Phuket Sandbox – Would you, Could you, Should you?

Updated 3 September 2021. Now that the Phuket Sandbox is operational, it provides options for tourists wanting a quarantine-free holiday or for Thai residents, either returning from overseas summer trips or as a meeting point for those of us unable to leave Thailand, yet desperate for family reunions.

From 8 September Phuket is cautiously opening up for vaccinated domestic tourists. More here at Thaiger.

Would you, could you, should you? This is the question many have been pondering as they look at the documentation required for the Phuket Sandbox.

What is the “Phuket Sandbox?”

Starting from July 1, Phuket has waived quarantine requirements for foreign arrivals who have been fully vaccinated against Covid-19 under the  “Phuket Tourism Sandbox” model.

Thailand residents and returnees can enter Thailand under this scheme and instead of being locked in a 14-day hotel quarantine in Bangkok, are free to enjoy the island.

How does it work?

For all the details on the Phuket Sandbox see the following links:

• www.phuketsandbox.com
• Little Wandering Wren: Signs of hope for Phuket’s Sandbox
• TAT Newsroom: Information on Phuket Sandbox

Expect this to be an ever-developing story, as those of us who have lived in Thailand know this is Thailand. Plans will change.

WHO IS FLYING DIRECT TO PHUKET?

The airlines are playing their part. Seven airlines have resumed direct flights to and from Phuket, namely Thai Airways, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways, El Al, British Airways, and Air France.

Domestic Flights:

From July 20th the cancellation of domestic flights within Thailand was of concern to those needing onward travel post their 14 days Sandbox stay. However, check the Phuket Sandbox Facebook pages below for the latest on buses.

An island vaccinated

The plan was to have 70% of the island population vaccinated before opening. The island has achieved its targets for those in tourism, not everyone (me for instance!) is fully vaccinated.

Some of my expat friends on the island are waiting for vaccines of their choice either to be available in Thailand later in the year (likely to be October onwards) or to be obtained through upcoming trips planned to their home countries. 

WITH SINOVAC

The mass vaccine on offer in Phuket has initially been the Chinese Sinovac vaccine, with its lower 51% efficacy rate but the advantage was that it was available and the two jabs are administered 3 weeks apart. This helped the island towards its herd immunity targets for the July 1st opening.

The Thai government has recently suggested that the second dose should now be offered with Astra Zeneca in an attempt to boost the efficacy rate within Thailand.

BANGKOK (Reuters) -Thailand will use AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine as a second dose for those who received Sinovac’s shot as their first dose in a bid to increase protection, it said on Monday. Source ASEAN NOW (formally Thai Visa full report here)

This does not help the majority of Phuket people in the hospitality sector who are already fully vaccinated with the most direct contact with Sandbox and domestic arrivals. Expect to see booster jabs coming soon.

WHAT ABOUT DOMESTIC ARRIVALS?

After two months of focus on the International arrivals, Phuket will reopen for vaccinated domestic arrivals with a negative Covid test. For more details see

Who are the International arrivals? 

Initially, it looks as if the administrative hurdles for enjoying a Phuket Sandbox entry are off-putting for many tourists. 

I have stayed at nine Phuket Sandbox SHA + hotels since July 1st. Occupancy rates are picking up (every front desk seems to tell me they are at 60% capacity yet every GM I speak to says ‘I wish’) and are improving daily. Currently, over 18,602 people have arrived using the sandbox entry. I am meeting such a diverse group of arrivals:

• Americans on vacation here for 14 days or less.
• Thais returning to Thailand – lots of overseas students coming home.
• Expat Thai residents arriving from Europe and from the Middle East.
• Those from across the globe intending to come here for an extended stay. They are here on a one-way sea change ticket excited for their new life in Thailand/Asia but not exactly sure what this might look like!
• Plenty from Dubai escaping the heat of summer check out The Wandering Whites experience here
• Those in transit to other Asian countries (like Hong Kong) needing to have 21 days in Asia prior to returning home from other high-risk countries like the UK.
• Domestic travellers wanting to avoid the 14 day home quarantine in their own provinces returning from the highest controlled provinces. For example Bangkok to Phuket (14 days sandbox freedom) then Chiang Mai avoids home lockdown in Chiang Mai.

RISK OF COVID INFECTION IN THAILAND
As you can imagine this is changing daily. Thailand’s fourth wave had led to a lockdown of red provinces. For up-to-date information I suggest the Twitter and Facebook accounts of Thai News Reports and Richard Barrow.

 

What can go wrong?

Errrrrr plenty should you happen to be sitting next to an infected person on a flight:

1. Testing positive for Covid on arrival, or on subsequent tests whilst here in Thailand
2. Being contact traced as an ‘at risk’ person associated with someone who has tested positive. This happened early on to Sfef, a real champion. I love her comment about her experience:

1. Covid infections across the island reach 90 weekly cases in which case further stricter measures will be introduced for all on the island.
2. Changing restrictions across Thailand impacting on those within Phuket.

? The Straits Times: A two-week holiday in Phuket has hit a snag for some travellers as new restrictions on domestic flights and land travel have ruffled nerves and sent a handful scrambling for alternative travel options https://t.co/wiieAvDqek #ThaiNewsReports #Thailand

— Thai News Reports (@ThaiNewsReports) July 24, 2021

What does this mean?

If you are tested positive whilst here as a Phuket sandbox entry, you will need to go to a Covid hospital and those travelling with you will be assessed (or deemed as at risk – for instance, if they sat near you on the airplane) will be moved to an Alternative Local Quarantine hotel whilst testing negative to Covid-19.

Your holiday in Phuket becomes a quarantine in Phuket.

Read what happened to Stefanie’s case here : 

This is a FAQ on the #PhuketSandbox written by Stephanie who had to switch from a SHA+ hotel to an ALQ hotel to do quarantine. She seems to be taking it quite well. You can find more updates on her Facebook: https://t.co/YteuL7hSwG #Thailand pic.twitter.com/07heq41iKd

— Richard Barrow (@RichardBarrow) July 12, 2021

 

Current restrictions in Phuket

Phuket is designated as a Controlled Area with fewer restrictions as in the dark-red and red zones.

There is no curfew in Phuket. Malls, restaurants, convenience marts, markets, and sports venues are open with integrated COVID-19 control measures in place. See: Phuket updates COVID-19 control measures during 3-16 August 2021

Would you?

Would I use the Phuket Sandbox as a tourist?

I admire those who are using calmly using Phuket as a holiday destination, would I do it? Yes, but only if

• I am good at dealing with paperwork, stress, risk, and unknown situations.
• I am fit and healthy and am prepared for all situations (including ALQ or a Thai Covid hospital)
• If I am able to react quickly to the current situation on the ground and make a fairly last-minute decision about a sandbox entry and exit!

Would I use Phuket as a Sandbox return as a returning resident?

Definitely Yes!

• If I replied yes to all the above
• I needed to return back to Thailand.
• I really wanted an alternative option to a Bangkok Hotel Quarantine knowing the worst that could go wrong is a Phuket Hotel Quarantine (I’m taking the Covid risk as definitely a risk but potentially a lesser one here in Phuket but who knows!)

Would I use Phuket as a Sandbox entry to meet my family from overseas?

• For me, it is still too early to suggest my family meet me in Phuket for a reunion holiday. We will watch and wait in the hope that this will be possible in the European winter,

Would I use Phuket Sandbox return as a Bangkok escape when current restrictions are lifted?

• We came for Christmas and have stayed ever since. There are plenty of people on the island who have done exactly as we have and love their Phuket life.
• Check out my Working from the Beach lifestyle the WFB much-needed Thailand revolution article for those who are able to exchange home working for WFB.

Could you?

Could I use the Phuket Sandbox as a TOURIST?

You need to check out all the Phuket Sandbox rules and regulations, it depends on whether you are fully vaccinated, come from an approved country, and have the budget  – this is not a cheap holiday.

Most important do you have the inclination?! There is a fair amount of paperwork that you will need to provide which has dissuaded all but the strong!

Check out all the requirements here: Information on Phuket Sandbox

For families see Waking up in Paradise: Navigating the Phuket Sandbox for families.

Could I use the Phuket Sandbox as a RESIDENT RETURNING?

Yes for sure, you are used to Thai administration, you need to get home anyway, Phuket has never looked better come and enjoy it whilst it is looking at its prime!

One thing I would caution is for those who are working from the beach. Yesterday I sat amongst a myriad of business meetings taking place in public, air-conditioned areas of hotels. Check out the hotels working from the beach options, ask about desks, and private spaces if you are going to be working. Not all hotel rooms have given any thought to people using them as office spaces.

Could I use the Phuket Sandbox for REUNIONS IN PHUKET?

For those who are Phuket residents, this is an option we are seeing. Flying Mum from Germany out for instance it has been heartwarming to see!

Should you?

A lot is at stake here in Phuket, not just for the local economy. The Phuket Sandbox is being touted as a model for the reopening of Thailand’s tourism industry. From 15th July Surat Thani’s Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao reopened with their own requirements (be aware they are different) See Koh Samui PlusFAQ here.

Here 85% of Phuket’s population relies in some form on tourism income. 

Every weekend the local #onephuket community rallies to a call to action from 5 Star Marine a luxury speedboat tour operator, turned humanitarian aid champion, to help pack 5000 Life Bag food parcels. This still continues in September. The Phuket Sandbox whilst generating an income and great hope for the island has not yet financially replaced the void caused by the lack of domestic tourists.

Should I use the Phuket Sandbox as a Tourist?

I have had the pleasure of chatting with a number of tourists here in Phuket and in the upcoming weeks will share their thoughts, The overwhelming response of those I have met has been yes! All will say it was hard work getting here, but definitely worth it and they are sad to leave.

Should I use the Phuket (and in the future Surat Thani) Sandbox as a returning Thai resident?

Hell yes, at the moment this is a no-brainer but make sure you get a great hotel. I urge you to come and see what I have been raving about since Christmas and see Phuket as you will have never seen before. This island was special originally for a reason, its community has a warm heart and you will support an island in need.

Since July 1st I have stayed in these Phuket Sandbox Hotels

The Surin – Pansea Surin Beach 

SHA+ Approved PHUKET SANDBOX STAY

You win the everyone will love staying here award, you suit discerning travelers, families, and couples seeking relaxation and indulgence in the utterly gorgeous serene beachfront setting of Pansea beach. Returning after recent renovations on July 1st, 2021 with a brand new update.

For more on our stay visit our Youtube here

SAII Laguna

SHA+ Approved PHUKET SANDBOX STAY

You win the operating with heart award.  Everyone of all ages from the smallest of kids (at the Kids’ Club) through to families with teenagers, solo female travellers, and the ‘I’ve fled Bangkok’ brigade are all mixed together with a beaming smile on their faces here. I love your price and you offer the best activities program I’ve seen. You are superbly run and your beach is one of the best on the island.

The Surin

Kata Beach – The SIS Kata Resort

SHA+ Approved PHUKET SANDBOX STAY

You are a brilliant choice for the dynamic young and trendy (and young at heart) crowd who want good value and an excellently run resort, minutes from the fabulous Kata beach.

SIS Kata Beach

Patong Beach – Holiday Inn Resort Phuket 

SHA+ Approved PHUKET SANDBOX STAY

The holiday Inn Patong is an eternal favourite, they were celebrating their 34th Birthday whilst I was there. Known for their ability to offer something that appeals to all ages. For me, it was the friendly welcome, the staff who go the extra mile, a stylish room with a private pool area, and being able to walk out through the resort to the Patong beach, not to mention they serve Phuket’s best burgers amongst other culinary delights at Terrazzo Restaurant.

More at Little Wandering Wrens YouTube Channel below:

Patong Beach – Kalima Resort & Spa

SHA+ Approved PHUKET SANDBOX STAY

Sitting above the awesome Patong beach and wondrous bay, you win our hearts for giving your guests a great stay. Your fabulous romance rooms, with lovely staff, a wonderful pool area, brilliant fitness classes, a spectacular sunset setting (check out the Thai hotpot special) at all at a fabulous price. Talk about quietly getting on with and nailing a Phuket Sandbox offering. We loved our stay.

Romance rooms at the Kalima Patong

Mai Khao Beach – Anantara Vacation Club

SHA+ Approved PHUKET SANDBOX STAY

No one seems to mind this is not beachfront, you come here for the water park swimming area, the Kid’s Club, and teenage activities. We (as a couple) loved our spacious two-bedroom new pool apartment, activities (yoga), and the food – the Seafood Buffet dinner at under 1000 THB was fab. This once predominately timeshare vacation club is offering good deals at present.

More on our stay – coming soon!

Mai Khao Beach – Anantara Mai Khao Villas

SHA+ Approved PHUKET SANDBOX STAY

So good we went back twice! You receive my highest praise for the best tropical hideaway designer villa ever! I could go on and on about how great this stay was more below!

For more on our stay visit our IG page:  Video tour of Sala Pool Villa and IG post: Anantara Mai Khao Villas

Mai Khao Beach – Blue Canyon Country Club

SHA+ Approved PHUKET SANDBOX STAY

We love how your rooms pale into the background compared with not one but two amazing golf courses here. With restaurants on-site and good value spa treatments on offer, this is perfect for golf enthusiasts wanting a great golf package.

For more on our stay coming soon!

Karon Beach – Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket

SHA+ Approved PHUKET SANDBOX STAY

Fabulous fun for young and old, with the Swimming pools, beach, and water park being a highlight of our stay. I always stay with complete confidence with Centara because of their Centara Complete Care approach to safety. We always make great connections with the Centara Staff, More in the write on my YouTube below:

Patong Beach – Four Points By Sheraton

SHA+ Approved

If you are looking to be beachfront in Patong in a fresh new resort then look no further. Lots of great Insta spots around the place especially at the swimming pool area.  A good value resort and an excellent choice for downtown Patong. Notable for its fabulous breakfast, and Lazy Days in-room menu! We also think this has the best choice of TV channels we’ve seen in a long time – Aussie Rules Footy on the TV gets a big thumbs up! Great for all the family.

 

Nr Layan Beach – The Pavilions

SHA+ Approved

For more on our stay – See The Pavilions. More coming soon

I hope I have given you some insight into Phuket Sandbox and how it could apply to your family.

It seems to be a good decision to choose to return to Thailand through Phuket whilst Bangkok still requires a 14-day hotel quarantine. What is the worse that can happen you have a 14-day hotel quarantine in Phuket?

Whatever you choose, you support Phuket and Thailand as it reopens its doors. Phuketians will be very grateful to you. They will cheer you for leading the way and bringing hope to an island.

Then the chances are, that you will be walking on a glorious beach in Phuket, saying it was definitely worth it.

I do hope so, and when I meet you on the beach, I will be the first to say ‘nice to meet you. Welcome (back) to Thailand, welcome to Phuket!’

For the full article as published in The Big Chilli see here.