Phang Nga –
Similan island National Park in Phang Nga province is welcoming tourists again on October 15 under the New Normal policy after most shops and restaurants were temporarily closed down during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Boonterm Ranumas, the Deputy Governor of Phang Nga Province, spoke at the island’s re-opening ceremony today, October 1, and said that the re-opening is expected to increase revenue for local vendors and tourism operators after the government has encouraged domestic tourists to travel across the country.
All tourists must abide by the government’s New Normal policy, including wearing face masks, having their body temperature checked, and social distancing. They are also required to register before traveling since the island is opened for a limited number of visitors.
The island is not yet opened for an overnight stay but scuba-diving and staying overnight on a tour boat is available, according to the Deputy Governor.
Boonterm told the press: “Today is also the first soft trial to allow a limited number of visitors to the island and under the New Normal and QueQ (Queue Line) system which help manage the advance booking from interested tourists. Any tourists who do not make a booking beforehand are not allowed to enter the Similan island.”
“Some areas on the island are still closed during the re-opening but every national park officer is ready to assist and monitor travelers throughout their visit. A group of local volunteers would also gather to collect garbage around the island and to encourage visitors to protect the island environment.”
