SINGAPORE – The resort island of Phuket reopened its doors to international travellers on Thursday (July 1), but travel agents say would-be tourists from Singapore have not rushed to make bookings.
The high costs of numerous Covid-19 tests and travel insurance, as well as potentially lengthy quarantine requirements upon returning to Singapore are likely to be big deterrents, said several travel agencies in Singapore.
Travel booking platform Klook also cites the uncertainty around travel requirements as a reason for the muted response from Singaporeans so far.
“While Singaporeans may be keen to scratch that travel itch, we are observing that many are still quite cautious. This is not unexpected, as there is unfamiliarity with travel guidelines and quarantine measures,” said its general manager, Ms Sarah Wan.
Phuket is the first province in Thailand to welcome back tourists after…