Information found in this article is correct at the time of publication. Note that travel restrictions may change due to the ongoing pandemic. Make sure to check local government websites for updates before you travel.
Gear up for a fantastic adventure into the land of stunning beaches, delicious mangoes, tuk-tuks, and ancient temples as Thailand finally accepts international travellers!
Great news—on November 1, Thailand finally re-opened its borders to selected countries, with Australia being one of 63 eligible territories! This news means that travel to Thailand from Australia is now possible for Aussies who’ve been itching to go on an overseas tropical paradise getaway.
Thailand is waiting for you! Image credits: Mathew Schwartz on Unsplash
We’re sure you have many questions regarding travel to Thailand from Australia—when, how, and can I fly to Thailand from Australia. No need to fret; here’s what we know about the latest guidelines on Australia’s Thailand travel bubble:
- Is it safe to travel to Thailand from Australia?
- When can I travel to Thailand from Australia?
- What do I need to know if I want to travel to Thailand from Australia?
- Can I fly to Thailand from Australia?
- Must-visits in Thailand
- Where can I find out more official travel information?
Is it safe to travel to Thailand from Australia?
Thailand’s COVID-19 rates have started to decline, and the nation is on the way out of its worst wave since the pandemic began. However, travellers are encouraged to reassess their need to travel as COVID-19 remains to be a risk.
Savour the island life in Thailand. Image credit: Evan Krause on Unsplash
When can I travel to Thailand from Australia?
Beginning November 1, fully vaccinated international travellers residing in the 63 approved countries, including Australia, can enter Thailand without the mandatory quarantine. They are required to have received their second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at least three weeks before their arrival.
Accredited vaccines approved by the Thailand Ministry of Public Health are the following: AstraZeneca, Sinovac, Johnson & Johnson, Moderna, Pfizer, Sinopharm, and Sputnik V.
What do I need to know if I want to travel to Thailand from Australia?
- Do I have to be vaccinated? No, but you have to go on quarantine. Fully vaccinated individuals can bypass the mandatory 10-day quarantine.
- Do I need a COVID test? Yes. You must present your negative RT-PCR COVID-19 test result issued within 72 hours before your arrival.
- Is quarantine required? Yes, if you're unvaccinated
Other requirements to take note of in Australia's Thailand travel bubble include a Thailand Pass or Certificate of Entry, a COVID travel insurance policy with no less than USD50,000, a confirmed booking at a SHA+ or alternative quarantine (AQ) hotel, and a prepaid RT-PCR COVID-19 test on arrival date.
Australian tourists can apply for a visa exemption of up to 30 days as long as they arrive through one of the international airports and are visiting purely for tourism purposes. An additional 30-day visa extension can also be granted to tourists who opt for it—they just need to go to any local immigration office in Thailand.
When in Thailand, make sure to ride the Tuk-tuk! Image credit: Florian Wehde on Unsplash
Can I fly to Thailand from Australia?
As international travel ramps up, enquiries about whether we can fly to Thailand from Australia start to pile up. Aussies can now arrive at any international airport in the Southeast Asian nation. However, direct flights are still limited following the announcement. Airlines such as Qantas and Thai Airways are set to resume later this November.
Must-visits in Thailand
Now that you've covered your pre-travel requirements, it's time to plan your Thai itinerary for the ultimate vacay! There are heaps to visit while in the Southeast Asian nation; here are top places to go to in Thailand:
1. Bangkok
A mental picture of Thailand usually includes golden temples, floating markets, and bustling streets. If you want to tour all these at once, you're in luck as you can easily spot these right at the country's capital city, Bangkok!
Walk along Na Phra Lan Road at the Grand Palace. Image credit: Nehal Patel on Unsplash
One of the best places to visit in Thailand's capital is the Grand Palace, where the statuesque Emerald Buddha can be found. You also see Wat Traimit, where a solid gold Buddha resides, and Wat Pho, one of Thailand's oldest Buddhist temples.
Try window shopping at the floating markets near Bangkok! Image credit; Frida Aguilar Estrada on Unsplash
For retail therapy, you should check out Chatuchak Weekend Market. This vast market has around 15,000 stalls and contains almost everything you can think of: from clothes and shoes to souvenirs and jewellery. Looking for an extraordinary shopping experience? Visit the Damnoen Saduak floating market near Bangkok!
2. Phuket
Get your tan on at Kata Noi Beach. Image credit: Miltiadis Fragkidis on Unsplash
Pack your sunscreen and get your much-needed dose of Vitamin Sea at Phuket, Thailand's largest island and a top holiday destination for those who love the sand and the sun. The most famous beach is in Patong, where you can also try out paragliding, kitesurfing, and more. If you prefer a quieter area, head to Kata Noi or Nai Harn beach.
Looking for some action? Visit the famous James Bond Island, or Khao Ping Kan, on this tour from your Phuket accommodation. Explore the natural wonders of Hong Island and the hidden lagoons of Panak Island via a longboat, speedboat, or big boat ride. How thrilling!
Phuket also houses a concrete Big Buddha. Image credit: Miltiadis Fragkidis on Unsplash
Aside from its pristine beaches, Phuket is also known for its bustling nightlife. For live music and entertainment, head to Bangla Road and enjoy its array of bars and restaurants.
3. Ayutthaya
Marvel at the ruins of the past at Ayutthaya. Image credit: John Matthew Flores on Unsplash
History buffs will adore the historical Ayutthaya, the former capital of the Kingdom of Siam. The UNESCO World Heritage Site holds several majestic temples, palaces, and monasteries and is just an hour away from Bangkok! Don't forget to check out Wat Mahathat, where gigantic tree roots surround a Buddha's head.
Catch sight of the amazing Buddha’s head. Image credit: Alice on Unsplash
Where can I find out more official travel information?
Since travel guidelines can change at the last minute, always check the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand and the Australian Embassy, Thailand, for updated travel information.
You may also want to bookmark Smartraveller provided by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade for more details on travel guidelines.
![[Updated] Complete List Of Official Nationwide MCO SOP 2021](https://res.klook.com/image/upload/fl_lossy.progressive,q_85/c_fill,w_160,h_104/v1633858858/blog/iso56uzsphmdguixkvzh.jpg)
![[Updated] Complete List Of Official Nationwide MCO SOP 2021](https://res.klook.com/image/upload/fl_lossy.progressive,q_85/c_fill,w_410,h_264/v1633858858/blog/iso56uzsphmdguixkvzh.jpg)
