Despite the efforts of the Thai authorities to make all their destinations “resorts for the rich”, local tourism authorities are urging to think about tourists on a budget. In particular, in connection with the update of the Test & Go program on February 1 (details can be read at this link), Thai tour operators called for PCR testing for tourists more accessible – now the price tag for this procedure is clearly too high: only pharmaceutical companies will receive profits and tourism as a result, it will lose a significant part of the potential tourist flow.
It will be recalled that the updated Test & Go entry scheme now requires those arriving from abroad to book a hotel on the 1st and 5th day of their stay, and to take a PCR test each day. The new requirements raise concerns among Thai tour operators that tourists are deterred by additional costs, including a second PCR test.
According to Ratchaporn Pulsawadi of the Samui Tourism Association, he said that PCR tests on the island now cost 2,200 baht (1,900 hryvnias). According to his estimates, this price should be reduced to at least 1,500 baht (about 1,300 hryvnias at the current exchange rate). According to the expert, “otherwise it may be a deterrent for young people traveling on a budget.”
He also said he hoped the government could eventually lift the demand. “Once the virus situation is under control in 1-2 months, the government should ease the rule by requiring only one PCR test,” the expert said. He was supported by many hoteliers.
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