Hope, fear as kingdom’s gates creak ajar

Koh Tao in Surat Thani is one five southern island destinations where tourism ministry officials have proposed the Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration allow visits by foreign tourists early next month.

Tourism operators and residents in five southern tourist destinations which may open up to foreign travellers next month are optimistic about the government’s travel bubble scheme.

They are ready to open their doors again but on the condition the government implements disease control measures to guard against the re-emergence of Covid-19 in the kingdom.

The Bangkok Post talked to both groups after the Tourism and Sports Ministry recently proposed five islands — Koh Samui, Koh Pha Ngan and Koh Tao in Surat Thani province, Phi Phi in Krabi and Phuket — return to hosting foreign tourists as early as next month.

Currently, only a select group of pre-approved foreigners may enter the country.

The first countries allowed to send foreign tourists under the proposal would be those who have controlled the virus successfully in the eyes of the government.

Tourism is one of the sectors most seriously affected by the pandemic. As one of Thailand’s main sources of revenue, the industry has been slated for hefty aid from the state.

As the government gradually relaxes travel restrictions, all five destinations famous for their beaches have expressed a readiness to welcome back tourists, despite many countries still fighting high infection rates.

Source: Hope, fear as kingdom’s gates creak ajar

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