Tag: October

  • 11 Best Places To Go In October Revealed (This Quiz Finds Your Perfect Match)

    11 Best Places To Go In October Revealed (This Quiz Finds Your Perfect Match)

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    Let’s be real… while everyone flocks to Europe’s beaches in July and August, savvy travelers know that October is where the real magic happens.

    It’s officially shoulder season! That sweet spot where the scorching summer heat has mellowed, the peak-season hordes have retreated, and your budget breathes a sigh of relief with more reasonable flights and accommodation.

    Plus, you get to experience destinations truly coming alive with local vibes, stunning autumn colors, and a calendar packed with unique events.

    But with so many incredible options—from sun-drenched islands to bustling cultural hubs—how do you pick your perfect October escape?

    Central Park during autumn in New York City.

    Fear not!

    The travel experts at TimeOut have done the heavy lifting, curating an incredible list of the 11 absolute best places to visit next month.

    And because we know you don’t have all day to scroll, we at Travel Off Path have built a quick, fun quiz to help you find your ideal match in seconds.

    Couple lounging on Mirissa Beach, Sri Lanka

    Why October Is The Undisputed King of Travel Months

    October isn’t just about pumpkin spice lattes (though we’re not saying no to those).

    It’s about getting more bang for your buck, avoiding the crush, and experiencing destinations in a totally different light.

    • Northern Hemisphere: Trees burst into fiery hues, creating breathtaking backdrops for city strolls and nature hikes. Think crisp air, cozy cafes, and vibrant festivals.
    • Southern Hemisphere: Spring is in full swing, offering pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes, perfect for outdoor adventures before the summer rush.

    This TimeOut-approved list isn’t just a random collection; it’s a thoughtfully curated selection of destinations that truly shine in October.

    We’re talking about places where world-famous events collide with incredible scenery, where hidden cultural gems await, and where adventure is just around the corner, often at a fraction of the cost.

    Cathedral Old City Valencia

    From Balloon Fiestas To Underwater Wonders: The Choices Are Endless

    This isn’t your average “best places to see leaves” list.

    These destinations offer truly unique experiences:

    • Sri Lanka: Imagine exploring ancient temples and surfing epic waves as the monsoon season wanes, perhaps even celebrating the vibrant Hindu festival of Diwali.
    • Türkiye: Istanbul’s iconic Hagia Sophia bathed in autumn light, plus the buzz of international film festivals in both Istanbul and Antalya. It’s chic, cultured, and still warm enough for a dip.
    • New Mexico, USA: Witness hundreds of technicolor hot air balloons ascend at the world’s largest balloon festival in Albuquerque, then explore the unique adobe architecture of Santa Fe.
    • Valencia, Spain: This World Design Capital still offers sunshine, stunning futuristic architecture, and modernist barrios perfect for leisurely exploration.
    • New York City, USA: NYC in the fall is iconic, but October brings Halloween to life with the outrageous Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade—a truly unforgettable experience.
    • Philippines: With 7,000 islands, it’s a paradise for divers and foodies alike. Think mind-blowing wreck diving in Coron Bay or savoring mouth-watering Lechon.
    • Bhutan: The world’s only carbon-negative country offers pristine Himalayan nature, clean air, and a uniquely mindful travel experience.
    • Bosnia and Herzegovina: Avoid the summer heat and winter chill, and discover the enchanting, crowd-free old towns of Sarajevo and Mostar in their autumnal glory.
    • Timisoara, Romania: This under-the-radar European gem boasts pastel-painted Art Nouveau architecture, lively jazz bars, and a rich history as Romania’s ‘first free city’ during the 1989 revolution.
    • San Francisco, USA: Enjoy warm, sunny days (yes, really!) and the completely free, non-commercial Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival in Golden Gate Park.
    • Namibia: This rising star destination is home to Africa’s only International Dark Sky Reserve, offering unparalleled stargazing from luxurious new lodges.
    San Francisco

    Ready to Discover Your Perfect October Trip?

    Feeling inspired but still torn between a Diwali celebration in Sri Lanka and a Halloween parade in NYC? Or perhaps the pristine forests of Bhutan are calling your name louder than the film festivals of Türkiye?

    We get it. That’s why we’ve streamlined the decision-making process.

    Our brand-new, lightning-fast quiz will ask you a few simple questions about your ideal October trip. Do you crave festivals, nature, culture, or adventure? Are you drawn to a bustling US city, a charming European gem, an exotic Asian paradise, or an epic natural landscape? What’s your pace—high-energy, relaxed, mindful, or indie?

    In just a few clicks, our quiz will analyze your preferences against TimeOut’s expert recommendations and reveal your ultimate October destination. No more endless scrolling; just personalized travel inspiration.

    Don’t let another shoulder season pass you by. Take the quiz now and unlock your perfect autumn adventure!

    What’s the main focus of your October trip?

    🎉

    Festivals & Events

    I want to be part of a world-famous event or celebration.

    🌲

    Pristine Nature

    Getting lost in unique, breathtaking natural landscapes is my goal.

    🏛️

    Cultural Discovery

    I want to explore historic cities, art, and authentic old towns.

    🌊

    Unique Adventure

    I’m looking for a special experience, like diving or surfing.

    What kind of environment are you dreaming of?

    🇺🇸

    A Big US City

    The energy of a major American metropolis in the fall.

    🇪🇺

    A European Gem

    A classic or underrated European city or country.

    🌏

    An Asian Paradise

    A trip to a vibrant, culturally rich Asian nation.

    An Epic Landscape

    A truly vast, remote, and breathtaking natural setting.

    What’s your ideal travel pace?

    High Energy

    A packed itinerary with tons of things to see and do.

    😌

    Relaxed & Scenic

    A slower pace focused on soaking in the beauty and atmosphere.

    🧘

    Unique & Mindful

    A low-impact, thoughtful trip to a truly special place.

    🎶

    Free-Spirited & Indie

    I love a non-commercial, independent, and authentic vibe.

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  • Americans Will Have To Get Fingerprinted Traveling To This European Country Starting October 12

    Americans Will Have To Get Fingerprinted Traveling To This European Country Starting October 12

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    For decades, the ritual of entering Europe has been the same: a friendly greeting, a quick glance at your passport, and that satisfying ‘thump’ of a fresh passport stamp. But that whole process is about to change in a big way, and the first major shift is happening next month.

    Here at Travel Off Path, we’re all about giving you the real, on-the-ground intel you need to travel smarter. The European Union has been talking about new, high-tech border systems for years, creating a ton of confusion. Now, it’s finally happening, and it’s kicking off with a confusing, country-by-country rollout.

    Americans Will Have To Get Fingerprinted Traveling To This European Country Starting October 12

    The big news? Starting October 12, 2025, Americans heading to the stunning coastlines of Croatia will be the first to experience a completely new entry process, one that includes getting fingerprinted and photographed.


    First, What Is This New System?

    This new process is part of the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES). The simplest way to think about it is this: the EES is officially replacing passport stamps.

     EU's EntryExit System (EES)

    Instead of a border officer stamping your passport, you’ll use a self-service kiosk to scan it. On your first entry into a country using the system, you will also have to provide your biometric data: specifically, four fingerprints and a facial photograph.

    This information is then stored securely for three years. On subsequent trips, the process will be much faster; you’ll just need a quick facial scan to verify your identity against the profile already in the system. The goal is to speed up border crossings and enhance security.

    Fingerprinting Airport Scan EES

    Hold On, Is This The Same as ETIAS?

    This is the most confusing part for travelers, so let’s make it crystal clear: No, the EES is completely separate from the ETIAS.

    Think of it like this:

    • EES (The Kiosk): This is the physical process at the border. It’s the new high-tech system that takes your fingerprints and photo instead of stamping your passport.
    • ETIAS (The Website): This is the online travel authorization you will need to apply for before you leave home. It’s the $7.50 pass that is still scheduled to launch in the last quarter of 2026.

    You can’t have one without the other, which is why the rollout has been so complicated. The ETIAS system can’t launch until the EES infrastructure is working.

    Border-control-area-at-Italy-Airport

    What To Expect in Croatia Starting October 12

    Croatia’s Ministry of Interior has confirmed it is officially activating its system, making it the first European country to do so.

    If you are flying into Zagreb or Dubrovnik, or crossing another international border into Croatia after this date, you will be directed to the new EES kiosks. You’ll scan your passport, provide your fingerprints and photo, and answer a few questions on the screen. It’s a change, but it’s designed to be a straightforward process.

    Historic street at Upper Town in Zagreb

    What About The Rest Of Europe?

    This is where the “confusing rollout” comes in. If you fly into major airports like Paris (CDG), Rome (FCO), or Madrid (MAD) this fall, you will probably see the new EES kiosks already installed. However, they are not yet mandatory for all travelers.

    For now, these other countries are sticking to the plan of a coordinated, Schengen-wide launch in the first half of 2026.

    Europe’s New Travel Rules: The Simple Guide

    It’s confusing, we get it. Choose a system below to get a simple, easy-to-understand breakdown of what’s changing.


    👆The EES (Entry/Exit System)

    • What it is: A new, automated system at the border that replaces passport stamps with digital scans.
    • What you’ll do: On your first entry, you’ll provide your fingerprints and a facial photo at a self-service kiosk.
    • When it starts: Croatia begins the rollout on October 12, 2025. The rest of the Schengen Area will follow in the first half of 2026.

    🛂The ETIAS Travel Pass

    • What it is: A mandatory online travel authorization, similar to the ESTA for visiting the U.S. It is NOT a visa.
    • What you’ll do: Apply online before your trip. It costs about $7.50 and is valid for three years.
    • When it starts: The ETIAS will launch *after* the EES is fully operational, currently scheduled for the last quarter of 2026.

    This means that for the time being, you’ll face a patchwork of systems. You’ll get your fingerprints scanned in Croatia, but you’ll still get a classic stamp in your passport if you fly to France or Italy.


    This is the first, concrete step in a major shift for European travel. To stay on top of this and any other changes, the best tool is our 1 Minute Trip Check, which gives you the real-time entry requirements for any destination.

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  • This Country In South America Will Require A Visa For Americans In October

    This Country In South America Will Require A Visa For Americans In October

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    The U.S. passport is one of the most powerful globally, granting its bearer access to over 180 countries visa-free, but there are some infamous exceptions.

    From Cuba to Turkey, a select number of destinations requires Americans to present either a pre-issued tourist visa, or a travel authorization in order to travel.

    To the dismay of some, this infamous will keep growing this year, with the addition of one of the world’s top sunny destinations from October.

    View Of Copacabana Beach In Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, South America

    As soon as October 1, Brazil will suspend visa-free access to U.S. citizens, reversing a decision taken in 2019 to exempt them from the bureaucratic hurdle. This means that, if you’re an American, your days of enjoying unrestricted access to Brazil are numbered.

    On this article, we will give you a quick rundown of why a visa is being implemented, how difficult it will be to apply, and why you should book your flights to Brazil before the new rule comes into force:

    Why Is The Rule Changing?

    Since Brazil’s newly-elected Government came into power, the country has shifted from its open-door policy and began enacting stricter curbs.

    Candelaria Church In Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, South America

    One of those changes has been, in fact, a reversal to a previous visa regime.

    Back in 2019, Brazil’s approach to tourism was based on reciprocity. Unlike the European Union, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and much of the international community, Washington does not grant Brazilians visa-free access to the United States.

    As a result of the lack of a bilateral visa suppression agreement, Americans flying to Brazil were required to obtain a visa prior to boarding, which could be applied for at the Brazilian Consulate or mission closest to them.

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    Aerial View Of Christ The Redeemer In Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, South America

    The South American giant abandoned the reciprocity measure temporarily in a bid to boost tourism, but due to a political decision, it is once again being reinstated from October 1.

    How Hard Will It Be To Apply?

    Beginning October, if you’re an American national, you will only be allowed to board a Brazil-bound flight, or any flights connecting in Brazil for that matter, holding a valid tourist visa.

    Unlike what was previously reported when the news came out, the visa application could move online.

    A Woman Holding Up A Passport As She Types On Her Computer

    While there is a lot of speculation at the moment, the local Government is expected to launch a new easy-to-apply eVisa, enabling American applicants to continue traveling to Brazil with minimal hassle – as well as Canadians, Australians, and the Japanese*, who will also automatically lose their privilege of visa-free travel due to their respective country’s visa restrictions imposed on Brazilians.

    So far, no further details have been divulged, but the fact that an electronic visa is being discussed, as opposed to a traditional Consulate-issued visa, is surely encouraging news for bureaucracy-wary tourists, as this means it will be a lot easier to apply.

    Praia Dos Anjos In The State Of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, South America
    *The Japanese may be exempt from any visa requirements that may come into force as Tokyo is currently working with Brasilia on a visa-waiver agreement between both countries.

    Why Should You Visit Brazil Ahead Of The Visa Implementation?

    Visiting Brazil before October 1, Americans will only be required to present a valid biometric passport.

    They will not be expected to fill out visa forms, pay a fee, nor submit their travel information ahead of flying, as the visa suppression continues valid up until that date.

    In other words, visiting Brazil now is less complicated than it will be in four months.

    Colorful Favela Or Slums In Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, South America

    Although an eVisa is hardly an impediment, with countries like Turkey and Vietnam all having similar procedures in place, visa applications, no matter how simple, are always an anxiety-inducing process, especially when there is a backlog of requests, or the official application website presents problems.

    Best to tick Brazil off the list while there are less hurdles standing in your way.

    3 Of The Most Beautiful Off Path Locations To Explore In Brazil

    Tourist Couple Admiring The Historical City Of Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brazil

    Brazil is an incredibly diverse destination, home to a multi-ethnic populace whose nationhood is shaped by Southern European, African, and indigenous-Brazilian influences. Rio is merely the tip of a colossal iceberg.

    If you’re in need of some inspiration, some of our favorite off-path destinations in Brazil include:

    Balneario Camboriu

    Dubbed by some the ‘Brazilian Dubai’, it is a rapidly-developing coastal city in Southern Brazil, known for its skyscraper-dotted skyline, sandy crescents, and pristine nature.

    Walking the modern ocean boulevard Avenida Atlantica, you will find upscale beachfront restaurants, international brands, and luxurious shopping centers. Balneario’s top attraction, however, is the Unipraias cable car, linking the busy port to a preserved enclave of the Atlantic forest.

    woman at beach in Mexico

    Ouro Preto

    A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved colonial towns in the Americas, Ouro Preto is famous for its cobbled streets, centuries-old churches embellished by ornate goldwork and colorful frescoes still looking fresh, and distinct mineiro cuisine.

    Nestled in the hills of Minas Gerais, one of Brazil’s most traditional states, this picturesque settlement will make you feel as if you’re in the Portuguese hinterland – no surprise, judging by both countries’ familial links.

    Panoramic View Of Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brazil

    Belem do Para

    One of Brazil’s oldest cities, Belem do Para was settled by the Portuguese as early as 1616, and serves as one of the main gateways to the landmark Amazon River.

    A hugely overlooked gem of the Brazilian North, it was the first European colony established in the Amazon, and due to its historical importance, it’s retained much of that colonial-era charm, an attribute lost in sprawling urban centers like Rio or Sao Paulo.

    You will still find canopied streets, European piazzas surrounded by trees, churches with traditional Portuguese-style blue tiles, among other architectural treasures, as well as development zones, and lush green parks. This is the Amazon region after all.

    Bolivia Amazon Rainforest

    No COVID-Related Requirements

    Brazil may be imposing visa requirements on US citizens soon, but on the brightside, it has recently lifted all COVID-related mandates.

    Flying to Brazil, you are no longer expected to present either a vaccination certificate or a negative test: entry is once again as simple as it was prior to 2020.

    Read more about Brazil here.

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  • This Is How Hard It Will Be For Americans To Visit Brazil From October

    This Is How Hard It Will Be For Americans To Visit Brazil From October

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    Having remained open for tourism throughout the health crisis and often portrayed as one of the most welcoming countries in South America, Brazil left American travelers dismayed at the decision to reimpose visa requirements that had been lifted in 2019.

    Plane Flying Over Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, South America

    From October, U.S. citizens, as well as Canadians — will no longer enjoy visa-free access to Brazil, like their European and British counterparts.

    Unless they hold a pre-issued visa, which must be shown at the airport counter, they will not be allowed boarding.

    This is hardly news to those who had visited Brazil prior to 2019, but it may come as a shock to first-time visitors, especially considering how hard it will be to apply for a visitor visa:

    Why Is Brazil Making It Harder For Americans To Visit?

    Close Up Of A Person Holding A U.S. American Passport

    While it’s common for developing nations subject to visa restrictions by the U.S. to drop visa requirements for U.S. citizens, or at least make them less cumbersome, usually in a bid to boost tourism, it is not guaranteed that they will.

    In these cases, e-Visas or VOAs (Visas On Arrival) are commonly introduced as a solution to the reciprocity issue.

    After all, citizens of only 40 countries out of 195, primarily in Europe and high-income Asian countries, can enter the United States visa-free.

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    woman walking through the airport with luggage

    Traveling to Turkiye, Vietnam, Indonesia, and numerous other popular tourist destinations, Americans must either apply for an online travel permit or pay a fee and apply for a visa directly at the airport of arrival.

    This is only a minor nuisance for most, as e-Visas and VOAs are quite easy to obtain.

    They are not traditional visas and are less bureaucratic, and do not affect the freedom of movement of U.S. citizens.

    They can apply for the permit from the comfort of their homes by filling out an online form or simply landing at their destination.

    Being non-visa exempt, however, is a whole other ball game.

    Young Woman Sat On The Edge Of A Yacht As She Gazes At The Atlantic Sea, Brazil, South America

    Recently, Brazil has announced it will reinstate its reciprocation policy by reintroducing visa requirements on nationals of foreign countries that do not grant Brazilians visa-free entry.

    Currently, Brazilians can travel to 171 nations visa-free, or 90.48% of the world, making it a fairly friendly nation and the Brazilian passport one of the top 20 most powerful.

    Regrettably, the United States is not of those states that have signed a visa-waiver agreement with South America’s largest economy.

    This means that, as soon as October 1, 2023, Americans will be barred entry unless holding a valid tourist or long-term residency visa.

    How Hard Will The Brazilian Visa Be To Obtain?

    Colorful Favela Or Slums In Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, South America

    Brazil’s reciprocity measure is also quite literal: the harder a third country makes it for Brazilians to visit, the harder Brazilian authorities will make it for passport holders of that country to visit Brazil, and the United States is known to have some of the strictest visa procedures.

    As detailed by the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, foreign nationals who do require a visa must, first and foremost, check which kind of visa best serves the purpose of their visit.

    A Brazilian Visitor Visa (or VIVIS) would apply to a majority of American applicants:

    Ipanema Beach In Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, South America

    It enables its holder to stay in the national territory for a period of 90 days, allowing for sightseeing, visiting family or friends, attending business meetings and conferences, and other leisure or business-related activities.

    When applying for other visa categories, such as the recently-launched Brazilian Digital Nomad Visa (BrDNV), or a work permit, Americans may be eligible to remain in the country for a longer period while working remotely and/or accessing the job market.

    woman filling out visa application

    After identifying the correct type of visa that applies to them, U.S. citizens must then collect the relevant documentation.

    Based on requirements imposed by the U.S. on Brazilian nationals and still applying reciprocity, these may include:

    • Proof of paid accommodation*
    • Proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of the stay
    • Proof of onward or return ticket
    *Or an invitation letter written by a Brazilian national or resident who will be hosting the applicant in their home. This letter may require official registration.
    Travel Demand For Brazil Is Skyrocketing - Here's Why Americans Love It

    Next, travelers must fill in the online application form, which can be found on the Ministry of Foreign Affair’s official website.

    During completion, all the documents that had been gathered in the previous step must be attached to the form itself.

    Once the form has been submitted, it is necessary to print and sign the Visa Request Form Receipt, or RER, as it may be required by Brazilian Consular authorities.

    Lastly, Americans are expected to fill out a ‘booking request form’, and wait until they are summoned by the nearest Consulate.

    Panoramic View Of The Lacerca Lift Viewpoint Overlooking The Atlantic Ocean In Salvador De Bahia, Northeastern Coast Of Brazil

    For the last step, they can either post all the original documents to the Brazilian Consulate upon paying the fee – this includes your current American passport – or attend a visa appointment, when the visa can either be issued or denied.

    Prior to 2019, visa denials were extremely rare and often resulted from a lack of documentation or incomplete applications.

    The Consular Section informs that it takes up to 15 working days to process visa requests, but these wait times may be impacted by a surge in demand.

    How Much Will The Visa Cost?

    An American Citizen Holding A US Passport With Dollar Bills Inside

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also published their latest visa fees, and Americans can expect to pay up to USD $160 for a tourist visa, in response to the United States’ own USD $160 visa fee applying to non-visa exempt applicants, assuming pre-2019 fees will be reapplied.

    These changes are due to come into effect on October 1, and Americans who will be traveling to Brazil following the implementation date are urged to plan accordingly.

    The new measure applies only to citizens of:

    • The United States
    • Canada
    • Australia
    • Japan
    Aerial View Of Bahia Do Sancho, Fernando De Noronha, Island Off The Northeastern Coast Of Brazil Surrounded By The South Atlantic Ocean, South America

    All Europeans, including non-EU Europeans, such as Serbian and Turks, the British, and New Zealand nationals can continue traveling to Brazil freely as their countries have signed visa-waiver agreements enabling Brazilians to travel hassle-free.

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  • Thailand To Start Treating Covid Like The Flu From October

    Thailand To Start Treating Covid Like The Flu From October

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    In a new development even the most optimistic didn’t see coming, Thailand will outpace the vast majority of Asia, and even the Western Hemisphere, in treating Covid as an endemic disease. From October, the once ultra-strict country will downgrade the pathogen to the same category as the flu virus, effectively treating both the same.

    Tourists Looking Happy As They Explore Thailand, South East Asia

    After more than two years of enforcing strict regulations aimed at curbing the viral spread, Thailand has progressively eased its stance this year, dropping the highly controversial Thailand Pass, which was seen as a barrier for most foreign visitors, and rescinding all mask requirements. Now, it will be taking yet another huge step in reinstating normality.

    Here is everything you need to know about Thailand’s reclassifying of Covid and what it means for tourists:

    Thailand Close To Fully Reinstating Normality

    Young Female Tourist In Thailand, Southeast Asia

    Unlike other popular tourist hotspots, like Germany and Cyprus, that have recently made a U-turn and tightened pandemic rules once more, Thailand is pursuing a different path irrespective of the rise of new Omicron sub-variants. You may be wondering why, seeing that it stood among some of the most conservative Asian states not that long ago.

    In sum, the Ministry of Public Health, responsible for the anti-Covid response, has finally conceded the situation has begun to ‘stabilize’, and the virus, albeit still ‘dangerous’, no longer justifies a state of emergency. Interestingly, cases in Thailand have remained stable while other neighboring countries have seen new spikes.

    Thai Locals Wearing Masks Against Covid In Phuket, Thailand

    According to data shared by Worldometers, the moving average of new reported cases is 2,190 for the 7-day period ending on, and preceding August 11 – roughly the same as a month ago on July 11, when the rolling average was 2,134. There has been a slight increase, yes, but this has not strained the local health sector, nor led to a surge in deaths.

    For that reason, Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, a central figure in Thailand politics during the pandemic years, has confirmed Covid will join other viruses such as influenza, perpetrator of the flu, and dengue, responsible for dengue fever, on a list of communicable diseases that simply need ‘monitoring’.

    Young Female Traveler With A Backpack And A Hat Exploring The Streets Of Bangkok, Thailand

    Visiting Thailand Is The Easiest It’s Been Since 2020

    This will happen as soon as October, and will ‘reflect the reality‘ of the pandemic in Thailand, according ot Charnvirakul himself. Previously, Thailand had resorted to numerous lockdowns and social curbs to keep the virus under control, going as far as barring entry of foreigners into numerous destinations in an attempt to keep new variants out.

    View Of The City Of Bangkok In Thailand, Southeast Asia

    Up until recently, tourists had also been subject to strict vaccine, testing, and isolation mandates, as well as Thailand’s infamously confusing quarantine entry schemes. While it has yet to mimic the likes of Mexico, or even its fellow Asian partner Vietnam, in fully scrapping entry requirements, visiting Thailand is now the easiest it’s been since 2020.

    Essentially, foreigners must provide one of the following documents to be granted quarantine-free entry:

    • An active vaccination certificate, or
    • A negative Covid test (RT-PCR or Lateral Flow) within 72 hours of boarding their flight
    Maya Bay In Thailand, Southeast Asia

    Is Covid Finally Taking A Back Seat?

    By effectively declaring the disease as endemic, as it previously indicated it would, Thailand is re-asserting itself as a friendly tourist destination, and completely shifting their Covid strategy. Not our words, the Health Minister’s: he believes it is now up to the public to look after their own health, instead of being closely guarded by the national government.

    Young Female Tourists Exploring The Wat Phra Keaw Grand Palace In Thailand, South East Asia

    In his statement, the Minister lists the ‘readiness’ of Thailand’s healthcare system, as well as access to treatment, as reasons why Covid is no longer as disruptive as it once was. Prior to this update, the virus had shared the same status as the plague and smallpox, two other conditions that indeed threaten lives and the functioning of society.

    As a matter of fact, monkeypox, an entity closely related to the latter, has been doing the rounds lately and prompted numerous destinations, and even the World Health Organization, to sound the alarm. As new, more pressing issues face travelers, including new health concerns, Covid seems to be finally taking a back seat.

    In Thailand, this will be official beginning this fall.

    Read More:

    Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

    Top 5 Off Path Places To Travel In Thailand For 2022

    Non-Stop Flights From North America To Thailand Returns After 10 Years

    Thailand Becomes The First Destination In Asia To Lift Ban On Cannabis

    Thailand To Introduce 2 Levels Of Pricing: One For Tourists And One For Locals

    This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

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    Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling.  Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories

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