Exploring the Phuket Sandbox Initiative in Thailand

iBestTravel writer Austin Bush recently traveled to Thailand through the Phuket Sandbox initiative. This guide explains the process and opportunities for travelers.

Until recently, visiting Thailand required a 15-day stay in Alternative State Quarantine (ASQ), confining travelers to their hotel rooms. While some endure this, it often leads to a less-than-pleasant experience.

However, since July 1, Thailand has initiated the Phuket Sandbox program. This innovative plan allows fully-vaccinated visitors to explore the island of Phuket after undergoing a series of pre-arrival procedures. Visitors must stay in pre-approved hotels and remain on the island for 15 days, but they are free to enjoy local beaches, restaurants, and attractions.

Steps to Participate in the Phuket Sandbox Program

Upon arrival in Phuket on July 9, I was among the first travelers to experience this process. The experience began by visiting the portal for the Certificate of Entry (CoE), essential for entering Thailand under this initiative.

Application Process

• You can only apply if traveling from a country deemed “medium risk.”
• Upload your passport, visa (if applicable), proof of vaccination, and insurance payment proof covering COVID-19 with a minimum coverage of US$100,000.
• Pre-approval for the CoE may take up to six days.

Once approved, submit your flight details and hotel booking within 15 days. Direct flights to Phuket are mandatory; connections through other Thai airports are not permitted. Several airlines, such as Thai Airways and Emirates, operate direct flights.

Hotel Accommodation

Choose accommodation from over 400 SHA+ approved hotels, with options covering various budgets and locations. Since I preferred easy access to local culture, I opted for a guesthouse in Phuket Town. Additionally, pre-payment for three COVID-19 tests, costing around US$250, is necessary.

Final Preparations

Upon receiving the CoE, the last step involves obtaining a “not detected” result from a PCR COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before departure.

Arrival in Phuket

The arrival process, while not highly efficient, was manageable. After disembarking, passengers are guided to a series of checkpoints to verify required documents. This includes showing proof of two tracking apps: ThailandPlus and MorChana. After submitting a health form and PCR test results, travelers proceed to immigration and take their first COVID-19 swab test.

This entire process can take around two hours. Once checked-in at my hotel, I awaited test results the following morning. After receiving the green light, I was free to explore Phuket as a regular tourist with only daily tracking check-ins and temperature checks required by the hotel.

Further Developments in Thailand

The Phuket Sandbox has received a positive response from the government, leading to the introduction of the Samui Plus program, which applies to Ko Samui, Ko Pha-ngan, and Ko Tao. Similar to the Phuket initiative, it involves certain airline transfers and some restrictions during the initial week.