Minister of Tourism Thong Khon has instructed all provincial tourism departments across the country to help prevent the spread of Covid-19 during Lunar New Year celebrations from January 31 to February 3.

In a directive dated January 28, Khon said the departments must ensure that all preventive measures, especially the three dos and three don’ts, are strictly implemented.

“The Standard Operating Procedure [SOP] put in place for all tourism-related businesses to practise must be followed. All departments and relevant units must help ensure safety for all local and foreign visitors," he said.

Relevant authorities must control crowding and ensure that all resorts, tourist attractions, restaurants and hotels do not receive guests beyond their capacity.

“Departments are to report cases of overcrowding to the ministry and municipal-provincial authorities immediately in order for them to temporarily close the offending establishment,” the directive said.

The ministry advised that authorities and tourism-related business owners only welcome vaccinated visitors.

Authorities are also advised to work with business owners and tourism operators to maintain the quality and reasonable pricing of products and keep the environment clean.

All prices for accommodation, food and other services shall be clearly indicated for visitors to know in advance. In case of excessive overcharging, business owners will be held accountable before the law, it said.