Thailand has introduced a new state program Wellness Sandbox (“medical sandbox”) for the development of medical tourism in the country. So far, it will operate in pilot mode in two tourist areas – Hua Hin and Cha-am. Later, the geography of the program may be expanded, reports The Thaiger.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand presented the idea to the Economic Management Center following the success of the sandbox in Phuket, government spokesman Thanakorn Wangbunkongchan told Thai media. As you know, Phuket Sandbox is a program under which tourists vaccinated against COVID-19 can fly to the island without subsequent quarantine. But this time, the authorities have also chosen a narrow direction for vacationers. The development of medical tourism, according to the plans of the local government, should contribute to the growth of the Thai economy.
The conditions for entering the “medical sandbox” are the same. Those who received both doses of the coronavirus vaccine are eligible to enter Thailand and move freely in approved locations for the first seven days in the country, rather than isolating at a hotel. The new Wellness Sandbox program aims to promote Hua Hin and Cha-am as the world’s top health tourism destinations by promoting local delicacies, Thai massage and spa services, as well as traditional medicine and herbal products. Resorts and spas participating in the medical sandbox must meet COVID-19 prevention standards set by the Health and Safety Authority.
Since the beginning of the year, along with Phuket, three more provinces of Thailand have become available to Kazakhstanis. To rest on the island, tourists must provide a vaccination passport, PCR tests and insurance.