PEAKLIFE

As restrictions ease and revenge travel picks up pace, Thailand is slated to become the destination of choice for Indian tourists, who are intent on bringing in the summer at one of the world’s most bustling tropical retreats. Indian airlines have been quick to respond to this resurgence in demand, with practically every carrier offering more flights to the Land of Smiles.

Since the onset of the pandemic, stringent travel restrictions and subsequent vaccination protocols have impeded international tourism. After a two-year gap, Thailand’s air bubble arrangement with India has come as a welcoming gesture for travel enthusiasts, and encouraged Indian as well as Thai airlines to add flights to and from major cities in both countries, at fares lower than pre-pandemic rates. Authorities are expecting this route to witness high tourist traffic, but as the weather gets warmer, travel to Thailand may also witness a slump.

In 2019, India was the third-largest source of foreign tourists to Thailand, as per data from Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports. Besides attracting leisure-seekers, the country is also a hotspot for business travellers. Bangkok and Phuket are two of the most popular destinations within the country, and feature a range of attractions and activities that cater specifically to the needs of tourists. The bustling metropolitan nightlife, charming countryside, secluded beaches, luxurious hospitality, historic architectural gems and affordability are major draws for Indian tourists.

Earlier in March, Thailand announced that the pre-arrival COVID test requirement for international travellers would be lifted, 1st April onwards. Upon arrival, visitors will undergo a PCR test. On the fifth day post-arrival, they will have to take a self-administered antigen rapid test. If the results of any of these tests are positive, visitors will have to quarantine at state facilities. The convenience of being granted a visa on arrival in Thailand is an added advantage, as it checks one thing off the already extensive list of travelling during these times.

Tourism is a crucial contributor to Thailand’s GDP and domestic employment. These steps are intended to open the country to visitors in a safe and responsible manner. Thailand’s Ministry of Health is promoting a return to normalcy and aims to declare the COVID-19 pandemic as an endemic by July 2022. However, the country is still combatting a recent surge in COVID-19 cases, which reached a record high in mid-March. On the other hand, high vaccination rates are a sign of hope.

The nationwide state of emergency, meant to tackle the pandemic, has been extended to the end of May. With neighbouring countries including Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia and the Philippines opening international borders, Thailand is dealing with stiff competition in terms of regional tourism. To match up to the pent-up demand for international travel, airlines will have to adapt swiftly and increase capacity. Tourists, on their part, must act with caution and plan their trips after taking into consideration the most recent updates from reliable government sources.