Southeast Asia Vaccines and Health Advice

10+ Asia Countries Open for Tourism without Quarantine in 2022

After two years of waiting, international travel is gradually reopening. Now, more and more Asian countries are open for tourism without quarantine. It is time to plan a “post-COVID” Asian trip. Here are some of the best and most searched Asian countries opening up:

1. Thailand

Koh Samui, Thailand

Thailand is the most popular destination after the reopening of Asian countries because of its increasingly relaxed requirements, rich tourism charms, and convenient visa policy, especially for European and American travelers.

From October 1, 2022, Thailand has lifted all COVID-related entry requirements. That means you can travel to Thailand without any restrictions, as it did before the pandemic. Just contact us if you are planning a trip to Thailand.

Thailand Visa Requirements

Thailand offers visa-free access to 56 countries/regions, including Australia, Austria, Canada, France, Germany, Norway, the USA, and the UK.

If your country is not on the visa-free countries list, you can apply online here.

Thailand also has Visas on Arrival (VOA), which apply to certain countries like China, India, and Romania.

Recommended Thailand Tours

What Our Customers Said

We had an amazing trip to Thailand with Asiahighlights. Every detail was perfectly organised and we always had an instant customer support service in case of any issues.

Bella was very helpful and responsive to all our questions. They handled all the arrangements very professionally and we had a wonderful time! We would definitely recommend and use them again!

I contacted to Bella from Asia Highlights that to buy tickets to Yi Peng Festival in Chiang Mai when i was in my country.She helped me very much.You can trust this agency, and i advice Bella as the best!!

I had booked Chiang Mai Yi Peng Sky Lantern Festival with Asia Highlight Travel, my travel advisor was Bella Kiu, the experience was great, got my tickets , communication was seamless.

I thought “no hope” in getting the tickets to Yee Peng Festival organize by CAD. Fortunately, together with Bella Liu, I managed to secure all our tickets. No one left behind. This trip to Chiang Mai will be a memorable one.

Bella was super helpful in getting my ticket to the Yi Peng festival exchanged and was very accommodating. Quick and easy transaction and received ticket within 24 hours. Good communication throughout the process.

Asia Highlights as a whole is also very informative and contains helpful advice that has helped me plan my travels in Thailand.

Albee was an absolute pleasure to work with. She responded to my suggestions readily to find suitable alternatives for my 2 week trip to Thailand with my wife. She answered all my questions promptly and thoroughly.

2. Vietnam

Not to be outdone, Vietnam, one of Southeast Asia’s most popular destinations, also fully opened for international travelers without quarantine.

From May 15, Vietnam lifted all entry restrictions. Testing and vaccine certification are no longer required. But travelers should purchase medical/travel insurance covering Covid-19 treatment (minimum cover USD10,000). Downloaded PC-Covid mobile app (Apple/Google Play) is also required.

Vietnam Visa Requirements

Hoi An Ancient Town, Vietnam

Visitors from 22 countries may enter visa free, including the UK, France, Italy, and Germany.

If you’re from America, Canada, Australia, or about 80 other countries not on the list for visa-free entry, the most convenient way to enter is to apply for an e-visa online.

If your country is not in the list for visa exemptions or e-visas, you will need to apply for a Visa Approval Letter in order to obtain a visa on arrival or a visa via a Vietnamese Embassy.

Recommended Vietnam Tours

3. Cambodia

Since Cambodia reopened in late 2021, its entry requirements have relaxed gradually. From July 11, whether you are vaccinated or not, you can visit Cambodia without quarantine. The mysterious and splendid Angkor Wat is waiting for you!

• For fully-vaccinated travelers, a vaccination certificate is required.
• For non-vaccinated travelers, a rapid test on arrival is required.

Cambodia Visa Requirements

Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Similar to other Southeast Asian countries, like Thailand and Vietnam, Cambodia requires travelers from other countries to apply for an e-visa.

Recommended Cambodia Tours

4. India

India opened up to tourism with relaxed requirements from February 14, 2022. All travelers can enter India whether they are vaccinated or not. The entry requirements include:

• Random post-arrival testing (sampling rate: 2%)
• Download a health monitoring app (Aarogya Setu) from Apple Store or Google Play before departure
• Nucleic acid test within 72 hours before departure if you are not fully vaccinated (no need if you are fully vaccinated)

India Visa Requirements

Taj Mahal

India only offers visa-free access to certain countries like Nepal, Bhutan, and the Maldives. Travelers from other countries/regions need to apply for a tourist e-visa. >>>Latest Asia Visas, Southeast Asia Visas Requirements

Recommended India Tours

5. Nepal

From March 14, 2022, Nepal has eased its entry requirements. All international visitors can go to Nepal whether they are vaccinated or not.

• For fully-vaccinated travelers, a vaccination certificate is required.
• For non-vaccinated travelers, a negative RT-PCR test within 72 hours of travel is required.

Nepal Visa Requirements

Kathmandu

Travelers need a visa to enter Nepal, however, Nepal makes getting a tourist visa quite simple by offering a visa on arrival option.

You can get a visa on arrival by providing vaccination certificate or present a negative PCR test result. >>>How to apply for a Visa for Nepal

6. Laos

Laos has announced a full reopening with no testing and no travel restrictions for vaccinated travelers. Everything else, including visas and entry procedures, has returned to pre-COVID norms.

• For fully-vaccinated travelers, a vaccination certificate is required.
• For non-vaccinated travelers, a negative ATK test result within 48 hours of departure is required.

Laos Visa Requirements

Wat Xieng Thong

Laos’ visa-free policy mostly applies to Asian countries like Thailand and Singapore.

Other countries can apply an e-visa or visa on arrival.

Recommended Laos Tours

7. Myanmar

Myanmar announced its full reopening in October 2022 with no testing and no travel restrictions for vaccinated travelers.

• A vaccination certificate or a negative RT-PCR test within 48 hours of travel
• A RDT test on arrival
• COVID-19 insurance provided by Myanmar Insurance

Myanmar Visa Requirements

Shwedagon Pagoda

Except for a few Southeast Asian countries, Myanmar requires a visa to enter. The easiest way to get a Myanmar visa is via its online e-visa system.

Recommended Myanmar Tours

8. Indonesia

Indonesia updated its entry requirements on July 17, 2022:

• If you have completed your booster shot, there is no need for pre-departure testing.
• If you have completed two shots, you should show a ngative rapid antigen test within 24 hours or a negative RT-PCR test within 72 hours.
• If you only have completed one shot, you should show a negative RT-PCR test within 72 hours.
• If you cannot be vaccinated for a specific reason, you should show a negative RT-PCR test within 72 hours and a doctor’s certificate from a government hospital.

Indonesia Visa Requirements

Bali

All EU citizens, US citizens, and citizens of most other nations can visit Indonesia without a visa for up to 30 days.

Recommended Bali Tours

9. Singapore

Singapore cancelled all COVID-19 testing for fully-vaccinated travelers, bringing the country almost back to its pre-pandemic status.

For unvaccinated or not fully-vaccinated travelers, pre-departure test within 48 hours is needed.

All the travelers need to submit the SG Arrival Card with an electronic Health Declaration before aarival.

Singapore Visa Requirements

Merlion Park

Most visitors (EU, UK, US, Australia, Norway, South Korea, and Switzerland citizens) can enter Singapore without a visa and are granted 30–90 days visa-free entry, depending on their nationality.

10. Philippines

At present, the Philippines has one of the easiest and most convenient entry procedures in Asia. You will only need:

• Proof of COVID-19 vaccination

Philippines Visa Requirements

Citizens of most nationalities do not need a visa to enter the Philippines, and this is inclusive of all citizens of EU countries, the US, Australia, Russia, and South American countries.

11. Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka announced that fully-vaccinated visitors don’t need pre-departure COVID-19 PCR or rapid antigen tests from March 1, 2022. The entry requirements include:

• Vaccination certificate
• Insurance covering COVID-19 costs of at least US$50,000

Sri Lanka Visa Requirements

Sri Lanka

Most visitors to Sri Lanka need to apply for a visa. The easiest way is to get an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) online. ETA holders will be issued a 30-day short-visit visa at the port of entry in Sri Lanka.

12. Japan

Japan now fully reopened to all the international travelers. Now you can visit Japan with or without a guide.

Japan Visa Requirements

Kyoto

Japan has restored the visa-waiver system since October 11th, 2022. If your country is in the list of Exemption of Japan Visa like Australia, Canada, USA, UK and almost all European nations, you can visit Japan without applying for a visa in advance.

Feel free to contact us to plan your dream travel.

Recommended Japan Tours

13. South Korea

South Korea announced that travelers, whether vaccinated or not, don’t need to quarantine from June 8. The entry requirements still include:

• A negative RT-PCR test result within 48 hours before departure
• RT-PCR test within 24 hours after arrival

South Korea Visa Requirements

Gyeongbok Palace

Passport holders from 96 countries/regions, including Canada, European Union citizens, the USA, the UK, Singapore, and Japan, enjoy visa exemption when visiting South Korea, but need to apply for an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) online.

14. Bhutan

Bumthang

Bhutan plans to fully open its doors to international travelers from September 2022, without quarantine. But currently, it still requires a 5-day quarantine for travelers.

Recommended Bhutan Tours

15. China

The Great Wall

China is still closed to inbound tourism. Hong Kong has reopened to international travelers, but quarantine is required. Check out more on our China Travel Restrictions 2022, When Will China Open Its Borders?

Restart Your Travel with Us

It is important to us that you feel comfortable and safe during your visit, and we will respect and do our best to accommodate any requests or decisions you make regarding your travels. Contact us to plan your trip when you are ready. All our tours are fully customizable. Here are some popular itineraries:

Why Travel with Asia Highlights During the Pandemic

• Tailor-made experience: All of your ideas/needs will be carefully considered to create your ideal trip.
• Worry-free planning: Your 1:1 travel consultant in Asia will take all the uncertainty out of your planning, helping you navigate any travel restrictions.
• No-risk booking: 100% refund policy! (up to 14 days before departure)

Get Inspired with Our Sample Itineraries

At Asia Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.

More Travel Ideas and Inspiration

We are here to help you.
Start planning your tailor-made tour with 1-1 help from our travel advisors. Create My Trip

4.9 Excellent

The Asia Highlights Experience

1-to-1 Expert Planning

Your tour will be tailor-made to suit you by a destination expert. Your personal travel advisor will always reply within 24 hours.

Personal Journeys

Enjoy having your own personal local guide and ride. Explore destinations at your own pace. Have as much flexibility as possible.

Authentic Experiences

Go beyond the sightseeing. Understand the destinations by practicing the local culture and interacting with local people.

One-Stop Service

Leave all the booking work to us, including international and internal transportation, visas, hotels, meals, and activities.

At Asia Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. Not just any journey, but the unique trip with the exceptional experiences you’re looking for — whether it’s a family vacation, a honeymoon, or your annual break. more .

Southeast Asia Vaccines and Health Advice

Below we list some of the main vaccinations you should consider for Southeast Asia travel, as well as other health tips to make sure your travel is safe.

Disclaimer: The information presented below is general advice, but is not a substitute for medical advice from a health professional.

Why Vaccinate and Protect Your Health in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asian countries are located in tropical, sub-tropical, and equatorial regions with rainforests and jungles and for the most part significantly lower standards of health and cleanliness compared to more developed countries in the West.

All these factors combined mean that there are a range of tropical diseases that can potentially harm you, especially if you come from different parts of the world, and it is your first time.

While many locals have developed natural immunity to many diseases, particularly illnesses resulting from unsanitary street food, there are still many other conditions that can affect anyone.

In order to eliminate the risk of such diseases ruining your trip to Southeast Asia, it is recommended (and sometimes required) to get vaccinated for certain diseases in advance.

What Our Customers Said

I contacted to Bella from Asia Highlights that to buy tickets to Yi Peng Festival in Chiang Mai when i was in my country.She helped me very much.You can trust this agency, and i advice Bella as the best!!

I had booked Chiang Mai Yi Peng Sky Lantern Festival with Asia Highlight Travel, my travel advisor was Bella Kiu, the experience was great, got my tickets , communication was seamless.

I thought “no hope” in getting the tickets to Yee Peng Festival organize by CAD. Fortunately, together with Bella Liu, I managed to secure all our tickets. No one left behind. This trip to Chiang Mai will be a memorable one.

Bella was super helpful in getting my ticket to the Yi Peng festival exchanged and was very accommodating. Quick and easy transaction and received ticket within 24 hours. Good communication throughout the process.

Asia Highlights as a whole is also very informative and contains helpful advice that has helped me plan my travels in Thailand.

Albee was an absolute pleasure to work with. She responded to my suggestions readily to find suitable alternatives for my 2 week trip to Thailand with my wife. She answered all my questions promptly and thoroughly.

Belle is very professional in helping me to decide on what I can do as a solo traveller. She is very helpful and making my trip planning easy .

Albee was very prompt, professional, and responsive as a planner for our trip. She listened to our preferences and designed an experience that catered to our specific needs.

Do I Need Vaccinations?

If you come from a different continent, and have never been to Southeast Asia or nearby regions before, it is recommended that you get a few basic vaccines. Note that some travelers from specific countries (mostly in South America and Africa) may also need to show proof of vaccinations/immunity (specifically yellow fever) upon arrival.

Always check if there are any specific vaccine requirements for the country you are entering, or for the country you are coming from.

At the moment, there are no specific requirements for vaccines (except for yellow fever for travelers coming from countries where the disease is prevalent). However, there are basic vaccinations that are highly recommended.

When Should I Get Them?

It is best to get vaccines as early as possible before your trip. The sooner you get them, the better your body can reach full immunity. Also note that some vaccines require multiple injections spaced out over certain time periods.

Generally, you should visit a doctor or clinic for consultation at least two months before your trip, so around the time when you would normally begin planning your travel.

What Vaccinations Should I Get?

Most Recommended

*Note that you can get a 3-in-1 (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Polio) vaccine.

• Hepatitis A and B: The hepatitis A virus is transmitted through contaminated food or water, and hepatitis B through bodily fluids or unsanitary needles. Both diseases are very serious, and affect thousands of people. You can get a combined vaccination of the two diseases, known as Twinrix.
• Typhoid: A potentially fatal disease also originating from unsanitary food and poor hygiene. This is one of the most essential vaccinations for Southeast Asia.
• Tetanus: A common bacterium that can enter the bloodstream from open cuts or saliva. Getting cuts during travels is not uncommon, and although this disease is somewhat easily treatable, it is best to get vaccinated.
• Diphtheria: A contagious airborne disease that infects the mucus membrane of the throat and nose.
• Polio: A common disease in children spread through bodily fluids, and which can lead to paralysis. Adults who have been vaccinated in childhood, may need boosters.
• MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella): The vaccine for these three diseases is mandatory for children in most of the Western world, and is normally valid for 20 years. If you have not had a second booster recently, you may need to consult a professional, or get tested for immunity.

Other Suggestions

• Rabies: Many streets and beaches in Southeast Asia will have stray dogs roaming about. Avoid contact at all costs, but as major cites have adequate hospitals and a bite is unlikely, only if you are traveling to remote areas is it recommended to be vaccinated for rabies. This is particularly recommended if you are planning to visit forests or parks with monkeys, or if you are going caving (against bats).
• Japanese Encephalitis: Not particularly common for travelers to get infected, but a serious sickness nonetheless, and can be potentially fatal. If you plan on spending prolonged periods of time in rural regions, it is best to get this vaccine.
• Cholera: Also not too common in popular Southeast Asian countries, but still a potential risk from unsanitary food or water. This vaccine can be drunk rather than injected.
• Meningitis: A disease particularly common during monsoon season.
• Malaria: There are no actual vaccines for malaria, but there is medication that can be drunk daily during your trip to significantly decrease the chance of infection. It is recommended especially for those planning to travel inside rainforests or jungles.

Other Health Advice

No matter how many vaccinations you get, there are many illnesses and conditions (big or small) that cannot be vaccinated against, and the only thing we can do, is take necessary precautions to try and avoid them.

Street Food

Of course, one of the joys of Southeast Asia is to try the unique street food sold along popular tourist destinations such as night-markets and bar-streets.

It will probably be impossible to avoid grabbing a little taste of some local street delicacies, and we wouldn’t advise not to. However, do note that first-time travelers to these regions are prone to get minor food-sicknesses from such foods.

Choose the stalls you eat from carefully (more people = probably safer), and stay away from food-carts if you can’t spot a visible refrigerator for meats.

A lot of food in such countries can also be extremely spicy, and no matter how much you think you can tolerate spiciness back home, in here it’s just not the same! Spicy food in particular can lead to upset stomachs and digestive problems, so do not overeat.

Mosquitos/Bugs

As can be expected, Southeast Asia is a place where mosquitos and similar bugs thrive, due to the ideal environmental conditions. This creates a major annoyance for travelers in the best cases, but in the worst; can lead to unfortunate illnesses.

In order to avoid both of these issues, it is recommended to use bug-repellant sprays and devices. These can be purchased in any local convenience store, and may even be provided by hotels.

At nights, it is safer to wear long-sleeved clothes despite the heat, to reduce the chance of getting bitten. Avoid leaving windows open at night while you sleep unless there is a mosquito net.

• Dengue Fever: Dengue fever is an epidemic disease in many parts of the region, and is transmitted by mosquitos. The disease is not particularly deadly (the first time), though is quite serious. Contracting it a second time, however, can be fatal. If you have had dengue fever before, you need a dengue vaccine.
• Zika: Zika virus is transmitted by mosquitos, and can become a serious illness if left untreated.
• Sandflies: As the name suggests, sandflies are found in the sand along beaches, and are particularly common in the Philippines (somewhat seasonal). Their bites can be painful, and cause rash or blisters, and can get infected if untreated.

Water

Many Southeast Asian countries’ tap water is not very clean, particularly in the less-developed countries. Do not drink water straight from the tap, and if you can, try using bottled water to brush your teeth, and close your mouth when you shower.

Other

• Scuba Diving: Many Southeast Asian countries are popular for diving, as there are gorgeous coral reefs and marine life to witness. Diving, while a fun activity, can pose some minor risks due to the pressure of the water, such as decompression sickness (“the bends”). Such complications can affect the ears and sinuses, and can worsen if followed by flights shortly after. If you have never been diving before in your home country, it may be best to avoid this activity, and try snorkeling instead. If you do wish to try it, be sure to go through a legitimate training course, and plan it so that it is not close to the date of your flight back home.
• Traveler’s disease: Traveler’s disease is a general term for discomfort, fatigue, fever, or other somewhat mild symptoms, caused by the stress of travel, dietary shifts, and jet-lag (or a combination). This can affect anyone, and can be common for non-frequent travelers. To reduce risk, try to spend the first days of your journey in a less strenuous/intense manner, and get slowly acquainted with the area first.
• Heat Stroke: Being that this region is tropical, the sun is blazing-hot throughout the day, and temperatures are mostly very high. Particularly at the beach or when trekking for long distances, always bring enough water, and replenish yourself frequently.

Further Tips

• Different vaccinations may be needed for different countries (origin or destination), and can also vary depending on time, as there are seasonal outbreaks. It is recommended to consult a doctor, travel clinic, or travel agency (of the region you are going to) in order to receive up-to-date vaccine recommendations.
• If you have a medical vaccine record booklet, keep it with your passport for all travels. Be sure to also document all the vaccinations you have received in a spreadsheet, for future reference.

Visiting Southeast Asia with Us

Asia Highlights offers a seamless trip-planning experience, helping you design the perfect trip to any country in Southeast Asia. Our knowledgeable staff will assist you in selecting destinations, accommodations and activities that best suit your requirements.

Why Travel with Asia Highlights During the Pandemic

• Tailor-made experience: All of your ideas/needs will be carefully considered to create your ideal trip.
• Worry-free planning: Your 1:1 travel consultant in Asia will take all the uncertainty out of your planning, helping you navigate any travel restrictions.
• No-risk booking: 100% refund policy! (up to 14 days before departure)

Get Inspired with Our Sample Itineraries

At Asia Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.

More Travel Ideas and Inspiration

We are here to help you.
Start planning your tailor-made tour with 1-1 help from our travel advisors. Create My Trip

4.9 Excellent

The Asia Highlights Experience

1-to-1 Expert Planning

Your tour will be tailor-made to suit you by a destination expert. Your personal travel advisor will always reply within 24 hours.

Personal Journeys

Enjoy having your own personal local guide and ride. Explore destinations at your own pace. Have as much flexibility as possible.

Authentic Experiences

Go beyond the sightseeing. Understand the destinations by practicing the local culture and interacting with local people.

One-Stop Service

Leave all the booking work to us, including international and internal transportation, visas, hotels, meals, and activities.

At Asia Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. Not just any journey, but the unique trip with the exceptional experiences you’re looking for — whether it’s a family vacation, a honeymoon, or your annual break. more .

Travel Vaccine Advice for a Trip to Southeast Asia

What Vaccines Do I Need for Traveling to Southeast Asia?

Home to Jakarta, Indonesia; Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; and Bangkok, Thailand, Southeast Asia is a very popular destination for travelers. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2019, almost 40 million tourists visited Thailand, more than 26 million vacationed in Malaysia, and over 19 million spent time in Singapore.

If you plan to visit Southeast Asia in the coming months, there are some precautions you should take to make sure you stay safe and healthy on your journey. Let’s discuss recommended vaccinations and other tips to help make sure you bring only happy memories back from your trip.

Recommended Vaccinations

In general, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the following vaccinations before traveling to Southeast Asian countries such as Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam:

The CDC also recommends travelers update their routine vaccinations for the following diseases:

Southeast Asia Traveling Tips

Updating your vaccines is just one way to protect yourself from disease while traveling. Here are some other tips to follow when wandering through the beautiful countries, cities, and towns of Southeast Asia.

Avoid Contaminated Water

Different areas of the world have different standards for their water. Some countries in Southeast Asia are at a higher risk of having contaminated water. This can cause travelers’ diarrhea — a bacterial infection that can be very serious for older adults or people with chronic diseases.

When traveling, a good rule of thumb is to always drink bottled water. And if you must drink tap water, make sure you have a filter to use to help remove any bacteria before drinking.

Watch Out for Bugs

Bugs such as mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks can carry a variety of diseases such as zika, dengue, and chikungunya. As many areas of Southeast Asia have high humidity or are on the coast, these types of bugs can be more prevalent.

Protect yourself from these bugs by wearing long-sleeved clothing whenever possible, as well as a hat to protect your head. Try to sleep only in closed rooms with air conditioning or with a bed net. And use insect repellent if possible to help ward off unwanted insects.

Practice Healthy Habits

Whether it’s on a plane, train, taxi cab, boat, or subway, travelers are always exposed to more germs than anyone really wants to think about. Keep yourself healthy by keeping up with some simple healthy habits:

• Wash your hands all the time, especially before eating.
• Keep hand sanitizer with you in case you do not have access to soap and water.
• Try not to touch your mouth, nose, or eyes.

If you’ll be traveling to Southeast Asia and need to update your vaccinations, call or book online to schedule your appointment today.

Written for Passport Health by Corrie Pelc. Corrie Pelc is a freelance writer in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. She has a passion for health and wellness, having written for publications including Exceptional Parent, DAYSPA, INVISION, Eyecare Professional, and Hepatitis Magazine.

About Us

Passport Health’s blog provides travelers and travel enthusiasts with a variety of news and features. We focus on bringing the most interesting and relevant stories right to our readers. Topics range from the vaccines needed for a destination to updates on recent outbreaks, travel advice and much more. Feel free to check out some of our most popular posts, linked in the sidebar, or our most recent posts below

Source https://www.asiahighlights.com/southeast-asia/coronavirus-travel-tips

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Source https://www.passporthealthglobal.com/2022/06/travel-vaccine-advice-for-a-trip-to-southeast-asia/