The proposed departure tax is under public consultation until 29 October 2026, with no confirmed implementation date. Finance Ministry Permanent Secretary Lavaron Sangsnit said it could be collected through airline tickets rather than paid separately at the airport. He described the proposal as reviving a levy previously set at 500 baht (€13) around two decades ago. Lavaron argued that people who can afford overseas travel have greater ability to absorb the additional expense. Potential uses for the proceeds include promoting domestic tourism and funding travel insurance or emergency medical coverage. The government is seeking more income after years of budget deficits, meaning it has repeatedly spent more than it receives.

Tourist entry fee would fund safety and insurance, Suphajee says The proposed 450-baht entry fee for foreign tourists would fund visitor safety, insurance and improvements to underfunded attractions, Deputy Prime Minister Suphajee Suthumpun said, outlining her reasons for backing the charge. Suphajee, a former chief executive of hotel group Dusit Thani, said many countries collect similar fees. She instructed agencies to establish transparent collection and spending rules before public consultation and Cabinet consideration. The reported draft exempts work-permit holders and several other categories but lists no blanket exemption for long-term or multiple-entry visa holders. Paying for a multiple-entry visa would therefore not, by itself, appear to remove the obligation to pay the separate tourist fee. Under the draft, one payment would cover repeat entries within 30 days, subject to the linked insurance coverage. Entries after that period could attract another charge. The fee and its exemptions remain subject to final approval. #Thailand #ค่าเหยียบแผ่นดิน

— Thai Enquirer (@ThaiEnquirer) October 9, 2026

The separate arrival fee of 450 baht (€12) could be introduced in the first quarter of 2027, subject to Cabinet approval and legal procedures. It would initially apply to eligible foreign visitors entering Thailand by air, with collection from land and sea arrivals postponed for one year. Revenue would support visitor insurance, safety measures and tourism destination development. Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun instructed officials on 9 October to establish clear rules for collecting and spending the money before submitting the proposal to Cabinet. Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul said more than 80% of respondents supported the fee in a recent online public consultation.

Both proposals are separate from the existing Passenger Service Charge, an airport fee generally included in ticket prices. Airports of Thailand increased that charge for international departures from 730 baht (€19) to 1,120 baht (€30) on 20 June 2026. It applies at Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket and Hat Yai airports. If both new measures take effect, an eligible foreign tourist using one of these airports could face combined charges of 2,570 baht (€68). Of that total, 1,450 baht (€39) would represent new costs, while the airport charge is already payable. For four travellers subject to all three charges, the total would reach 10,280 baht (€274).

Tourism industry groups have warned that the additional costs could weaken Thailand’s appeal against competing destinations. The Thai Travel Agents Association said the departure tax could reduce passenger numbers, lead airlines to cut frequencies and ultimately harm inbound tourism. It also warned that this would conflict with Thailand’s ambition to become a regional aviation hub. The country welcomed around 24 million foreign tourists through 10 October, down 4% compared with the same period a year earlier. That remains well below the nearly 40 million arrivals recorded in 2019. The Tourism Authority of Thailand expects approximately 33 million foreign visitors this year, compared with 32.97 million in 2025.

DEPARTURE TAX CONTROVERSY: The Association of Thai Travel Agents has asked the Finance Ministry to stop pushing a draft 1,000-baht tax on air departures, arguing the charge would raise the cost of leaving Thailand for Thais and foreigners before anyone has measured what it would do to flights, jobs and spending.

— The Pattaya News Thailand (@The_PattayaNews) October 9, 2026

The debate comes alongside Thailand’s wider shift towards higher-spending visitors under its 2027 tourism strategy. The plan aims to increase tourism revenue by at least 5% compared with 2026 and spread visitors more evenly between established and emerging destinations. “The Year of Transformation is a clear commitment to reshape Thai tourism around quality, value and long-term competitiveness,” said Tourism Authority of Thailand Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool. Wellness, food, nature and luxury experiences are among its priorities. These ambitions provide context for the revenue debate, although the proposed taxes have not been presented as measures within that strategy.

Visitors are also navigating changes to Thailand’s visa-free stay rules. From 15 September 2026, the allowance for affected passport holders was reduced from 60 to 30 days. Belgium and Luxembourg are among the countries covered by the shorter allowance, according to the Royal Thai Embassy in Brussels. Travellers who entered before the change retain the period of stay previously granted to them. Those planning longer visits can explore visa options, including the Destination Thailand Visa for eligible applicants.

L’article Thailand considers new arrival and departure taxes that could cost tourists €39 est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

Around 700,000 people in Bangkok were affected by the weekend flooding, according to the city’s Flood Control Centre. Eastern neighbourhoods have been among the hardest hit, and some residents have had to leave their homes. Floodwater has begun to recede in parts of the capital, but some streets remain inundated. Bangkok’s governor said on Tuesday that clearing the main roads could take another two days, while lower-lying areas could take up to a week.

The rain is expected to ease in much of Thailand, according to the Thai Meteorological Department’s forecast for 29 September. It still warns of isolated heavy rain in northern, central and eastern areas, where further flooding or landslides are possible. Bangkok’s forecast includes scattered thunderstorms. Travellers should therefore check conditions for their specific route, even if the weather has improved where they are staying.

What does the travel advice say?

Bangkok’s disaster declaration does not amount to a ban on visiting the city. The FCDO warns about flooding and possible travel disruption, but it has not advised against travel to Bangkok because of the floods. Its advice against all but essential travel applies to specified areas near the borders with Malaysia and Cambodia for separate security reasons. Travellers should read the warning for the places they plan to visit, rather than treat one advisory as applying to all of Thailand.

The flooding can still make a journey difficult even when a destination is open. A road may be blocked, a taxi may take longer to arrive, or a local service may change its route. The Tourism Authority of Thailand advises visitors to check weather, traffic and public transport before setting out. It also recommends allowing more time for journeys to airports and transport hubs

Bangkok update, 29 September, 13.00 hrs.: Most attractions remain open, both airports are operating and city rail services are running. Some roads are affected by flooding. Check conditions and allow extra travel time.

PRESS RELEASE: https://t.co/D62lOgZwei#Thailand… pic.twitter.com/MV2Nv3qG07

— TAT Newsroom (@Tatnews_Org) September 29, 2026

Are flights still operating?

Bangkok’s two main airports, Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang, have remained open, but an open airport does not mean every flight is running on time. Thai Airways said on Tuesday that flooding had prevented many staff from reaching work and that it planned to cancel around 30 departures from Bangkok. The airline was also dealing with a large backlog of baggage at Suvarnabhumi. Passengers should check their own flight directly with the airline and allow extra time to reach the airport.

Thai Airways calls in military to tackle major baggage backlog at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)

A major baggage-handling disruption is affecting passengers at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport after heavy rain and flooding across the city prevented some Thai Airways… pic.twitter.com/IbCEu6ApH9

— FL360aero (@fl360aero) September 28, 2026

The Thai government declared 28 and 29 September special public holidays in Bangkok and the three neighbouring provinces covered by the FCDO warning. The decision was intended to reduce travel in flood-affected areas. Some government offices and services may be closed or operating with fewer staff, although essential public services are expected to continue. Travellers who need an appointment or assistance from an office should check its opening arrangements before going there.

Delayed Baggage Services & Tracking⁠

Due to heavy rainfall and localized flooding, baggage handling for inbound flights to Thailand is experiencing delays. If you have not received your baggage, please contact the Lost & Found desk or use the following channels:

1. In-Person… pic.twitter.com/UNn77fs4nn

— AmazingThailand (@AmazingThailand) September 29, 2026

What if you have a trip booked?

Travellers due to depart soon should check their flight, accommodation and the transport needed to complete the journey. Those already in an affected area should follow instructions from local authorities and avoid travelling through floodwater. Conditions can differ sharply between neighbourhoods, so an update for Bangkok as a whole may not describe the route to a particular hotel. If a booked service is cancelled or cannot be reached, contact the airline or travel provider to discuss the available options.

The FCDO’s flooding warning does not, by itself, establish an automatic right to cancel a holiday for a full refund. What a traveller can recover depends on what they booked, whether a provider cancels a service, and the terms of any insurance policy. Anyone considering changing a trip should speak to the provider before cancelling it themselves. They should also check their policy’s wording and the latest advice for every destination on their itinerary.

L’article Is it safe to travel to Bangkok after the severe flooding? est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

With 32.97 million international visitors in 2025, Thailand is heavily reliant on tourism. The industry which 13% of the country’s GDP, 12% of its jobs, and 1.54 trillion baht (€40 billion). In 2026, those numbers are likely to go up, as the government expects around 33.5 million foreign visitors.

However, as the number of tourists grows, so does the nuisance caused by them. On 28 August 2026, Thailand introduced the so-called Office Regulation on Deportation, a set of new regulations allowing authorities to deport foreign nationals who do not abide by the country’s laws or are deemed a threat to public order.

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Starting from 15 September, those new measures will be joined by a new regulation regarding visa-free stays. Passport holders from 93 nations around the globe have been enjoying a 60-day visa exemption since July 2024, but 60 of those will now see that period reduced to just 30 days.

The new visa-exemption measures and visa privileges were officially announced through a publication in The Royal Gazette signed by Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on Monday, 31 August, after the idea was first floated in May 2026.

“The objective is to ensure that travel facilitation for foreign tourists reflects the current circumstances, prevents misuse of visa privileges, and adheres to the principle of ‘one country, one entitlement’. The revisions take into account economic and security considerations, international relations, and the principle of reciprocity. The Government expects this change to strengthen international relations, support negotiations for Schengen visa exemptions for Thai nationals, and facilitate bilateral economic agreements,” the Thai government previously said in a press release.

Full list of countries covered by the new 30-day visa exemption:

Visitors from the above-mentioned countries arriving by land will be able to enter visa-free twice a year, in order to prevent so-called visa runs by foreigners who want to extend their stays in Thailand. Some exceptions will apply, including for passport holders from Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, and Singapore.

Moreover, visitors from the Seychelles and Mauritius will be able to enjoy 15-day visa-free stays, while Visa-on-Arrival (VoA) at designated checkpoints will be available for nationals of Azerbaijan, Belarus, and Serbia. India’s VoA will be removed to eliminate the overlapping visa privilege.

“Travellers who entered Thailand before the new measures come into force will continue to be allowed to remain in the country for the remainder of their stay permitted under the previous regulations,” the government specified.

Foreign nationals who wish to be able to stay longer still have the option to apply for a Destination Thailand Visa (DTV). The 5-year multiple-entry visa requires proof of a bank account containing at least €13,000 (500,000 baht), and remote workers must be able to provide proof of employment outside of Thailand. In return, DTV holders can stay for a maximum of 180 days per entry, which can be prolonged once for another 180 days.

L’article Thailand to reduce visa-free stays for travellers from 60 to 30 days est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

“Problematic foreign tourists or workers who break the law must leave”, Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul said unequivocally, as the measure came into effect.

The Prime Minister’s Office Regulation on Deportation, signed by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, came into force on 28 28 August, establishing clearer procedures for cases previously dealt with largely on an individual basis.

The new law applies to any foreign national who contravenes the law in any of the following six categories: entering or remaining in Thailand illegally (including overstaying a visa); working without the proper authorisations; operating a business in violation of foreign business laws; forging or using fraudulent official documents; committing an offence punishable by at least five years in prison; or acting as the principal offender in any of the above cases, instigating them, or being an accomplice to them.

The Thai government stressed that the aim of the new measure is not to discourage or even restrict legitimate work, travel or business in the country, but rather to “draw a clear line between foreigners who contribute positively to Thai society and those who break the law”.

This aligns with Thailand’s broader direction in tourism, where the country is increasingly favouring “quality over quantity”. The new tourism strategy aims to establish Thailand as “Asia’s No. 1 High-Value & Meaningful Destination”, focusing on higher-spending travellers and meaningful experiences, as well as distributing tourism revenue more widely around the country. This could be more difficult to achieve with unruly tourists.

Clear procedures for deporting foreign nationals from Thailand are now being enforced. Foreign nationals subject to deportation are highlighted here. pic.twitter.com/BBVN4huuGi

— Bangkok Post (@BangkokPostNews) August 28, 2026

The authorities added that the new regulation should improve coordination between the Department of Corrections and the Interior Ministry. It should also streamline the deportation process for foreign nationals, enabling proceedings to begin as soon as their prison sentence is completed.

Alongside the formal deportation rules, Surasak has announced a broader “zero tolerance” approach towards foreign tourists who “threaten public safety, cause disturbances or behave aggressively and arrogantly”. The latter can now be detained, have their visas revoked, and face immediate removal and deportation proceedings, as well as being blacklisted and permanently barred from entering the country.

Surasak applauded the new measure, stating that his ministry would cooperate with the Interior Ministry, the Tourist Police Bureau, and the Immigration Bureau. He added that the authorities were “ready to enforce the law decisively and deport them immediately” in order to protect “all Thai people and maintain a safe environment for other tourists”.

When the minister emphasised that the rules were intended solely for those “low-quality foreigners” who disrupt public order, he could have been referring to the Spanish and Peruvian nationals who were deported in May after being caught having sex in public, or the group of Italian students on a Bangkok train who were so rude and unruly in July that Italy’s embassy was forced to apologise.

Thailand has also moved to shorten visa-free stays for travellers from many countries from 60 to 30 days following several visa misuse and illegal business activities.

At the same time, the government has assured that “Thailand continues to warmly welcome law-abiding foreign visitors, workers, and residents”, while also committing to taking firm and consistent action against those who do not respect its laws.

Tourism is a major pillar of Thailand’s economy, accounting for around 13% of the country’s GDP and 12% of jobs. In 2025, the country welcomed 32.97 million international visitors, generating 1.54 trillion baht (€40 billion). The government expects to receive around 33.5 million foreign visitors in 2026.

L’article Thailand cracks down on unruly foreign tourists with new deportation rules est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool explained it marked a deliberate shift from volume-driven growth towards experiences that “earn traveller loyalty” and “distribute income more widely”.

The strategy’s four moves, which are part of TAT’s wider “Winning Goal 2027” plan, aim to boost tourism revenue by at least 5% compared to 2026 and achieve a 60:40 distribution of visitors between major and emerging destinations.

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The first move, Rebalance Market Portfolio, is an effort to reduce reliance on a single source market or destination by strengthening domestic tourism and attracting high-value travellers interested in wellness, luxury, gastronomy, and nature. TAT is also targeting new source markets in Eastern Europe and Latin America, hoping that stronger air connections will attract visitors from these regions. The “Link Plus” programme will match travellers with 19 priority destinations, with the aim of increasing international arrivals to these areas by 10%.

So, does this mean the end of cheap holidays and foot massages on the beach? Not immediately, perhaps, but there is definitely a shift towards discouraging mass tourism without losing out on revenue.

The second move, Shape Experience Platform, aims to transform Thailand’s image from that of a “value for money” destination to that of a more “meaningful” one. The slogan is “Healing is the new luxury”. Two new mascots will represent the rebrand, which aims to build emotional connections with travellers. The “365 Thai Thiao Thai” campaign will encourage Thais to travel within the country all year round. TAT also plans to extend the UNESCO Thailand Network to cover 29 areas and over 55 community destinations, as well as developing signature branding for five provinces.

The third move, Build New Growth Engine, leans on what TAT calls the “Life Economy”. In early 2027, an “Unseen Luxperience” programme will launch for premium travellers, combining lesser-known destinations with private experiences focusing on Thai textiles, jewellery, massage and Muay Thai.

Wellness will be pivotal for Thailand’s transformation, with the country seeking to position itself as a global health and healing destination through medical excellence, science-based wellness, and local wisdom. Meanwhile, the Festival Economy, known as the “365 Days of Celebration”, should establish the country as a year-round destination, with its cultural calendar including international events such as Pride celebrations and major music festivals like S20, Tomorrowland, and Wonderfruit, as well as art, design, and sports events.

Meanwhile, sustainability initiatives will include expanding low-carbon hotels and developing sustainable tourism prototypes in Nan and the “Wellness Valley” areas.

Finally, the fourth move, Transform Together, reflects a broader shift in TAT’s role from tourism promoter to an “ecosystem orchestrator”, where data analysis, support for start-ups and AI will help understand and improve the traveller journey.

“The Year of Transformation is a clear commitment to reshape Thai tourism around quality, value and long-term competitiveness,” said TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool.

The strategy builds on ambitions flagged earlier this year by the government of bringing in at least 33 million foreign visitors to the country in 2027, with 203 million domestic trips.

Between January and mid-July 2026, Thailand has already welcomed 17.36 million foreign visitors, generating an estimated 838.73 billion baht in revenue, though arrivals were down more than 3%. China, Malaysia, and India are its strongest markets.

L’article Thailand shifts away from mass tourism with new 2027 strategy est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

In what they are calling a “Value over Volume” strategy, officials intend to attract higher-spending visitors by enhancing the country’s tourism reputation through better destination management practices, driving improvements to services, and leveraging digital transformation.

As well as appealing to more affluent guests and encouraging repeat visits, the Thai strategy will promote the destination to new overseas source markets, including Belarus, Brazil, and South Africa, local media say. Thai officials are also reportedly in talks with Chinese airlines about increased air connectivity.

But visitors from overseas are only part of the picture. On top of bringing in more international arrivals, Thai authorities want to drive more domestic tourism and have set a goal of 203 million internal trips, which they are planning to achieve partly through encouraging more frequent travel through incentive schemes in partnership with private sector partners.

“Thailand’s goal does not measure success merely by visitor numbers,” said Natthriya Thaweevong, Permanent Secretary for Tourism and Sports, “but prioritises the quality of tourists, the revenue generated, and the benefits distributed to the public and entrepreneurs in all areas, making tourism a core engine to drive the country’s economy stably and sustainably.”

Thailand welcomed over 14 million foreign tourists during the first five months of 2026, for the third consecutive year, recording 14.76 million in 2024, 14.36 million in 2025, and 14.03 million in 2026, and pitched that stability as a win in a competitive and uncertain global tourism market.

Since then, more recent figures have emerged showing 17.36 million foreign tourists between 1 January and 18 July, generating an estimated 838.73 billion baht in tourism revenue, according to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. However, that data would represent a drop of more than 3%.

Digging into the data, China was the largest source market, sending 2.86 million visitors, followed by Malaysia with 2.25 million, India with 1.31 million, Russia with 1.06 million and South Korea with 631,777.

Amid intensifying competition in the Asian tourism market, Thailand has trialled a number of strategies to boost its performance, including permitting afternoon alcohol sales for the first time since 1972, in a move that responded to hospitality industry lobbying and aligned the Southeast Asian country’s laws with modern values.

It will also host the Tomorrowland music festival for the first time in December 2026, in what the Tourism Authority of Thailand said was “an important milestone in our ambition to position the country as a leader in global tourism and creative experiences.”

L’article Thailand targets 33 million foreign visitors in 2027 with sustainable tourism strategy est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

Authorities argue that the longer stay period has created loopholes in the system. Some foreign nationals are accused of entering Thailand as tourists while engaging in illegal business activities. These include operating companies through local nominees and running unlicensed services in tourist areas. The government says these practices affect local jobs and weaken the enforcement of business laws.

Thailand's MFA to propose reducing visa-free stay for foreign tourists from 60 days to 30 days to curb transnational crime. pic.twitter.com/MYQswZu4Rk

— PR Thai Government (@prdthailand) May 12, 2026

The proposed change is also based on travel data showing that most tourists do not stay for long periods. According to the Tourism and Sports Ministry, the average stay is just over nine days. Officials say most visits fall between seven and 21 days, which is far below the current 60-day limit. They argue that a 30-day stay would still cover the needs of the majority of travellers.

A government working group is expected to review not only tourist visas but also other categories. These include investment visas, student visas, and long-term residency schemes. The aim is to create a more structured and consistent visa system. Authorities say the review is part of a broader effort to modernise entry rules and reduce misuse across different visa types.

The Thai government has also linked the discussion to enforcement in popular tourist destinations. Areas such as Phuket, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Koh Samui, and Bangkok have seen increased monitoring of foreign-run businesses. Officials have reported cases of illegal tour operations, unlicensed rentals, and other violations of tourism laws. Security and administrative agencies have been instructed to step up inspections nationwide.

Recent enforcement actions have added pressure to tighten rules. Police have arrested foreign nationals in connection with illegal business activities and, in some cases, weapons possession. These cases have intensified concerns about criminal networks using tourism channels. Authorities say stronger visa controls could help reduce these risks and improve oversight.

At the same time, the policy shift comes with economic considerations. Tourism is one of Thailand’s most important sources of income, generating tens of billions of dollars annually. The country continues to attract millions of visitors each year, and officials say any changes must avoid harming the sector. The government has stressed that visa-free travel will not be removed entirely.

Tourism industry groups have expressed concerns that stricter rules could affect competitiveness. They warn that travellers may choose other destinations in Southeast Asia if entry becomes more restrictive. Countries such as Vietnam and Malaysia are seen as potential alternatives for longer stays.

Separate from the visa debate, Thailand has recently proposed new requirements related to travel insurance. Under this proposal, visitors may be asked to show proof of health insurance before entering the country. The measure is intended to reduce the financial burden of unpaid medical treatment for foreign patients. Authorities estimate that millions of dollars in medical costs are not recovered each year. The proposal is still under consideration and has not yet been approved.

Other policy ideas, including a possible tourist tax, have also been discussed but not confirmed. These measures would be used to support infrastructure and manage tourism pressure in busy destinations. Officials say no final decisions have been made and all proposals are still under review. The broader direction suggests a tightening of entry rules combined with more structured tourism management.

L’article Thailand plans shorter visa-free stays as authorities target misuse of tourist visas est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

On 1 May 2026, Public Health Minister Pattana Promphat said the island nation is still considering the introduction of mandatory health insurance for all visitors, whether they are tourists, migrant workers, or short-term stays, in a bid to reduce the economic burden of medical treatment for foreigners on the country’s taxpayers.

According to estimates from the Thai Ministry of Public Health unpaid medical charges run up by foreign patients are draining national coffers to the tune of around USD $3 million (approximately €2.5 million) every year. The tourist mecca of Phuket, with its stunning beaches and islands, and Chiang Mai, whose temples, natural assets, and metropolitan vibe attract millions of visitors annually, are among the most severely affected spots.

The issue is particularly acute, authorities say, in border areas, where hospitals and clinics have been treating patients whose nationality or legal status has not yet been verified.

While the country is reviewing its policies, the “Tor 99” welfare scheme that supports individuals with complex legal status, stateless persons, or those waiting for citizenship verification, will continue to operate Pattana confirmed, covering childbirth, emergency treatments, and urgent access to care.

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Under the latest proposals, foreign tourists could be asked to provide proof of their accident and healthcare insurance before being allowed to enter Thailand. Any shift in insurance approach would be intended to ensure visitors continue to be able to receive the care they need, and, at the same time, shield the national economy from the prohibitive costs entailed.

Like many destinations, Thailand is also considering bringing in a tourist tax to raise funds for the maintenance, infrastructure, cleanliness, and safety measures required by the tourism industry. The measure, yet to be approved, would target arrivals by air to avoid a disproportionate impact on cross-border commuters and day-trippers who undertake frequent movements between Thailand and its neighbours.

L’article Thailand is considering mandatory health insurance for all visitors est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

Backed by the country’s health and tourism authorities, the proposal aims to ensure that visitors, who are drawn to Thailand’s nightlife, beaches and hospitality, cover the cost of care in the event of an accident.

This comes at a time when Thailand continues to attract millions of tourists while grappling with the hidden costs of mass tourism. According to officials, this issue has become increasingly visible in major tourist destinations such as Phuket and Chiang Mai, where hospitals regularly treat foreign patients without guaranteed reimbursement.

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At Vachira Phuket Hospital, one of the main hospitals in the popular province of Phuket, unpaid bills amount to around 10 million baht (€265,000) each year. According to its director, Weerasak Lorthongkham, the hospital is forced to absorb these costs for tourists who arrive without adequate insurance.

Most cases involving substance abuse or motorcycle accidents drain hospital resources. In early 2023, over 500 scooter accidents involving tourists were reported in Phuket in just the first two months.

Dr Lorthongkham cited the case of a Russian tourist who suffered a serious spinal injury in a motorcycle accident and required long-term care. Unable to contact the patient’s family, the hospital ended up covering the cost of treatment and repatriation, which exceeded one million baht.

Embassies and consulates generally treat such cases as personal expenses and refuse to cover the bills.

According to the Bangkok Post, the authorities are now assessing the full scale of the issue. Somruk Jungsaman, the permanent secretary at the Ministry of Public Health, said that clear data is needed to design appropriate measures. He added that “both the level of insurance and payment mechanisms will be discussed with relevant agencies”.

Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn, chairman of the Association of Thai Travel Agents, told the Bangkok Post that Thailand had long prioritised attracting tourists while leaving related pressures unaddressed.

The issue is gaining urgency amid broader concerns about the sustainability of tourism. Although Thailand remains one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, arrivals fell last year for the first time in a decade outside of the pandemic, dropping from around 35 million in 2024 to 32.9 million in 2025 amid security concerns and regional instability.

Thailand has already attempted to address the issue in the past. In 2019, it introduced insurance requirements for long-stay visitors over 50 after unpaid foreign medical bills totalled around 500 million baht (€13 million). The authorities are also revisiting an earlier proposal for a 300 baht (€8) fee on air arrivals, which would partly fund basic medical coverage and tourism infrastructure. The idea is still under cabinet review.

Thailand would not be the first country to take this step: Argentina, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Schengen Area countries already have similar rules. Japan is also considering such measures after reporting unpaid medical bills totalling more than 61 million yen (€320,000) in 2024.

For now, however, no law has been passed, and no final timeline or system has been confirmed.

L’article Thailand weighs mandatory travel insurance to tackle unpaid medical costs est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

The alert was issued after around 20 to 30 moon jellyfish were spotted floating near the surface and stranded along the shoreline at Siam Bay on Ko Racha Yai, just off Phuket. Officials from Thailand’s marine authorities urged beachgoers to exercise caution and not touch the creatures, even though they are not considered highly dangerous.

@rekakain99 #seafood #jellyfish #thailand ♬ som original – Dessa Rassam

Experts from the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) identified the species as moon jellyfish, or Aurelia sp, which are commonly found in Thai waters. While their venom is relatively mild and not life-threatening, it can still cause discomfort. Contact with the jellyfish may result in skin irritation, red rashes or a burning sensation, particularly for people with sensitive to their sting.

Authorities stressed that visitors should remain vigilant and avoid direct touch, adding that anyone experiencing unusual symptoms after contact should seek immediate first aid and medical attention, as reactions can vary. 

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While most stings from moon jellyfish are mild, symptoms such as persistent pain, swelling, or signs of an allergic reaction may require prompt treatment, and early medical care is recommended to prevent complications.

The appearance of the jellyfish has been linked to natural environmental factors, although authorities did not specify an exact cause. Such occurrences are not unusual in coastal regions, where changing sea conditions can bring marine life closer to shore.

Visitors who are stung are advised to clean the affected area and seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen. Officials also encouraged tourists to report sightings to local authorities to help monitor the situation and ensure public safety. 

@kanastasiaaaa Well I’m not going in the water #thailand #jellyfish #beach #octopus ♬ som original – Encantado Mundo Disney

Authorities also issued first-aid advice for travellers exposed to jellyfish venom:

• Get out of the water immediately if a severe reaction occurs, as symptoms may worsen and increase drowning risk. 
• Pour vinegar over the affected area, or rinse with seawater if vinegar is not available (avoid fresh water or other liquids).
• Do not rub or touch the area, as stinging cells may remain on the skin.
• Monitor for at least one hour, even if symptoms are mild, due to possible delayed reactions.
• Call emergency services on 1669 if severe symptoms such as breathing difficulties occur, and seek urgent hospital care.
• Begin CPR immediately if the person becomes unconscious or suffers cardiac arrest, until help arrives.

The warning comes as Phuket continues to attract large numbers of international tourists, particularly during peak travel seasons. Beaches in the region are known for their clear waters and marine biodiversity, but officials emphasised that awareness of potential hazards is crucial.

While the moon jellyfish do not pose a severe threat, authorities reiterated that avoiding contact is the safest course of action, as even minor stings can disrupt holiday plans and require medical care.

L’article Tourists warned to avoid venomous moon jellyfish spotted on Phuket beach est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.