The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has announced that Bangkok’s weekend and flea markets, which are very popular among the tourists, are now open, showing signs of a return to normalcy albeit under a “new normal.”
The Royal Thai Government has allowed a relaxation of the COVID-19 containment restrictions for 10 clusters of businesses and venues, including all markets, starting from May 3.
The reopening includes Talat Liap Duan – Night Market By the Highway, Talat Huamum Night Market, Chatuchak Playground antique flea market; Chatuchak Weekend Market BMA among others. Bangkok’s two train night markets – Talat Rot Fai (Train Night Market) Ratchada and Talat Rot Fai (Train Night Market) Srinakarin – will reopen from May 15. However, the Neon Night Bazaar, located in the heart of Bangkok’s wholesale shopping district, Pratunam, would continue to stay closed until May 15 or until further notice.
TAT has made it clear that everyone has to strictly follow the health and safety guidelines at these markets. These include allowing body temperature to be checked at the market prior to entering, wearing a surgical or cloth mask at all times, washing hands regularly, and observing social distancing rules. It also clarified that although these weekend and flea markets are reopening, not all shops have resumed operations; such as manicure/pedicure shops, massage shops and tattoo shops.
