Chiang Mai and Phuket, two of the country`s most popular destinations, are preparing to reopen to tourists on Nov 1 while keeping a close eye on the rate of Covid-19 infections.

The northern province announced it was ready to reopen as it races to expand vaccination coverage despite the emergence of a new cluster at a large market.

It is hoping to kickstart the local tourism industry on Nov 1, the date set by the government for when fully vaccinated visitors from low-risk countries can enter the kingdom without needing to quarantine.

Chiang Mai and Phuket, two of the country`s most popular destinations, are preparing to reopen to tourists on Nov 1 while keeping a close eye on the rate of Covid-19 infections.

The northern province announced it was ready to reopen as it races to expand vaccination coverage despite the emergence of a new cluster at a large market.

It is hoping to kickstart the local tourism industry on Nov 1, the date set by the government for when fully vaccinated visitors from low-risk countries can enter the kingdom without needing to quarantine.

The reopening plan comes shortly after 478 people fell sick. Their infections were traced to Talad Muang Mai, a major market for distributing fresh produce.

The latest infection cluster prompted the province`s communicable disease committee to order the market in tambon Chang Moy of Muang district to be closed from Oct 9-22 for cleaning and quarantine.

Customers and anyone else closely connected to the market have been placed in quarantine.

Meanwhile, more Thai and foreign visitors are expected to arrive in Phuket during the peak season from next month until early next year, according to governor Narong Woonciew.

However, one pressing challenge is expanding the province`s capacity to test visitors for Covid-19. Currently, up to 500 people can be tested a day.

"If 5,000 come, we must have the technology to contact-trace them," Mr Narong said. The province was treading carefully, he added.

https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2197351/chiang-mai-ready-despite-new-outbreak

By Bangkok Post

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