As Singaporeans resume international travel following the relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions, one tourist’s experience in Bangkok has garnered attention online. Amanda Lee, 32, found herself in an unexpected situation during a family trip to Thailand when she tested positive for Covid-19 on the second-last day of her holiday.
Lee, who is fully vaccinated, immediately reported the positive result to her hotel and was swiftly moved to a local hospital to serve a mandatory 10-day quarantine. She shared her experience on Instagram and TikTok, expressing frustration over the timing of her diagnosis, which coincided with both the Vesak Day public holidays in Singapore and Thailand.
To make matters more complicated, Lee was informed that she would need to pay a 100,000 baht (approximately S$4,000) security deposit for her quarantine and was unable to reach her insurance company due to the holiday closures. Additionally, with doctors on holiday, she was left unsure about the duration of her stay or when she could fly back, complicating her travel plans further.
Lee’s social media post sparked a range of reactions. While some expressed sympathy, others criticized her decision to openly declare her Covid-positive status. One netizen commented, “Maybe you’re rich enough to be backside itchy,” while another suggested, “If I were you, I’d double-mask on the plane, not interact unnecessarily, and quarantine at home.” Some also respected her transparency but felt that others might choose to keep their Covid status private to avoid complications.
Despite the mixed feedback, Lee will be discharged on May 24 and is expected to return home shortly thereafter. Her experience highlights the unpredictable challenges that travelers may face when dealing with Covid-19 abroad.