AS the coronavirus outbreak in Surat Thani province, particularly Koh Samui, appears to have been well controlled it is now opening up to tourists with those who have received both coronavirus jabs and test negative for infection 72 hours before travelling need not be quarantined for 14 days, Amarin TV said today (June 8).
This follows the “Phuket Sandbox” scheme kicking off on July 1 whereby fully vaccinated foreign tourists will be allowed to visit the tourist island without any quarantine period. However they are required to stay in Phuket for 14 days, up from the previous limit of seven days, after which they are free to travel elsewhere.
Surat Thani Governor Mr. Witchawut Jinto said most people on Koh Samui, including the general public, government officials, those working in the tourism sector and people over 60 years of age have been vaccinated leading to herd immunity setting in soon.
With the risk of coronavirus spreading reduced, the province is moving to boost tourism on Koh Samui to support national recovery of this key sector.
However the province is keeping an eye on high risk areas of the country with these being as follows:
Highest and Strictly Controlled Areas (Dark Red): Bangkok, Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani and Samut Prakan provinces:
Maximum control area (red): Kanchanaburi, Chonburi, Chachoengsao, Tak, Nakhon Pathom, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Narathiwat, Prachuap Khiri Khan. Ayutthaya, Phetchaburi, Yala, Ranong, Rayong, Ratchaburi, Songkhla and Samut Sakhon provinces.
People coming to Koh Samui from these areas will be quarantined for 14 days or the duration of their stay on the island as the case may be.
However there are exceptions for those who have tested negative by the real-time polymerase chain reaction (real-time PCR) method within 72 hours of travel and have received both coronavirus jabs and are able to show valid medical certificates stating so upon entry.
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Top: Koh Samui’s Lamai Beach. Photo: Fabio Achilli(CC BY 2.0)
Home Page: A beautiful view from Koh Samui’s Four Seasons Resort. Photo: Sarah Lou (CC BY 2.0)
