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Following the news that Thailand will partially open for vaccinated tourists from July 2021, Animesh Kumar, Director of Travel and Tourism Consulting at GlobalData, a leading research and consulting company, offers his view:

“The move is an extremely positive development for the tourism industry as well as the economy of Thailand. The country’s economy is heavily dependent on tourism as the industry contributes 17-18% to the gross domestic product (GDP).

“Several destinations across the globe still require tourists to undergo a period of quarantine irrespective of whether a tourist has been vaccinated or not. Such quarantines have an impact on the trip costs as well as the sentiments and tourists are less likely to visit destinations with such norms.

“Another key factor for tourists while picking a destination in recent times is the number of vaccinated residents or the penetration of vaccination in the local population. Considering these factors, Thailand has picked Phuket for a pilot. As per reports, Phuket has been COVID-19-free since last 90 days. Moreover, the authorities are aiming to vaccinate at least 70% of the population in Phuket before July.

“These statistics will certainly instil confidence among potential tourists. The opportunity of a quarantine-free travel to the beautiful country is likely to seal the deal. More importantly, this pilot will act as a template for other destinations in Thailand, Southeast Asia as well as across the globe and more destinations will start offering quarantine-free travel to vaccinated tourists.”

Image: Mu Ko Lanta National Park Thailand snorkelling

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