Thailand Beach Resort - December
 

Hi - Haven't been on here in ages, and remember there being some great experts here.... Due to Covid, we keep pushing our JAL tickets further into the future. Currently Palm Springs to BKK on December 2 - 24. We'll end the trip in Bangkok with a few days at either the Penn or Anantara Siam (our 2 favorites)... we'd like to spend roughly 15 nights in Krabi, Phuket or other... somewhere along the Andaman Coast. We have never been to this area! Typically we're in Thailand in the summer months and spend time in the North, on Samui and of course Bangkok. Could the group please give some recommendations for 2 - 3 different Andaman coast destinations? For our beach holidays, luxe isn't a requirement.... A/C is a must, and we like "on the beach", but for the rest we're looking for easy / casual accommodations, possibly bungalow, boutique hotels, etc. $150 - $175 range.... Any itinerary suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, -David

It could be argued that Thailand has been plain lucky when it comes to Covid, but they are determined to avoid any second wave.
Even if people are allowed in from the USA at that point, it is likely you will face some pretty draconian restrictions.
Under the travel bubble scheme visitors will be restricted to 1000 per day from chosen/ageeing countires
At present when flights for "ordinary" tourists resume in August, you will need health certification. Also insurance ...the figure appears to be $100k.
You're going to be checked everywhere for body temperature.
COVID-19 screening tests will be mandatory before the visitors leave their countries and upon arriving in Thailand.
You may also find restrictions are imposed on where and how you travel.
Make sure you have a good supply of masks too.

I suggest you adjust your schedule because the Thai government has provided these latest guidelines:

1. Certificate of entry from the respective Thai Embassy

2. Proof of Alternative State Quarantine (ASQ) confirmation

3. Covid-19 test result - validity of 72 hours prior to departure time

4. Fit-to-fly health certificate - validity of 72 hours prior to departure time

5. Health insurance with coverage of no less than $100,000 including cover medical expense

OP posted on 29 June 2020. A very long tine ago, in terms of Covid responses in Thailand. I suspect OP simply stayed in Palm Springs; i would!
Many of the best resorts/hotels of Thailand are now under severe economic stress and may be sold off to mostly Chinese buyers. So expect big changes in the structure of 'Holiday in Thailand' 3 yrs from now.

Covid is with us for another year - some holidays will be possible, but those who think the vaccine will suddenly put things right are kidding themselves.