Thailand reopens for some vaccinated visitors: 4 lesser-known places to see in the Land of Smiles

Thailand has announced it will end quarantine requirements for fully vaccinated travellers from 10 low-risk countries from November 1 – including the UK. Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha said in a televised address that visitors will need to “present a [negative] Covid test… and test once again upon arrival”. If both tests are negative, they can then “travel freely like Thais”.

That means the Land of Smiles, as it’s affectionately known, will once again become a viable holiday destination for many, and the country’s tourism industry – which lost an estimated £37bn during 2020 – can start to recover.

Tempted by Thailand? If you’ve already been to Bangkok and popular islands like Phuket and Koh Samui, or you want to avoid the crowds, try these off the beaten track destinations instead…

1. Ko Phayam

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A tiny island off the south west…