Footage shows Thailand’s famous Wat Arun Buddhist temple on Sunday November 14 as tourists trickle back into the country following the relaxation of Covid-19 measures.

Ministers allowed fully-vaccinated visitors into the country from November 1 onwards with just one day of quarantine while they wait for the results of a PCR test taken upon arrival.

They hope the measures will boost the tourism-dependent economy which has been hit hard by the severe restrictions imposed since March last year.

Despite some optimism, the country’s signature nightlife – bars, strip clubs and bath houses – will remain closed until at least January 16, according to the Centre for COVID-19 Situation Administration (CCSA).

Economists have warned that it could still be 2026 before the country’s tourism industry returns to pre-pandemic levels.

Two years ago tourism made up an estimated 21 per cent of Thailand’s GDP, generating 1.8 trillion baht in revenue. However, the country’s National Economic and Social Development Council predicted that it could be another five years before similar numbers are seen.

Analysts said that between now and 2026, around seven million workers will continue to be affected by the economic harm from the Covid-19 pandemic.