Thailand, the land of thousand smiles, the friendliest nation in Southeast Asia has been closed to outsiders since it went to lockdown back in March. Covid-19 completely decimated the service industry the nation is popular for, its tourism sector was the largest contributor to its economy and the country has been suffering from lack of income.

The country has been easing its restriction for the past weeks after Covid-19 cases dipped to single digit with some days registration zero, this has allowed some sectors to resume operation but leaving the high risk sectors still closed. This is about to change under phase 4 of its easing process, venues like schools, theme parks, playgrounds and sports activity will now be allowed to open. Its also reported, hotels can soon serve alcohol which was restricted before.

Meanwhile, bars, karaoke and go-go bar are still under the high risk category and will not be getting the green light any time soon however, folks can look forward to the reopening of Spa’s and massage centres with limited customer volume. Thai massage is extremely popular for tourist and local alike, with the opening it will see many unemployed masseur returning to duty further spurring the service economy.

Malaysia has yet to give permission for such activity to resume, but many are anticipating for the this sector together with cinema’s to be opened very soon once the SOP’s are drafted. Fingers crossed!