-Oct-2020 👨✈️ aviationThai AirAsia has filed an extra 3 domestic routes from Suvarnabhumi Airport – Hat Yai, Nakhon Si Thammarat and Nan from the end of OctSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2020/10/thai-airasia-boost-flights-from-swb/
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15-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thai government banned gatherings of 5 or more people and the publication of online news or messages which could harm national security in an emergency decreeSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/politics/2002531
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15-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThai Airbnb hosts and guests will follow Airbnb COVID-19 Safety Practices, as well as a5-step enhanced cleaning process, something which the Department of Health in Thailand has said “go above and beyond” Thailand’s standardsSource: news.airbnb.com/th/airbnb-and-the-department-of-health-align-on-cleaning-standards-in-thailand/
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15-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundPhitsanulok has called Phu Thap Si in Ban Nam Chuang as “Sapa Muang Thai” to promote the village as a tourist attractionSource: www.bangkokpost.com/travel/2002515/phitsanulok-unveils-sapa-of-thailand
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14-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundOnly 35% of Chiang Mai’s hotels are opened, according to the Tourism Association of Chiang Mai, whilst 1,000 tour guides are unemployedSource: thethaiger.com/news/chiang-mai/chiang-mai-tourism-slowdown-takes-a-toll-on-local-businesses
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14-Oct-2020 👨✈️ aviationSingapore Airlines have started selling air tickets from Singapore to Bangkok from 16 OctSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2020/10/sq-resumes-seat-sales-to-bangkok/
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13-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe Ministry of Health has proposed that short-term international tourists can visit in groups, but the new tourists would be allowed to leave the hotel during the quarantine period on local escorted tours. These visitors would need to wear tracking devices and would be accompanied by medical agents, with Chonburi a potential trial run locationSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/latest-effort-to-revive-thai-tourism-reflects-the-north-korean-model-329722
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13-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundA new destination video launched by Skål Samui has been launched to encourage tourism to Koh SamuiSource: www.ttgasia.com/2020/10/13/skal-samui-launches-tourism-recovery-initiative/
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13-Oct-2020 🛬 inbound192 billion THB is expected to be generated for the Thai economy thanks to the Return on Good Shopping scheme, the co-pay scheme and an additional living allowance for state welfare cardholdersSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2001079/measures-to-pump-in-b192bn
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13-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe new Finance Minister has included assisting tourism businesses as one of his four criteria to manage the Thai economy, admitting that measures aiming to firm up financial liquidity had not been effective for tourism businesses. He has also asked the Bank of Thailand about the soft loans requested by airlinesSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2001087/finance-minister-has-four-main-tasks
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12-Oct-2020 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways has announced it is planning more staff furloughs and offer early retirement to maximise its cash reserves until Apr 2021. 80% of the airline’s staff have already agreed to cut their salaries or take unpaid leave, but their revenue is still not enough to keep the company going in 2021Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2000419/thai-offers-leave-early-retirement
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12-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundAccording to reports, no tourists from Guangzhou applied for the new STV, as the TAT had apparently released a list of tourists expressing their ‘interest’, but who did not go through the process of applying for the visaSource: thethaiger.com/hot-news/visa/no-one-in-guangzhou-applied-for-the-special-tourist-visa
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12-Oct-2020 👨✈️ aviationThai Vietjet is planning to increase its employees by an additional 300 staff by YE, in anticipation of Thailand reopening to international tourists and travel corridors being establishedSource: www.traveldailymedia.com/thai-vietjet-hiring-spree-to-expand-flight-network/
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12-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundAccording to a Sep government survey, 27% of Thai travellers travelled upcountry from Jul-Sep, 56% of which was for sightseeing and 44% for visiting family. As for Oct, 47.7% said they have no plans to visit upcountry. Top worries for the travellers included a 2nd COVID wave, increasing consumer prices and increasing household debtSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30396048
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12-Oct-2020 🛬 inbound62 million domestic trips have been taken from Jan-Aug, making the TAT confident that a target of 80-100 million trips is feasible by YE. The Tourism Council of Thailand predicts just 50,000 foreign arrivals in Q4 2020, down 99.5% YoY. The YE international tourists arrival number is likely to be 6.74 millionSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2000595/sluggish-recovery
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12-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe TAT predicts that tourism could generate 1.5 trillion THB in 2021 in a best-case scenario, whilst worst-case scenarios could see 700 billion THB. Domestic tourism would count for 400-774 billion THB of the amount, and they aim to generate 126 million trips. International tourism revenue could vary from 300 billion – 1.5 trillion THB, depending on the global situationSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/2000547/tat-predicts-b1-5tn-in-best-case-for-2021
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10-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Minister has said, "Before we approach the second stage on Nov 17, which aims to shorten the quarantine period, we must evaluate the first phase. If there's even a single case, we cannot continue to the second phase." The first group of tourists from China are expected on 20 Oct to Bangkok, and the next group will be 26 Oct to Phuket. The Scandinavian group is still scheduled for 1 Nov. The Tourism Minister suggests that the Foreign Ministry consider tourists based on city, rather than country, and will also propose a 7+7 plan, where tourists should stay in their rooms for 7 days, then be allowed outside the room, but remain within the hotel area for 7 daysSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1999715/tourism-minister-raises-caveat-on-reopening
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10-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundChiang Mai has lost 100 billion THB in tourism revenue. The Chiang Mai Chamber of Commerce is rolling out a project to attract domestic tourists to the city and neighbouring provinces, hoping to generate 70 billion THB. They will also target medical tourists and are preparing the Alternative Local Quarantine (ALQ) for the STV touristsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1999635/chiang-mai-suffers-b100bn-in-lost-tourist-revenue
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10-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundBangkok will open 30 public parks for those celebrating the Loy Krathong festivalSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1999663/parks-will-open-for-festival
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10-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe Health Ministry has said that the quarantine for travellers arriving from a low-risk country (where infection is at 0.2 per 100,000 residents) could have a 7-day quarantine, but additional checks would need to be in placeSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1999735/quarantine-could-be-halved-for-low-risk-visitors-ministry
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10-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundForeigners who own property in Thailand will be added to the list permitted to apply to enter Thailand – but they need to be able to show a balance of at least 3 million THB deposited in a Thai bank accountSource: forum.thaivisa.com/topic/1186794-foreign-property-owners-now-allowed-to-return-to-thailand/
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10-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundMu Koh Similan National Park will open from 15 Oct to tourism. The island took tourism entrepreneurs and the press to visit the islands ahead of the openingSource: www.nationthailand.com/travel/30395975
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10-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Minister is planning to include tour operators into the domestic stimulus package by asking them to arrange weekday tour packages for 55-75 years old passengers. The tourists would be entitled to a 40% subsidy, capped at 5,000 THB/ pax in NovSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1999715/tourism-minister-raises-caveat-on-reopening
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09-Oct-2020 👨✈️ aviationThe Thai Airways International workers’ union is protesting against the appointment of the chairman’s wife to a higher position, saying that it undermines trustSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1999579/thai-staff-angered-by-executive-promotions
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09-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thai consumer confidence dropped in Sep, for the first time in 5 monthsSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailands-plan-to-restore-tourism-industry-would-not-bear-fruits-soon-329379
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09-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundKhao Yai National Park has temporarily closed after access to it has been blocked by mudslides and trees after unprecedented rainSource: www.thaipbsworld.com/khao-yai-national-park-temporarily-closed/
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09-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundLuxury hotels which have recently opened in Bangkok during the pandemic are hoping to attract long-stay visitors. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) have said that they have around 800-1,000 Chinese tourists prepared to fly in on the STV on private jets during phase 1 of reopeningSource: www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-10-09/luxury-thai-hotels-opening-in-pandemic-bet-on-5-star-quarantine
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09-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundMinor International have warned that they may need to cut more jobs and close recently reopened properties, as they posted their biggest quarterly loss for Q2. 83% of the hotel chain’s 526 hotels are currently operating, and they hope to increase that to 90% by YE. The chairman of the company said that he believed that if China does not allow its tourists to visit Thailand soon, he believes the Thai economy is “toast”Source: www.theedgemarkets.com/article/tycoon-running-500-hotels-warns-more-job-cuts-closures
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09-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) will work closely with the Foreign Ministry to facilitate incoming tourists, as hundreds of travellers await permission, including Thailand Elite Card members and Special Tourist Visa (STV) applicantsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1999135/tat-and-foreign-ministry-collaborate-for-entry-flow
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09-Oct-2020 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways will keep Thai Smile Airways, and will use it to operate short international flights with “travel bubble” countriesSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thai-smile-airways-to-serve-travel-bubble-international-flights-including-china-329337
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09-Oct-2020 👨✈️ aviationPhuket International Airport is expecting to see at least 15,000 domestic tourists/ day during its vegetarian festival from 16-25 Oct, generating around 200 million THB. They expect 90 domestic flights/ day, compared to the weekend’s daily average of 80 and weekdays of 70. The airport has had a 48% drop YoY in the number of flights, around 9 million paxSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1998951/phuket-veggie-festival-spurs-airport-passengers
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09-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB) now predict that the Thai economy will shrink by -8 to -10% this year, vs its previous forecast of -12%Source: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thai-economic-recovery-expected-in-q4-329243
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09-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe director-general of the Department of Medical Services is supporting the reopening of Thailand, saying: "This means we may have to see a small number of infections but if we work together to prevent them, the country will be able to achieve a balance between public health and the economy." He also mentioned that maintaining zero cases was unrealisticSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1998935/medical-chief-backs-reopening
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09-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe American being sued over negative hotel reviews will issue an apology to the hotel, tourism board and explain to TripAdvisor his defamation complaint. The hotel will then withdraw the defamation complaintSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1998927/american-to-say-sorry-for-bad-reviews
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08-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe STV, which would have seen the first group of Chinese tourists arrive into Phuket, has now been delayed until after the island’s vegetarian festival has finished, to allow locals to celebrate without fear. There have been cancellations from locals to Phuket after conflicting messages from the governmentSource: www.khaosodenglish.com/news/crimecourtscalamity/2020/10/08/pandemic-tourist-visas-shelved-in-favor-of-local-vacationers/
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08-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe government’s We Travel Together program and the Encouragement domestic tourism stimulus program has been extended to 31 Jan 2021Source: www.nationthailand.com/news/30395840
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08-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) are planning future international events whilst it waits for restrictions to be loosened, aiming to secure 40 billion THB in 2020. Around 360 Chinese companies have enquired about MICE groups in Thailand from Apr 2021 onwards. International MICE visitors would be allowed to travel in groups of maximum 10 pax, and would be monitored by liaisons. TCEB is also planning for 2022-2025, considering at least 15 events. MICE tourism has dropped by 60% YoY in 2020Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1998575/tceb-lines-up-future-mice-arrivals-next-year
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08-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe Centre for Economic Situation Administration (Cesa) approved the proposal to give taxpayers income tax deductions of up to 30,000 THB for products and services with 7% VAT, to boost consumption. This will run from 23 Oct – 31 Dec. Accommodation and air tickets will be exclude from the program. They also approved a change to the domestic tourism stimulus package, which will allow them to use e-vouchers to pay for food, entrance fees at tourist attractions. More health workers will also be included in the health workers tourism programSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1998351/b30-000-tax-break-gets-nod
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08-Oct-2020 👨✈️ aviationPhuket International Airport now has COVID-19 mobile testing units stationed at the airportSource: www.thephuketnews.com/phuket-airport-gets-covid-19-mobile-test-labs-77576.php
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08-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundAdministrative processes have delayed the issuing of the STV, the TAT has said – they expect 100 tourists to arrive this monthSource: www.reuters.com/article/idUSKBN26T1TT
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08-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThailand will face a steep economic decline if it does not improve tourism, Fitch Ratings has saidSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1998455/fitch-warns-of-steep-path-without-tourists
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08-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe government is still considering whether to limit international tourists to particular beaches or closed off areasSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/tourists-from-china-accessible-to-limited-beaches-or-closed-off-areas-not-entire-island-329231
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08-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundTAT have won the bid to hold the Travel Blog Exchange (TBEX) 2021 from 20-22 Oct 2021, in PhuketSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-wins-bid-to-host-tbex-asia-2021-in-phuket-next-october-329219
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07-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundJapan will lift its travel advisories for citizens to travel to Singapore, Thailand, South Korea, China, Hong Kong, Macao, Australia, New Zealand, Brunei, Vietnam, Malaysia, and TaiwanSource: asia.nikkei.com/Politics/Japan-to-lift-14-day-quarantine-for-reentering-business-travelers
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07-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundChonburi has had more bookings through the domestic tourism stimulus than any other province, with Bangkok coming in 2ndSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/pattaya-and-chonburi-doing-best-from-failed-subsidized-domestic-tourism-campaign-328962
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07-Oct-2020 👨✈️ aviationThai Smile will connect to Sabre’s GDS platform to use the latter’s travel marketplace and reach more worldwide partnersSource: www.ttgasia.com/2020/10/07/thai-smile-teams-up-with-sabre-to-drive-domestic-tourism/
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07-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe TAT has launched a Workation Thailand project, which will encourage the government and private sector to have staff work, meet and party in a new place. The aim is to stimulate domestic tourismSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/workation-thailand-allows-staff-to-work-meet-and-party-at-different-atmospheres-329125
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07-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundBangkok’s central train station opening has been delayed until 31 Jul 2021Source: asia.nikkei.com/Business/Transportation/Bangkok-s-central-train-hub-opening-delayed-till-July-2021
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07-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundA poll by the National Institute of Development Administration has shown that 57% of Thais disagreed with the STV scheme, with 40.2% saying it could cause a 2nd outbreak. 62.6% of Thais had no confidence in the government’s ability to prevent the spread of Covid-19 once they reopen the country to foreign touristsSource: thethaiger.com/hot-news/tourism/poll-finds-many-disagree-with-reopening-borders-lack-confidence-in-covid-19-prevention-measures
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07-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundQatar Airways will now carry pax on inbound flights to Bangkok until 31 OctSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2020/10/qatar-can-fly-travellers-to-thailand/
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07-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe Centre for Economic Situation Administration (CESA) is considering a proposal to exempt key foreign investors from quarantineSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1997651/vip-investors-could-skip-quarantine
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07-Oct-2020 👨✈️ aviationThai Vietjet inaugurated its first Bangkok – Ubon Ratchathani flight on 6 OctSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/vietjet-inaugurates-bangkokubon-ratchathani-route/188184.vnp
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06-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe head of the panel for economic recovery has said that Thailand should reopen now, or face collapse. They said that the Q4 season was vital to the industry, and if it reopened after that, it would be too lateSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1997011/reopen-now-or-face-collapse
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06-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundAgoda has shown that the top destinations for Thais are Bangkok, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, Hua Hin and Phuket. Secondary tier cities such as Nakhon Si Thammarat, Nakhon Nayok, Khon Kaen, Udon Thani and Chanthaburi are becoming more popular, tooSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1997163/agoda-ready-for-long-haul-after-layoffs
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05-Oct-2020 👨✈️ aviationBangkok Airways has resumed its Bangkok – Trat flightSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2020/10/bangkok-airways-flies-to-trat/
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05-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundA special travel fair aimed at expats will be held from 10-11 Oct in Bangkok, to encourage the expat community to book travelSource: www.tatnews.org/2020/10/tat-launches-expat-travel-bonus-the-healthy-journey-promotional-campaign/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=tat-launches-expat-travel-bonus-the-healthy-journey-promotional-campaign
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04-Oct-2020 🛬 inbound4 more airports have been given initial approval to receive international medical tourists: U-Tapao, Koh Samui, Chiang Mai and PhuketSource: thethaiger.com/coronavirus/more-thai-airports-to-be-prepared-for-the-arrival-of-medical-tourists
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04-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundAll Special Tourist Visa (STV) applicants must come from low-risk countriesSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1996083/high-risk-tourists-barred-from-visit
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03-Oct-2020 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways will launch an economy plus class for passengers from Bangkok to London and Frankfurt from 25 Oct. This class would leave the middle seats empty and have special services like express check-in, extra weight allowance and the same in-flight meal as business classSource: www.nationthailand.com/business/30395542
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03-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundA plan to assist micro enterprises with an SME fund is unlikely to come to fruition, as there is not enough liquidity in placeSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1995779/sme-fund-unlikely-to-get-nod-warns-deputy-pm
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03-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundDespite earlier proclaiming that the first group of Chinese tourists under the STV would arrive on 8 Oct, the Tourism & Sports Ministry has now revealed that this is delayed to later in Oct, as entry processes had had to be settled first. However, it is still set to go ahead and will welcome at least 1,200 tourists. They acknowledged that the idea of a shorter quarantine period of 7 days could be “on the radar, but we need to see how it goes step by step”. They also clarified that any province which has alternative local state quarantine facilities (ALSQ) can be a destination for long-stay tourists, not just Phuket and Koh Samui. However, only Phuket and Bangkok can host STV tourists in Oct, as tourists must fly into a city with an international airport and ALSQSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1995839/shaking-off-delay-tourism-ministry-promises-tourists-this-month
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03-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) have launched a “new normal” tour on a special train from Bangkok to Hua HinSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/special-tour-train-launched-by-tat-and-thai-hotels-association-328676
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02-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism & Sports Minister confirmed the first group of 150 Chinese tourists under the STV would arrive into Thailand on a chartered AirAsia flight. Another group of 126 would arrive from Guangdong to Bangkok on 25 Oct, and a 3rd group of 120 from Scandinavia and Schengen countries to Bangkok would arrive on 1 NovSource: www.thephuketnews.com/tourism-minister-confirms-more-inbound-flights-of-tourists-77521.php
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02-Oct-2020 🛬 inbound10% of Thailand’s tourism business are closed, with 540,000 workers made redundant, according to the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT). Operators in the southern and central regions are the worst affected, relying the most on foreigners. 400,000 of those were in Q3, and even those companies which are open have reduced staff by 30%. They predict the number to rise to 1 million by the year end, and hope that the government will extend repayment suspensions, as tourism companies collectively owe 100 billion THBSource: www.nst.com.my/world/region/2020/10/628983/over-half-million-lose-jobs-thailands-virus-hit-tourism-industry
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02-Oct-2020 👨✈️ aviationAirlines are still waiting for a decision on the soft loans which were requested over 6 months ago after the deputy PM hinted that they might not receive support. Thai AirAsia has said that payroll is tough to manage alone, but that they will not let go of employees until they know the financial situation. The Deputy PM has said that airlines should try to negotiate with creditors and not use soft loans to repay debt. Thai Lion Air has also stated that if the government does not approve the soft loans, then they will have to reduce costs as “domestic demand is growing too slowly”Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1995147/airlines-want-answers-on-soft-loans
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02-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundAirports in Thailand will be enhanced for when travel comes back in 2025. The deputy transport minister said that aviation accounts for 15.5% of GDP and employs 4.3 million in Thailand. Unemployment rate of pilots is currently at 15%Source: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thai-airports-to-be-ready-for-restored-traveling-in-2025-328471
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02-Oct-2020 👨✈️ aviationThailand is testing its first seaplane, hoping to be able to commercially produce itSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30395513?utm_source=category&utm_medium=internal_referral
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02-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThai Airways is considering franchising its stalls selling dough fritters, as it has earned the company nearly 10 million THB/ monthSource: www.khaosodenglish.com/news/business/2020/10/02/thai-airways-earns-10-mil-baht-a-month-by-selling-fried-dough/
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02-Oct-2020 👨✈️ aviationBangkok Airways is offering 10-20% off its standard fares for senior citizens, disabled travellers, undergrads, travel-related professionals and government officialsSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2020/10/bangkok-offers-seniors-a-20-discount/
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02-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundA YouGov poll has found that 24% of Thais felt insecure about their employment, vs just 4% pre-COVIDSource: www.khaosodenglish.com/news/crimecourtscalamity/2020/10/02/a-fourth-of-thais-fear-their-jobs-are-on-the-line-survey/
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01-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundA private equity trust which will target the acquisition of hotels and resorts in Thailand has been launchedSource: www.thephuketnews.com/b2-5bn-private-equity-trust-launched-to-target-hotels-in-distress-77502.php
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01-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundKhao San Road will reopen at the end of Oct, with more vendors and events to attract local visitorsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1994591/khao-san-set-to-reopen-for-locals-expats
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01-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe Bank of Thailand expects positive growth in Q2, assuming that government spending and the STV scheme will stimulate the economySource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1994551/bot-predicts-growth-in-upcoming-q2
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01-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundChonburi’s annual water buffalo racing went aheadSource: www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/covid-19-thailand-annual-buffalo-festival-travel-ban-tourism-13169932
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01-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe STV is now officially approved, with the following conditions: • Be from a low-risk country • 14-day quarantine in ALSQ • Provide evidence of a place to stay during the long visit • Proof of payment for hotel accommodation/ hospital for quarantine • Proof of payment for accommodation once discharged from quarantine/ deed title of visitor’s property/ evidence of renting accommodation • Proof of health and accident insurance policy, covering 40,000 THB outpatient treatments, 400,000 THB inpatient treatments • Pay 2,000 THB for a visa for 90 days, which can then be renewed up to 2 timesSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30395428
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01-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) has proposed that foreigners from low-risk countries be allowed to enter without a 14-day quarantine, to boost the number of tourists. They have warned that there will be more closures of tourism businesses if the number of tourists who can enter is not raisedSource: thepattayanews.com/2020/10/01/association-of-thai-travel-agents-urges-thai-government-to-revoke-state-quarantine-from-low-risk-countries-to-draw-at-least-100000-tourists-in-december/
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01-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe Similan Island National Park will reopen from 15 Oct. It will not allow overnight visits yet, but staying on a tour boat overnight is possibleSource: thepattayanews.com/2020/10/01/similan-island-to-re-open-for-tourists-on-october-15-after-months-of-temporary-closure-due-to-the-covid-19-pandemic/
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01-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe PM has promised to protect the biodiversity of Thailand, encouraging sustainabilitySource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30395449
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01-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe head of the Pattaya Business & Tourism Association welcomes the introduction of the STV, but says that it won’t have any significant impact on the tourism industrySource: www.pattayamail.com/news/stv-a-good-idea-but-wont-help-revive-tourism-industry-pattaya-business-leader-says-328439
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01-Oct-2020 🛬 inboundThe hotel on Koh Chang Trat who was pursuing a defamation suit against an American who wrote a negative review on TripAdvisor is now negotiating a settlementSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1994407/hotel-on-koh-chang-ready-to-settle-in-libel-saga-with-guest
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30-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Council of Thailand expects Thailand to have 50,000 international tourists in Q4, down 99.5% YoY, whilst tourism receipts would be 4.5 billion THB, down 99%. Its FY forecast is 6.74 million tourists, down 83% YoY. Its 2021 forecast is 20 million foreign tourists, but if 14-day quarantines remain with no vaccine, that could be in the hundreds of thousands onlySource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1994339/thailand-eyes-50-000-foreign-tourists-in-q4-down-99-5-
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30-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) expects the government to limit the number of foreigners to beaches and national parks, whilst they do not expect a full reopening of the country to happen until vaccines are accessibleSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1994307/beaches-wont-reopen-fully-until-vaccines-become-available
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30-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe government is looking at more stimulus measures to encourage spending amongst the middle and high income earners, and also plans to extend the We Travel Together scheme until the end of the year. As of 29 Sep, the scheme has generated 1.5 million rooms registered out of a targeted 5 millionSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1994351/more-stimulus-measures-in-store-to-drive-spending
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30-Sep-2020 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways will fly special flights to London, Copenhagen, Stockholm, Taipei and Hong Kong in OctSource: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2020/09/30/thai-airways-to-offer-special-flights-to-some-destinations-in-october
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30-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Zoological Park Organization will fully reopen its zoos from 1 OctSource: www.pattayamail.com/news/zoos-in-thailand-to-fully-reopen-on-oct-1-328207
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30-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thai Hotels Association has reminded its members that it must accept feedback and urged for proactive communication between hoteliers and review platformsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1993899/tha-tells-hotels-to-lighten-up
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30-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Center for COVID-19 Situation Administration has approved 6 groups of foreigners into Thailand, including: foreign athletes who will participate in the Tour of Thailand 2020 bike race, Thai Airways pilots and cabin crew, holders of non-immigrant types of visa, long-stay tourist visa, holders of the APEC Business Travel Card from low-risk countriesSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-reopens-for-foreigners-with-at-least-500000-baht-bank-deposits-328212
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30-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundPhuket must rebrand itself away from its expensive image to attract tourism. Siam Commercial Bank has launched a 3 day bootcamp to train local entrepreneurs to rebrand Phuket’s tourism business. It will encourage business owners to lower costs, as well as target digital platformsSource: www.nationthailand.com/travel/30395386
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30-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), its Trang office and local network are preparing for high-season for marine tourism in Oct. They will launch a new kayak route. Hotel operators in the region have already recorded forward bookings at 70% from Oct to DecSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/tourism-operators-in-trang-southern-thailand-ready-for-high-season-328326
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30-Sep-2020 🛬 inbound23 hotels in Koh Samui have been proposed as alternative local state quarantines (ALSQ), with the majority expected to be accepted. Many of the properties are pool villas, and will be a distance away from main streets. The Thai Hotel Association – Southern Chapter East Coast said that 1,000 CCTV cameras will be installed around the islandSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30395380
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29-Sep-2020 👨✈️ aviationBangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport from Oct 2019-Aug 2020 has seen a drop of 42.18% in flights, and a 50% drop in passengersSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1993135/suvarnabhumi-has-sights-set-high
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29-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe visa amnesty for foreigners stranded in Thailand has been extended until 31 OctSource: coconuts.co/bangkok/news/those-in-thai-visa-hell-now-have-until-oct-31/
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29-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThailand is considering granting business visas to Japan to attract investment. They are also thinking of a shorter quarantine, which would allow business travellers. The Deputy PM said, “Next year, we will be focusing on the opening of the country”Source: asia.nikkei.com/Editor-s-Picks/Interview/Thailand-works-to-reopen-for-investors-and-tourists-next-year
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28-Sep-2020 👨✈️ aviationAll Nippon Airways will start flights to Singapore and Bangkok in NovemberSource: asia.nikkei.com/Business/Travel-Leisure/ANA-to-restart-service-to-Singapore-and-Bangkok-in-November
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28-Sep-2020 👨✈️ aviationBangkok Suvarnabhumi Satellite Terminal 1 is now 95% complete, and its transport link to the main terminal should be completed by Apr 2021. It will be able to handle 15 million pax/ yearSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30395259
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28-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundPhitsanulok province is undergoing a process to become a MICE city by the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), and use business events to stimulate the economy. The government is also looking at upgrading Phitsanulok Airport into an international airport, and position it as a wellness destinationSource: www.ttgmice.com/2020/09/28/thailands-phitsanulok-province-earmarked-for-mice-development/
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28-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundOxford Economics don’t envisage tourism spending in Thailand to recover to 2019 levels until 2024, creating a THB4.8 trillion loss in spendingSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2020/09/thailands-tourism-recovery-four-years-away/
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28-Sep-2020 👨✈️ aviationThai Vietjet is launching a “Deluxe” product, which will include 7kg carry-on and 20kh of checked in baggage, as well as priority check-in and seat selectionSource: www.chiangraitimes.com/tourism/thai-vietjet-airline-launches-all-in-one-deluxe-service-from-just-thb999/
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28-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundPhuket is planning to hold a travel festival targeting domestic travellers, including a food festivalSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/heavily-impacted-phuket-holds-travel-festival-targeting-domestic-travelers-327895
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28-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThailand’s Emergency Decree has been extended from 1-31 OctSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-extends-emergency-decree-to-deter-covid-19-from-october-1-to-31-328031
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27-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Special Tourist Visa (STV) is set to be approved by a government committee on 28 Sep. STV travellers must undergo a 14-day quarantine on arrival, and arrive by charter flight. They expect 1,200 travellers to enter each month, generating 1.03 billion THBSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1992143/ccsa-panel-to-approve-visa-scheme-to-allow-foreign-tourists-into-country
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27-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundPhuket has set up a 5T scheme for foreign tourists: target, testing, tracing, treating and trusting. A lab has been installed at Phuket airport, and will initially be capable of handling 96 people at a time for testing, with results within 6 hoursSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/phuket-ready-to-welcome-foreign-tourists-327772
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27-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundAnti-government protests may escalate next month, as the charter rewrite vote had been delayed by the governmentSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/politics/1992131/anti-govt-protests-set-to-escalate
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27-Sep-2020 👨✈️ aviationThai AirAsia has inaugurated its first flights to 4 domestic destinations from Bangkok Suvarnabhumi AirportSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thai-airasia-inaugurates-flights-from-suvarnabhumi-airport-to-chiang-mai-phuket-327747
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27-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Job Expo 2020 opened on 26 Sep, promising more than a million job vacancies. The government has also created a recruitment platform, expecting 200,000 private positions and 400,000 government ones to be postedSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1992127/pm-boasts-of-a-million-upcoming-jobs-at-city-expo
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26-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thai Chamber of Commerce is urging the government to grant amnesty for 400,000 tourists whose visas are set to expire, as it causing chaosSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1991875/thai-chamber-of-commerce-seeks-visa-amnesty-for-tourists
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26-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundMany visitors have rushed to Khao Nor mountain in Nakhon Sawan province, hoping to spot the giant “monkey king”Source: www.nationthailand.com/news/30395178
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26-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundAn American is being sued by a Thai resort over a negative review on TripAdvisor – if found guilty, he could face jail for up to 2 yearsSource: www.thejakartapost.com/travel/2020/09/26/american-sued-in-thailand-over-negative-tripadvisor-review.html
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26-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Chonburi Buffalo racing festival will go ahead from 28 Sep – 4 OctSource: www.pattayamail.com/news/the-buffalo-must-go-on-as-chonburi-holds-149th-race-festival-sept-28-327583
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26-Sep-2020 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways are going through planning approval for flights to nowhere, under the “Thai Flying Experience & Beyond”. They would sell 3 packages and it would cost approx. 5,000 THB paxSource: thethaiger.com/news/national/flights-to-nowhere-the-latest-cunning-plan-by-thai-airways
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25-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thailand Convention and Exhibtion Bureau is testing hybrid models for events, with a pilot full-day event with 1,240 delegates attending physically, 4,778 virtuallySource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2020/09/tceb-test-drives-hybrid-events/
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25-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Movenpick BDMS Wellness Resort Bangkok and Bangkok Hospital have launched exclusive quarantine facilities in the hotel’s Presidential Suite or Royal SuiteSource: www.ttgasia.com/2020/09/25/movenpick-bdms-woos-inbound-travellers-with-quarantine-packages/
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25-Sep-2020 👨✈️ aviationAirports of Thailand are extending their exemption of fees, including office rental, terminal service fees and fixed monthly concession fees until 31 Mar 2022. The current exemption was due to expire on 31 Dec. airlines will also qualify for a 50% reduction in landing charges and a 50% reduction in parking is they are still operating flights on their domestic and international routesSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2020/09/aot-cuts-fees-through-to-2022/
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25-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Council of Thailand estimate that Thailand could hit 60 million arrivals by 2023, contributing 25% of GDP, once global tourism returns to normalSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1991191/shorter-quarantine-if-tourist-test-succeeds
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25-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe number of new businesses has continued to fall in Aug, down 7% YoYSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1991311/august-sees-drop-in-new-registrations
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25-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundPTT, the national oil and gas conglomerate, will give 18 million THB to its staff in 5,000 THB travel subsidies, to boost tourism during Q4. Conditions would include staying at destinations at least 300km away from employees’ homesSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1991679/ptt-staff-to-get-b5-000-travel-subsidies-to-boost-tourism
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25-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe government expects Thailand’s economy to return to normal within 2 yearsSource: en.vietnamplus.vn/thai-economy-expected-to-return-to-normal-in-next-two-years/187602.vnp
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25-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Minister has said that he wants to shorten quarantine to 7 days to make visiting Thailand more attractive from mid-Nov, if none of the tourists in the first batch tested positive. The Minister said that 300 tourists have already been attracted to the program and will enter on 1 Oct. If the first batch is ‘safe’, they will allow the 2nd batch of 300 tourists to arrive on 21 Oct. If the initial phase is successful, they will ask the government to allow 10,000 foreigners to enter per weekSource: www.khaosodenglish.com/news/crimecourtscalamity/2020/09/25/tourism-minister-suggests-cutting-tourist-quarantine-to-7-days/
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24-Sep-2020 👨✈️ aviationAirAsia has said that their flights in Malaysia and Thailand are reaching 60% and 80% pre-COVID capacity respectively. Tony Fernandes forecasts that business, intercontinental and first-class travel will take longer to bounce back, but that short-haul travel is “proven already”Source: www.malaymail.com/news/money/2020/09/24/airasia-group-ceo-says-airline-on-the-mend-with-60pc-capacity-on-short-haul/1906233
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24-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundOnly 30.4% of Phuket’s businesses are open as usual, with 66.8% of tourism businesses “closed temporarily” and 2.8% closed permanently. The Phuket governor expects that this number will increase to 70% by the end of the monthSource: www.thephuketnews.com/70-of-all-phuket-tourism-businesses-remain-closed-governor-77427.php
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24-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundA special wellness quarantine initiative may be launched at Thai spas under the Alternative State Quarantine program. This may go ahead initially in Krabi, if granted approvalSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-to-launch-wellness-quarantine-for-special-tourist-visa-stv-travelers-315922
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24-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundPattaya tourism businesses applauded the introduction of 2 new public holidays, saying that the Songkran holiday weekend on 4-7 Sep had given them a big boostSource: www.pattayamail.com/featured/pattaya-tourism-sector-applauds-new-holidays-316125
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24-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe immigration department is warning foreign tourists stuck in Thailand who have over-stayed and not renewed their visas that they will face fines and potentially imprisonment. The visa amnesty expires on 26 SepSource: www.khaosodenglish.com/news/crimecourtscalamity/2020/09/24/immigration-warns-of-fines-jail-time-for-stranded-tourists/
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24-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundDusit Thani are preserving cash flow to deal with uncertainties, with the best-case scenario that leisure tourists will be allowed into Thailand by YE. They estimate the most likely is that leisure tourists will increase by mid-2021Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1990611/dusit-thani-holding-on-to-cash-until-2021
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24-Sep-2020 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways creditors have been given a deadline of 2 Nov to submit their application for debt repayment. As of 22 Sep, 922 creditors have already applied, with Thai Airways owing them 1.2 billion THBSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1990695/deadline-set-for-thai-creditors
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24-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Phuket vegetarian festival will go ahead on 17-25 OctSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1991039/phuket-vegetarian-festival-to-go-ahead
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24-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe MICHELIN Guide Thailand will be expanded with 2 new awards, the MICHELIN Guide Young Chef Award, and the MICHELIN Guide Service Award, as well as a new distinction, the MICHELIN Green Star. It is scheduled to be released at the end of 2020Source: www.tatnews.org/2020/09/michelin-guide-thailand-2021-introduces-two-new-awards-and-a-new-distinction/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=michelin-guide-thailand-2021-introduces-two-new-awards-and-a-new-distinction
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23-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundTwo new long weekend holidays have been approved by the Thai cabinet, from 19-22 Nov, and 13 Nov-1 DecSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1990015/two-long-weekends-to-boost-economy
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23-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundSala Hospitality Group are partnering with boat rental company True Leasing to provide private cruise stay and dine packages along the Chao Phraya river in BangkokSource: www.ttgasia.com/2020/09/23/sala-hospitality-jumps-aboard-private-cruises-trend/
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23-Sep-2020 👨✈️ aviationThai Airways will offer a course to the general public to become a Thai Airways flight attendant for the day for 2,900 THB. They will also offer a 4-day pilot training simulator course, a 1.5 day emergency similar course and the chance to spend a day in the kitchen with a Thai Airways chefSource: www.malaymail.com/news/life/2020/09/23/covid-19-thai-airways-offers-rm382-course-for-grounded-travellers-to-become/1906023
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22-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundAccording to the Amadeus Travel Insights Bulletin, Thai travellers’ lead time for booking domestic flights has decreased by 53% compared to pre-pandemicSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2020/09/no-one-is-in-a-hurry-to-book-travel/
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22-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundSurat Thani is aiming to attract MICE travellers, especially as they usually spend twice the usual visitor’s spend and stay at least 3D2N per tripSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1989419/surat-thani-targets-mice-for-recovery
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22-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thai cabinet has approved stimulus measures worth 70 billion THB to boost economic consumption and jobsSource: www.theedgemarkets.com/article/thai-cabinet-backs-us22b-cash-aid-boost-economy-jobs
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22-Sep-2020 👨✈️ aviationThe Government Savings Bank is planning to offer soft loans with an annual interest of 2%, for 60 months, to airlines. The proposal will need to be approved by the government. The Excise Department has also cut the jet-fuel tax for low cost airlines for another 6 months from the end of SepSource: www.nationthailand.com/business/30394899
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22-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThai Elite Card want to add work permit privileges for members who invest $1 million USD. The number of applications for the Thai Elite Card grew from 300 in Aug to 500 in SepSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1989351/work-permits-for-thai-elite
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21-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Ministry of Tourism and Sport has clarified that tourists entering under the STV would not need to undertake self-isolation in their home country prior to departureSource: www.khaosodenglish.com/news/crimecourtscalamity/2020/09/21/special-tourist-visa-can-launch-october-at-earliest-ministry/
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21-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundTourists entering national parks who litter will be blacklisted from entering again. Alcoholic drinks will also be banned at national parksSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1988747/unruly-tourists-spark-alcohol-prohibition-at-parks
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21-Sep-2020 👨✈️ aviationA new panel has been formed to ensure that Betong Airport in Yala province can open as scheduled in Dec. Nok Air is looking into operating flights between the airport and Bangkok’s Don MueangSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1989211/betong-airport-panel-set-up
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21-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thai Baht reached a 3-week high on 21 Sep, after the relief of peaceful government protestsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1989131/baht-touches-3-week-high-after-protests-stay-peaceful
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21-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thai Hotels Association, Upper North Chapter, has said that the push for domestic tourism is not benefiting Chiang Mai, with average occupancy rates of 15%, far below break-even. Around 70% of hotels remain closed. During the Songkran holiday, hotels reached just 40% occupancy levelsSource: www.pattayamail.com/chiangmaimail/domestic-tourism-not-helping-chiang-mai-hotels-industry-chief-says-315613
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20-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundTens of thousands of protestors joined peaceful pro-democracy rallies in Bangkok over the weekend. The protestors have given a list of 10 demands to the government, and are calling for a general strike on 14 OctSource: www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/thailand-protests-demands-monarchy-reforms-government-13126840
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19-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundBusiness investors are becoming concerned about Thailand’s political stability, with confidence also being affected by the economy’s slowdownSource: www.thestar.com.my/business/business-news/2020/09/19/political-instability-to-hit-thai-economy
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19-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundAdditional requirements for travellers hoping to enter Thailand under the Special Tourist Visa (STV) will need to have quarantined in their origin country (during which they will need to have been tested twice), as well as a specified minimum amount of money in their bank account. Low-risk countries will be allowed first, but no details yet have been shared as to which countries these may beSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1988019/tourists-must-isolate-in-home-countries
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19-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundPhuket’s residents are suffering as the budget for food aid has been depleted, with thousands of people lining up daily for donated foodSource: www.thephuketnews.com/still-hungry-thousands-in-phuket-remain-in-need-of-food-donations-as-government-efforts-stall-77364.php
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18-Sep-2020 👨✈️ aviationThe government is being urged to provide financial assistance for 2,600 workers made redundant by Wingspan Services, a Thai Airways subsidiarySource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1987451/govt-aid-for-thais-layoffs-
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18-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundA new stimulus plan to support tour packages from tour operators will be issuedSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1987315/ministry-vows-bangkok-special-tourist-visa-arrivals-by-october
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18-Sep-2020 👨✈️ aviationThe rehabilitation process of Thai Airways was approved on 14 Sep by the court. A Thai Airways union is urging the board to allow them to have a say in the upcoming rehabilitation plan to ensure that workers’ rights are protectedSource: asia.nikkei.com/Editor-s-Picks/Interview/Union-urges-Thai-Airways-to-include-its-voice-in-rehab-plan
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18-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism & Sports Ministry has said that the STV will be up and running by Oct, with Bangkok as the primary destination. It has asked tour operators to start promoting long-stay packages They have clarified that foreigners who want to enter Thailand under the STV will need to enter either by charter plane or private jet, which will be issued by Thai Embassies abroad. During the first stage of reopening, there will be a limit of 3 charter flights with a maximum of 100 pax per planeSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1987315/ministry-vows-bangkok-special-tourist-visa-arrivals-by-october
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18-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThailand Elite has started the process to get its members officially approved for entry to Thailand, with 7 membership packages availableSource: coconuts.co/bangkok/lifestyle/travel-like-a-boss-with-a-thailand-elite-visa/
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18-Sep-2020 🌏 outboundThailand has been added to England and Scotland’s travel corridor list, meaning that from 19 Sep Singaporean travellers will no longer have to self-isolate for 2 weeks on arrivalSource: www.channelnewsasia.com/news/world/covid-19-england-singapore-thailand-travel-self-isolation-exempt-13122516
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17-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundBangkok is reopening the walking streets on Khao San Road and Klong Ong Ang, to promote tourism. They will open on the last weekend of each monthSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/bangkok-reopens-weekend-walking-markets-on-khao-san-road-315244
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17-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe PM has warned protestors from taking part in pro-democracy rallies due to the possibility of spreading COVIDSource: asia.nikkei.com/Politics/Turbulent-Thailand/Thai-prime-minister-discourages-protests-in-name-of-COVID
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17-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe travel trade has had mixed reactions to the approval of the STV, with some positive that first steps are being taken, others that it will have a very limited boost for the travel tradeSource: www.ttgasia.com/2020/09/17/thai-long-stay-visa-announcement-draws-mixed-trade-reactions/
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17-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundA Myanmar baby has tested positive after returning from Thailand to Myanmar. The Thai government is undertaking contact tracing to see whether they were infected in ThailandSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1986675/myanmar-baby-tests-positive-for-covid-19
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17-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Phuket Travel Agents Association has said just 10% of its 60 members are open for business, with customers largely coming from the domestic tourism stimulus package aimed at health workersSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1986867/phuket-adopts-more-affordable-posture
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17-Sep-2020 👨✈️ aviationAirlines are still awaiting details of the soft loans the PM has promised them. Thai AirAsia expect to get more details by next week, and see a “real threat” if the country is unable to open by Q4. They have also said that the plan for what happens once the STV is approved is the most important, as “tourism operators don’t have a clue how to start.”Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1986663/airlines-brace-for-end-of-state-aid-measures
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17-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe government has reassured the Thai people that reopening to foreigners would not be riskySource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1986591/reopening-to-foreigners-not-risky
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16-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe government approved in principle the idea of changing requirements for permanent visa and smart visas to foreigners who buy condominium units, want to set up startups or create jobs in fields other than science and technologySource: www.nationthailand.com/business/30394652
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16-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Asian Development Bank (ADB) now predicts that the Thai GDP will contract by 8% in 2020 in its Sep update. It forecasts a growth of GDP by 4.5% in 2021Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1986139/covid-shock-worse-than-expected-adb-says
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16-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thai cabinet has approved the Special Tourist Visa (STV) scheme in principle. It would require a 14-day quarantine upon arrival, either at a hospital or certified alternative state quarantine. The visa would be valid for 90 days, with 2 additional renewals possible, taking it to 270 days in totalSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1985903/long-stay-tourism-in-sight
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16-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe government has approved a 3,000 THB handout to 10 million people, who will be able to spend the money in 100 THB increments per day to buy food, beverage and general goods from small vendors between 23 Oct-31 DecSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1986519/new-b3-000-handout-approved-for-10m-people
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16-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) agrees with the plan to extend holidays and stimulate possibly 10 billion THB. 2.2 million domestic trips were made during the 4-7 Sep Songkran holidaysSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-resumes-domestic-tourism-on-extended-holiday-plans-315078
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16-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundMinor Hotels will launch the RAKxa Fully Integrative Wellness and Medical Retreat, on conjunction with Bumrungrad International Hospital, in Bangkok. It will launch in Dec 2020Source: www.ttgasia.com/2020/09/16/minor-hotels-signs-medical-wellness-retreat-in-bangkok/
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15-Sep-2020 🛬 inbound12 Thai insurance companies have teamed together to offer inbound tourists travel insurance that covers medical treatment and repatriationSource: www.airport-technology.com/comment/thailand-tourism-covid-19-recovery/
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15-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) are planning a proposal which would not require quarantine for short-haul international visitors. Visitors would come from cities which have not had cases for the last 60 days, would need a test prior to flying, on arrival and would wait in their hotel for the resultsSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1985315/atta-preps-scheme-to-enable-short-haul-visits
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15-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Association of Domestic Travel (ADT) is aiming for 200 million domestic trips next year. They have said that 30% of tour operators nationwide have closed permanently, whilst 50% are still temporarily closed. ADT say that an ambitious target is needed to stimulate the market, and urges the government to amend the domestic tourism program so that tour packages can be bought via travel agents and a subsidy of up to 8,000 THBSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1985311/adt-targets-200m-trips-in-2021
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15-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thai cabinet is considering adding another long 4-day public holiday to stimulate domestic tourism, possibly in NovSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1985703/cabinet-mulls-another-long-holiday-to-spur-economy
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15-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundUnemployment in Q2 increased to 1.95%, a record high since 2009. Unemployment in the hotels and restaurants sector was the highest, at 2.9%Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1985363/eic-38-4-more-firms-shutter-in-july
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14-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundOne million hotel workers in Thailand have been made redundant. The Thai Hotels Association (THA) has asked the government for 100 billion THB in rescue funds and soft loansSource: coconuts.co/bangkok/news/with-1-million-jobless-thai-hotels-association-seeks-100-billion-baht-bailout/
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13-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundKrungthai Bank estimates that Thailand’s tourism revenue will drop by 70% this year, with just 900 billion THB expected. They expect revenue of 1.2 trillion THB in 2021, still a drop of 59% vs pre-pandemic. Their estimate for the number of international visitors ranged from 900,000 to 14 million, depending on government policiesSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailands-tourism-sector-revenue-shrinks-by-70-low-cases-countries-travel-bubble-decisive-314665
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13-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) expects the worst of the crisis to be over by 2021 YE, and that under a best case scenario, there could be 20.8 million international tourists, with primary source markets ASEAN and NE Asia. The TAT have formed a 3D plan: • Domestic tourism • Digitalisation of business processes • Dynamics – to seek a better balance of creating efficiency and managing riskSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-projects-20-8-million-international-visitors-in-2021-314676
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12-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe domestic tourism stimulus We Travel Together needs to be reworked, according to the TAT, as only 17% of the 5.05 million registrants have actually used the benefits. They estimate that 388 million THB has been distributed to local operators through the usage o the vouchers. The airline subsidies in particular have a low redemption rate, which they suspect is down to the mechanism of only receiving the 40% subsidy after booking – they are now looking at a less complicated way to redeem the discounts. The distribution of hotel bookings is also concentrated into certain players, with 4,016 being booked out of 7,130. They will also extend the deadline to 31 Dec. They also have said that borders should reopen to foreign tourists this yearSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1984011/tat-calls-attention-to-flaws-in-tourism-scheme
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11-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Pattaya Travel Mart attracted 160 tour operators and corporate buyers, as opposed to the 60 expected due to its focus on domestic tourismSource: www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/pattaya-travel-mart-draws-double-expected-crowd-314464
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11-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundWork to renovate Pattaya beach to the tune of 160 million THB should begin at the end of the year, which will include adding green zones to attract more Thai touristsSource: thethaiger.com/news/pattaya/160-million-baht-project-to-renovate-pattaya-beach-set-to-begin-by-year-end
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11-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe 5,000 THB relief money for temporary workers, contract employees and self-employed affected by COVID-19 will stop at the end of the month, despite 56,000 subscribers not yet receiving their moneySource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1983279/relief-money-to-stop-this-month
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11-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundA 2nd locally transmitted case has been detected in ThailandSource: www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/thailand-second-domestic-covid-19-infection-13103296
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11-Sep-2020 👨✈️ aviationBangkok Airways may reopen international flights by Jan, according to the schedule posted on GDSSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2020/09/pg-boosts-domestic-flights-in-october/
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11-Sep-2020 👨✈️ aviationAirAsia will launch 3 direct flights daily between Phuket and Bangkok Suvarnabhumi airport from 25 SepSource: www.thephuketnews.com/airasia-launches-phuket-suvarnabhumi-flights-77275.php
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10-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe TAT sees 2.5 million jobs out of 4 million being lost in the tourism sector if international visitors do not arrive by Q4, so it must prepare for “limited exposure” to foreign touristsSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30394306
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10-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe TAT has downgraded its estimate of 80 million domestic trips to 70 million, with 418 billion THB revenueSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1982735/tat-says-country-ready-to-reopen
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10-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe TAT has said that it is working with the private sector to find a model and safety measures for short-haul international visitors who cannot stay for a 2-week quarantine. They have said "We cannot avoid new cases, but the most important thing is to have risk management in place. If there are five cases among 5 million tourists, and we can contain those infections with stringent measures, that would be a good balance between public health and business survival."Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1982735/tat-says-country-ready-to-reopen
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10-Sep-2020 👨✈️ aviationPhuket International Airport held a dress rehearsal for international arrivals under the new normal, from temperature taking to transfers to quarantine facilitiesSource: www.thestar.com.my/news/world/2020/09/10/thailand039s-phuket-airport-conducts-dress-rehearsal-for-foreign-tourist-arrivals-amid-covid-19
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09-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Chao Phraya Sky Park is hoped to become to a tourist attraction after opening in JunSource: asia.nikkei.com/Business/Travel-Leisure/Bangkok-sky-park-raises-tourism-hopes-for-post-pandemic-Thailand
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09-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe PM plans to move the focus from exports and tourism to large-scale projects to boost incomeSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-to-shift-from-exports-tourism-to-large-scale-projects-to-boost-economy-314327
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09-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Naga cave in Phu Langka national park has been closed after visitors damaged the rock formations hoping to find lottery numbersSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1982519/naga-cave-closed-indefinitely-after-being-defaced-by-visitors
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09-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundA senior official has said that the government’s plan to reopen to foreign tourists will be finalised before the end of OctSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1982487/govt-to-finalise-entry-plan-for-foreign-visitors-by-oct-31
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09-Sep-2020 👨✈️ aviationPhuket International Airport has revealed that in Aug, 6,000 domestic pax arrived each day, and over the long weekend from 4-7 Sep, they had over 10,000 pax arrive dailySource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1982367/more-thais-flying-to-phuket
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09-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThailand was the 4th most searched holiday destination in the world, according to an analysis by Official-esta.comSource: thethaiger.com/hot-news/tourism/thailand-is-the-fourth-most-searched-for-destination-for-your-next-holiday
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09-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau launched a “Thailand MICE United” campaign, with a MICE Mart including 120 suppliers and 300 buyers from the public and private sectorsSource: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2020/09/tceb-launches-mice-united/
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09-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundRevenue generated by travel insurance premiums are likely to drop 90% this year, according to Cigna ThailandSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1982007/pandemic-strikes-travel-coverage
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09-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe PM is looking to add another long holiday to encourage domestic tripsSource: www.khaosodenglish.com/news/crimecourtscalamity/2020/09/09/pm-eyes-another-long-holiday-to-spur-domestic-tourism/
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09-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) is planning to create a safety tourism scheme for Asian tourists, bypassing the 14-day quarantineSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1982123/phuket-entry-pilot-stalled-slightly
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09-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundSome Thai airport workers are suing a security company hired by the Airports of Thailand, saying that they were tricked into accepting unfavourable termsSource: www.theedgemarkets.com/article/thai-airport-staff-sue-over-pay-dispute-virus-hammers-travel-sector
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09-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Deputy PM has said that: “We have to learn to fight and live with the pandemic. We can’t be afraid of it.” He also said that he government is ready to open Phuket, but they are concerned about the risk of more infectionsSource: thethaiger.com/news/phuket/not-so-fast-phukets-plans-to-reopen-slow-down
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09-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe “Phuket Model” will be applied to other provinces. Foreign tourists would instead be allowed to travel “at large”. It will also be rebranded to “Special Tourist Visa”. Holders of the visa would be allowed to stay in the country for 90 days, and would be entitled to renew it twiceSource: www.khaosodenglish.com/news/crimecourtscalamity/2020/09/09/phuket-model-expanded-nationwide-despite-little-support/
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08-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundC9 Hotelworks have revealed that there has been a substantial impact on the hotel development pipeline, with 69% of new hotels being delayed or put on holdSource: www.thephuketnews.com/phuket-hotels-make-urgent-plea-for-help-industry-faces-massive-fallout-from-failure-of-domestic-tourism-77241.php
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08-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has said that the long holiday weekend from 4-7 Sep generated 8.8 billion THB, an outcome with which they are “pleased”. The TAT are also looking into promoting weekday travel. The Transport Ministry reported 7,968,080 trips over the weekendSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1981331/long-holiday-rakes-in-b8-8bn
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07-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Minister of Tourism has admitted to a miscommunication on opening Phuket to foreigners, which caused concern amongst localsSource: www.nationthailand.com/news/30394122
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07-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundA senior official at the Chinese Embassy in Bangkok has said that there will not be an early reopening of the two countriesSource: www.thejakartapost.com/travel/2020/09/07/resumption-of-tourism-between-china-and-thailand-not-happening-any-time-soon.html
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06-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundPattaya seems to have benefited from the long weekend in Thailand, with some hotels at 100% occupancy and busy beachesSource: thethaiger.com/news/pattaya/domestic-tourists-give-pattaya-a-boost-over-holiday-weekend
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06-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has said that the launch of the “Phuket model” will be likely delayed due to the detection of a new locally transmitted case. The TAT are visiting Phuket business operators this weekend to discuss disease control measuresSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1980435/phuket-reopening-delayed
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06-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) stated that domestic tourism during the last 4-day weekend only had hotel occupancy levels of 30%, and spend of 8.8 billion THBSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1980435/phuket-reopening-delayed
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05-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundA new app called “Treasure Trip” has been launched to explore cultural highlights of BangkokSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/mobile-app-for-bangkok-cultural-tours-treasure-triplaunched-313820
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05-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundPhang-Nga Province has re-imposed strict health measures, stating that anyone entering the province from areas considered COVID-19 outbreak zones will need to undergo a 14-day home quarantine. Residents will need to face masks when outdoors at all timesSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1980091/phangnga-reimposes-covid-measures
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05-Sep-2020 👨✈️ aviationThe ban on food and drinks on domestic flights has been lifted by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT), but pax are still required to wear masks on boardSource: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1980167/caat-lifts-food-and-drinks-ban-on-domestic-flights
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05-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundTAT has partnered with Alipay and Fliggy to launch a tourism campaign encouraging Chinese expats living in Thailand to travel domestically. These expats would receive exclusive deals when booking via Fliggy and rewarded with 1,739 THB worth of coupons to redeemSource: www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/tourism-authority-of-thailand-partners-alipay-and-fliggy-to-boost-domestic-tourism-313774
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05-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundForeign tourists who are stranded in Thailand face a visa amnesty by 26 Sep, but have been given reprieve by additional concessions in case they are unable to return to their home countries due to sickness or a lack of flightsSource: thethaiger.com/hot-news/visa/immigration-to-provide-30-day-extensions-after-visa-amnesty-ends-in-some-circumstances
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05-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe health authorities have still not been able to trace the origins of the latest locally transmitted caseSource: www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1980095/ccsa-stumped-over-virus-case
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05-Sep-2020 🛬 inboundThe owners of businesses on Pattaya’s Walking Street have warned of a “total collapse” of the tourism industry if foreign tourists are not allowed to enter ThailandSource: thepattayanews.com/2020/09/05/leading-walking-street-business-owners-warn-of-total-collapse-of-tourism-industry-in-pattaya-if-thailand-has-no-foreign-tourists-for-another-3-6-months/