UPSIZE PH | More Thailand Destinations To Reopen For Tourism

Phuket continues to be an attractive destination within and beyond Asia with the Phuket Sandbox 7+7 Extension program enabling fully vaccinated international travelers to travel to Phuket and chosen extension areas, said the Tourism Authority of Thailand and the Phuket Tourism Association.

Previously, tourists were mandated to stay in Phuket for a minimum of 14 days, but with the upgraded program, fully vaccinated travelers can reduce their mandatory stay in the island from 14 to seven days, after which another seven nights can be spent in any of the extension areas in Krabi (Ko Phi Phi, Ko Ngai or Railay), Phang-Nga (Khao Lak or Ko Yao) or Surat Thani (Ko Samui, Ko Pha-ngan or Ko Tao).

With the Phuket Sandbox program, tourists can enjoy sea excursions such as yachting and cruising, traditional dance performances around the island and dining, shopping, lifestyle and lodging establishments as long as they are accredited by the Amazing Thailand Safety and Health Administration Plus (SHA Plus).

Looking to refresh your wanderlust after more than a year of staying home? You’ll never run out of sights and attractions in Phuket, but here are five attractions to give you a sense of what to expect from the island.

Get a beautiful top view of Phuket from Karon Viewpoint

Situated at the south of Kata Noi Beach, Karon is one of the many famous viewpoints in Phuket, but one that allows you to see three bays in just one vantage point: the Kata Noi, Kata Yai and Karon beaches. What you’ll see are sweeping ocean views melding seamlessly into grooves of tree-laden grounds, mountains at the far end and a barrage of clouds that will make you feel like you’re on top of the world.

Photo credit: Tourism Authority of Thailand

Be one with water by scuba diving at Andaman Sea

If you want enjoy your vacation while still maintaining a bit of social distancing, why not just commune with marine life instead? Book a scuba diving tour with one of the local tour agencies and immerse yourself in crystal clear waters that reveal a rich ecosystem of marine wildlife: corals reefs, fishes of all kinds and colors, seahorses and other hidden ocean treasures.

Live your best life at any of Phuket’s beaches

Truly the most remarkable part about Phuket is its never-ending selection of beaches, fit for any vacationer’s lifestyle. From the bustling Patong Beach, to the limitless stretch of Mai Khao Beach, to the relatively untouched Nai Harn and Nai Yang beach, there’s bound to a beach that suits your preference.

Find peace and serenity in Wat Chalong Temple

Give a prayer of gratitude and guidance for a renewed opportunity to go on vacation at the Wat Chalong Temple—one of Phuket’s 29 temples, but its biggest and most popular. After observing the strict dress code and guidelines on silence and proper etiquette, discover tranquility in the presence of beautifully landscaped greenery, golden structures and the temple’s magnificently intricate details.

Island hopping

It’s not a Phuket trip without an island hopping excursion. Whether privately within your travel circle or as part of a tour group, discover the nooks and crannies of Phuket’s islands from the Phang Nga Bay Sunset Cruise to the James Bond Island Day Tour. Choose the tour that floats your boat.

Phuket Sandbox has been well-received by tourists from Europe, the United States, Middle East and some parts of Asia. This is the Phuket Sandbox 7+7 Extension-launched last August 16–is also gearing up to further revitalize tourism in Thailand, as well as bring back the excitement for tourists who have been yearning to travel.

As the country slowly but surely (and safely) reopens for tourism, Chiang Mai is next on the list of areas with a lot of plans. Chiang Mai’s reopening campaign, with the goal of highlighting the beauty of the city, is dubbed "Charming Chiang Mai." Additionally, more destinations in Thailand—including Bangkok, Hua Hin, and Pattaya—will reopen October 1, 2021.

For more information, visit on Phuket Sandbox and the TAT website and follow TAT Philippines on Facebook and Instagram.