Bangkok – Thailand’s independently-launched insurance coverage policy for visitors has received 219 applicants from 44 countries in the first month after its formal launch, with a total premium value of 493,100 Baht.

The largest number of applicants received in the period 24 July – 21 August, 2014 are from Italy (72), followed by Australia (18) and Canada (16).

Tourism Authority of Thailand Governor Thawatchai Arunyik said, “We are very encouraged by this result. It shows that the project is off to a good start. We anticipate that additional marketing and word-of-mouth publicity will help it become more widely-known and help visitors to travel to Thailand with complete peace of mind.”

The special online insurance coverage scheme known as the “Thailand Travel Shield” was initiated by TAT to help visitors who wish to travel to Thailand but are unable to get insurance coverage in their own countries due to the travel advisories imposed by various foreign governments.

The insurance coverage is available via four reputed, publicly-listed Thai insurance companies: Muang Thai Insurance, Chao Phaya Insurance, Siam City Insurance and Krungthai Panich Insurance. Visitors can buy the insurance coverage online for a broad range of unforeseen events ranging from accidents, trip cancellation, loss or damage of baggage/personal belongings, emergency hotel accommodation, etc.

These travel insurance policies provide instant coverage up to the value of 1,000,000 Baht for the packages starting at 650 Baht, and up to the value of 2,000,000 Baht for the packages starting at 1,100 Baht. The period of coverage ranges up to 60 days, but it can also cover visitors making annual trips to Thailand.

The scheme is being publicised worldwide by TAT through its international offices, and strategic partners, as well as marketed online through the website:  http://www.tourismthailand.org/ThailandTravelShield

In addition, everyone purchasing this insurance can take advantage of the 24-hour emergency assistance offered by the well-known Allianz Global Assistance.

The Medical and Travel Assistance Services will allow visitors to get pre-trip information; such as, inoculations, weather, exchange rates, telephone medical advice, medical service provider referral, assistance in case of loss of luggage/passport assistance, and embassy referral.

Visitors availing of the scheme are also advised to read the fine print to see what is excluded from the coverage; such as, accidents while under the influence of alcohol, indulging in extreme sports, motorcycle riding, getting involved in public brawls, etc.