Arrivals into Thailand will now be able to play golf during quarantine.
In a bid to increase tourist numbers, Thailand has approved ‘golf quarantine’ for international arrivals.
According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) during the 14-day mandatory quarantine period, arrivals will now be able to enjoy golfing and “health-related activities” at a golf course at their own expense. This latest update was published on December 7 with immediate effect.
Tourists are currently allowed into Thailand under a long-stay Special Tourist Visa (STV) but must go through a 14 day quarantine period first. A number of hotels and resorts are now offering quarantine packages under the country's Alternative State Quarantine arrangement.
Golfers will need to abide by coronavirus rules, including social distancing, while playing.
Thailand has around 250 golf courses spread across the country.
After testing negative at the end of the quarantine period, tourists are free to enjoy the rest of their holiday elsewhere.
In an additional easing of entry requirements, from this month the STV is open to residents from anywhere in the world. Initially it was only open to those from ‘low risk’ countries.
Applicants for entry into Thailand must have health insurance that includes Covid-19 cover for the entire length of their stay in Thailand, with a minimum coverage for medical treatment of US$100,000. They must also have booking confirmation of an Alternative State Quarantine hotel for the quarantine period, a ‘fit to fly’ health certificate issued no more than 72 hours before departure, a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before departure, a certificate of entry and a visa.