{"id":7722,"date":"2025-01-24T19:15:01","date_gmt":"2025-01-24T18:15:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/?p=7722"},"modified":"2026-01-03T18:35:19","modified_gmt":"2026-01-03T17:35:19","slug":"thailand-pandemic-asia-2021-phuket","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/en\/asia\/thailand-pandemic-asia-2021-phuket\/","title":{"rendered":"Phuket Sandbox Guide \u2013 Pandemic Island Travel"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"7722\" class=\"elementor elementor-7722 elementor-7550\" data-elementor-post-type=\"post\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-e1e35af e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"e1e35af\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-187ccca elementor-toc--minimized-on-desktop elementor-widget elementor-widget-global elementor-global-10937 elementor-widget-table-of-contents\" data-id=\"187ccca\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-settings=\"{&quot;exclude_headings_by_selector&quot;:[],&quot;no_headings_message&quot;:&quot;No headings were found on this page.&quot;,&quot;minimized_on&quot;:&quot;desktop&quot;,&quot;headings_by_tags&quot;:[&quot;h2&quot;,&quot;h3&quot;,&quot;h4&quot;,&quot;h5&quot;,&quot;h6&quot;],&quot;marker_view&quot;:&quot;numbers&quot;,&quot;minimize_box&quot;:&quot;yes&quot;,&quot;hierarchical_view&quot;:&quot;yes&quot;,&quot;min_height&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;min_height_tablet&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;min_height_mobile&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]}}\" data-widget_type=\"table-of-contents.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-toc__header\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-toc__header-title\">\n\t\t\t\tTable of contents\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-toc__toggle-button elementor-toc__toggle-button--expand\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-controls=\"elementor-toc__187ccca\" aria-expanded=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open table of contents\"><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-chevron-down\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-toc__toggle-button elementor-toc__toggle-button--collapse\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-controls=\"elementor-toc__187ccca\" aria-expanded=\"true\" aria-label=\"Close table of contents\"><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-chevron-up\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div id=\"elementor-toc__187ccca\" class=\"elementor-toc__body\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-toc__spinner-container\">\n\t\t\t\t<svg class=\"elementor-toc__spinner eicon-animation-spin e-font-icon-svg e-eicon-loading\" aria-hidden=\"true\" viewBox=\"0 0 1000 1000\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M500 975V858C696 858 858 696 858 500S696 142 500 142 142 304 142 500H25C25 237 238 25 500 25S975 237 975 500 763 975 500 975Z\"><\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-85d951d elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"85d951d\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2>Hello! \ud83d\udc4b<\/h2><p class=\"p1\">Traveling During a Pandemic? Just a few years ago, none of us could have imagined how much the world would change or how much effort it would take to go on a well-deserved vacation. Today, looking back, I\u2019m revisiting my memories from 2021\u2014a time when I managed to escape the pandemic reality and immerse myself in the tropical vibes of Phuket through the Phuket Sandbox program.<\/p><p class=\"p1\">It Wasn\u2019t Your Typical Trip. COVID-19 tests, piles of paperwork, health tracking apps, and constant monitoring of restrictions\u2014planning a trip during the pandemic felt more like tackling a challenge than arranging a vacation. Every step required precision and patience, with the looming stress of flight cancellations or sudden rule changes becoming part of the routine.<\/p><p class=\"p1\">Despite all that, when I finally arrived in Phuket, it felt like all the effort was worth it. The island, usually bustling with tourists, revealed a calmer, more authentic side of itself. Empty beaches, warm welcomes from the locals, and the unique atmosphere of the place allowed me to rediscover the true joys of traveling.<\/p><p class=\"p1\">This post is another chapter in my retrospective journey through traveling during the pandemic. Phuket Sandbox was just the first stop on this Thai adventure, which later took me to Koh Chang and Bangkok.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ad50c65 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"ad50c65\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2>Where is Phuket located?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-c83edb8 elementor-widget elementor-widget-google_maps\" data-id=\"c83edb8\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"google_maps.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-custom-embed\">\n\t\t\t<iframe loading=\"lazy\"\n\t\t\t\t\tsrc=\"https:\/\/maps.google.com\/maps?q=phuket%2C%20thailand&#038;t=m&#038;z=10&#038;output=embed&#038;iwloc=near\"\n\t\t\t\t\ttitle=\"phuket, thailand\"\n\t\t\t\t\taria-label=\"phuket, thailand\"\n\t\t\t><\/iframe>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ed48267 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"ed48267\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"p1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.agoda.com\/partners\/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&amp;cid=1933139&amp;city=16056\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Phuket<\/a> is Thailand\u2019s largest island, located at the southern tip of the country in the Andaman Sea. It lies on the western coast of the Malay Peninsula, approximately 860 km south of Bangkok. The island is connected to the mainland by the Sarasin Bridge, making it easily accessible by car. Phuket is renowned for its stunning beaches, turquoise waters, lush jungles, and diverse tourism offerings, including luxurious resorts and vibrant local markets.   <\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-433db74 elementor-widget elementor-widget-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_gallery_masonry\" data-id=\"433db74\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"qi_addons_for_elementor_image_gallery_masonry.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"qodef-shortcode qodef-m qodef-qi-image-gallery-masonry qodef-qi-fslightbox-popup qodef-popup-gallery qodef-image--hover-zoom qodef-qi-grid qodef-layout--qi-masonry qodef-items--fixed qodef-col-num--2 qodef-responsive--predefined\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-grid-inner\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"qodef-qi-grid-masonry-sizer\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"qodef-e qodef-image-wrapper qodef-grid-item qodef-item--landscape\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-e-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"qodef-popup-item\" itemprop=\"image\" href=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-005-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg\" data-type=\"image\" data-fslightbox=\"gallery-6\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1300\" height=\"650\" src=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-005-1300x650.jpeg\" class=\"attachment-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_landscape size-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_landscape\" alt=\"Scenic view of the coastline near Phuket, Thailand, with lush green hills and sailboats on turquoise water\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-c8aab68 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"c8aab68\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2>Procedures and requirements<\/h2><p class=\"p1\">Traveling during the pandemic was a real challenge. The world suddenly closed its borders, and every trip required not only immense patience but also meticulous planning. Asia, typically welcoming to tourists from around the globe, became almost inaccessible. Even Thailand, known for its popularity among travelers, approached reopening cautiously. That\u2019s when the Phuket Sandbox program emerged, offering a glimmer of hope for a return to travel normalcy\u2014albeit in a new, adjusted form.<\/p><p class=\"p1\">Initially, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tatnews.org\/2021\/10\/initial-information-phuket-sandbox\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Phuket Sandbox<\/a> program required tourists to spend 14 days on the island before being allowed to explore the rest of the country. It sounded like a quarantine in a tropical paradise but came with a lot of formalities\u2014PCR tests before departure, health insurance covering COVID-19, reservations at SHA+ certified hotels, and additional tests upon arrival. Fortunately, the program\u2019s rules evolved over time as Thailand adapted to the changing circumstances.<\/p><p class=\"p1\">In August 2021, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tatnews.org\/2021\/10\/phuket-sandbox-7-7-extension-faqs\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Phuket Sandbox 7+7 Extension<\/a> was introduced, allowing travelers to shorten their stay on Phuket to 7 days and spend the following week in selected regions such as Krabi or Surat Thani. However, an even more significant change came on October 1, 2021\u2014after spending just 7 days on Phuket, travelers were free to explore the rest of the country without additional restrictions.<\/p><p class=\"p1\">That simplified version was exactly what I took advantage of, spending a week on Phuket. It was the perfect balance\u2014strict safety measures on one hand, and a glimpse of normalcy with the chance to explore this remarkable island on the other. The island was quiet, peaceful, and at the same time, I felt like I was witnessing a unique moment in the history of tourism.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b15c29f elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"b15c29f\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2>How did I get to Thailand?<\/h2><p class=\"p1\">Traveling to Thailand during the pandemic required not just courage but also meticulous planning. I chose to fly with Qatar Airways, which was a new experience for me. I managed to get tickets at a reasonable price of around 2,400 PLN. The route included a flight from Warsaw to Doha, followed by a connection from Doha to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.agoda.com\/partners\/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&amp;cid=1933139&amp;city=16056\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Phuket<\/a>. My return journey was planned from Bangkok via Doha back to Warsaw. At the time, there were more flight options to Phuket than there are now, largely due to the requirements of the Phuket Sandbox program in place at the time.<\/p><p class=\"p1\">Before I could enjoy the prospect of an exotic getaway, I had to navigate through a maze of formalities. A crucial step was obtaining the Certificate of Entry (COE) issued by the Thai Embassy. This process involved several stages:<\/p><ul><li class=\"p1\"><b>Flight and accommodation booking: <\/b> Confirmation of flight booking and SHA+ certified hotel stay in Phuket had to be provided.<\/li><li class=\"p1\"><b>Health insurance:<\/b> an insurance policy covering COVID-19 treatment for at least $100,000 was required.<\/li><li class=\"p1\"><b>Immunization:<\/b> It was mandatory to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 with a WHO-approved vaccine at least 14 days before travel.<\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-a4a13bb elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"a4a13bb\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3>Takeoff from Warsaw and flight to Qatar<\/h3><p class=\"p1\">The day of departure was filled with tension. At Warsaw Airport, the procedures were stricter than usual. Before check-in, I had to present all the required documents, including a negative PCR test result, the Certificate of Entry (CoE), proof of hotel reservation, and insurance. The verification process took some time, but in the end, everything went smoothly.<\/p><p class=\"p1\">The flight to Doha went smoothly. The plane was half full, which made me feel more comfortable. Still, I felt that this was only the beginning of the challenges of this trip&#8230;.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-fd1d24f elementor-widget elementor-widget-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_gallery_masonry\" data-id=\"fd1d24f\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"qi_addons_for_elementor_image_gallery_masonry.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"qodef-shortcode qodef-m qodef-qi-image-gallery-masonry qodef-qi-fslightbox-popup qodef-popup-gallery qodef-image--hover-zoom qodef-qi-grid qodef-layout--qi-masonry qodef-items--fixed qodef-col-num--2 qodef-responsive--predefined\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-grid-inner\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"qodef-qi-grid-masonry-sizer\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"qodef-e qodef-image-wrapper qodef-grid-item qodef-item--square\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-e-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"qodef-popup-item\" itemprop=\"image\" href=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/poland-warsaw-airport-inside.jpeg\" data-type=\"image\" data-fslightbox=\"gallery-7\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"650\" height=\"650\" src=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/poland-warsaw-airport-inside-650x650.jpeg\" class=\"attachment-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_square size-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_square\" alt=\"Queue inside Warsaw Chopin Airport terminal with passengers standing behind stanchions and signage overhead\" srcset=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/poland-warsaw-airport-inside-650x650.jpeg 650w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/poland-warsaw-airport-inside-148x148.jpeg 148w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/poland-warsaw-airport-inside-296x296.jpeg 296w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/poland-warsaw-airport-inside-1300x1300.jpeg 1300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"qodef-e qodef-image-wrapper qodef-grid-item qodef-item--square\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-e-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"qodef-popup-item\" itemprop=\"image\" href=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/poland-warsaw-airplane-inside-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg\" data-type=\"image\" data-fslightbox=\"gallery-7\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"650\" height=\"650\" src=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/poland-warsaw-airplane-inside-650x650.jpeg\" class=\"attachment-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_square size-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_square\" alt=\"Passengers seated inside an airplane cabin on a Warsaw, Poland article photo\" srcset=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/poland-warsaw-airplane-inside-650x650.jpeg 650w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/poland-warsaw-airplane-inside-148x148.jpeg 148w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/poland-warsaw-airplane-inside-296x296.jpeg 296w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/poland-warsaw-airplane-inside-1300x1300.jpeg 1300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-56b22a8 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"56b22a8\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3>Beginning of circuses at Doha airport<\/h3><p class=\"p1\">After a smooth flight from Warsaw to Doha, it felt like the hardest part was behind me. However, reality quickly adjusted my expectations. The flight to Phuket, scheduled for 2:05 a.m., was initially delayed by an hour. I thought, \u201cIt happens\u201d. But with each passing hour, another delay was announced\u2014without any clear explanation. Rumors began circulating that our plane hadn\u2019t received clearance to land in Thailand, even though other flights to the country seemed to be operating without issues.<\/p><p class=\"p1\">Frustration among the passengers kept growing. The lack of clear communication from the airline staff only added to the tension. After the fourth delay, many of us were on the brink of losing our patience. Ultimately, instead of departing in the middle of the night, we finally took off at 8:30 a.m., exhausted and sleep-deprived.<\/p><p class=\"p1\">Together with other passengers, we demanded an official confirmation of the delay from the airline, which we planned to use as the basis for filing a claim. The process of seeking compensation took two years but ultimately ended successfully. Despite this unpleasant experience, I still consider Qatar Airways a reliable airline. Since then, I\u2019ve flown with them three more times without any issues.<\/p><p class=\"p1\">This situation reminded me of the importance of having proper travel insurance. At that time, it was mandatory, and such policies often cover necessary expenses related to flight delays. Unfortunately, leaving the airport in Doha to stay at a hotel wasn\u2019t an option due to entry restrictions and the uncertainty surrounding the exact departure time. This only added to the stress and exhaustion.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-94adaf8 elementor-widget elementor-widget-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_gallery_masonry\" data-id=\"94adaf8\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"qi_addons_for_elementor_image_gallery_masonry.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"qodef-shortcode qodef-m qodef-qi-image-gallery-masonry qodef-qi-fslightbox-popup qodef-popup-gallery qodef-image--hover-zoom qodef-qi-grid qodef-layout--qi-masonry qodef-items--fixed qodef-col-num--3 qodef-responsive--predefined\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-grid-inner\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"qodef-qi-grid-masonry-sizer\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"qodef-e qodef-image-wrapper qodef-grid-item qodef-item--landscape\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-e-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"qodef-popup-item\" itemprop=\"image\" href=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/qatar-doha-airport-covid-inside-001-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg\" data-type=\"image\" data-fslightbox=\"gallery-8\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1300\" height=\"650\" src=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/qatar-doha-airport-covid-inside-001-1300x650.jpeg\" class=\"attachment-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_landscape size-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_landscape\" alt=\"Passengers queue at Doha airport departure gates in Qatar, seen from behind under bright overhead lights\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"qodef-e qodef-image-wrapper qodef-grid-item qodef-item--square\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-e-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"qodef-popup-item\" itemprop=\"image\" href=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/qatar-doha-airport-covid-inside-002-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg\" data-type=\"image\" data-fslightbox=\"gallery-8\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"650\" height=\"650\" src=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/qatar-doha-airport-covid-inside-002-650x650.jpeg\" class=\"attachment-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_square size-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_square\" alt=\"Doha International Airport arrival hall with a large yellow bear sculpture and Qatar Airways awards screens\" srcset=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/qatar-doha-airport-covid-inside-002-650x650.jpeg 650w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/qatar-doha-airport-covid-inside-002-148x148.jpeg 148w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/qatar-doha-airport-covid-inside-002-296x296.jpeg 296w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/qatar-doha-airport-covid-inside-002-1300x1300.jpeg 1300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"qodef-e qodef-image-wrapper qodef-grid-item qodef-item--square\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-e-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"qodef-popup-item\" itemprop=\"image\" href=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/qatar-doha-airport-covid-inside-004-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg\" data-type=\"image\" data-fslightbox=\"gallery-8\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"650\" height=\"650\" src=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/qatar-doha-airport-covid-inside-004-650x650.jpeg\" class=\"attachment-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_square size-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_square\" alt=\"Doha Qatar Airways boarding display showing Phuket flight QR978 for 08:30.\" srcset=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/qatar-doha-airport-covid-inside-004-650x650.jpeg 650w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/qatar-doha-airport-covid-inside-004-148x148.jpeg 148w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/qatar-doha-airport-covid-inside-004-296x296.jpeg 296w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/qatar-doha-airport-covid-inside-004-1300x1300.jpeg 1300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"qodef-e qodef-image-wrapper qodef-grid-item qodef-item--landscape\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-e-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"qodef-popup-item\" itemprop=\"image\" href=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/qatar-doha-airport-covid-inside-003-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg\" data-type=\"image\" data-fslightbox=\"gallery-8\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1300\" height=\"650\" src=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/qatar-doha-airport-covid-inside-003-1300x650.jpeg\" class=\"attachment-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_landscape size-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_landscape\" alt=\"Departures board at Doha airport displaying flights, destinations, times, and delays including Qatar, Doha Article photo\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-4de0975 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"4de0975\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3>Welcome in Phuket<\/h3><p class=\"p1\">After an exhausting flight, during which I fell asleep right after breakfast, I finally arrived in Phuket. However, the formalities were far from over. At the airport, I was greeted by a series of procedures:<\/p><ul><li class=\"p2\"><b>Document Verification: <\/b> Verified my Certificate of Entry, negative PCR test result and SHA+ certified hotel reservation confirmation.<\/li><li class=\"p2\"><b>COVID-19 test:<\/b> Before leaving the airport, I had to undergo another PCR test.<\/li><li class=\"p2\"><b>Transportation to the hotel:<\/b> It was not possible to get there on your own. It was mandatory to have a transfer arranged by the accommodation facility to minimize contact with other people.<\/li><\/ul><p class=\"p1\">Only after reaching the hotel and receiving a negative test result could I move freely around the island. However, leaving the Phuket area before the required period was not allowed.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2f56d98 elementor-widget elementor-widget-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_gallery_masonry\" data-id=\"2f56d98\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"qi_addons_for_elementor_image_gallery_masonry.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"qodef-shortcode qodef-m qodef-qi-image-gallery-masonry qodef-qi-fslightbox-popup qodef-popup-gallery qodef-image--hover-zoom qodef-qi-grid qodef-layout--qi-masonry qodef-items--fixed qodef-col-num--3 qodef-responsive--predefined\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-grid-inner\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"qodef-qi-grid-masonry-sizer\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"qodef-e qodef-image-wrapper qodef-grid-item qodef-item--square\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-e-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"qodef-popup-item\" itemprop=\"image\" href=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-006-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg\" data-type=\"image\" data-fslightbox=\"gallery-9\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"650\" height=\"650\" src=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-006-650x650.jpeg\" class=\"attachment-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_square size-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_square\" alt=\"Waiting area at Phuket airport in Thailand with rows of white plastic chairs and a Health Control sign and COVID checklist board\" srcset=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-006-650x650.jpeg 650w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-006-148x148.jpeg 148w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-006-296x296.jpeg 296w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-006-1300x1300.jpeg 1300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"qodef-e qodef-image-wrapper qodef-grid-item qodef-item--square\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-e-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"qodef-popup-item\" itemprop=\"image\" href=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-007-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg\" data-type=\"image\" data-fslightbox=\"gallery-9\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"650\" height=\"650\" src=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-007-650x650.jpeg\" class=\"attachment-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_square size-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_square\" alt=\"Thailand, Phuket airport screening area with medical staff and travelers wearing PPE in front of test booths\" srcset=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-007-650x650.jpeg 650w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-007-148x148.jpeg 148w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-007-296x296.jpeg 296w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-007-1300x1300.jpeg 1300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"qodef-e qodef-image-wrapper qodef-grid-item qodef-item--square\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-e-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"qodef-popup-item\" itemprop=\"image\" href=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-008-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg\" data-type=\"image\" data-fslightbox=\"gallery-9\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"650\" height=\"650\" src=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-008-650x650.jpeg\" class=\"attachment-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_square size-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_square\" alt=\"Phuket Article photo showing table sign with names Grand Mercure, Mr. Pazzi, Joseph, and Lady Naya Filipchokal\" srcset=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-008-650x650.jpeg 650w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-008-148x148.jpeg 148w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-008-296x296.jpeg 296w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-008-1300x1300.jpeg 1300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5069a6c elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"5069a6c\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2>What was tourism like during the pandemic?<\/h2><p class=\"p1\">The pandemic had a profound impact on tourism in Thailand, a country that, before COVID-19, was one of the world\u2019s most popular travel destinations. In 2019, nearly 40 million international tourists visited Thailand. However, in 2020, that number plummeted by 83%, dropping to just 6.7 million.<\/p><p class=\"p1\">In 2021, the situation became even more dire. In the first quarter of the year, only about 20,200 international tourists visited Thailand\u2014a staggering 99% drop compared to the 6.7 million who arrived during the same period the previous year.<\/p><p class=\"p1\">Traveling during the COVID-19 pandemic was a completely different experience from before. Places that once bustled with activity became quieter and less crowded. For instance, on Phuket, an island known for its throngs of tourists, visitor numbers were significantly lower in 2021. Many travelers appreciated this newfound tranquility and the chance to enjoy attractions without the usual crowds.<\/p><p class=\"p1\">At the time, strict safety measures were in place. Wearing masks was common, and tourists had to follow numerous procedures.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5dfe943 elementor-widget elementor-widget-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_gallery_masonry\" data-id=\"5dfe943\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"qi_addons_for_elementor_image_gallery_masonry.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"qodef-shortcode qodef-m qodef-qi-image-gallery-masonry qodef-qi-fslightbox-popup qodef-popup-gallery qodef-image--hover-zoom qodef-qi-grid qodef-layout--qi-masonry qodef-items--fixed qodef-col-num--3 qodef-responsive--predefined\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-grid-inner\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"qodef-qi-grid-masonry-sizer\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"qodef-e qodef-image-wrapper qodef-grid-item qodef-item--\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-e-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"qodef-popup-item\" itemprop=\"image\" href=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-012-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg\" data-type=\"image\" data-fslightbox=\"gallery-10\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1920\" src=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-012-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg\" class=\"attachment- size-\" alt=\"Phuket beach in Thailand with jet skis, palm trees, and colorful umbrellas under a cloudy sky\" srcset=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-012-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg 2560w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-012-300x225.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-012-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-012-320x240.jpeg 320w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-012-800x600.jpeg 800w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-012-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-012-2048x1536.jpeg 2048w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-012-512x384.jpeg 512w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-012-920x690.jpeg 920w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-012-1600x1200.jpeg 1600w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-012-3200x2400.jpeg 3200w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-012-1920x1440.jpeg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"qodef-e qodef-image-wrapper qodef-grid-item qodef-item--landscape\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-e-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"qodef-popup-item\" itemprop=\"image\" href=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-014-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg\" data-type=\"image\" data-fslightbox=\"gallery-10\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1300\" height=\"650\" src=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-014-1300x650.jpeg\" class=\"attachment-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_landscape size-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_landscape\" alt=\"Roadside street view in Phuket, Thailand with cars, motorcycles, and shops under a blue sky\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5743ce9 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"5743ce9\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2>Moving around Thailand<\/h2><p class=\"p1\">Traveling through Thailand during the pandemic felt like a game of chess\u2014every move had to be meticulously planned, and surprises could arise at any moment. Under the Phuket Sandbox program, leaving the island was only allowed after spending 7 days in a certified SHA+ hotel and completing a COVID-19 test.<\/p><p class=\"p1\">That wasn\u2019t all. To check in at your next destination, you needed a special document\u2014the so-called Transfer Form\u2014issued by the hotel where you stayed on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.agoda.com\/partners\/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&amp;cid=1933139&amp;city=16056\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Phuket<\/a>. Without this paperwork, it was impossible to book accommodations outside the island.<\/p><p class=\"p1\">On the island itself, getting around was relatively easy. Beaches, markets, and restaurants were open, albeit operating at a slower pace than before the pandemic. However, there was one condition: visiting nearby islands like Koh Phi Phi or Koh Yao required using certified SHA+ transportation services.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-4301308 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"4301308\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2>Accommodation<\/h2><p class=\"p1\">I stayed at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.agoda.com\/partners\/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&amp;cid=1933139&amp;hid=16405932\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Lady Naya Villas<\/a>, located in the town of Rawai. This charming spot is nestled in a peaceful area surrounded by lush greenery, far from the hustle and bustle of tourist hubs. The property offers 19 private villas with three bedrooms and a private pool, as well as 10 villas with two bedrooms and access to a shared pool.<\/p><p class=\"p1\">Staying at Lady Naya Villas was truly a pleasure. The property is managed by a friendly couple who pay attention to every detail to ensure their guests feel comfortable. While the surrounding area is quiet and perfect for relaxation, it\u2019s worth noting that the center of Rawai is a bit of a distance away, which may require renting a scooter or relying on taxis for transportation.<\/p><p class=\"p1\">The owners were also helpful in arranging the rental of a trusty scooter at an affordable price, making it easy to get around.<\/p><p class=\"p1\">Planning my next visit in 2025, this time with Jadzia, I can\u2019t imagine staying anywhere else. Other areas of Phuket, like Patong, felt too deserted during my previous trip, giving the impression of an almost abandoned town. Lady Naya Villas remains my top choice for its tranquility and charm.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1fb48f6 elementor-widget elementor-widget-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_gallery_masonry\" data-id=\"1fb48f6\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"qi_addons_for_elementor_image_gallery_masonry.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"qodef-shortcode qodef-m qodef-qi-image-gallery-masonry qodef-qi-fslightbox-popup qodef-popup-gallery qodef-image--hover-zoom qodef-qi-grid qodef-layout--qi-masonry qodef-items--fixed qodef-col-num--2 qodef-responsive--predefined\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-grid-inner\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"qodef-qi-grid-masonry-sizer\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"qodef-e qodef-image-wrapper qodef-grid-item qodef-item--landscape\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-e-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"qodef-popup-item\" itemprop=\"image\" href=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-009-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg\" data-type=\"image\" data-fslightbox=\"gallery-11\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1300\" height=\"650\" src=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-009-1300x650.jpeg\" class=\"attachment-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_landscape size-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_landscape\" alt=\"Phuket hotel courtyard pool with palm trees and a distant communications tower in Thailand\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-c17c33a elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"c17c33a\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2>Renting a scooter<\/h2><p class=\"p1\">Renting a scooter in Thailand is a popular way to explore the country, but it requires responsibility and awareness of potential risks. Recklessness, overconfidence, and ignoring the rules are the quickest paths to disaster\u2014and unfortunately, such incidents are far too common in Thailand.<\/p><ul><li><b>Driver\u2019s License and Regulations:<\/b><b><\/b> Let\u2019s be clear\u2014an international driving license with a category A endorsement is essential. The \u201cbut it worked in Europe\u201d excuse doesn\u2019t cut it here. A category B license does not permit you to operate two-wheelers in Thailand. If you don\u2019t have the proper license, don\u2019t get on a scooter. Lacking the correct documentation can result in fines, insurance issues, and no chance of covering expenses in the event of an accident.<\/li><li><b>Safety First<\/b><strong>:<\/strong> Riding without a helmet is asking for trouble\u2014not just from the police, but for your own safety. Most serious accidents on Thai roads involve tourists who ride without helmets, under the influence of alcohol, or with no prior experience. If you\u2019ve never ridden a scooter before, Thailand is not the place to start experimenting.<\/li><li><b>Don&#8217;t leave your passport!<\/b> <b><\/b>Some landlords demand a passport as collateral. In case of a dispute, you may lose your most important travel document. It is better to offer a deposit or leave a copy.<\/li><li><b>Irresponsibility Can Be Deadly:<\/b> Thai roads are not the safest, and their unique challenges, combined with left-hand traffic, can be difficult even for experienced riders. A lack of experience and a \u201cwhatever, I\u2019ll be fine\u201d attitude can easily land you in the hospital\u2014if you\u2019re lucky.<\/li><li><b>Left-Hand Traffic and Road Chaos:<\/b><b><\/b> Thailand follows left-hand traffic, which can be a challenge on its own. Add to that the unique driving culture, a lack of adherence to rules by many drivers, and the general chaos on the roads\u2014and you\u2019ve got a recipe for trouble. Stay alert, observe your surroundings, and don\u2019t overestimate your abilities.<\/li><li><b>Insurance Is a Must:<\/b><b><\/b> Without insurance, you shouldn\u2019t even think about hitting the road. Medical treatment in Thailand can be incredibly expensive, and insurers won\u2019t cover the costs if you lack the proper license or were riding under the influence of alcohol.<\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2ca0b32 elementor-widget elementor-widget-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_gallery_masonry\" data-id=\"2ca0b32\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"qi_addons_for_elementor_image_gallery_masonry.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"qodef-shortcode qodef-m qodef-qi-image-gallery-masonry qodef-qi-fslightbox-popup qodef-popup-gallery qodef-image--hover-zoom qodef-qi-grid qodef-layout--qi-masonry qodef-items--fixed qodef-col-num--2 qodef-responsive--predefined\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-grid-inner\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"qodef-qi-grid-masonry-sizer\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"qodef-e qodef-image-wrapper qodef-grid-item qodef-item--landscape\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-e-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"qodef-popup-item\" itemprop=\"image\" href=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-004-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg\" data-type=\"image\" data-fslightbox=\"gallery-12\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1300\" height=\"650\" src=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-004-1300x650.jpeg\" class=\"attachment-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_landscape size-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_landscape\" alt=\"Motorbike parked on a concrete driveway in Phuket, Thailand, with greenery and building in the background\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5c92d3b elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"5c92d3b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2>What was I able to see?<\/h2><p class=\"p1\">During my stay in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.agoda.com\/partners\/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&amp;cid=1933139&amp;city=16056\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Phuket<\/a>, I had the opportunity to visit some interesting places. While I won\u2019t give away all the details, I invite you to check out the separate article where I summarize what\u2019s worth seeing on the island, which places left a lasting impression on me, and how Phuket has changed since the pandemic.<\/p><p class=\"p1\">\ud83d\udccd <a href=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/en\/asia\/thailand-exploring-phuket\/\">Check out the article to discover the places I recommend on Phuket!<\/a><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-93c1058 elementor-widget elementor-widget-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_gallery_masonry\" data-id=\"93c1058\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"qi_addons_for_elementor_image_gallery_masonry.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"qodef-shortcode qodef-m qodef-qi-image-gallery-masonry qodef-qi-fslightbox-popup qodef-popup-gallery qodef-image--hover-zoom qodef-qi-grid qodef-layout--qi-masonry qodef-items--fixed qodef-col-num--3 qodef-responsive--predefined\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-grid-inner\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"qodef-qi-grid-masonry-sizer\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"qodef-e qodef-image-wrapper qodef-grid-item qodef-item--portrait\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-e-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"qodef-popup-item\" itemprop=\"image\" href=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/thailand-phuket-2025-021-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg\" data-type=\"image\" data-fslightbox=\"gallery-13\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"650\" height=\"1300\" src=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/thailand-phuket-2025-021-650x1300.jpeg\" class=\"attachment-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_portrait size-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_portrait\" alt=\"Graffiti mural on an old wall in Phuket, Thailand, with colorful characters and lettering\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"qodef-e qodef-image-wrapper qodef-grid-item qodef-item--landscape\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-e-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"qodef-popup-item\" itemprop=\"image\" href=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/thailand-phuket-2025-050-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg\" data-type=\"image\" data-fslightbox=\"gallery-13\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1300\" height=\"650\" src=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/thailand-phuket-2025-050-1300x650.jpeg\" class=\"attachment-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_landscape size-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_landscape\" alt=\"Phuket Old Town street with ornate pastel shophouses, parked cars, and red lanterns under an overcast sky\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"qodef-e qodef-image-wrapper qodef-grid-item qodef-item--square\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-e-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"qodef-popup-item\" itemprop=\"image\" href=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/thailand-phuket-2025-054-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg\" data-type=\"image\" data-fslightbox=\"gallery-13\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"650\" height=\"650\" src=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/thailand-phuket-2025-054-650x650.jpeg\" class=\"attachment-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_square size-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_square\" alt=\"Elephant at Phuket Elephant Sanctuary in Thailand standing near bamboo shelters and greenery\" srcset=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/thailand-phuket-2025-054-650x650.jpeg 650w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/thailand-phuket-2025-054-148x148.jpeg 148w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/thailand-phuket-2025-054-296x296.jpeg 296w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/thailand-phuket-2025-054-1300x1300.jpeg 1300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"qodef-e qodef-image-wrapper qodef-grid-item qodef-item--portrait\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-e-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"qodef-popup-item\" itemprop=\"image\" href=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/thailand-phuket-2025-026-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg\" data-type=\"image\" data-fslightbox=\"gallery-13\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"650\" height=\"1300\" src=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/thailand-phuket-2025-026-650x1300.jpeg\" class=\"attachment-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_portrait size-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_portrait\" alt=\"Thailand, Phuket Mai Khao Beach with a landing airplane above the sandy shoreline under stormy clouds\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"qodef-e qodef-image-wrapper qodef-grid-item qodef-item--landscape\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-e-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"qodef-popup-item\" itemprop=\"image\" href=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/thailand-phuket-2025-022-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg\" data-type=\"image\" data-fslightbox=\"gallery-13\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1300\" height=\"650\" src=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/thailand-phuket-2025-022-1300x650.jpeg\" class=\"attachment-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_landscape size-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_landscape\" alt=\"Riding a motorcycle through Phuket, Thailand, with tropical houses and palm-lined road ahead\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-a38955f elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"a38955f\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2>Next stop &#8211; Koh Chang<\/h2><p class=\"p1\">Exploring <a href=\"https:\/\/www.agoda.com\/partners\/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&amp;cid=1933139&amp;city=16056\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Phuket<\/a>, I felt that this island was much more than just beautiful beaches and tourist attractions. From the perspective of a scooter, I discovered small towns, hidden alleys, and places that reveal the island\u2019s true character. These aren\u2019t the postcard-perfect scenes you find in travel brochures but the everyday life that draws you in and offers a glimpse into the local way of living.<\/p><p class=\"p1\">However, Thailand is much more than just Phuket. It\u2019s a country rich in diversity, with each region offering its own unique charm. The next stop on my journey is Koh Chang, an island located closer to the Cambodian border. To get there, I first need to fly to Bangkok, where I plan to rent a car. <a href=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/en\/asia\/thailand-pandemic-asia-2021-koh-chang\/\">\ud83d\udc49 But I\u2019ll share more about this part of the trip in my next article<\/a>.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-bf0c4c8 elementor-widget elementor-widget-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_gallery_masonry\" data-id=\"bf0c4c8\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"qi_addons_for_elementor_image_gallery_masonry.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"qodef-shortcode qodef-m qodef-qi-image-gallery-masonry qodef-qi-fslightbox-popup qodef-popup-gallery qodef-image--hover-zoom qodef-qi-grid qodef-layout--qi-masonry qodef-items--fixed qodef-col-num--3 qodef-responsive--predefined\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-grid-inner\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"qodef-qi-grid-masonry-sizer\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"qodef-e qodef-image-wrapper qodef-grid-item qodef-item--huge-square\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-e-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"qodef-popup-item\" itemprop=\"image\" href=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-011-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg\" data-type=\"image\" data-fslightbox=\"gallery-14\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1300\" height=\"1300\" src=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-011-1300x1300.jpeg\" class=\"attachment-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_huge-square size-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_huge-square\" alt=\"View over lush gardens toward Phuket coastline and islands, Thailand, under a cloudy blue sky\" srcset=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-011-1300x1300.jpeg 1300w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-011-148x148.jpeg 148w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-011-296x296.jpeg 296w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-011-650x650.jpeg 650w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1300px) 100vw, 1300px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"qodef-e qodef-image-wrapper qodef-grid-item qodef-item--square\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-e-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"qodef-popup-item\" itemprop=\"image\" href=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-010-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg\" data-type=\"image\" data-fslightbox=\"gallery-14\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"650\" height=\"650\" src=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-010-650x650.jpeg\" class=\"attachment-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_square size-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_square\" alt=\"Phuket, Thailand plated Thai-style stir-fried noodles with pork, vegetables, and lime on a tablecloth\" srcset=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-010-650x650.jpeg 650w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-010-148x148.jpeg 148w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-010-296x296.jpeg 296w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-010-1300x1300.jpeg 1300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"qodef-e qodef-image-wrapper qodef-grid-item qodef-item--square\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-e-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"qodef-popup-item\" itemprop=\"image\" href=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-013-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg\" data-type=\"image\" data-fslightbox=\"gallery-14\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"650\" height=\"650\" src=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-013-650x650.jpeg\" class=\"attachment-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_square size-qi_addons_for_elementor_image_size_square\" alt=\"Thailand, Phuket street stall interior with sign reading The Pad Thai Shop and \u201cPlease order here\u201d\" srcset=\"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-013-650x650.jpeg 650w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-013-148x148.jpeg 148w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-013-296x296.jpeg 296w, https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/thailand-phuket-013-1300x1300.jpeg 1300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2c70df6 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"2c70df6\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2>Summary<\/h2><p class=\"p1\">Looking back, my stay on Phuket during the pandemic felt like stepping into a different reality. The island, usually bustling with tourists, took on a quieter, almost nostalgic atmosphere. There were no crowds, and the beaches and streets seemed to be waiting for life to return to normal. Yet, it was impossible to ignore how deeply the pandemic had affected the locals. Conversations with them served as a stark reminder of something tourists might easily overlook\u2014being cut off from tourism dealt a heavy economic blow to their livelihoods.<\/p><p class=\"p1\">Observing today\u2019s influx of tourists, especially from Russia, it\u2019s hard not to notice how much things have changed. During the pandemic, their numbers were minimal, giving the island a more intimate and serene atmosphere. Now, hearing about the crowds, I wonder if returning to the same places might be a bit of a culture shock. Tourists are the lifeblood of destinations like Phuket, but during the pandemic, their absence turned the island into something reminiscent of W\u0142adys\u0142awowo (a Polish seaside town that becomes almost deserted outside the summer season)\u2014empty streets, closed businesses, and an overwhelming silence.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Experience Phuket during COVID-19: strict entry rules, quiet beaches, and the unique vibe of the Sandbox program.","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":7551,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"csco_display_header_overlay":false,"csco_singular_sidebar":"","csco_page_header_type":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[104],"tags":[174,166,640,152,175,173,427,171,170],"class_list":{"0":"post-7722","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-asia","8":"tag-culture-and-habits","9":"tag-motorcycle-travels","10":"tag-phuket","11":"tag-thailand","12":"tag-travel-planning","13":"tag-travel-safety","14":"tag-traveling-in-pandemic","15":"tag-urban-tourism","16":"tag-visas-and-documents","17":"cs-entry"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7722","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=7722"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7722\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/7551"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=7722"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=7722"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/warsawtravelers.pl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=7722"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}