Thailand to reduce visa-free stay days: What it means for tourists

To prevent illegal business activities, Thailand has decided to reduce the duration of its visa-free stay from 60 days to 30 days. As per reports, local hotel associations and travel entrepreneurs are concerned about foreigners working illegally and renting out properties, taking advantage of the visa-free. Citizens of 93 countries have been allowed to enter Thailand without a visa for up to 60 days since last July. The implementation date of the decision to reduce days to 30, agreed in principle by various Thai ministries, isn't confirmed yet.
Once it is implemented, tourists who want to stay for a longer duration will have to apply for other visa options like the TR visa (tourist visa), Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa (METV), Special Tourist Visa(STV - temporarily discontinued), Thailand Elite Visa or Long-term Resident Visa. There are also visa options like the Non-immigrant visa in categories O-A and B. Tourists can check what kind of visa suits their requirement and apply for extended stays. The Thai embassy or consulate will be able to provide the latest policies. 

Meanwhile, Thailand's luxury tourism sector is experiencing a new boom after the success of HBO's critically acclaimed series The White Lotus. Reportedly, 'The White Lotus' effect has increased interest in the country's culture and locales, the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, where the show's third season was shot, Anantara Mai Kho Villas in Phuket and Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort, where a few of the additional scenes where shot. Thailand tourism insiders say that many are looking for the 'White Lotus experience,' which includes trying a hand at jungle trekking, exclusive muay thai training, luxury shopping, personalised guided tours, fine dining at Michelin-starred Thai restaurants, enjoying herbal steam baths, trying a hand at Buddhist rituals, holistic healing and more.