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I am bored and diving in!
I've spent a few days now trying to find an option for a 4 or 5-day trip. It was my intention to stay within a max 4-hour flight from Amsterdam, but nothing seems to get me excited.
The following reason made me decide to extend the trip for a few days and go to Thailand.
- I'm not looking for nightlife activities.
- Weather
- Amazing deals on premium lodging.
- a €414 economy flight including hand and checked luggage. This flight is with Singapore Airlines and they seem to have the best economy product at this time.
- No need for a business ticket.
- Very reasonable 1st-night hotel+ package including transportation.
- The Thailand pass registration seems pretty straightforward.
My thoughts about Thailand have shifted a couple of times and are admittedly not always consistent. Earlier this year I wanted to come to Thailand and experience some places without the normal influx of tourists. But Thailand kept moving the goalpost so that never materialized. This might be ( hopefully it is) the only/last time to experience Thailand under these conditions.
I'm making reservations now and I'll keep you posted.
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
Quote:
Originally Posted by
vnman
I've spent a few days now trying to find an option for a 4 or 5-day trip. It was my intention to stay within a max 4-hour flight from Amsterdam, but nothing seems to get me excited.
The following reason made me decide to extend the trip for a few days and go to Thailand.
What!?
What happened to Mexico plan? I was counting on you!
Speaking of Amsterdam, on recent trip to Marrakech, I met a guy from Amsterdam, we became friends and he showed me good spots in the city, we were whoring around quite extensively despite annoying police presence in parks, was that you by any chance?
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
Haha, no that wasn't me in Marrakech. But I would love to hear some details, I've never been there.
My trip to Mexico is all set. This time of year you have to book trips like that in advance. Mexico City, and Mexico in general is not as cheap as Thailand when it comes to accommodation. We had to book in advance to get what we wanted.
This Thailand trip is just a little snack. :-)
I wouldn't want to let the December holidays depend on the whims of some Thai bureaucrats.
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
The application for the Thailand pass was very straightforward. Sadly you have to start the process at min. 7 days before travelling because I actually want to go this Friday. I'll go next Friday instead.
Finding a "test and go" hotel was not as straightforward. I used the website https://asq.in.th/bangkok-test-and-go-hotels and that is not as simple as booking and paying. After you enter your details, you get an email verifying that your request has been sent to the hotel. They ask you to reply to the email with some documents and information.
I did that but after 2 hours had not heard from the hotel. When I called the hotel, a lady told me that it was busy with requests. She asked for my email address and that she would look for it. After 5 minutes I got a message via line saying that she found my email. After that...silence. After an hour, I asked her via line how to proceed. She asked me to check my email:
Quote:
Dear Mr "entered the wrong name here,"
If our hotel matches your criteria and you would like to stay with us. Kindly make a transfer and we will issue you the prepayment letter for Thailand Pass. I have enclosed some more details on the Thailand Test and Go program and Thailand Pass. Thailand is just reopening the country and new protocols are applied. Kindly contact me if you have any questions.
Here are our payment options,
1. Bank transfer
Bank: Siam Commercial Bank PCL
Account Name : The Elegant Bangkok Co., Ltd
Account number : XXXXXXXXXXX
Swift code: SICOTHBK
Account Branch and Address : Tesco Lotus Town in Town
1 st. FL. Tesco Lotus Town In Town 1329/10 Soi Latphrao 94 (Panchamit) , Wangthonglang, Wang Thong Lang, Bangkok 10310
2. Paypal : You can transfer us through paypal via : XXXXXXXXXX.
3.Credit card : Our credit card link for payment is under the recovery process. We have lost it after covid. It might take a couple days to recover. I do apologize and we will get back to you if you choose this option.
We look forward to welcoming you back home soon ka :)
Warmest regards,
XXXXX
I decided to pay with PayPal. This whole process was very fraud sensitive in my opinion. Luckily, payments with PayPal are protected and that's the only reason I went ahead with the booking. I was already searching for an alternative but I am happy we got this done.
This hotel is cheap and near the airport. It's the perfect location because I'm not yet sure what to do after receiving the expected negative COVID test. I might take a domestic flight, stay in Bangkok or rent a car and drive to Pattaya.
It took 2 hours before the hotel sent me the document I needed for the Thailand pass. And here comes the kicker... wait for it...
After I uploaded the documents for the Thailand pass, I got approved within 5 seconds and received the QR code.
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
I have also just finished the requirements for the Thai Pass.
The application is a little long winded but actually quite simple once you have your ducks in a row.
The final item was Hotel ASQ. My chosen hotel is in Pattaya and I completed their application form, completed the credit card details and had a confirmation in minutes. It included all the details required for the Thai Pass.
HINT for Thai Pass application.
When it asks for copies of documents just take a photo and hit use. It accepted them all, no fuss but obviously you will have to print them out first. I had done that anyway to take them with me.
Like vnman I got my Thai Pass in SECONDS. I then got an email saying my application had been received and could take 7 days!
TiT.
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
Quote:
Originally Posted by
gerefan2
Like vnman I got my Thai Pass in SECONDS. I then got an email saying my application had been received and could take 7 days!
TiT.
Hahaha, indeed. In that order.
But how on earth do they check those details so quickly?
It's also true that you cannot upload PDF files. You will have to make a screenshot from the documents and send them in jpg or png format.
@gerefan2, when are you going and why did you choose Pattaya?
I haven't made up my mind yet but Pattaya might come in last on my list. Obviously, I've lived there and visited for so many years that this might be the perfect time to look elsewhere. Nightlife might not be on the table, I would still love to have a drink or two during dinner. As I understand it, that is possible in Bangkok. I've also been invited to come to Ubon, but I need a little more information before I commit to that.
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
HI:
what did you mean "just take a photo and hit USE??? Poor me...I am not great with this "uploading" documents for the
Thailand Pass.....I will probably fail...
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
Vnman...going at the end of November, hoping that entertainment opens in December. Failing that there’s Bangkok as you say.
Blueskytoday...I printed all documents first.
When you get to a question which requires a document (say a copy of your passport) there will be a symbol which says “browse file”. Click on it and there are 3 choices. See below.
Select take photo and your device will automatically go to camera. Take a pic of your passport (or document) and the camera will then say ‘Use’. Hit use and hey presto ...the form accepts it.
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
THANKS...Since I have photo's already in my photo library, I can just click that one in to download it..Thanks again...OH must one purchase the airline ticket BEFORE applying for the thailand pass, or can we just put the travel dates in,,,make the hotel resv, etc.....I hope on can wait until actually departing/making the trip to buy the ticket...THANKS..
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
Quote:
Originally Posted by
Blueskytoday
I hope on can wait until actually departing/making the trip to buy the ticket...THANKS..
Yes, you only need to pay the hotel, insurance and get confirmations. They will ask you for your itinerary so you should have that handy. This includes the flight number. You can buy your ticket at any time you see fit.
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
Can you clarify that, please? You choose a flight, enter the flight number but not actually buy the ticket?
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
other thing:remark from general fora:
There have been reported issues with some passprts: add blanks at the end, it seems-as usual with Thai govmt. sites, they cannot think out of their own box that other countries may have different nrs.
all documents canNOt be pdf-only jpeg or other things
First reports were-as could be expected from any Thai govt site- disappointing- all refused or struck somewhere online. But apparently this has been resolved now.
Also you MUST download the socalled Mochana app on your fone so they can follow you with the test results when inland (or maybe to follow you 1948 style?)
Eagerly awaiting first reports from on earth in TH-what is open and how much fun can be had?
thanks about tip on SQ-this airline never shows up in the general skyscan or googleflite search machines
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
Quote:
Originally Posted by
Oliver2
Can you clarify that, please? You choose a flight, enter the flight number but not actually buy the ticket?
You can decide when you want to go and look for a ticket. When you find a ticket you like, note the flight number and arrival time. That information you need for the application process. Then, when you are ready, you buy that ticket. I hope that makes sense.
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
Thanks. If however, after the pass has been granted, you find that the flight is fully-booked; do you have to make a second application?
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
Quote:
Originally Posted by
pong
Also you MUST download the socalled Mochana app on your fone so they can follow you with the test results when inland (or maybe to follow you 1948 style?)
Thanks, I downloaded the MorChana app. I had not heard of it. But honestly, I don't think that they need this specific app to follow us around like it's 1984. Sometimes I check my google account on my phone and I get a precise readout of where I was on what date. It goes so far that they even produce some pictures I had taken from those locations and dates.
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
Quote:
Originally Posted by
Oliver2
Thanks. If however, after the pass has been granted, you find that the flight is fully-booked; do you have to make a second application?
Good question! I was thinking about this. I followed the QR code link they sent me and the certificate is valid until February first. Let me know if you know what I mean otherwise, I will show you my certificate. The problem is that I have to redact a lot so only if needed.
But like I said, you will get your QR code within seconds so you can book your ticket immediately after.
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
Quote:
Originally Posted by
Oliver2
Thanks. If however, after the pass has been granted, you find that the flight is fully-booked; do you have to make a second application?
When I applied for the pass it did NOT require a copy of the actual ticket, just the flight number and arrival time.
I assume the pass is only valid for the flight in question so I would assume that if it’s full (extremely unlikely) then yes you would probably need a new pass.
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
Attachment 11770
As you can see it is valid for almost 3 months.
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
Congratulations and all the best for your trip! I might go in December.
Somewhere else it was mentioned that hotels on Agoda offer SHA packages. That would eliminate having to deal with the hotel (problems as in OP) but would that be accepted for Thailand Pass?
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
Quote:
Originally Posted by
christianpfc
Congratulations and all the best for your trip! I might go in December.
Somewhere else it was mentioned that hotels on Agoda offer SHA packages. That would eliminate having to deal with the hotel (problems as in OP) but would that be accepted for Thailand Pass?
I've seen that too, but no idea how to book it on Agoda. When I tried, I got quoted a normal room rate and not a package. I know that there are other hotels with much easier processes directly via their website, but I really wanted this specific hotel.
The package that you are talking about is called "test&go," and it is especially for the Thailand Pass. I would be shocked if it's not going to be accepted.
Also, I advise everyone to check the refund policy of the hotels before booking. Many give you a refund if you don't succeed in getting a Thailand Pass, but some don't.
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
Quote:
Originally Posted by
christianpfc
Somewhere else it was mentioned that hotels on Agoda offer SHA packages. That would eliminate having to deal with the hotel (problems as in OP) but would that be accepted for Thailand Pass?
There are AQ hotels in Bangkok offering one night quarantine packages.
My hotel told me the Agoda booking confirmation is accepted for the Thai Pass.
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
Quote:
Originally Posted by
vnman
Also, I advise everyone to check the refund policy of the hotels before booking. Many give you a refund if you don't succeed in getting a Thailand Pass, but some don't.
Good point.
I booked my 1 night quarantine directly with the hotel and carefully read the small print. It said no refunds, cancellation or amendments.
However when I got the email confirmation there is a box which you can click to change the booking date, make changes etc.
TiT!
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
Does anyone know how far in advance you can apply for the TP?
I won't be travelling until late December, but would prefer to have an approved TP in hand before booking my flights.
Incidentally I am finding that the available flight inventory to Thailand around Dec 27-29 is pretty poor. Unless you are prepared to travel on KLM with their prototype B777 from 1994 or on Luftwaffe in their A340 which should also have been canned years ago
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
Quote:
Originally Posted by
colmx
Incidentally I am finding that the available flight inventory to Thailand around Dec 27-29 is pretty poor. Unless you are prepared to travel on KLM with their prototype B777 from 1994 or on Luftwaffe in their A340 which should also have been canned years ago
Alternatively fly with the Taliban ?
Travel pass applications can go in several weeks in advance. At least 3 weeks, probably more.
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
Quote:
Originally Posted by
colmx
Does anyone know how far in advance you can apply for the TP?
I won't be travelling until late December, but would prefer to have an approved TP in hand before booking my flights.
I would say that you have to go (and maybe leave the country again) within 3 months. As you can see in the screenshot of a previous post, that's how long the certificate is good for. But that is logic speaking and not the Thai authorities.
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
Quote:
Originally Posted by
vnman
I've seen that too, but no idea how to book it on Agoda. When I tried, I got quoted a normal room rate and not a package. I know that there are other hotels with much easier processes directly via their website, but I really wanted this specific hotel.
The package that you are talking about is called "test&go," and it is especially for the Thailand Pass. I would be shocked if it's not going to be accepted.
Also, I advise everyone to check the refund policy of the hotels before booking. Many give you a refund if you don't succeed in getting a Thailand Pass, but some don't.
Which do you think is better, dealing directly with a hotel, or going thru Agoda or other booking sites???
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
Search for a hotel in Bangkok on your preferred date.
Select quarantine hotels in the filter drop down.
Make sure you look at quarantine offers.
Prices seem to be increased from when I booked.
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
Quote:
Originally Posted by
Blueskytoday
Which do you think is better, dealing directly with a hotel, or going thru Agoda or other booking sites???
Personally, I would use https://asq.in.th/bangkok-test-and-go-hotels to find a place. They have some good filters for searching. Then, you can book or try directly via the hotel's website.
You can always compare prices with Agoda or booking.com
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
I looked at Agoda's Pattaya selection; there was only one available for my January dates.
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
Quote:
Originally Posted by
Oliver2
I looked at Agoda's Pattaya selection; there was only one available for my January dates.
I have booked my one day directly with this place in Pattaya and they still appear to have many vacancies in January.
https://www.greenparkpattaya.com/
Have you tried looking directly at hotels websites. It may be that Agoda’s allocation has been used up.
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
Quote:
Originally Posted by
vnman
Personally, I would use
https://asq.in.th/bangkok-test-and-go-hotels to find a place. They have some good filters for searching. Then, you can book or try directly via the hotel's website.
You can always compare prices with Agoda or booking.com
Curiously the hotel quotes in Bangkok and Pattaya include vaccination and transport, but those in Phuket do not.
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
Quote:
Originally Posted by
Brad the Impala
Curiously the hotel quotes in Bangkok and Pattaya include vaccination and transport, but those in Phuket do not.
I think you meant to say..."tests and transport", not "vaccinations".
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2 Attachment(s)
Re: I am bored and diving in!
Quote:
Originally Posted by
Brad the Impala
Curiously the hotel quotes in Bangkok and Pattaya include vaccination and transport, but those in Phuket do not.
Indeed!
Attachment 11776
But with hotel prices like this, it stays the same from a costs perspective.
Attachment 11777
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
Not sure when and where I am supposed to take the COVID test in Thailand, I asked the hotel. They told me that I will take the test at the hotel. If I make it to the hotel before 10:00 AM, I will get the result the same night at 08:00 PM. The second round of test results will come in at 04:00 AM.
My plane lands at 08:40 AM so I will need a small miracle to make the first cutoff.
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
My plane lands at 12:05
I get tested at 18:00 at the hotel in Bangkok
The result is due by 14:00 next day and I've seen evidence of someone else getting the result by 13:00 in the same hotel.
This seems to be slow, however at least I have a nice room in a well reviewed hotel.
I'd rather be out by 8:00~9:00 am, but to exercise my rights to free cancellation for the quarantine hotel, I'd need to identify a genuinely better alternative AND be confident that the Thai Pass would be processed promptly.
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
Quote:
Originally Posted by
goji
My plane lands at 12:05
I get tested at 18:00 at the hotel in Bangkok
The result is due by 14:00 next day and I've seen evidence of someone else getting the result by 13:00 in the same hotel.
This seems to be slow, however at least I have a nice room in a well reviewed hotel.
I'd rather be out by 8:00~9:00 am, but to exercise my rights to free cancellation for the quarantine hotel, I'd need to identify a genuinely better alternative AND be confident that the Thai Pass would be processed promptly.
It must be hospital-specific. You arrive a bit later than me, but wouldn't you rather get the result early in the evening? What I like so much about flying east is the lack of a jetlag. My flight starts early morning Dutch time and I'll arrive at the beginning of the night Dutch time. This means I can easily sleep 6 or 7 hours in the hotel and wake up at 4 or 5 PM and will be good to go.
If you are out at 08:00 AM, can you check in somewhere else that early?
If I am lucky enough to get the results the same day, I can check in at Tarntawan immediately, because I booked an extra day. If I don't make the cut, I can check in first thing in the morning and enjoy the breakfast there.
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
Quote:
Originally Posted by
vnman
It must be hospital-specific. You arrive a bit later than me, but wouldn't you rather get the result early in the evening? What I like so much about flying east is the lack of a jetlag. My flight starts early morning Dutch time and I'll arrive at the beginning of the night Dutch time. This means I can easily sleep 6 or 7 hours in the hotel and wake up at 4 or 5 PM and will be good to go.
If you are out at 08:00 AM, can you check in somewhere else that early?
I have more of a jet lag problem flying east than west.
When flying home, all I have to do is force myself to stay awake until about 10:00 pm, take some herbal sleeping tablets and I sleep through to after 5:00 am. The following day is even easier.
Flying east to Thailand, it takes a good 4 days or so to adjust.
As for the covid result, getting it at 8:00 am gives me options & is preferable to being confined until 13:00. This "Quarantine Free" arrival will involve almost 24 hours of quarantine.
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
I know that someone was interested in flights with Singapore Airlines (SQ) but I cannot find the comment. The following is something to consider when flying with SQ:
Attachment 11806
It is something that I had not considered, but luckily my country falls within the scheme. That makes going home a lot easier and also cheaper. If presented with the choice of testing before flying home with SQ or not testing flying with Qatar, I would have chosen Qatar.
Edit: come to think of it. The SQ rules are complicated as well. I will just get tested again before flying home because going true their website is torture.
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
Are any of the massage places / Bars / gogo discreetly open (okay maybe not gogo as that doesn’t seem possible)?
I’ve booked my trip for the week of December leading into XMas. Just hoping there’s some action
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Re: I am bored and diving in!
Quote:
Originally Posted by
DrewSpz
Are any of the massage places / Bars / gogo discreetly open (okay maybe not gogo as that doesn’t seem possible)?
I’ve booked my trip for the week of December leading into XMas. Just hoping there’s some action
Massage places…