Not until 2020 hit did we truly understand the meaning of the phrase, ‘I deserve a holiday’. But now, as the year draws to a close, we’re finally able to plan for 2021. Right now, some countries are ready for visitors. The world is reopening and, right now, some countries are ready for visitors. We’ve teamed up with the travel experts at Flight Centre to tell you why you really should consider Thailand – in all its golden, glimmering glory – for your 2021 adventure. And, most importantly, we reveal why booking with a travel agent adds ultimate flexibility and peace of mind in these uncertain times...
Thailand is handling the whole pandemic thing incredibly well. The country has a strong health system – one that was ready to engage in the fight against Covid-19 after their experiences with Sars in 2003. Mask-wearing was encouraged from the start, and lockdown and quarantine measures were implemented quickly. Of the 70 million residents, only 3,800 cases have been recorded (at the time of printing).
Postcard-perfect beaches are par for the course in this coastal nation. The southern islands, like Phuket, Koh Samui, Koh Tao and Koh Phi Phi, blanketed in an emerald rainforest, are perennial favourites. But it’s not all sunbathing, diving and turtle-spotting. Up in Thailand’s northern province of Chiang Rai, visitors hike through tropical forests, explore caves, sail down the mighty Mekong River and climb limestone peaks.
Ask any seasoned travellers for their top Thailand tips and they’ll tell you the southern island of Phuket is the place for pure seaside bliss. Honestly, they’re not wrong. By booking with Flight Centre, you could stay at the Katathani Phuket Beach Resort for eight nights – with an extra four nights free – from £1,069pp. Did we mention that’s inclusive of flights? You can also get great rates with Flight Centre at other much-loved beach resorts like Amari Koh Samui, The Vijitt Resort Phuket and the Rayavadee Resort in Krabi.
Now, more than ever, it’s so important to feel secure in your holiday plans – and that’s where Flight Centre comes in. If you do need to change, postpone or reschedule your booking due to Covid-19 or changes in Foreign Office advice, they won’t charge change fees. On top of that, you can pay a low deposit of £49 with the final payment not due until six weeks before departure.
Flight Centre’s friendly Travel Consultants work closely with partners around the globe, so they’re armed with all the latest travel advice during Covid-19. Not only that, but they’re passionate about exploring; they’ll get to know you, your travel style and your budget to tailor-make a holiday to suit. All their itineraries – like the epic ‘Bangkok, Jungle & Beach’ – can be fully customised, with flights, accommodation and tours included.
In recent years, Thailand’s tourism industry has stepped up its commitment to sustainable tourism (something that Flight Centre and Time Out are equally passionate about!). The hugely popular elephant sanctuaries have been more tightly regulated, but it’s still best to do your research, and get advice from your Flight Centre travel expert before you go. Scuba diving is still on the cards (particularly near Koh Tao), but it’s best to choose a dive school that helps to maintain the health of the reef.
Think you’ve tried proper Thai food? Get ready for the real deal. You’ll eat well at any price point in Thailand and in every region. Start your lazy beach day in Phuket with hot flaky roti cooked over charcoal, which you’ll dip into a bowl of rich dhal. In Bangkok, try the definitive pad thai at Thipsamai, or sip cocktails 88 storeys above the city on the revolving deck of Baiyoke Sky Hotel. The charming northern city of Chiang Mai has a food culture all its own. Trust us: if you see gaeng hanglay (salty, sweet curry often served with pork belly) on the menu, order it. You’re welcome.
Book before November 30th, 2020. Blackout dates apply. Final balance must be paid no later than six weeks prior to departure. Changes can be made up to six weeks prior to departure without incurring Flight Centre change fees (any additional holiday cost will be payable). Changes to alternative air carriers are not permitted. Normal change fees apply for changes within six weeks of departure. This promotion is in addition to statutory rights. All other standard booking conditions apply as set out at flightcentre.co.uk/legal/booking-conditions.
