Thailand-
The fourth phase of Thailand opening and unlocking closed and restricted businesses that were shut due to the Covid-19 Coronavirus situation officially takes effect today across the country.
According to the Center for Covid-19 Situation Administration, or CCSA, spokesperson Dr. Taweesin Visanuyothin, with the implementation of this phase of easing restrictions 95% of the overall businesses in the country are now approved to open by the Thai government. Borders and inbound international traffic, except for rare exceptions like Thai nationals being repatriated from overseas and foreigners with work permits, are still closed.
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Notably, nightlife related venues like bars, pubs, nightclubs, karaokes, entertainment venues and similar places remain closed, despite the lifting of the national curfew yesterday evening. Some other exceptions, like internet and gaming cafes, sports with an audience and wet massage parlors remain closed as well. The CCSA has not specifically stated they are planning a Phase Five, as Phase four was previously the final phase, and has only stated that the venues still closed will remain so “until further notice.”
Here is a reminder of what is open today:
Schools with less than 120 students, school buildings for activities and informal learning. Most Government schools are scheduled to open on July First.
-Government buildings for training, learning, conferences, etc. With social distancing rules in effect
Activities like conferences, training, seminars, exhibitions, ceremonies, banquets, music, dance, concerts and various other activities held in hotels, convention centers, exhibition centers, cinemas and other locations that use the criteria of 24 square meters per person. Also, catering events, product launches, competitions and sporting events can be done, but must sit at least 1 meter apart.
For concerts, must have five meters of space per person and not allow a dense or packed area.
Restaurants, Hotels, food courts, markets, etc may sell alcohol. However, bars, pubs, night clubs, karaoke lounges, wet massages and nightlife specific entertainment venues must remain closed. Social distancing rules must be followed and no special promotions or events. Beer girl style hostesses are prohibited at restaurants, and other similar promotions such as happy hours or discounts.
Playgrounds, water parks, amusement parks may open except for ball pits and inflatable houses.
Arcades can open in malls but not stand alone locations. He added these could actually open from today.
Airplanes are not required to social distance and all seats can be used if everyone is wearing masks.
Bus transport can be full up to 70 percent of capacity now.
Sports stadiums and all sporting event fields can open, can be broadcast on tv, but no audiences at this time. Competitive events are ok.
Please remember that just because something CAN open, does not mean it will open. Please check with the venue you are interested in before going.