As borders reopen and more and more countries are welcoming travellers to visit, there are a few rules and regulations you might have to know before entering. If you are planning a trip to Phuket or Bangkok in Thailand, here is one thing you need to know. Before actually stepping into Thailand, you’ll need to book a stay at a SHA+ hotel. What exactly does that mean? Well, Glitz is here today to help you understand it all! Here is a quick crash course on what SHA+ hotels are. It is always a good idea to read up on a country’s regulations for entering, especially during a time with Covid. As these are just for safety precautions, you have nothing to worry about! Here’s to a smooth sailing process!
What is a SHA Plus Hotel in Thailand?
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SHA is actually a certificate that the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) gives to services and hotels that meet pandemic-level health and safety standards. SHA also stands for Amazing Thailand Safety & Health Administration. Services and hotels will be awarded with a SHA certificate if their establishment is safe to visit and practises proper hygiene protocols. For example, placement of sanitisers, adequate signage, cleaning regularity, table arrangements and staff procedures.
SHA+, on the other hand, is just an upgraded, much stricter version of SHA. Staying at a SHA+ hotel in Thailand means that over 70% of staff will be fully vaccinated. Any unvaccinated staff are not allowed to come in close contact with guests. Each staff member is also required to be prepared with Covid-19 emergency solutions. So far, there are over 300 SHA+ hotels across Thailand. Most services such as taxis and limos are also given the SHA+ identification.
Furthermore, there are also SHA++ hotels in Thailand. SHA Extra Plus hotels are those that have the Amazing Thailand SHA Plus standard and also offer partnered accommodation with certified hospitals for RT-PCR tests.
Who Needs To Stay At A SHA+ Hotel & For How Long?
Starting from the 1st of April 2022, visitors to Thailand will no longer need to present a preflight negative RT-PCR Test. Alternatively, they will need to go through all the required tests of the entry program they are using to enter Thailand. On May 1st 2022, the tests that you originally took upon arrival will be switched to an Antigen Test Kit. The test will also be conducted by a professional.
Fully vaccinated individuals who are tourists will also have to book a stay at SHA++ accommodation. This is while you are waiting for your Covid-19 test results. The length of your stay is dependent on whether you are travelling under the Sandbox Program or TEST & GO.
Unvaccinated individuals will be required to quarantine at Alternative State Quarantine (ASQ) facilities for up to 10 days.
Where To Explore in Thailand
So now that you know what you have to do before entering Thailand, here are a few places you can visit!
1. Bangkok
The heart of Thailand, Bangkok is an excellent place to explore! The capital is a popular stop for tourists and besides, Bangkok is home to many of Thailand’s renowned tourist attractions. Visit the Grand Palace and Chatuchak Market for some jaw-dropping pictures and a lively experience!
2. Phuket
If beaches are your thing, you are going to love staying in Phuket, Thailand! Visit the Kingdom’s largest island as it has been a favourite destination among many because of its year-round tropical climate and kilometres-long shores. Furthermore, you can also visit the Big Buddha, get lost at A-Maze-in-Phuket or even meet some gentle giants at the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary.
3. Krabi
Beach lovers will also enjoy entering the coastal town of Krabi. It is located in the south of the country and is known for its natural beauty. It features secret lagoons, lush forests and internationally-acclaimed beaches.
4. Pattaya
Coming from the east? Visit PAttaya, Thailand! Starting out as a quaint fishing village, Pattaya is now a thriving tourist destination in Thailand. One of the top destinations as well! Stay at high-end resorts, visit magnificent temples and take a dip at the beach.
5. Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is a historic city in Thailand everyone must visit. It is well-known for its century-old temples such as the Wat Phrathat Doi Kham and Doi Suthep. Nature lovers will also enjoy the scenery in Chiang Mai as you surely have to take a hike at Doi Inthanon National Park! Or, head to Sticky Waterfall for a fun hike.
