#SootinClaimon.Com : ขอบคุณแหล่งข้อมูล : หนังสือพิมพ์ The Nation.

https://www.nationthailand.com/pr-news/thai-destination/40008294

Bangkok, 2 November 2021 – Visa, the world’s leader in digital payments, today revealed Thai leisure travellers will continue to discover domestic destinations through 2022 as shorter, safer trips become the preferred mode of post-COVID travel. The Visa Voice of the Consumer research, (the “Study”), found that over half (51 per cent) of Thai respondents are likely to take a leisure trip within Thailand within the next year, while 23 per cent plan to travel overseas.

The Study also found that the top three factors that will make Thai travelers comfortable to travel again are having received a vaccination (67 per cent), a reduction of global cases of COVID infections (55 per cent), and having COVID insurance (41 per cent).

Suripong Tantiyanon, Country Manager for Visa Thailand, said: “It’s clear that caution remains among the public when it comes to travel, and there is a strong preference for safety and familiarity. Businesses in destinations across Thailand should consider these aspects when welcoming tourists back, whether they are from within Thailand or overseas, and ensure visitor safety at every level, and this includes payments. During the pandemic contactless payment has seen significant growth due to its speed, convenience, and safety. It’s important businesses continue to meet consumer expectations as travel recovers.”

Travelers throughout Asia Pacific are also approaching their travels differently comparing to pre-COVID times. Over half (53 per cent) will take extra effort to book accommodation that is safe and quality assured, while 44 per cent are planning to carry more cards so they can use contactless and digital payments to avoid touching cash. Two in five (42 per cent) of the respondents are planning to avoid crowded tourist spots.

When it comes to the top overseas travel destinations, the majority of Thai travelers are keen to visit Japan, followed by China, Australia, South Korea, Canada, and France.

When asked about their appetite for travel, nearly half (48 per cent) said they were keen to travel within a bubble but not in the immediate future.  Meanwhile, one third (33 per cent) said they were keen to travel as soon as possible when a travel bubble is available, and the remainder said they were not interested in travel bubbles.

“Cashless is no longer a matter of convenience. In the post-COVID era, digital payments are synonymous with confidence, safety, and recovery. It will be interesting to see how digital payments can play a vital role in the recovery of domestic and international tourism as consumers take extra steps to ensure health and safety.

Visa has partnered with a number of government agencies and private sector organisations over recent years, such as with the Tourism Authority of Thailand on the Safety and Health program which certified the sanitation standards of Thai merchants, and we are committed to intensifying our efforts.  In the meantime, we hope these insights can support our partners in the tourism and payments industries to adapt to the new normal and grow their businesses in the new environment,” added Suripong.

Published : November 02, 2021

By : THE NATION

#SootinClaimon.Com : ขอบคุณแหล่งข้อมูล : หนังสือพิมพ์ The Nation.

https://www.nationthailand.com/pr-news/thai-destination/40008291

Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), in collaboration with TAGTHAi application, introduces the new TAGTHAi Pass, a digital card for seamless traveling in Thailand.

“TAGTHAi Pass is a digital pass that will increase the sales channels for tourism entrepreneurs and reduce price competition. It will also maximize target group coverage to foreign tourists from around the world,” TAT governor Yuthasak Supasorn has said. “Travelers can make one time purchase of TAGTHAi Pass and enjoy services and products that are carefully selected by leading local tourism entrepreneurs, including tickets to tourist attractions, restaurants, spa and health establishments.”

“Using digital currency and contactless technology, the TAGTHAi Pass will introduce tourism entrepreneurs to new earning opportunities under the new normal standard of the post Covid-19 era,” he added. “The TAGTHAi Pass will be officially launched within this month.”
 

TAT introduces TAGTHAi Pass for seamless travel

TAT has been developing the new digital card with Thai Digital Platform Social Enterprise Ltd. and Kasikorn Business – Technology Group (KBTG), co-developers of TAGTHAi application.

“Currently TAGTHAi app has more than 180,000 users, both Thai and foreigners,” said Kalin Sarasin, CEO of Thai Digital Platform. “The application provides comprehensive linkage between tourism information and enterpreneurs’ products and services as well as tourism supply chain to improve overall travel experience.”

“TAGTHAi app fully complies with the Personal Data Protection Act and the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation standard, therefore users can enjoy highest level of safety and privacy while traveling in Thailand using TAGTHAi Pass,” he added.
 

Related Stories

TAT produces new guidelines for tourists heading to Thailand

TAT to launch “Unlock Thailand” scheme, aiming at Asian markets

Thailand elite cardholders offered new privileges

Published : November 02, 2021

By : THE NATION

#SootinClaimon.Com : ขอบคุณแหล่งข้อมูล : หนังสือพิมพ์ The Nation.

https://www.nationthailand.com/pr-news/thai-destination/40008290

Phuket continues to rank among the most searched destinations, along with Bangkok. Guests from the United States, Russia and Germany lead the surge in travel demand.

Bangkok, Thailand, 1 November 2021 – Airbnb has revealed a recent surge in searches for stays in Thailand by international guests, as the country reopens today to quarantine-free travel for fully vaccinated travellers from 63 low-risk countries.

International guest searches for Stays in Thailand within the next six months have more than doubled from one year ago, based on latest Airbnb search data for the week of 18 October.* From vibrant cityscapes to spectacular sandy beaches and hilly mountains, international travellers are already planning to #RediscoverThailand with Airbnb this coming holiday season, and villas are their #1 most-searched stay of choice.**

Phuket’s appeal remains undimmed, as the popular island destination continues to be one of the most searched Thai destinations on Airbnb by international guests, along with Bangkok, Samui, Pattaya and Chiang Mai.** Resort destinations near Bangkok are also trending – comparing against last month, Airbnb has seen an 80% surge in international guest searches for stays in Petchaburi for the next six months, and a more than 40% increase for both Pattaya and Hua Hin stays within the same time period.***

Looking to escape the chilly winter, guests from North America and Europe are leading the strong surge in travel to Thailand. Guests from these top 10 countries are searching for Airbnb Stays in Thailand:**

• United States
• Russian Federation
• Germany
• United Kingdom
• France
• Korea
• Australia
• Canada
• Sweden
• Switzerland

Notably, there was a significant spike in searches from Germany, Korea, Australia and Switzerland in the week of 18 October. Tied to Australia’s recent announcement that it would reopen its international borders in November, searches for Thailand Stays by Australians doubled month-over-month***.

International guest searches for Airbnb Stays in Thailand double year-on-year following international reopening

“As Thailand officially reopens for quarantine-free international travel, we’re seeing incredibly strong demand amongst international travellers to visit the country with Airbnb. A significant number of our guests are searching for long-term stays, which is no wonder as Thailand is a top workation destination and Airbnb stays provide a unique getaway with top-notch remote work amenities,” shared Amanpreet Bajaj, General Manager for India, Southeast Asia, Hong Kong and Taiwan, Airbnb. “Working closely with our Host community, industry partners and the Thai Government, Airbnb is committed to re-energising travel across the nation by driving local, authentic travel that showcases the best of Thai culture and hospitality.”

For more information, please visit airbnb.com/rediscoverthailand.

Note:
*Based on internal Airbnb data on searches for Thailand Stays by international guests within the next 6 months, from 18-24 October 2021 vs. 18-24 October 2020.
**Based on internal Airbnb data of searches for Thailand Stays by international guests within the next 6 months, from 18-24 October 2021.
***Based on internal Airbnb data of searches for Thailand Stays by international guests within the next 6 months, from 18-24 October 2021 vs. 18-24 September 2021.

Published : November 02, 2021

By : THE NATION

#SootinClaimon.Com : ขอบคุณแหล่งข้อมูล : หนังสือพิมพ์ The Nation.

https://www.nationthailand.com/thai-destination/40008256

Though Lopburi’s Monkey Buffet Festival is scheduled to be held on November 28, a local resident has been keeping the simian population well fed.

This Sunday, Yongyuth Kijwattananusorn served up a feast of fruits on wheelchairs, which he will donate to the needy later.

He said he has been organising feasts for the monkeys regularly over the past two years because the province has not seen many visitors due to the pandemic.

Yongyuth, who also helps organise the festival on the last Sunday of November every year, said the Monkey Buffet is perhaps one of the 10 strangest events in the world.

This year’s feast will see more than 100 tables piled high with fruits for the monkeys, as well as extra treats on wheelchairs.

Yongyuth added that reopening the country in November was perfect timing because Lopburi will be covered in blooms, especially sunflowers, during the cool season.

Lopburi gets ready to throw a huge party for its monkey population

Related News

Warring monkeys bring Lopburi traffic to a standstill

Crouching tiger, fleeing monkeys: Chon Buri store owner hits back at hairy thieves

Visitors rush to Nakhon Sawan mountain after legendary monkey king ‘sighted’

Meanwhile, he said, those interested in getting a wheelchair can send a copy of their ID card, a copy of their house registration and a recent photo to him at Lopburi Inn, Narai Maharach Road, Thale Chup Son, Muang district, Lopburi 15000.

Lopburi gets ready to throw a huge party for its monkey population

Lopburi gets ready to throw a huge party for its monkey population

Published : November 01, 2021

By : THE NATION

#SootinClaimon.Com : ขอบคุณแหล่งข้อมูล : หนังสือพิมพ์ The Nation.

https://www.nationthailand.com/thai-destination/40008253

A four-metre-long whale shark showed up to welcome visitors at Koh Tao’s Chumphon Pinnacle as Surat Thani province opened its doors to foreign tourists on Monday. The shark, nicknamed “Phi Jood” (dotted brother), appeared to be greeting divers off the coast of the island.

Viren Buasamui, chair of the Koh Tao Thai Divers Team, said whale sharks commonly show up at diving sites near the island between May and October every year. He said last year there were some 280 whale sharks in the area, and now Phi Jood appears to be visiting divers almost daily.

He said in October, when the winds change direction, many large-sized creatures show up at the Chumphon Pinnacle, such as whales, whale sharks and even dolphins.

Also, he said, the waters around Koh Tao have become more abundant thanks to the lack of tourists and locals building fish houses around the island.

“I urge divers and tourists to not use a flash or shine a torch at the whale shark when taking pictures. People should also stay 3-4 metres away from the whale sharks to ensure these beautiful creatures can live happily alongside us,” Viren said.

Related news:

• Krabi starts to welcome back tourists after Covid break
• Tourists make a beeline for Similan
• Nong Khai all set to welcome tourists for Naga Fireball fest

Dotted whale shark greets divers at Koh Tao as Surat Thani opens to touristsDotted whale shark greets divers at Koh Tao as Surat Thani opens to tourists

Published : November 01, 2021

By : THE NATION

#SootinClaimon.Com : ขอบคุณแหล่งข้อมูล : หนังสือพิมพ์ The Nation.

https://www.nationthailand.com/thai-destination/40008193

Phitsanulok’s unique stone mountains are now an even more stunning sight as they get enveloped with mist every morning.

The mountains in Noen Maprang district’s Ban Mung area are popular among climbers and photographers.

The temperature on Saturday morning was a crisp 18 degrees Celsius, with morning mist over the range offering a beautiful vista.

Striking winter landscape in PhitsanulokStriking winter landscape in Phitsanulok

Published : October 30, 2021

By : THE NATION

#SootinClaimon.Com : ขอบคุณแหล่งข้อมูล : หนังสือพิมพ์ The Nation.

https://www.nationthailand.com/thai-destination/40008191

Bangkok’s beautiful Wat Arun Ratchawararam or the Temple of Dawn is ready to receive visitors from Monday when Thailand opens its doors to foreigners.

The temple, popular among both local and foreign tourists, was temporarily closed eight months ago.

The temple’s assistant abbot, Phra Kru Palad Suwattana Rattanakhun, said on Saturday that strict Covid-19 prevention measures have been put in place, with three screening points set up with up to 10 people manning each entrance. He also said the temple has linked up with Thonburi and Nakornthon hospitals in case there are any infections.

He added that the temple complex will also be cleaned regularly and that resident monks and temple staff are fully vaccinated and tested for Covid-19 frequently. He added that only double-jabbed visitors will be allowed to enter initially, but the temple will review this requirement one week after reopening.

Bangkok’s Temple of Dawn ready to receive visitors

Related News

Thailand’s spectacular hidden gem – Phitsanulok’s limestone mountains

Famous Tham Luang caves to be opened to visitors from Oct 15

Ayutthaya resort owner makes floods into a tourist attraction

Bangkok’s Temple of Dawn ready to receive visitorsBangkok’s Temple of Dawn ready to receive visitors

Published : October 30, 2021

By : THE NATION

#SootinClaimon.Com : ขอบคุณแหล่งข้อมูล : หนังสือพิมพ์ The Nation.

https://www.nationthailand.com/thai-destination/40008156

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) on Friday issued a statement clarifying rules and restrictions for international tourists arriving in the country from November 1.

Thailand will from Monday be open to fully-vaccinated visitors from 46 countries/territories.

There are currently three entry options for foreign tourists, including Exemption from Quarantine, Living in the “Blue Zone” (17 sandbox destinations) and Happy Quarantine Nationwide.

All travellers are required to register for the Thailand Pass before arrival and download the MorChana application upon arrival. Each traveller is also required to have insurance coverage of no less than US$50,000.

Exemption from Quarantine

Travellers under this scheme must produce proof of vaccination at least 14 days before travelling. This rule does not apply to children below the age of 12 travelling with their parents. They are also required to produce a negative RT-PCR test result issued within 72 hours of travel.

They must also have a confirmed booking for the first night at a SHA+ hotel or an alternative quarantine (AQ) site. At the hotel, they will undergo an RT-PCR test and are only allowed to check out if the result is negative. Tourists are also required to take an ATK self-test on day six or seven of their stay in Thailand.

Living in the Blue Zone

Double-jabbed travellers arriving under this scheme will be required to spend their first seven days in the sandbox area before they can travel to other areas.

They are required to show a confirmed booking for seven days at a SHA+ or AQ hotel as well as a negative RT-PCR test result taken within 72 hours of travel. They will undergo another RT-PCR test upon arrival at the hotel and are required to take an ATK self-test on day six or seven.

Travellers under this scheme must provide proof of complete vaccination, though children below 12 travelling with parents are exempted.

These travellers are allowed to travel freely within the blue zone for the first seven days.

The sandbox “blue zone” covers:
• Bangkok
• Krabi
• Chonburi (Bang Lamung, Pattaya, Sri Racha, Koh Sichang, Sattahip, Na Jomtien, Bang Saray)
• Chiang Mai (Muang, Doi Tao, Mae Rim, Mae Taeng)
• Trat (Koh Chang)
• Buri Ram (Muang)
• Prachuap Khiri Khan (Hua Hin, Nong Kae)
• Phang Nga
• Phetchaburi (Cha-am)
• Phuket
• Ranong (Koh Phayam)
• Rayong (Koh Samet)
• Loei (Chiang Khan)
• Samut Prakan (Suvarnabhumi Airport)
• Surat Thani (Koh Samui, Koh Pha-ngan, Koh Tao)
• Nong Khai (Muang, Si Chiang Mai, Tha Bo, Sangkhom)
• Udon Thani (Muang, Na Yoong, Nong Han, Prajaksilpakom, Kumphawapi, Ban Dung)

Another 16 provinces will be added to the list of sandbox destinations in the second phase in December, namely Ayutthaya, Chiang Rai, Khon Kaen, Lamphun, Mae Hong Son, Nakhon Ratchasima, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Narathiwat, Pathum Thani, Phatthalung, Phrae, Phetchabun, Songkhla, Sukhothai, Trang and Yala.

In the third phase, which kicks off on January 1, another 12 provinces will be opened under the sandbox scheme. They include Bueng Kan, Chanthaburi, Kanchanaburi, Mukdahan, Nakhon Phanom, Nan, Ratchaburi, Sa Kaew, Satun, Surin, Tak and Ubon Ratchathani.

Happy Quarantine Nationwide

Under this scheme, double-jabbed travellers can go anywhere in the country after being quarantined for seven days, while unvaccinated tourists arriving by air or boat will be quarantined for 10 days. Those travelling by land will undergo a 14-day quarantine.

Travellers must have a negative RT-PCR test result issued 72 hours before travelling except for Thai nationals. Those under this scheme will undergo an RT-PCR test on arrival and again on day six or seven, day eight or nine, or day 12 or 13 based on the quarantine requirements.

They are also required to produce proof of confirmed hotel booking for seven, 10 or 14 days as required.

Visa requirements

There are currently two types of tourist visa on offer:
• Single-entry tourist visa: Allows stay for up to 60 days with a possible one-time extension of 30 days.
• Special Tourist Visa (STV): Allows stay of up to 90 days with a possible extension of 90 days twice.

Visit www.thaievisa.go.th for details and to file a visa application.

Thailand Pass

From November 1, the Thailand Pass system will replace the Certificate of Entry (COE) and can be applied for at https://tp.consular.go.th/.

However, a COE will be required for certain groups of travellers such as medical tourists who need to stay in Alternative Hospital Quarantine (AHQ), those who cross land borders or those travelling in yachts or cruise ships.

Before arrival, travellers must have their passport, visa (if required), insurance and hotel reservation confirmation ready to apply for the Thailand Pass. Applications must be submitted at least seven days before travel. Upon submitting their application, travellers will be given a Thailand Pass QR code, after which they need to take an RT-PCR test within 72 hours before departure.

Upon arrival, visitors must show the QR Code and test result to immigration officers before being let through. They will then take an RT-PCR test at the airport, hotel or designated accommodation.

Visit https://www.tatnews.org/category/thailand-tourism-updates/ for more information.

Published : October 29, 2021

By : THE NATION

#SootinClaimon.Com : ขอบคุณแหล่งข้อมูล : หนังสือพิมพ์ The Nation.

https://www.nationthailand.com/thai-destination/40008147

Pramote Kaewnam, the national park chief, said all officers and rangers have been double jabbed and ready to attend to visitors at all tourist sites.

Krabi’s Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park is ready to welcome tourists once the country reopens next week.

He said the national park has joined the Tourism and Sports Ministry’s SHA+ project under which visitors must prove they are double-jabbed and download the MorChana app before entry.

Krabi all dressed up and ready for tourists from Nov 1

The tourist attractions in Krabi that are ready to welcome visitors are:

On land

The 75-million-year-old shell cemetery, Ngon Nak Mountain nature trail, Tubkaek Beach, Nopparat Thara Beach and Ao Nang Bay.

Off the coast

Poda Island, Thale Waek (separated sea), Kai Island, Railay Bay, Mai Phai Island, Phi Phi Leh Island and Phi Phi Don Island.

Krabi all dressed up and ready for tourists from Nov 1

Snorkelling sites

Si Island, Ha Island, Khom Island, Talu Island, Yawa Sam Island, Yawa Bon Island, Laemtong Cape, Loh Lana Bay, Wang Long Bay, Sam Haad Bay, Nui Bay, Mai Phai Island, Phi Phi Leh Island, Pileh Bay, Viking Cave and Laem Chong Cape.

Deepwater diving sites

Mushroom Rock, Palong Bay, Malong Bay, Maya Cape, Maya Tai, Laem Chong Cape, Pileh Wall, Viking Cave, Kled Kaew Wreck, Karang Haeng and Bida Island.

“Tourists are still not allowed to enter the Maya Bay area, but can take photos at the entrance,” Pramote said.

Krabi all dressed up and ready for tourists from Nov 1

He also advised tourists to respect the buoys blocking access in some areas to protect coral reefs.

“Violators can face a fine of up to 100,000 baht,” he warned.

Related stories:

• New boat route between Krabi, Phang Nga, Phuket considered
• Krabi starts to welcome back tourists after Covid break
• Cabinet to visit Krabi during Nov 8-9

Published : October 29, 2021

By : THE NATION

#SootinClaimon.Com : ขอบคุณแหล่งข้อมูล : หนังสือพิมพ์ The Nation.

https://www.nationthailand.com/thai-destination/40008085

The Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) has estimated that Chinese authority may let their citizens travel to Thailand in about one year from now or by late 2022, despite the fact that China is among the 46 low-risk countries from which the travelers can enter Thailand without quarantine from November 1 onward under the government’s plan to reopen the country.

“Two major events that will take place in China between now and late 2022 are the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing and 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou,” said ATTA president Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn on Wednesday. “These events will tell us more about China’s policy in letting people in and out of the country.”

Sisdivachr further added that in 2019, before Covid-19 outbreak, over 11 million Chinese tourists had visited Thailand and were accountable for 27 per cent of total foreign visitors, generating income of more than Bt543 billion. 
 

“As Chinese authority has yet to allow their citizens to visit Thailand, in the next one year we must focus our targets to European markets such as England, Germany, France, and Scandinavian countries as well as the United States and the Middle East,” he said. “India is also a high potential market, but it is not on the list of 46 low-risk countries. It is yet to be seen if the government will expand the list of countries after November 1.”

“To attract more foreign visitors, we must keep daily infection rate down to about 1,000 patients per day as well as increase two-dose vaccination rate to at least 70-80 per cent of the population to achieve the herd immunity,” said ATTA president.

Related Stories

Travelers from 46 countries can enter Thailand without quarantine from November 1

Thailand must reopen soon if it wants to survive: FTI

Thailand’s Nov 1 reopening will not put anyone at risk, promises CCSA

Published : October 28, 2021

By : THE NATION