Covid-19 in the news (3) July-August 2020

Covid-19 in the news (3) July-August 2020

Selected news in chronologial order, relevant (to Thailand or SEAsia in general) or amusing (worldwide), headline - link - quotations in italic or comments in normal

addendum April 2020

Coronavirus: Hidden toilet paper stash leads to fight between family members in Saugus April 7, 2020
https://www.dailynews.com/2020/04/07/hidden-toilet-paper-stash-leads-to-fight-between-family-members-in-santa-clarita-area/
A 26-year-old Saugus man was in custody Tuesday night for allegedly punching his mother during a fight over the family’s toilet paper supply. The son had accused the mother of hiding the family’s toilet paper, which has become a hot commodity nationwide amid the coronavirus pandemic. The woman later told deputies she hid toilet paper from her son, adding that he uses too much, according to Miller.

In Germany toilet paper shortages as well in March and April.

addendum June 2020

Extraordinary footage shows how three months of coronavirus lockdown have cleaned the Bangkok skyline June 30, 2020
http://www.scoopyweb.com/2020/06/extraordinary-footage-shows-how-three.html

July 2020

Up to 2.7 million Thai travel, hospitality and tourism workers unemployed by September 01-07-2020
https://thethaiger.com/hot-news/economy/up-to-2-7-million-thai-travel-hospitality-and-tourism-workers-unemployed-by-september

Travel bubble scheme drawn up in 3 phases 1,000 tourists a day in 5 provinces to start 2 Jul 2020
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1944336/travel-bubble-scheme-drawn-up-in-3-phases

Bar observations by SP55 Thu Jul 02, 2020 on gaybuttonthai
https://gaybuttonthai.com/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=10433

Thailand Plans Open Borders for High-Spenders on Private Planes July 2, 2020
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-07-02/thailand-plans-open-borders-for-high-spenders-on-private-planes

Night Out in Pattaya | Bars Are Finally Allowed To Open After More Than 3 Months Shutdown (In 4K) Jul 3, 2020
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=icnDwE-6HJI

article gone?
https://shanghaiist.com/2020/07/03/taiwan-airport-offers-fake-flights-to-nowhere-for-travel-starved-passengers/

A Walk Around Gay Bangkok - July 4, 2020 By Michael, July 4 in Gay Thailand
https://www.gayguides.com/forums/topic/13004-a-walk-around-gay-bangkok-july-4-2020/

Thailand not on UK no-quarantine list Updated guidelines list 59 countries and territories deemed safe starting July 10 published : 4 Jul 2020
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1945764/thailand-not-on-uk-no-quarantine-list

Certificate of entry from Thai embassy or consulate required for foreigners to enter Thailand July 4, 2020
https://www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/certificate-of-entry-from-thai-embassy-or-consulate-required-for-foreigners-to-enter-thailand-306381

Returning to Thailand July 5th, 2020
https://yogamindyogabody.com/returning-to-thailand/
I am a German national living and working in Chiang Mai, Thailand since 2012 with a valid work permit. Married to a Thai-American dual citizen since 2009 with two kids. Here is my story of returning to Thailand during the pandemic.

Health Ministry: Further quarantine spaces prepared for increasing arrivals July 5, 2020
https://www.khmertimeskh.com/50741558/health-ministry-further-quarantine-spaces-prepared-for-increasing-arrivals/

Thai government offers hotel room, airfare incentives to revive tourism July 5, 2020
https://www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thai-government-offers-hotel-room-airfare-incentives-to-revive-tourism-306440

Priority boarding Most analysts expect a slow recovery for airlines whenever the government decides to let foreign arrivals back in the country 6 Jul 2020
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1946360/priority-boarding

Pattaya not in first wave of travel bubbles but private jets are a possibility July 6, 2020
https://www.pattayamail.com/news/pattaya-not-in-first-wave-of-travel-bubbles-but-private-jets-are-a-possibility-306462

Thailand Still Tepid on Tourists as Virus Fears Linger July 06, 2020 09:04 AM
https://www.voanews.com/east-asia-pacific/thailand-still-tepid-tourists-virus-fears-linger

First post-Covid flight from China lands in Bangkok 08-07-2020
https://thethaiger.com/coronavirus/first-post-covid-flight-from-china-lands-in-bangkok

Thailand sees long delay for ‘Travel Bubble’ plan due to second wave fear July 8, 2020
https://www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailand-sees-long-delay-for-travel-bubble-plandue-to-second-wave-fear-306794

The Thai Government clarifies exact steps to currently enter Thailand for foreigners 8 July 2020
https://thepattayanews.com/2020/07/08/the-thai-government-clarifies-exact-steps-to-currently-enter-thailand-for-foreigners/

Tough decisions ahead for Thai visa amnesty ending July 31, By Barry Kenyon July 8, 2020
https://www.pattayamail.com/coronavirus/tough-decisions-ahead-for-thai-visa-amnesty-ending-july-31-306776

And more links about visa amnesty here:
https://gaybuttonthai.com/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=10442

Recommendations for 11 exempt types of travelers planning a trip to Thailand July 9, 2020
https://www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/recommendations-for-11-exempt-types-of-travelers-planning-a-trip-to-thailand-306852

'Little Tuscany' closes down as Khao Yai tourism struggles 9 Jul 2020
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1948632/little-tuscany-closes-down-as-khao-yai-tourism-struggles

(article gone, error message)
https://loyaltylobby.com/2020/07/11/thai-airways-international-flights-to-remain-grounded-for-the-entire-month-of-august/

14 new cases returnees from three countries No local transmission for 47 days in a row 11 Jul 2020
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1949656/14-new-cases-returnees-from-three-countries

Inbound tourists should prepare for 2-week stay 11 Jul 2020
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1949484

Nearly one-third of tourism-related businesses ‘may shut down permanently’ July 11, 2020
https://pattayaone.news/nearly-one-third-of-tourism-related-businesses-may-shut-down-permanently/

Many unanswered questions about projected end to Thai visa amnesty after July 31 By Barry Kenyon July 11, 2020
https://www.pattayamail.com/featured/many-unanswered-questions-about-projected-end-to-thai-visa-amnesty-after-july-31-307059

Majority against opening country to foreigners: Poll 12 Jul 2020
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1950072/majority-against-opening-country-to-foreigners-poll

Krise auf dem Kiez Prostituierte in Hamburg fordern Öffnung der Bordelle 12.07.2020
https://www.spiegel.de/panorama/gesellschaft/reeperbahn-in-hamburg-prostituierte-fordern-oeffnung-der-bordelle-a-6eb0f65e-836c-487c-8b7a-6e4b07e8ad27
Hamburg's prostitutes want brothels to open

Majority against opening country to foreigners by Mark Kelly July 12, 2020
https://pattayaone.news/majority-against-opening-country-to-foreigners/
You can twist such polls by choosing whom to ask or how to word the question. I know a dozen of boys who pray every day for me to return soon.

Migrants seeking work held in Chachoengsao for illegal entry 12 Jul 2020
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1949784/migrants-seeking-work-held-in-chachoengsao-for-illegal-entry

The Odyssey: Pattaya expat’s quest to come home during COVID-19 – Final Episode By Ulysses – A Special Correspondent July 13, 2020
https://www.pattayamail.com/news/the-odyssey-pattaya-expats-quest-to-come-home-during-covid-19-final-episode-307186

No short cuts for Myanmar’s airlines July 13, 2020
https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2020/07/no-short-cuts-for-myanmars-airlines/

Thailand halts flights after Egyptian breaks quarantine with virus July 14, 2020
https://news.yahoo.com/thailand-halts-flights-egyptian-breaks-quarantine-virus-110310249.html

Gov’t, Military Deny Blame on Rayong Quarantine Negligence July 14, 2020
https://www.khaosodenglish.com/politics/2020/07/14/govt-military-deny-blame-on-rayong-quarantine-negligence/

Closed borders pose tourism risk 60% of hospitality firms face closure 14 Jul 2020
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1950884/closed-borders-pose-tourism-risk

Residents of Sukhumvit 26 condo asked to quarantine two weeks Jul 15, 202
https://coconuts.co/bangkok/news/residents-of-sukhumvit-26-condo-asked-to-quarantine-two-weeks/

Thailand’s Visa Amnesty For Visitors Is Running Out, Immigration And Embassies Advising Foreigners To Prepare For Departure  Jul 15, 2020
https://loyaltylobby.com/2020/07/15/thailands-visa-amnesty-for-foreigners-is-running-out-immigration-and-embassies-advising-foreigners-to-prepare-for-departure/

Updates on stranded foreigners without valid visas in Thailand’s neighboring countries July 15, 2020
https://www.pattayamail.com/news/updates-on-stranded-foreigners-without-valid-visas-in-thailands-neighboring-countries-307509

(continue reading with account)
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/07/16/world/asia/coronavirus-thailand-photos.html

New rule on transit flights through Thailand, China bans two airlines for flights with infected passengers 16 Jul 2020
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1952528/covid-free-requirement-on-planes-from-thailand

Thailand to offer grace period for foreigners’ visa extensions July 17, 2020
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-thailand-idUSKCN24I0T8

Bangkok Condo Refuse Entry To Quarantine Skipping European Diplomat July 17, 2020
https://www.stickboybkk.com/news/bangkok-condo-refuse-entry-to-quarantine-skipping-european-diplomat/

Thousands Await Amnesty Announcement July 18, 2020
https://www.stickboybkk.com/news/thousands-await-amnesty-announcement/

Migrant workers permitted to return but must undergo 14-day quarantine 19 Jul 2020
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1953672/migrant-workers-permitted-to-return-but-must-undergo-14-day-quarantine

List of Alternative State Quarantine (ASQ) Hotels as of 20 July 2020
https://image.mfa.go.th/mfa/0/z3EQ95LzoF/รายชื่อโรงแรม.pdf
25 hotels / resorts total 2,570 rooms / villas, Source: http://www.hsscovid.com/ (link does not work)

Years before Thailand sees 40m tourists again: BoT 20 Jul 2020
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1954411/years-before-thailand-sees-40m-tourists-again-bot

Room rates rise after tourism stimulus announced 20 Jul 2020
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1954043/room-rates-rise-after-tourism-stimulus-announced

Hong Kong Airport Has Now Cleared Their Terminal Of All Long-Term “Voluntary Transit” Passengers Jul 20, 2020
https://loyaltylobby.com/2020/07/20/hong-kong-airport-has-now-cleared-their-terminal-of-all-long-term-voluntary-transit-passengers/

Thai Cabinet extends the visa amnesty for foreigners The Thaiger 21-07-2020
https://thethaiger.com/coronavirus/thai-cabinet-extends-the-visa-amnesty-for-foreigners

Thailand to extend emergency decree until end of August July 22, 2020
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-thailand-idUSKCN24N0KI

Myanmar Confirms the Resumption of Domestic Travel 21/07/2020
http://asean.travel/2020/07/21/myanmar-confirms-resumption-domestic-travel/

Thousands of foreigners to be allowed entry 22 Jul 2020
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1955703/thousands-of-foreigners-to-be-allowed-entry

How to return to Thailand (gallery), July 22, 2020
https://aecnewstoday.com/2020/how-to-return-to-thailand/

Thailand morning news for July, 22 July 22, 2020
https://aecnewstoday.com/2020/thailand-morning-news-for-july-22-3/
general collection of news, put in another date in address to get news for that date

Thailand to Extend Emergency Order While Allowing More Foreigners July 22, 2020
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-07-22/thailand-to-extend-emergency-order-to-aug-31-ease-border-rules
 
Tourism Council of Thailand warns of operators fleeing sector 22 Jul 2020
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1955403/tourism-council-of-thailand-warns-of-operators-fleeing-sector

Thai authorities enforce security measures for illegal entry along Malaysian border July 23, 2020
https://www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thai-authorities-enforce-security-measures-for-illegal-entry-along-malaysian-border-308531

Steps required to enter Thailand Jul 24. 2020
https://www.nationthailand.com/news/30391878

These Monkeys Were Once Revered. Now They Are Taking Over. July 25, 2020
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/07/25/world/asia/thailand-monkeys.html

Three Bangladeshi men arrested in Sa Kaeo for illegal border crossing 25 July 2020
https://thepattayanews.com/2020/07/25/three-bangladeshi-men-arrested-in-sa-kaeo-for-illegal-border-crossing/

Migrants struggle to return despite sealed borders 26 Jul 2020
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/special-reports/1957543/migrants-struggle-to-return-despite-sealed-borders

Vietnam to evacuate 80,000 after virus outbreak in Danang 27jul2020
https://www.dw.com/en/vietnam-to-evacuate-80000-after-virus-outbreak-in-danang/av-54338149

Vietnam to evacuate 80,000 people from Danang after virus outbreak  27 Jul 2020
https://www.bangkokpost.com/world/1958323/vietnam-to-evacuate-80-000-people-from-danang-after-virus-outbreak

All foreigners will have to serve 14 day quarantine “in the foreseeable future” – Minister July 28, 2020
https://thethaiger.com/coronavirus/all-foreigners-will-have-to-serve-14-day-quarantine-in-the-foreseeable-future-minister

Ministry of Tourism says all foreigners coming to Thailand will be quarantined in foreseeable future Tuesday, 28 July 2020
https://thepattayanews.com/2020/07/28/ministry-of-tourism-says-all-foreigners-coming-to-thailand-will-be-quarantined-in-foreseeable-future/

Gold price surge sparks selling in Pattaya By Jetsada Homklin - July 29, 2020
https://www.pattayamail.com/news/gold-price-surge-sparks-selling-in-pattaya-309119

The government permitted aliens to temporarily stay in Thailand until 26 September 2020
https://www.immigration.go.th/en/?avada_portfolio=ครม-เห็นชอบร่างประกาศ-มท

Tales of the Pandemic The long way home: State quarantine in a Bangkok hotel July 30, 2020
https://southeastasiaglobe.com/state-quarantine-bangkok-hotel/

The worst of Covid-19 is yet to come 30 Jul 2020   
https://www.bangkokpost.com/opinion/opinion/1959763/the-worst-of-covid-19-is-yet-to-come

Vietnam records first Covid-19 deaths 31 July 2020
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/amp/world-asia-53606917

August 2020

(website not available any more, posted before 1aug2020)
http://www.thaiembassy.org/london/en/services/7742/120100-**Repatriation-Flights-for-non-Thai-nationals**.html

Two foreigners landing in Thailand have COVID-19 and are in quarantine August 1, 2020
https://www.thaipbsworld.com/two-foreigners-landing-in-thailand-have-covid-19-and-are-in-quarantine/

Special groups of foreigners can now enter Phase 6 visitors still need to be quarantined 1 Aug 2020
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1960727/special-groups-of-foreigners-can-now-enter

Some of Pattaya’s gay bars are by no means in intensive care yet By Barry Kenyon August 1, 2020
https://www.pattayamail.com/featured/some-of-pattayas-gay-bars-are-by-no-means-in-intensive-care-yet-309554

Shortage of alternative state quarantine hotels for returning foreigners 1 Aug 2020
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1960887/shortage-of-alternative-state-quarantine-hotels-for-returning-foreigner
As of yesterday, there were 31 hotels and 3,385 rooms that were certified.

Asia Reopening For Tourism: Countries Opening Their Borders (regularly updated, no date of original post)
https://www.traveloffpath.com/asia-reopening-for-tourism-everything-you-need-to-know/

COVID-19: Charter airlines defy flight ban, fly rich Nigerians abroad August 2, 2020
https://punchng.com/covid-19-charter-airlines-defy-flight-ban-fly-rich-nigerians-abroad/

Elite card is not a free pass to return to Thailand August 3, 2020
https://www.pattayamail.com/featured/elite-card-is-not-a-free-pass-to-return-to-thailand-309876

Over 70 US soldiers arrive in Chonburi for military training, all will face strict fourteen day quarantine 3 August 2020
https://thepattayanews.com/2020/08/03/over-70-us-soldiers-arrive-in-chonburi-for-military-training-all-will-face-strict-fourteen-day-quarantine/

Thais in the UK: It’s a long way home August 4, 2020
https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2020/08/thais-in-the-uk-its-a-long-way-home/

Foreign tourists and retirees excluded from latest approval list to come to Thailand August 4, 2020
https://www.pattayamail.com/featured/foreign-tourists-and-retirees-excluded-from-latest-approval-list-to-come-to-thailand-309946

Thailand Opens Border To Four More Groups Of Foreigners Including PR, Work Permit, Elite Visa Holders Aug 4, 2020
https://loyaltylobby.com/2020/08/04/thailand-opens-border-to-four-more-groups-of-foreigners-including-pr-work-permit-elite-visa-holders/

Foreign Entry Rules Revision August 4, 2020
https://cne.wtf/2020/08/04/foreign-entry-rules-revision/
(4 page pdf in English by Ministry of Health)

'Safe and Sealed' plan brings hope for inbound tourism 5 Aug 2020
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1963307/safe-and-sealed-plan-brings-hope-for-inbound-tourism

Alternative Quarantäne für gut betuchte Ausländer 05.08.20
https://der-farang.com/de/pages/alternative-quarantaene-fuer-gut-betuchte-auslaender

‘No Immediate Plan’ to Permit More Foreigners Into Thailand August 5, 2020
https://www.khaosodenglish.com/news/crimecourtscalamity/2020/08/05/no-immediate-plan-to-permit-more-foreigners-into-thailand/

Cambodia lowers cash deposit for COVID-19 service charges from foreign travelers to $2,000 August 5, 2020
https://www.khmertimeskh.com/50751897/cambodia-lowers-cash-deposit-for-covid-19-service-charges-from-foreign-travelers-to-2000

(only for subscribers 5aug2020)
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/08/05/world/europe/germany-coronavirus-test-travelers.html

33 more Myanmar workers arrested for illegal entry to Thailand August 6, 2020
http://www.mekongmigration.org/?p=9061

Chula virologist calls for strict scrutiny of borders to prevent virus from spreading Aug 07. 2020
https://www.nationthailand.com/news/30392595

Bangkok Midnight Marathon 2020 bans foreigners 07-08-2020
https://thethaiger.com/hot-news/expats/bangkok-midnight-marathon-2020-bans-foreigners

Wrathful runners slam Bangkok marathon’s ban on foreigners Aug 7, 2020
https://coconuts.co/bangkok/news/wrathful-runners-slam-bangkok-marathons-ban-on-foreigners/

(not currently available, before 9aug2020)
https://www.bangkokpost.com/world/1965259/supercars-and-champagne-bangkoks-rich-purr-through-pandemic
but can be found here:
https://theworldnews.net/th-news/supercars-and-champagne-bangkok-s-rich-purr-through-pandemic

Thailand adds 3 new Covid cases, no infections at Janey concert 9 Aug 2020
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1965255/thailand-adds-3-new-covid-cases-no-infections-at-janey-concert

Thailand’s international borders not re-opening for tourists until 2021 – TAT 10-08-2020
https://thethaiger.com/coronavirus/thailands-international-borders-not-re-opening-for-tourists-until-2021-tat

Düstere Prognose der Tourismusbehörde 10.08.20
https://der-farang.com/de/pages/die-aktuellen-vorhersagen-der-tourismusbehoerde/module/pages

Thailand unlikely to welcome tourists until at least 2021, putting millions of jobs at risk 11 August 2020 https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/news/thailand-no-tourists-until-2021/

Thailand must rethink its quarantine 11 Aug 2020
https://www.bangkokpost.com/opinion/opinion/1966175/thailand-must-rethink-its-quarantine

Pattaya will survive the coronavirus pandemonium for a very obvious reason August 12, 2020
https://www.pattayamail.com/featured/pattaya-will-survive-the-coronavirus-pandemonium-for-a-very-obvious-reason-310723

Hotels welcome quarantine guests 13 Aug 2020
https://www.bangkokpost.com/travel/1967723/hotels-welcome-quarantine-guests
Travellers booking a 14-day quarantine package in one of the 34 designated hotels, mostly in Bangkok, can expect to pay around THB50,000 including room, three meals and medical supervision through partner hospitals.

No end in sight for flights ban 13 Aug 2020
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1967163/no-end-in-sight-for-flights-ban

Official says tourists will have to wait until at least after February 2021 to return to Thailand normally August 13, 2020
https://www.thaiexaminer.com/thai-news-foreigners/2020/08/13/tourists-have-to-wait-after-february-2021-return-to-thailand/

Smartphone behavior during the Corona pandemic - Real app usage data from Germany. Aug 13, 2020
https://murmuras.com/blog/app-usage-and-corona/

Foreigners flying into Thailand during the virus pandemic: the common myths August 13, 2020
https://www.pattayamail.com/news/foreigners-flying-into-thailand-during-the-virus-pandemic-the-common-myths-310969 

Thailand Elite Card aims to lure expats seeking virus haven 14 Aug 2020
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1968367/thailand-elite-card-aims-to-lure-expats-seeking-virus-haven

Richard Barrow is dusting off his luggage in case he can’t renew visa 14-08-2020
https://thethaiger.com/hot-news/expats/richard-barrow-is-dusting-off-his-luggage-in-case-he-cant-renew-visa

Phuket begins plan for tourists to return Long-stayers first to be allowed back in 15 Aug 2020
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1968487/phuket-begins-plan-for-tourists-to-return

Coronavirus pushing Cambodia back into poverty, published before 15aug2020
https://www.dw.com/en/cambodia-coronavirus-poverty/a-54552715

Opinion: 2 Parallel Thailands are Headed For a Collision August 15, 2020
https://www.khaosodenglish.com/opinion/2020/08/15/opinion-2-parallel-thailands-are-headed-for-a-collision/

The rise and fall of Cambodia’s Pub Street, the most notorious party strip in the country 16 Aug, 2020
https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/travel-leisure/article/3097384/rise-and-fall-cambodias-pub-street-most-notorious-party

I flew out of Thailand to get a new visa – one person’s experience with the “new normal” 16-08-2020
https://thethaiger.com/coronavirus/i-flew-out-of-thailand-to-get-a-new-visa-one-persons-experience-with-the-new-normal

Cambodia COVID-19 situational analysis, zero new cases for two days and 13 recoveries, bringing recovery tally to 238, published August 16, 2020
https://www.khmertimeskh.com/50755407/cambodia-covid-19-situational-analysis-zero-new-cases-for-two-days-and-13-recoveries-bringing-recovery-tally-to-238/

Phuket tourism plan due on Oct 1, published 17 Aug 2020
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1969795/phuket-tourism-plan-due-on-oct-1

Thousands of job applicants line up Bangkok hotel before sunrise 17-08-2020
https://thethaiger.com/news/bangkok/thousands-of-job-applicants-line-up-bangkok-hotel-before-sunrise

Hollywood Disco jetzt ein Restaurant 17.08.20
https://der-farang.com/de/pages/hollywood-disco-jetzt-ein-restaurant

Koh Samui’s Incredibly Restrictive Tourism Plan August 17, 2020
https://onemileatatime.com/koh-samui-tourism-coronavirus/

Thailand ranked world's safest tourist destination amid COVID-19 August 17, 2020
https://www.thejakartapost.com/travel/2020/08/17/thailand-ranked-worlds-safest-tourist-destination-amid-covid-19.html

Pattaya Soi 7 & 8 Revisited plus Soi Made in Thailand Aug 18, 2020
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=boDZtcqVNsg

Phuket Officials Eye Very Optimistic (Unrealistic) Date Of October 1st Reopening Under “Safe & Sealed” Concept Aug 19, 2020
https://loyaltylobby.com/2020/08/19/phuket-officials-eye-very-optimistic-unrealistic-date-of-october-1st-reopening-under-safe-sealed-concept/

Thailand set to extend emergency decree yet again Aug 19, 2020
https://coconuts.co/bangkok/news/thailand-set-to-extend-emergency-decree-yet-again/

Zwei Corona-Fälle nach Abschluss der Quarantäne bestätigt 20.08.20
https://der-farang.com/de/pages/zwei-faelle-von-covid-19-nach-abschluss-der-quarantaene-bestaetigt

Pattaya reels as Thai economy shrinks most in 22 years in 2Q August 20, 2020
https://www.pattayamail.com/featured/pattaya-reels-as-thai-economy-shrinks-most-in-22-years-in-2q-311713

Coronavirus forces tourism rethink in world's most visited city August 20, 2020
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-thailand-coronavirus-tourism-feature/coronavirus-forces-tourism-rethink-in-worlds-most-visited-city-idUSKCN25G063

Phuket may open to international tourists on October 1 – with conditions attached 21-08-2020
https://thethaiger.com/hot-news/tourism/phuket-may-open-to-international-tourists-on-october-1-with-conditions-attached

Thailand to allow long-stay tourists in island of Phuket from October, published Aug 21, 2020
https://in.mobile.reuters.com/article/amp/idINKBN25H0Z7

Thailand to allow long-stay tourists in island of Phuket from October, published August 21, 2020
https://www.thejakartapost.com/travel/2020/08/21/thailand-to-allow-long-stay-tourists-in-island-of-phuket-from-october.html

One more Covid case, and a warning 21 Aug 2020
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1972307/one-more-covid-case-and-a-warning

TAT takes a gamble promoting Phuket Model 22 Aug 2020
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1972519/tat-takes-a-gamble-promoting-phuket-model

Open letter to the tourism authority and the Thai government 22 August 2020
https://www.thephuketnews.com/open-letter-to-the-tourism-authority-and-the-thai-government-77078.php
A German man staying in Phuket has made a plea to the Thai Government to understand how the ‘visa amnesty’ expiring on Sept 26 will force many foreigners currently staying in Thailand to return to countries where second waves of COVID-19 are rampantly spreading. Here is his open letter to the Thai authorities.

And news about reply:
Open letter from long-stay tourist in Phuket spurs action from Prime Minister 2 September 2020
https://www.thephuketnews.com/open-letter-from-long-stay-tourist-in-phuket-spurs-action-from-prime-minister-77181.php

Idle tour buses monuments to Pattaya’s dead tourism industry August 22, 2020
https://www.pattayamail.com/news/idle-tour-buses-monuments-to-pattayas-dead-tourism-industry-311943

Thailand Reopening To Tourists: Everything You Need To Know (original post before 22aug2027, last updated September 15, 2020)
https://www.traveloffpath.com/thailand-reopening-to-tourists-everything-you-need-to-know/

It’s official: Tourism to return to Phuket in October – VIDEO 22-08-2020
https://thethaiger.com/hot-news/tourism/its-official-tourism-to-return-to-phuket-in-october-video

More details on Thailand to allow long-stay visits for limited foreign tourists in Phuket in October 22 August 2020
https://thepattayanews.com/2020/08/22/more-details-on-thailand-to-allow-long-stay-visits-for-limited-foreign-tourists-in-phuket-in-october/

**Application for Certificate of Entry to Thailand for non-Thai nationals** 23 Aug 2020
https://london.thaiembassy.org/en/publicservice/application-for-certificate-of-entry-to-thailand-for-non-thai-nationa?

Leading Thai doctors strongly against plans to open Thailand/Phuket to any tourists, say should wait six months 23 August 2020
https://thepattayanews.com/2020/08/23/leading-thai-doctors-strongly-against-plans-to-open-thailand-phuket-to-any-tourists-say-should-wait-six-months/

Paranoia, xenophobia meet plan to reopen Phuket to tourists Aug 24, 2020
https://coconuts.co/bangkok/news/paranoia-xenophobia-meet-plan-to-reopen-phuket-to-tourists/

Coronavirus: Scientists claim first human reinfected with Covid-19 Hong Kong man experienced a second infection of Covid-19 just four months after recovering from earlier sickness 24 August 2020
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/health/coronavirus-reinfected-hong-kong-covid-19-study-a9685571.html

Bali postpones plans to welcome international travelers in September August 24, 2020
https://www.thejakartapost.com/travel/2020/08/24/bali-postpones-plans-to-welcome-international-travelers-in-september.html

Coronavirus: Germany mulls end to mandatory tests for high-risk returnees 25aug2020
https://www.dw.com/en/coronavirus-germany-mulls-end-to-mandatory-tests-for-high-risk-returnees/a-54679946

Tourists to Stay in Thailand for 30 Days Mandatorily from October, published August 25, 2020
https://www.guwahatiplus.com/daily-news/tourists-to-stay-in-thailand-for-30-days-mandatorily-from-october

Travel bug: Why tourism in Asia will never be the same, Bali's empty resorts, Thai luxury quarantine and an industry in crisis August 26, 2020
https://asia.nikkei.com/Spotlight/The-Big-Story/Travel-bug-Why-tourism-in-Asia-will-never-be-the-same

Thai Hotel Association demands international tourists be allowed to return 26-08-2020
https://thethaiger.com/hot-news/tourism/thai-hotel-association-demands-international-tourists-be-allowed-to-return

Pattaya hotels call for more aid after subsidized-tourism program flops August 27, 2020
https://www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/pattaya-hotels-call-for-more-aid-after-subsidized-tourism-program-flops-312481

GrabFood in biggest-ever marketing push 26 Aug 2020
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1974567/grabfood-in-biggest-ever-marketing-push

Thailands wertloser Titel 26.08.2020
https://www.travelnews.ch/destinationen/16843-thailands-wertloser-titel.html
Das Land gilt inzwischen als sicherstes Reiseland der Welt. Nur bringt das nichts, wenn man gar nicht dorthin reisen kann. Eine neue Bestimmung für eine kleine Eröffnung des internationalen Tourismus wird daran vorerst nichts ändern.
Thailand is the world's safest country to travel, but no tourist can get in!

Emirates to resume flights to Bangkok from 1 September 27 August 2020
https://www.emirates.com/media-centre/emirates-to-resume-flights-to-bangkok-from-1-september/

Emirates fliegt wieder nach Bangkok 27.08.2020
https://www.austrianaviation.net/detail/emirates-fliegt-wieder-nach-bangkok/

Pattaya wants to be considered next for ‘Phuket model’ pipedream August 28, 2020
https://www.pattayamail.com/news/pattaya-wants-to-be-considered-next-for-phuket-model-pipedream-312738

Thai Airways preps for welcoming back tourists from six countries to Phuket August 28, 2020
https://www.pattayamail.com/travel/thai-airways-preps-for-welcoming-back-tourists-from-six-countries-to-phuket-312636

CCSA names groups that can return 28 Aug 2020
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1975751/ccsa-names-groups-that-can-return

Thailand Eyes November Tourism Arrivals Under Prison-Like Conditions, THAI Airways Plans To Operate 12 Flights Per Month Aug 28, 2020
https://loyaltylobby.com/2020/08/28/thailand-eyes-november-tourism-arrivals-under-prison-like-conditions-thai-airways-plans-to-operate-12-flights-per-month/
Lets be honest, the country doesn’t have too many things going for it if you take affordability, ease of access and nightlife entertainment out of the consideration.

Thailand not opening to foreign tourists any time soon Aug 28. 2020
https://www.nationthailand.com/noname/30393678

Plan on the table to allow Europe’s ‘snowbirds’ into Thailand for up to 9 months August 29, 2020
https://thethaiger.com/hot-news/tourism/plan-on-the-table-to-allow-europes-snowbirds-into-thailand-for-up-to-9-months
Another day, another ‘plan’ flown up the pole to see if it will catch some wind.

Readers' Submissions Alternative State Quarantine (ASQ) in Bangkok August 29th, 2020
https://www.stickmanbangkok.com/readers-submissions/2020/08/alternative-state-quarantine-asq-in-bangkok/

Emirates Advertises & Sells Flights To Thailand From September 1, Thai Consulate Reacts With Denial Post Aug 30, 2020
https://loyaltylobby.com/2020/08/30/emirates-advertises-sells-flights-to-thailand-from-september-1-thai-consulate-reacts-with-denial-post/

Pattaya Scenes - 29th August 2020, published Aug 30, 2020
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wKYAzA0Xur0

Emirates claims Bangkok flights are back August 31, 2020
https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2020/08/emirates-claims-bangkok-flights-are-back/

British woman only new Covid case in Thailand Monday 31 Aug 2020
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1977467/british-woman-only-new-covid-case-in-thailand-monday

ChristianPFC 2020

Brazil Sep2020 Costs/Prices

Brazil Sep2020 Costs/Prices

Cost of my holiday in Brazil and some general notes.

Exchange rates: 1 EUR = 6.41 BRL, 1 USD = 5.51 BRL, 1 BRL = 5.73 THB (25sep2020).

Return flight 508 EUR = 3256 BRL
508 EUR (Berlin-Paris-Sao Paulo with Air France, Rio de Janeiro-Amsterdam-Berlin with KLM). I consider this cheap and the times were fine. 22 EUR = 142 BRL public transport in Germany to airport and back home.

Health insurance 17 EUR = 109 BRL
I had health insurance for 17 EUR. Health insurance not compulsory any more:
https://br.usembassy.gov/health-alert-proof-of-health-insurance-no-longer-required-for-air-travel-to-brazil/

update19dec2020: https://www.traveloffpath.com/brazil-adds-pcr-testing-requirement-for-all-travelers/
----------in Brazil start----------
Clothes and laundry 141 BRL
Shorts 50, hoody 55, public washing machine 18, drying 18. But that saved me paying 80 EUR return for hold luggage to take enough clothes for the entire trip.

Entertainment 746 BRL
(entry prices and drink): 65 (Lagoa) + 79 (269 Chili Pepper) + 35 (upgrade) + 65 (Lagoa) + 46 (upgrade) + 40 (Wild Thermas) + 128 (point 117 for two) + 100 (Henrique moneyboy) + 60 (sauna Copacabana) + 78 (Point202) + 50 (club 117). If saunas had been more busy, or if I had found boys to my taste online, expenses for entertainment would have been higher.

Hotel 2096 BRL
Moncloa 5 nights x 135 = 675, Atlantico Rio 2 nights 157, Augusto 2 nights online 382, 4 nights walk-in x 147 = 882. That’s an average of 161 per night including breakfast.

Meals and drinks 623 BRL
Usually I would not drink in saunas or from hotel room minibars. But in Brazil drinks were quite cheap (a can of beer 330ml for 8 BRL), that I splurged out and had a few drinks in sauna and from hotel room mini bar. Drinks in saunas are filed under entertainment.

Breakfast included in hotel costs. I had some days where I was not hungry and had only snacks for lunch or dinner, and had two meals where I had food left over that I took home.

individual meals or drinks in chronological order: 36, 50.80, 46, 3, 12.40, 6, 15, 8, 24.90, 48, 7, 19.90, 8.50, 34.55, 3, 9, 70.40 (for two), 6, 6, 13, 10, 10, 10, 12, 67, 5.65, 14.90, 5, 6, 17.90, 19.90, 10, 7

Sightseeing 439.50
40 (guided tour Temple of Solomon)+33.50 (Christ the Redeemer)+200 (guide with car Rio)+116 (Sugarloaf cable car), 50 (rope and climbing gear at Pedra da Gavea)

Transportation 146.98
6.75+4.40+4.40+17.09 (uber)+4.40+4.40+17.24 (uber)+50 (riocard)+5.50 (buy single ticket because riocard was low and no top-up machine in metro station)+32.80 (riocard top up 50, 19.80 left)

----------in Brazil end----------

A total of 4193 BRL = 654 EUR spent in Brazil, 4193 BRL = 654 EUR for the Brazilian tourism industry, nothing for countries with less liberal immigration policies during Corona.

I feel I got good value for money, except for 80 (estimated)+25 (estimated)+194 = 299 BRL losses due to unfavorable money exchange or ATM fees.

After return, Covid test in Germany free (up to 10 days after return from risk areas), but my doctor sent me an invoice of 22.44 EUR = 144 BRL of costs that are not covered by health insurance. Currently a covid test would cost between 100 and 150 EUR. It can be cheaper to go to a risk area and return to avail oneself of a free test.

I read that for Dutch this is the only way to get a Covid test. People without symptoms can’t get tested in the Netherlands; if they want to travel somewhere that requires a negative test, they travel to a risk area in Germany and then can get a test on return.

Total cost: 4193 BRL = 654 EUR spent in Brazil, 508 EUR = 3256 BRL return flight, 22 EUR = 142 BRL to airport and back home, 17 EUR = 109 BRL health insurance, 22.44 EUR = 144 BRL Covid test on return makes 1223 EUR = 7844 BRL.

Under the current travel restrictions for SEAsia, if you can get to Cambodia (no tourist visas at the moment), you will spend that amount of money to get there and for Covid tests and for two days in state quarantine and two weeks in home quarantine. If you can get to Thailand (no tourist visas at the moment), you will spend that money for two weeks in quarantine alone.

This concludes my trip report Brazil Sep2020. Previous parts here:
https://christianpfc.blogspot.com/2020/09/brazil-sep2020-general-observations.html
https://christianpfc.blogspot.com/2020/10/brazil-sep2020-gay-activities.html
https://christianpfc.blogspot.com/2020/10/brazil-sep2020-sightseeing.html

Copyright 2020 ChristianPFC

Brazil Sep2020 Sightseeing

Brazil Sep2020 Sightseeing

Sightseeing in Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro and some general notes.

Few tourists, no queues. At Sugarloaf and Christ the Redeemer there are installations where hundreds of people can wait for hours, I got in instantly.

Sun is north middays. I have never been that far south of the equator. When planning trips, I consider position of sun (sun shining on places I want to see, not standing behind the place). Sao Paulo cathedral façade points north, and sun shining on it was a surprise.

Thu10sep2020 arrive in Sao Paulo
Arrive in GRU (Sao Paulo international airport). No signs of bus 316 (that would pass my hotel in Rua Augusta), take bus 257 to Tatuape metro station, metro to hotel.

Rest in room, get money from ATM in Frei Caneca shopping center, get SIM-card.

Fri11sep2020
Walk in town: Cathedral open, but crypta closed (and no note when it will be open, and staff didn't know either or language barrier).

Clothes shopping at Rua 25 de Março market. Lunch at Municipal Market.

Sat12sep2020
Walk to Avenida Paulista. MASP (Museum of Art Sao Paulo) closed.

Hotel Unique open, have a drink. Outside area only for hotel guests, spot the pool with red tiles.

Ibirapuera park is closed on Sat and Sun. Brain-dead opening times! People on lawn outside park. This food card accepts payment by credit or debit card and the food is illuminated by an incandescent gas mantle (even during day, one is shining under "credito"). I haven't seen any from close (only from far, there are still a few operational incandescent gas mantle street lamps in Berlin and London).

Sun13sep2020
Stay in (internet on mobile phone). Evening and night gay saunas.

Mon14sep2020 Temple of Solomon.
I learnt of this place only after my arrival in Sao Paulo. This temple/church is so big, and surrounded by secular buildings, that I couldn't get away far enough to take a picture in full, here one from internet to give an idea of its size. 

from: http://christianrunkel.blogspot.com/2014/12/der-tempel-salomos-in-brasilien.html

Temple of Solomon main door with mirror image of church across the road:

There is an information with English-speaking staff. I take the guided tour (40 BRL, just the guide and I, 10:20-11:30) which explains the biblical history (but not in the main building, only in side buildings).

Entry to main building is free, through underground parking lot. You have to leave your phone and camera at reception (i.e. you put it in a tray and they put it in a locker and give you the key, no photography allowed inside), then go through metal detector. No shorts or flip-flops allowed. There is a plaque that says there are 9549 seats. I resist the temptation to count. The rows of seats are not straight, number of seats vary by row, so you can’t calculate the number easily.

I get into a religious event (that started 12 and explains the many visitors around 11:45), a real show! Leave 12:35 while it’s still going, now underground entrance area empty.

To Tietê Bus Terminal to buy a ticket to Rio de Janeiro for tomorrow.

Tue15sep2020
Bus to Rio de Janeiro. Departure schedule 10:00, real 10:15. Lunch break at Graal 12:38-13:20. Arrive in Rio new bus station 16:55, public transport to Copacabana, in hotel room 18:10.

Wed16sep2020
Walk to Sugarloaf base station. By chance pass geological museum, closed during covid.

Near Sugarloaf cablecar base station, a tourist guide approaches me and tells me it’s closed today. Does that sound familiar? (A common scam at Grand Palace in Bangkok). I saw cablecars going up and down, but when I get to the entrance/cashier, it’s indeed closed! The cablecars are going empty.

Another tourist guide can specify: Sugarloaf is closed Tue and Wed for disinfection. He speaks good English and gives off good vibes, so I follow his suggestion for a tour for 200 BRL with his car of Christ the Redeemer, Lapa viaduct and cathedral and Selarón steps.

Drive by his car to parking/cashier Christ the Redeemer, entry 33.50 BRL. No wait, van to top. Platform around statue busy, clouds partially cover view of statue and Sugarloaf. During the half hour I was on top, only short moments where I could take okay pictures.

Sugarloaf as seen from Christ the Redeemer. Before going to Brazil, I had the misconception that Christ the Redeemer is on sugarloaf mountain, and my father thought so as well.

One of the 7 new wonders of the world https://world.new7wonders.com/wonders/christ-redeemer-1931-rio-de-janeiro-brazil/. The location is indeed spectacular, but it's not the highest statue of Christ https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liste_der_höchsten_Christusstatuen and the statue of Christ in Vung Tau https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christ_of_Vũng_Tàu is not only taller, you can climb up to a balcony on the shoulders.

On return pass Lapa arches and stop at cathedral, but not open to visitors 15:30. Selarón steps all fine. 

I’ve never been a friend of guided tours (even though it’s just me, but when going by car everything passes too quickly) and this encounter confirms once again that I’m better off on my own. I could have done cheaper and more adapted to my style of traveling (walking and Corcovado rack railway up to Christ the Redeemer instead of driving), but Sugarloaf closed caught me without a plan what else to do, and the tourist guide was my best option, else the entire day would have been wasted.

Thu17sep2020 Sugarloaf
Sugarloaf ticket 116 BRL, no queue. Later I learned that you can climb Urca mountain (intermediate station, 220 m above sea level) for free and pay less for cablecar from there to Sugarloaf. 

Afternoon walk in town.

Fri18sep2020 Pedra da Gavea
There are some interesting rocks and hiking trails around Rio. Pedra da Gavea is easily accessible by public transport and at 844 m above sea level (trail starts at 70m) just right for some exercise.

There were reports that carrasqueira can only be passed by people with experience in rock climbing, other reports say everyone can pass. When I was there, I saw people going up and down, but for me, without experience, it would have been too dangerous. But fortunately, there was an entrepreneur who put up ropes and brought climbing gear to help people like me up and down for 50 BRL. Saved my day!

View from top (up to 20 other visitors). Due to slightly cloudy sky, sugarloaf not visible.

Sat19sep2020
Laundry. Stay in for internet on my mobile phone. Gay saunas evening/night.

Sun20sep2020
Walk in town. Lapa arches (former aquaeduct, now tram line). Cathedral no entry 11:45 (again!). Have a look at tram. Tram is going, but it’s starting to rain, and weather reports says rain all day, return and spend rest of the day in my room. 

Lapa arches and cathedral (cone rump) behind.

Town center is indeed very quiet on the weekend. Few cars and people, and those I saw were mostly resident homeless.

Mon21sep2020 Morro do Pontal
Today covered sky, but no rain in weather report. Metro and bus to Recreio dos Bandeirantes. There is a rock that forms a peninsula (or insula at high tide) and can be climbed.

Tue22sep2020
Medium rain all day, evening dry. Going out for dinner the only time I left my room.

Wed23sep2020
Check out noon and spend some hours at internet corner before going (metro and bus) to airport for my flight 19:05.

Summary
Something for everyone: museums (albeit closed), churches, beaches (not covered because not my area of interest), architecture, rocks and mountains. Covered some interesting places and learnt about many more while I was there. Enough left to fill another two-week-holiday.

Copyright 2020 ChristianPFC

Brazil Sep2020 Gay activities

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