Has Phuket Changed? What Is It Like To Travel To Phuket In 2021 / 2022?
The Covid-19 pandemic has changed the world. Since early 2020 when the pandemic started, everyone has had to learn to cope with a completely different lifestyle. Daily routines have changed, and many people now find themselves working from home or working remotely most days of the week. Our lifestyles have also changed, and as we learn to adapt and adjust, we find resilience in new routines as well as new habits. And the same has happened for Phuket – so what is it like to travel to Phuket now? What are the things people should know about Phuket in 2021?
Phuket, the glorious Pearl of the Andaman Sea in Thailand, has been hard hit by the pandemic. As an island that relies heavily on tourism, the pandemic has devastated the economy. Many businesses closed their doors for good, and the livelihoods of many working in the tourism industry had to change. However, it is not all doom and gloom, as the island has slowly but surely started to bounce back.
What Is Phuket Like After Covid
Thailand reopened its borders to international tourism on November 1st, 2021, and since then Phuket has seen a gradual increase in tourists to the island compared to the previously dead island. While not all facilities and services available on the island are open (for many various reasons), there are enough activities and open restaurants and shops to keep tourists busy.
If you’re thinking of coming to Phuket for the island party vibe, then right now is not the best timing as there are certain restrictions for the time being. If you are looking for a relaxing tropical holiday amongst nature, you’ll definitely not be disappointed with Phuket. A break in tourism gave Phuket’s nature a chance to heal and flourish. The beaches are absolutely pristine, and the water of the Andaman Sea is clearer than it’s ever been. Now is an excellent time to take a boat trip to the Phi Phi islands or Phang Nga Bay to witness nature up close as these destinations are still rather quiet and void of tourists.
Phuket after Covid is a different island entirely. Daily life moves at a slower pace now. There is less traffic, less noise and less pollution. The local people have persevered and are waiting to welcome you back! It’s almost like traveling back in time to Phuket 20 years ago.
Phuket Travel Restrictions
While the below is the latest information, it’s important to always check with your local Thai Embassy or Consulate before arranging travel plans to Thailand. The situation is constantly changing, however, the Royal Thai Embassy will have the most up-to-date information available. The Tourism Authority of Thailand is also a good source of information. Check here frequently for the latest updates.
- Vaccinated travellers from low-risk countries – Can travel under a new scheme called the Thailand Pass. Quarantine is not required, however, travelers do need to stay for 1 night in an ASQ or SHA+ Hotel while they wait for the COVID 19 RT-PCR test result that was taken upon arrival.
- Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated travelers from low-risk countries – can travel to Phuket but they must do a 10 night mandatory quarantine in an accredited ASQ or ASQ quarantine hotel prior to exploring the rest of Thailand.
Get A Thailand Pass
The Thailand Pass is a free-of-charge web-based system. Making the documentation process of travelers entering Thailand more efficient than the Certificate of Entry application. In order to obtain the QR code for the Thailand Pass, there are a few requirements including passport, vaccination certificate or card, Covid-19 Health Insurance Certificate, confirmed ASQ hotel booking or a confirmed SHA+ hotel booking with pre-booked RT PCR test, and proof of flight booking.
In order to obtain the QR code or Thailand Pass ID, travelers will need to register at the Thailand Pass web portal, input personal details and upload required documents, receive a confirmation email after registration, and then wait for up to 7 days for the Thailand Pass confirmation. You’ll then receive a QR code or Thailand Pass ID to use when entering Thailand as soon as your registration is approved.
Traveling to Phuket During Covid-19: What To Expect
Once the paperwork is complete, you’ve boarded the plane and landed in Phuket, what can you expect? Travelers can expect a quieter island with a slower pace of life than prior to the Covid-19 pandemic. While it is true that not everything is open in Phuket and there are certain restrictions. Phuket is still a wonderful place to visit and enjoy a holiday. If you’re planning to visit Phuket in 2021 or 2022, we recommend staying in any of these areas:
- Rawaii
- Surin Beach
- Or Bang Tao beach area.
And if you need some travel tips, booking day trips or resorts in Thailand, make sure to get in touch with our sister company – TMT Travel Phuket.
To learn more about Phuket in 2021, or about the Thailand Pass, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’ll do our best to answer any questions and guide you as you make your way back to Phuket! And if you are looking to stay in Thailand for a longer period of time and are in need of a visa that will allow you to do this, make sure to drop us a message here to start the process of applying for a visa in Thailand.