BANGKOK —Thailand on Friday announced plans for an experimental quarantine-free model in ultra-popular beach destination Phuket, as the kingdom attempts to resuscitate its pandemic-battered economy.
Thailand has imposed massive restrictions visitor arrivals in order to stem coronavirus, but discouraging tourism has led to its economy recording the worst performance since the 1997 Asian financial crisis.
The impact has reverberated across the country’s services sectors — bruising entertainment, retail, hotels and restaurants.
Thailand’s tourism czar announced Friday that Phuket — renowned for its sandy beaches and sapphire waters — will be used as a test.
Tourists who…
Keep on reading: Thailand to lift tourist quarantine for popular beach island