With Thailand’s borders reopening, the ‘Living in the Blue Zone Sandbox’ program offers an ideal choice for International travellers looking to enter the country quarantine-free, via Krabi and Phang Nga.
It took a while, but we finally made it. Borders are reopening, entry requirements are easing, and Thailand is ready to welcome International tourists once more. In a move to help travellers enter the country fuss-free, while still keeping everyone safe, the Tourism of Authority of Thailand has launched its latest travel bubble scheme — Living in the Blue Zone Sandbox. From how to apply to who’s eligible, and which of Thailand’s most fabulous islands are included, here’s everything you need to know.
What exactly is the Blue Zone Sandbox?
Launched on December 16, Living in the Blue Zone Sandbox is a travel scheme that allows vaccinated travellers from all across the globe, to fly into Thailand via the Krabi-Phang Nga zone. There, visitors are invited to freely explore the country’s most beautiful beaches for a week of loose quarantine, before moving onto… well, the rest of what Thailand has to offer.
There are eight key provinces included within the Blue Zone Sandbox itself, along with districts and islands found within 18 other areas. Not only does it provide the rare opportunity for tourists to socially distance and unwind upon their arrival, but is also packed with exclusive experiences that really embody a great, tropical island getaway.
It’s a safe haven — in both the figurative and literal sense.
A key highlight of the Blue Zone Sandbox is how it puts safety at the forefront, allowing visitors to travel both quarantine- and worry-free. While many bubble schemes can seem complicated and difficult to understand, for this particular one, the TAT has launched a set of clear, straightforward and comprehensive instructions that help guide you from pre-arrival, to landing in Thailand, and throughout your stay.
Ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all, visiting travellers must be vaccinated and tested within 72 hours before arrival. The Blue Zone Sandbox itself is also strategically split into different zones, each of which is tailored to a different risk group. Tourists from low-risk countries can travel freely without having to quarantine, while those who aren’t can also enjoy the same freedoms within specified areas called “blue zones”. Those who do not meet the vaccination requirements are also allowed entry, under what is known as an “alternative quarantine”, which can last up to fourteen days.
Applying is straight-forward and fuss-free.
Not only are the regulations relatively easy to understand, but the program also comes with a clear series of requirements that travellers can follow with ease. To be eligible for some Blue Zone Sandboxing, travellers must simply provide proof of vaccination, a negative RT-PCR lab test, a travel insurance policy, and confirmed pre-payment at an approved hotel.
Do note, however, that the Thailand Pass is currently not accepting new Test and Go applications (with the exception of Alternative Quarantine or Phuket Sandbox). However, those who have already registered for a pass can still enter the country under the registered scheme, and will be provided with a second Covid-19 test at a government-designated facility. To find out more about the ‘Thailand Pass’, visit this link.
Simply show all the required documents at your point of departure, and you should be all set! For more information on eligibility, as well as details on specific requirements, visit this link.
It’s an absolutely beautiful experience.
Quarantine-free travel aside, if there’s one reason Blue Zone Sandboxing is top on our list of travel schemes, it’s the beaches. Avid island-hoppers will know that the coasts of Southern Thailand are a true sight to behold, and the Krabi to Phang Nga stretch in particular holds some of the country’s most charming wonders. From the must-visit beaches of Koh Phi Phi, to the pristine waters surrounding Khao Lak, there is much to be said about this particular far-flung paradise.
Expect a blend of culture, tradition, and breathtaking nature.
With a fun blend of culture-meets-modernity, there’s a lot in the Blue Zone Sandbox for you to see and do. Whether you’re visiting with friends, your soulmate, or entering solo, there’s something for everyone here to get excited about. For the adventurous traveller, we recommend one of the many nature-based activities — from snorkelling at Lo Sama to bamboo rafting at Wang Kiang Ku. Discerning gourmands shouldn’t miss out on the rich and flavourful spread of local restaurants, while those who are just in it for the relaxation can relish in seven days of beachfront lounging.
The Blue Zone Sandbox puts the community first.
While much of the focus has been around the sandbox itself and the activities within it, a big part of this travel scheme is about giving back to the local community. Aimed at bringing economic benefits to local industries and the people behind them, many of the attractions involved in the program are centered around Thailand’s natural and cultural heritage.
From signing up for a traditional Batik painting class, to visiting local villages at Baan Koh Klang via Long tail boat, Blue Zone Sandboxing offers you the chance to play your part in the conservation of Thailand’s local traditions. What’s not to love?
To find out more about Living in the Blue Zone Sandbox, visit tatnews.org. Or for more travel inspiration, check out the hashtags #amazingthailand and #thailandreopening.
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