Intressant uppvaknande………Are big tour buses ruining Pattaya’s ‘Getaway Heaven’? Over the past few years, Pattaya has experienced an influx of tourists arriving in large, often overcrowded buses. These vehicles bring thousands of visitors from nearby cities and provinces, contributing significantly to Pattaya’s tourism industry. While this surge in tourism is beneficial for local businesses and the economy, the sheer volume of these buses is beginning to strain the city’s infrastructure and negatively impact its once-charming atmosphere.- Pattaya Mail

Are big tour buses ruining Pattaya's 'Getaway Heaven'?

Pattaya MailFebruary 10, 2025

Big tour buses may be fueling Pattaya's tourism, but are they driving away the peaceful getaway atmosphere the city is known for?"

PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya, long known as a bustling beach city and a vibrant tourist hub, has earned a reputation as a "getaway heaven" for those looking to unwind by the sea. With its nightlife, entertainment, and beautiful coastal views, it's a destination many flock to for a quick escape from the everyday. However, one growing concern has begun to overshadow this reputation: the increasing number of large tour buses.

The Rise of Big Tour Buses in Pattaya

Over the past few years, Pattaya has experienced an influx of tourists arriving in large, often overcrowded buses. These vehicles bring thousands of visitors from nearby cities and provinces, contributing significantly to Pattaya's tourism industry. While this surge in tourism is beneficial for local businesses and the economy, the sheer volume of these buses is beginning to strain the city's infrastructure and negatively impact its once-charming atmosphere.



The Negative Impacts of Tour Buses on Pattaya's Charm

Traffic Gridlock and Congestion: One of the most immediate consequences of the large tour buses is the severe traffic congestion. Popular areas such as Beach Road, Walking Street, and Bali Hai Pier, often see roads clogged with buses and their passengers, resulting in long traffic delays. For tourists seeking a peaceful getaway, this is hardly the serene experience they expect. Tour buses frequently stop to drop off or pick up tourists in already crowded streets, disrupting the flow of traffic and causing chaos.

Loss of the 'Getaway' Atmosphere: Pattaya has long been advertised as a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. However, with the influx of tour buses and their passengers, many of the city's once tranquil areas have become overrun with tourists, creating a sense of overcrowding. This detracts from the very essence of a getaway destination. The noise, the constant movement of people, and the overcrowded attractions erode the sense of relaxation that tourists once sought.

Environmental and Aesthetic Concerns: Large tour buses contribute to air pollution and traffic-related noise, diminishing the overall quality of the environment. With the stunning views of the coastline now often interrupted by a parade of buses lining the roads, the city's natural beauty is overshadowed. The sight of buses parked near beaches or scenic spots detracts from the idyllic setting that Pattaya is known for.

Pressure on Local Infrastructure: Pattaya's infrastructure, including its roads, parking spaces, and public services, was never designed to handle the volume of large vehicles. Many roads are too narrow, and parking spaces for buses are limited. As a result, buses often park in illegal areas, further exacerbating the congestion. The lack of space for buses to park properly also leads to safety concerns, both for pedestrians and other vehicles on the road.



The Dilemma: Tourism vs. Tranquility

 While tourism is vital to Pattaya's economy, it is clear that the growing number of large tour buses is having a negative effect on the city's charm. Tourists who come to Pattaya seeking peace and relaxation may find themselves instead grappling with overcrowded streets and long waits. The balance between boosting tourism and maintaining the peaceful, "getaway" atmosphere that originally made Pattaya attractive is becoming more difficult to maintain.

What Can Be Done?

To preserve Pattaya's reputation as a getaway heaven, a more sustainable approach to tourism is needed. Here are a few potential solutions:

Designated Bus Parking Areas: Creating designated, off-peak parking zones for tour buses can help reduce congestion. This would prevent buses from blocking key areas and allow tourists to move around freely.

Smaller Tour Vehicles: Encouraging tour operators to use smaller, more efficient minibuses rather than large coaches can reduce the strain on Pattaya's narrow roads. This would also make it easier to navigate through busy areas, lessening congestion.



Regulated Tourist Entry Points: Implementing regulated entry points where tourists can enter and exit in an orderly fashion, and perhaps even limiting the number of buses allowed to park in one area at any given time, could help control the flow of tourists more effectively.

Enhance Public Transport Options: Expanding public transportation, such as electric buses or shuttle services, could provide an alternative for tourists to travel around without relying on large buses.

Sustainability Practices: Moving toward more eco-friendly and sustainable tourism practices, such as encouraging walking, cycling, and the use of electric vehicles, can help reduce environmental pollution and preserve Pattaya's natural beauty.



Bars in Thailand Set to Close This Week for Buddhist ​​​​​​​ Holiday. Makha Bucha Day, a key Buddhist celebration, takes place on Wednesday, February 12, 2025. ASEAN NOW

Composite image for reference only

 

Makha Bucha Day, a key Buddhist celebration, takes place on Wednesday, February 12, 2025. This holiday occurs during the full moon of the third lunar month, commemorating the day when 1,250 of Buddha's followers gathered spontaneously to hear his teachings on moral conduct and mental purification.

 

On Makha Bucha Day, many Thais visit temples to participate in religious rituals, offer food to monks, meditate, and join candlelit processions. It is also a common practice to abstain from alcohol and other pleasures as a gesture of respect and mindfulness.

In accordance with Thai law, alcohol sales are banned on religious holidays. As a result, all bars will be closed, and convenience stores will not be able to sell alcohol for a full 24-hour period, from midnight to midnight on Wednesday.

 

Violators of this regulation face hefty fines and potential prison sentences, reported The Phuket Express.

 

-- 2025-02-10

Short-Term Air Pollution Exposure Poses Serious Risks to Brain Function, Study Warns. Even brief exposure to air pollution can disrupt cognitive functions essential for daily life, a new study has revealed. Based on a report by The Independent 2025-02-08 ASEAN NOW

 

Even brief exposure to air pollution can disrupt cognitive functions essential for daily life, a new study has revealed. Researchers have found that air pollution can impair a person's ability to interpret emotions, focus on tasks, and engage in social situations, shedding new light on the broader dangers of environmental toxins beyond their well-documented effects on the respiratory and cardiovascular systems.  

 

Published in *Nature Communications*, the study demonstrates that short-term exposure to high levels of air pollution can immediately reduce cognitive performance. "Our study provides compelling evidence that even short-term exposure to particulate matter can have immediate negative effects on brain functions essential for daily activities such as doing the weekly supermarket shop," said Dr. Thomas Faherty, a researcher at the University of Birmingham and co-author of the study.  

 

To measure the impact of air pollution on cognitive function, participants were exposed either to high levels of air pollution, simulated using candle smoke, or to clean air. Researchers then tested their cognitive performance before exposure and again four hours later, focusing on working memory, selective attention, emotion recognition, psychomotor speed, and sustained attention. While working memory remained unaffected, selective attention and emotion recognition declined significantly following exposure to polluted air.  

These effects were observed regardless of whether participants inhaled through their mouths or noses, indicating that the route of inhalation played no significant role in the cognitive impact. Scientists believe that inflammation triggered by particulate matter, a major component of urban air pollution, could be responsible for these impairments. While working memory appears more resilient to short-term exposure, attention and emotional processing are particularly vulnerable.  

 

"Poor air quality undermines intellectual development and worker productivity, with significant societal and economic implications in a high-tech world reliant on cognitive excellence," said Professor Francis Pope from the University of Birmingham, another co-author of the study. He warned that reduced productivity could impact economic growth, underscoring the urgent need for stricter air quality regulations and public health initiatives to combat pollution's effects on brain health, particularly in urban environments with high pollution levels.  

 

Selective attention is a crucial cognitive skill, enabling individuals to focus on goal-oriented tasks, such as navigating a grocery store while ignoring distractions. Emotion recognition, another essential function, allows people to interpret social cues and respond appropriately in interpersonal interactions. The study highlights the importance of understanding how air pollution affects these critical mental processes and calls for further research into how different pollution sources influence brain health, especially in vulnerable populations like older adults and children.  

 

Professor Gordon McFiggans from the University of Manchester stressed the significance of this research in protecting at-risk groups. "This study shows the importance of understanding the impacts of air pollution on cognitive function and the need to study the influences of different sources of pollution on brain health, particularly in vulnerable older members of society," he said.  

 

Air pollution remains the leading environmental health risk worldwide, contributing to premature mortality and various diseases. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5), one of the most harmful pollutants, was linked to 4.2 million deaths in 2015 alone, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

 

The WHO advises that PM2.5 concentrations should not exceed 15 micrograms per cubic meter over a 24-hour period, with an annual limit of 5 micrograms per cubic meter. However, pollution hotspots such as Delhi frequently report levels as high as 249 micrograms per cubic meter, vastly exceeding recommended safety limits.  

 

The study's authors emphasize the need for further research to determine how different pollution sources affect cognitive function and to identify protective measures that could mitigate these effects. They urge policymakers to recognize air pollution as a cognitive health issue, not just a respiratory or cardiovascular one. "Our brains are just as vulnerable to environmental toxins as our lungs, and it's time public health policies reflect that reality," Dr. Faherty warned.

 

Based on a report by The Independent 2025-02-08

 

VFS Global has cautioned Thai travellers against visa scams, urging them to apply early as outbound travel demand rises. The visa outsourcing firm hosted an awareness event in Bangkok, attended by diplomats from Austria, Germany, Switzerland, and other nations. The Thaiger

VFS Global has cautioned Thai travellers against visa scams, urging them to apply early as outbound travel demand rises. The visa outsourcing firm hosted an awareness event in Bangkok, attended by diplomats from Austria, Germany, Switzerland, and other nations.

Scammers are exploiting the surge in visa applications by posing as agents, selling fake appointments, and falsely guaranteeing approvals. Fraudsters often target last-minute applicants, charging fees for priority bookings that do not exist.

Kaushik Ghosh, head of VFS Global Australasia, warned travellers to apply in advance and only use the official www.vfsglobal.com website, as VFS does not work with third-party agents.

Embassy officials reinforced the warning, advising against trusting individuals who charge for appointments or claim to influence visa decisions.

Travellers should double-check their application details, as common errors like mismatched information or missing documents can lead to rejections.

.

Foreigner Sparks Outrage for Doing Thai-Only Job in Phuket. A recent video showing a foreigner doing the work of a masseur at a spa in Phuket has ignited a storm of controversy across Thailand, highlighting a sensitive issue around employment laws reserved for Thai nationals. ASEAN NOW

video screenshot

 

A recent video showing a foreigner doing the work of a masseur at a spa in Phuket has ignited a storm of controversy across Thailand, highlighting a sensitive issue around employment laws reserved for Thai nationals.

 

Captured on a bustling street in Patong, the video portrays a foreign man engaging in duties that many argue should be strictly off-limits to expatriates under Thai law. This footage, widely circulated on social media, has drawn a torrent of criticism and calls for enforcement of existing regulations.

 

Thailand's Emergency Decree on Foreigners' Work Management, enacted in 2017, clearly stipulates that certain occupations are exclusively for Thais.

 

This includes roles deeply embedded in Thai culture, like traditional masseurs, woodcarvers, street vendors, and several others. Such restrictions aim to preserve what is often referred to as "Thai wisdom" and protect employment for local citizens.

 

The viral video has led to an outpouring of reactions online. Critics of the foreign masseur argue that allowing non-nationals to step into these roles undermines the integrity and economic prospects of local Thai workers.

One concerned netizen remarked that, "This sets a dangerous precedent if left unchecke, soon Thai traditions might face gradual dilution."

 

However, some locals suggest there is a deeper issue at play. The challenge of enticing Thai nationals to fill these traditional roles has been spotlighted, with business owners facing hurdles due to high demands for wages and specific working conditions from Thai candidates.

 

An observer noted, "It's not just about foreigners taking jobs—it's also about the evolving aspirations of our own workforce."

 

Statistics from last year underline this issue; the Employment Department uncovered 721 instances of foreigners engaged in prohibited professions, encompassing tasks from vending to hairdressing.

 

The law enforces strict penalties for such violations. Foreigners caught working in these roles can face fines up to 50,000 Thai Baht (approximately £1,100) and deportation.

 

Employers risk far heftier consequences, including fines reaching 200,000 Thai Baht (around £4,500), potential imprisonment, and a three-year prohibition from hiring foreign workers, reported The Nation.

 

-- 2025-02-06

Thailand's New Digital Arrival Card Stirs Confusion Among Travellers. The impending introduction of Thailand's digital entry card requirement has left many potential visitors in a muddle, as questions about its implementation remain unanswered just weeks before its anticipated launch. ASEAN NOW

Image: TAT newsroom

 

ANALYSIS

 

The impending introduction of Thailand's digital entry card requirement has left many potential visitors in a muddle, as questions about its implementation remain unanswered just weeks before its anticipated launch. 

 

As of May 1, all non-Thai passport holders travelling to the country will need to complete an online form, the Thai Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), ahead of their arrival.

 

This measure is designed to replace the now-defunct TM6 entry card, which travellers and immigration officials alike found cumbersome due to its small size and the frequent lack of pens handy after long-haul flights.

 

The TDAC will require travellers to input basic biographical information as well as details regarding their travel and accommodation plans. The new system will apply universally to those entering by air, land, or sea.

However, the precise digital platform intended to facilitate these submissions has yet to be disclosed by Thai authorities, leaving both travellers and airlines in an anticipatory limbo, writes Barry Kenyon for Pattaya Mail.

 

It is assumed that once travellers submit their details online, they will receive a confirmation in the form of a QR code. This code can then presumably be presented at the immigration desks or potentially at the electronic gates featured at some Thai airports.

 

There is also speculation that the TDAC may serve as a customs declaration form, although official confirmation has yet to be provided. Reports suggesting the introduction of an exit procedure akin to the TDAC have also surfaced, but they remain unsubstantiated at this point.

 

One significant source of confusion has been the distinction between the TDAC and a visa application. Although separate processes, a misunderstanding has led to concerns among tourists, particularly from the 93 countries whose citizens enjoy visa-exempt status for a 60-day visit, extendable by an additional month.

 

From May, these tourists, along with all other foreign arrivals, regardless of their visa status, will need to embrace the TDAC protocol.

 

Several crucial questions remain unanswered: Will passengers without a completed TDAC be refused boarding by airlines, anxious about potential fines for transporting non-compliant passengers?

 

Will there be any mechanism for completing the TDAC form upon arrival? Will each visit require a new TDAC submission, and what happens if a traveller changes accommodation after submitting their information?

 

With less than two months before the TDAC's expected rollout, these and other queries require urgent clarification. Without timely and thorough communication from Thai authorities, the envisioned seamless travel experience could falter before it even begins, leaving travellers and the tourism industry in a state of flux.

 

-- 2025-02-05

The twin threats to Thailand’s tourism industry. Particularly troubling is the situation in Thailand, which relies heavily on tourism, especially amidst challenges in its manufacturing sector due to competition from cheap Chinese products. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the state agency under the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, has set an ambitious target of 40 million arrivals this year, aiming to return to pre-COVID-19 levels. However, recent events and ongoing issues may act as hurdles towards achieving this goal. PBS World

The twin threats to Thailand's tourism industry

The tourism industry is once again under scrutiny as safety concerns and air pollution threaten to undermine post-pandemic recovery and growth.

Particularly troubling is the situation in Thailand, which relies heavily on tourism, especially amidst challenges in its manufacturing sector due to competition from cheap Chinese products. 

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the state agency under the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, has set an ambitious target of 40 million arrivals this year, aiming to return to pre-COVID-19 levels.

However, recent events and ongoing issues may act as hurdles towards achieving this goal.

Safety concerns a major deterrent

The perception of safety is paramount for any tourist destination. Of late, Chinese tourists have been gripped by fears after a Chinese actor was abducted by a criminal call center in Myanmar.

Wang Xing was lured by a promise of a job opportunity and traveled to Thailand, but he ended up in a scam call center in Myanmar.

This incident has sparked widespread concern among potential Chinese tourists regarding their safety while traveling. 

Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn, the president of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), has expressed worries about the fallout of these safety perceptions on tourism.

He notes that some group tours, particularly during peak travel periods like Chinese New Year, have started canceling their bookings due to these concerns.

Sisdivachr has called on the Thai government to take decisive action against scam call centers operating in neighboring countries, particularly in Myanmar near the Thai border.

He advocates treating these criminals as terrorists. Many others are suggesting cutting off electricity supplies to the scam centers.

Such measures are essential to restore confidence among Chinese tourists and reassure them that Thailand remains a safe destination.

The threat in the air

In addition to safety concerns, air pollution poses a major threat to the tourism industry.

Thailand has been grappling with high levels of PM2.5 toxic dust, which affects public health and the environment.

The primary sources of this pollution are agricultural burning and emissions from manufacturing processes. Farmers burning sugar cane and manufacturers releasing dirty air contribute to the increase in PM2.5 particles, creating a hazardous environment for both residents and tourists.

Air pollution from neighboring countries and weather conditions are also blamed for the increase in air pollution at this time of the year.

The government has repeatedly said that it seeks cooperation from nearby countries, but critics blame lack of serious cooperation across the border. 

Sisdivachr has called for stringent government action against both farmers and manufacturers responsible for air pollution.

He emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach to tackle this issue that, unless dealt with, could deter tourists from visiting Thailand.

Clean air is a crucial factor for many travelers, and a failure to address pollution could lead to a decline in visitor numbers.

The economic imperative

Tourism is a vital component of Thailand's economy, particularly as the manufacturing sector faces challenges.

The TAT aims to attract 40 million visitors this year, with a particular focus on increasing Chinese tourists to 11 million — the same number as in 2019.

The overall revenue target from both domestic and foreign tourists is set at 3.5 trillion baht.

Last year, 35.5 million tourists visited Thailand, generating about 1.66 trillion baht, but the country missed the target of 2 trillion baht. Domestic tourism contributed significantly, with 197.53 million trips, generating 952 billion baht.

A total of 6.7 million Chinese nationals visited Thailand last year, according to TAT statistics. The numbers were far short of the 11 million in 2019, partly due to slower economic growth in China. 

To achieve these ambitious targets, the TAT is expanding its efforts to attract more tourists from China and India.

It has initiated campaigns such as "Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism & Sports Year 2025" to promote the country as a premier destination.

However, the success of these campaigns hinges on addressing the underlying issues of safety and air pollution.

Government response and criticism

The Thai government has faced criticism for its perceived lack of decisive actions in addressing both scam call centers and air pollution.

Critics argue that the government's wavering stance has exacerbated these issues, calling for more stringent measures to ensure the safety and well-being of tourists.

The proposal to cut electricity supply to scam centers in Myanmar is among the suggestions put forth to combat these criminal activities effectively.

Addressing air pollution requires a multifaceted approach, including enforcing regulations against agricultural burning and industrial emissions.

Public health and environmental sustainability must be prioritized to create a safe and attractive environment for tourists. 

The tourism industry in Thailand faces significant challenges in the form of safety concerns and air pollution. "One mitigating factor is that free independent travelers among Chinese nationals, who are familiar with Thailand, are still coming and they could avoid areas with air pollution and take safety precautions for themselves," said Sisdivachr.

Achieving the target of 40 million visitors this year will depend heavily on the government's ability to address these issues effectively.

"Restoring confidence among Chinese tourists and ensuring clean air are crucial steps towards making the tourism sector sustainable in the long run," Sisdivachr stressed. 

The Thai government is under pressure from the Chinese government to address the issue of scam call-center networks.

The Cabinet recently approved a change to an emergency decree on measures to solve technology crimes.

The amendment, expected to take effect in February, will punish financial institutions, telecom operators and social media platforms if their negligence results in facilitating criminal activities of the scam call centers.

Phuket may soon transform into a cryptocurrency haven as Thailand explores new ways to boost its tourism economy. Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has proposed the island as the ideal location for a 'crypto sandbox', allowing visitors to freely utilise digital currencies like Bitcoin during their stay. ASEAN NOW



Reference picture courtesy: FreePik

 

Phuket may soon transform into a cryptocurrency haven as Thailand explores new ways to boost its tourism economy. Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has proposed the island as the ideal location for a 'crypto sandbox', allowing visitors to freely utilise digital currencies like Bitcoin during their stay.

 

While other nations are still engaging in preliminary talks about embracing cryptocurrency, Thailand is poised to take decisive action. Thaksin believes the country is better prepared than its Southeast Asian peers to harness the financial potential of digital assets.

 

This is especially relevant following the cryptocurrency-friendly policies announced by the US under President Trump, which have been drawing global attention towards digital currencies.

 

A cryptocurrency sandbox is an experimental initiative permitting cryptocurrencies to function as viable alternatives to traditional money. This could streamline transactions for large purchases, such as real estate, which are commonplace among tourists in locations like Phuket.

By reducing the need to handle physical cash, this initiative potentially harnesses the substantial funds tourists bring but previously spent outside formal channels.

 

The head of Gulf Binance, Nirun Fuwattananukul, argues that a crypto-friendly environment in Phuket could elevate Thailand as a magnet for tourists, digital nomads, and innovative startups. This move aligns with Thailand's strategy to position itself as a forward-thinking nation.

 

However, there are hurdles to this ambition. Currently, the Bank of Thailand doesn't permit cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin as valid payment methods, even as the nation's Securities and Exchange Commission oversees crypto exchanges. Developing a regulatory framework to manage these transactions safely is crucial for success.

 

Implementing a crypto sandbox in Phuket will require new laws and financial regulations. Udomsak Rakwongwan from FWX notes merchants' reluctance to accept digital currencies due to accounting difficulties and price instability. Meanwhile, authorities will need to balance innovation with risk management to maintain Thailand's economic stability.

 

Encouragingly, the idea dovetails with Thailand's efforts to embrace cutting-edge payment technologies. The central bank has already initiated projects such as using stablecoins linked to the baht for payments, underscoring the nation's commitment to digital financial solutions.

 

With this proposed sandbox, Thailand aims to tweak traditional economic models and pave the way for groundbreaking digital transactions.

 

By embracing and regulating these financial innovations, the country could potentially emerge as a leader in digital asset management in the region. Should these initiatives in Phuket prove successful, they could serve as blueprints for further projects across the nation, reported Bangkok Post.

 

-- 2025-02-01

Thailands Foreign Arrivals Surge 26.27 Percent in 2024, Generating 1.67 Trillion Baht. On January 31st, 2025, Mr. Poonpong Nainapakorn, the director of the Commerce Ministry’s Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO) reported that Thailand welcomed 35.54 million foreign tourists in 2024, marking a 26.27% increase from the previous year and generating 1.67 trillion baht in revenue, a 34% rise.- The Pattaya News

Thailands Foreign Arrivals Surge 26.27 Percent in 2024, Generating 1.67 Trillion Baht

On January 31st, 2025, Mr. Poonpong Nainapakorn, the director of the Commerce Ministry's Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO) reported that Thailand welcomed 35.54 million foreign tourists in 2024, marking a 26.27% increase from the previous year and generating 1.67 trillion baht in revenue, a 34% rise.

Kittisak PhalaharnFriday, 31 January 2025, 23:07

National —

Poonpong highlighted tourism as a key economic driver, supporting businesses from hospitality to transport. However, challenges such as economic downturns in source countries, public health risks, and infrastructure readiness remain critical factors affecting growth.
The top five tourist markets were China (6.73 million), Malaysia (4.95 million), India (2.13 million), South Korea (1.87 million), and Russia (1.75 million). While Chinese arrivals are recovering, they remain at only 60.45% of pre-pandemic levels.

Factors boosting tourism included increased international demand, visa exemptions, simplified entry procedures, reduced TM6 requirements, and expanded flight routes. However, most arrivals came from short-haul markets, where average spending and length of stay remain relatively low. 
Officials suggest targeting high-spending segments such as wellness and event tourism to drive further economic gains.
Tourism's contribution to Thailand's GDP in Q3 2024 was 650.95 billion baht, accounting for 14.16% of the economy. The Commerce Ministry pledged continued support for tourism businesses and soft power initiatives to attract more visitors and sustain long-term growth.