Drunk Driving Dominates '10 Dangerous Days' Cases. Over the first two days of the campaign, a total of 1,685 cases have been recorded. Drunk driving constituted 94.89% of the offenses, with drug-influenced driving at 4.87% and reckless driving at 0.24%..- The Pattaya News

Drunk Driving Dominates '10 Dangerous Days' Cases

Goongnang SuksawatMonday, 30 December 2024, 20:48

PRESS RELEASE:

The Department of Probation has reported that 1,305 legal cases have been processed by the courts as of December 28 as part of the "10 Dangerous Days" traffic safety campaign, running from December 27, 2024, to January 5, 2025.

According to Department of Probation Director-General Police Major Suriya Singhakamol, drunk driving accounted for the majority, with 1,255 offenses recorded, followed by 48 cases of drug-influenced driving and 2 cases of reckless driving. Chiang Mai province reported the highest number of drunk driving incidents, with 288 cases.

Over the first two days of the campaign, a total of 1,685 cases have been recorded. Drunk driving constituted 94.89% of the offenses, with drug-influenced driving at 4.87% and reckless driving at 0.24%.

To enhance enforcement, courts have mandated the use of Electronic Monitoring (EM) devices for four individuals convicted of drunk driving. The offenders will be required to wear the devices for four months, allowing their movements to be monitored around the clock.

The preceding is a press release from the Thai Government PR Department.

Thailand Reports 52 Deaths on First Day of Ten Dangerous Days New Year Road Campaign - The Pattaya News

Thailand Reports 52 Deaths on First Day of Ten Dangerous Days New Year Road Campaign

Goongnang SuksawatSaturday, 28 December 2024, 17:28

Thailand –

Thailand has announced a total of 52 deaths with 318 injuries from 322 road accidents on the first day of the Ten Dangerous Days of the New Year Road Campaign.

The Thai Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) reported on December 28^th details on the first day (December 27^th) of the Ten Dangerous Days of the New Year Road Campaign from December 27^th, 2024 to January 5th, 2025.

The highest fatalities were in Nakhon Si Thammarat and Bangkok with four deaths each. The highest total number of road accidents and injuries were also in Nakhon Si Thammarat with 17 times and 17 injuries.

Accidents were mostly caused by excessive speeding (39%), followed by reckless driving (20%) and drunk driving (15%). Most accidents involved motorbikes (85%). Forty-seven percent of road accidents occurred most on national highways (47%). Most accidents occurred between 4:0 P.M. to 5:00 P.M. (9%).

Thailand Prepares for Over 34 Million Holiday Travelers Nationwide During the New Year. With over 34 million mostly domestic trips expected, including private vehicles and public transport, the ministry aims to ensure smooth and safe journeys under the campaign “Happiness Festival Everywhere in Thailand.” - The Pattaya News

Thailand Prepares for Over 34 Million Holiday Travelers Nationwide During the New Year

Kittisak PhalaharnThursday, 26 December 2024, 20:27

National —

On December 26th, 2024, Deputy Government Spokesperson Sasikarn Wattanachan announced the Ministry of Transport's plans to facilitate travel during the upcoming New Year 2025 holiday. 

With over 34 million mostly domestic trips expected, including private vehicles and public transport, the ministry aims to ensure smooth and safe journeys under the campaign "Happiness Festival Everywhere in Thailand."

Notable perks include free tolls on Motorways M7 and M9, trial openings for M81 and M6 sections, and free camping spots.

Public transport services, such as buses and trains, will extend operating hours for major Countdown events and New Year's Eve prayers.

Airlines will also offer special discounts, while apps like "Highway Traffic" and "NAMTANG" will assist in travel planning.

For those celebrating in Bangkok, Countdown event areas, including Central World, One Bangkok, and Icon Siam, will have public transit extended until 2 AM. The MRT and Red Line trains will also provide extended services through the night.

Thai Meteorological Department Warns of Tropical Storm, Heavy Rains Ahead. The effects of the weather system are expected to bring increased rains across Thailand on December 25 and 26. Scattered rain is forecast for parts of the lower North, Northeast, Central regions, Bangkok, and the East. Southern Thailand is likely to see heavier rainfall as winds from the South Chin- The Pattaya News

Thai Meteorological Department Warns of Tropical Storm, Heavy Rains Ahead

Goongnang SuksawatTuesday, 24 December 2024, 12:28

PRESS RELEASE:

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued a weather alert for a depression over the southern South China Sea. The system, as of December 22, was moving west-northwest with sustained winds of 55 kilometers per hour and is expected to intensify into a tropical storm. It is forecast to reach Vietnam's eastern coast between December 24 and 25 before weakening into a low-pressure system after making landfall.

The effects of the weather system are expected to bring increased rains across Thailand on December 25 and 26. Scattered rain is forecast for parts of the lower North, Northeast, Central regions, Bangkok, and the East. Southern Thailand is likely to see heavier rainfall as winds from the South China Sea and the Gulf of Thailand carry moisture across the region. The northeast monsoon will also remain active, contributing to the wet conditions.

Rough seas are anticipated, with waves reaching up to 2 meters in the lower Gulf of Thailand and 1 to 2 meters in the upper Gulf and Andaman Sea. Thunderstorms in some areas could cause waves to rise above 2 meters. Mariners are urged to proceed with caution and avoid areas with stormy conditions.

The TMD has advised people in affected areas to stay updated on weather reports and take precautions, as conditions could worsen over the coming days.

The preceding is a press release from the Thai Government PR Department.



Pattaya Beach overrun by tourists during high season, residents voice concerns about city management. During this high season, Pattaya Beach has been bustling with foreign tourists enjoying the sunny weather and vibrant atmosphere. However, residents have taken to social media to express their concerns about various issues in the city that they believe require attention and improvement. - Pattaya Mail

Pattaya Beach overrun by tourists during high season, residents voice concerns about city management

Pattaya MailDecember 19, 2024

Pattaya Beach thrives during high season as foreign tourists flock to soak up the sun, but locals call for urgent road repairs and improved traffic management."

PATTAYA, Thailand – During this high season, Pattaya Beach has been bustling with foreign tourists enjoying the sunny weather and vibrant atmosphere. However, residents have taken to social media to express their concerns about various issues in the city that they believe require attention and improvement.

Roads and Traffic Concerns

"Fix the roads to be as good as the beach renovations. Right now, the streets feel like the surface of the moon."

"South Pattaya Road is full of sand and dust—feels like riding a motorbike through a desert."

"Stop digging up roads everywhere. It's causing massive traffic jams. Why not finish one project completely before starting another?"

"The one-way traffic system on Jomtien Beach Road has made traffic worse, not better. It's not solving any problems."

World-class beach or bustling harbor? Residents urge officials to address overcrowded boat zones and prioritize cleanliness at Jomtien Beach.

Beach and Environmental Issues

"Jomtien Beach needs better cleanliness maintenance—send someone to take care of it."

"There are too many boats, making the beach look more like a harbor. This is a world-famous beach, but the view is far from appealing."

Tourism and Atmosphere

"Right now, 100% of the tourists on the beach are foreigners enjoying the sun. The weather is fantastic, especially during sunsets."

"Money is circulating well this peak season, with lots of tourists coming in."

Tourism is booming, but so is traffic! Locals demand better urban planning to ease congestion and maintain Pattaya's global appeal.

Criticism of City Management

"Traffic in Pattaya is constantly congested. The city mayor should seriously address this issue."

"Please manage the boats and environmental issues better to maintain the image of a world-class beach."

While residents acknowledge the bustling tourism and positive economic activity during the high season, they are calling for improvements in city management, particularly in road conditions, traffic systems, and environmental maintenance. These voices highlight the need for better urban planning to match Pattaya's reputation as a global tourist destination.

(Photo – Pattaya Mayor's Direct Line Page)

Thai Cabinet Rejects Proposal to Abolish Capital Punishment. In a firm stance against recent appeals for the abolition of the death penalty, Thailand's cabinet has unanimously decided to retain capital punishment in its legal system. ASEAN NOW

Picture courtesy: Death Penalty News

 

In a firm stance against recent appeals for the abolition of the death penalty, Thailand's cabinet has unanimously decided to retain capital punishment in its legal system. This decision emerged after the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) advocated for a gradual end to this severe form of punishment, citing its abolition in many other nations as an impetus for change.

 

The cabinet, however, remained unconvinced by these arguments, with Deputy Government Spokesman Kharom Polpornklang affirming the need for the death penalty.

 

The cabinet's decision aligns with views from the judiciary, which stress the necessity of such measures due to the severity and nature of certain crimes. The judiciary contends that the existence of capital punishment serves not only as a deterrent but also as a vital component of justice for heinous acts.

 

The NHRC's proposal, presented at a seminar marking World Day Against the Death Penalty, suggested a phased approach to abolishing the death penalty.

 

This plan included four strategic steps: refraining from instituting the death penalty in new laws, amending existing statutes to offer courts alternative sentencing options, reviewing the proportionality of current capital punishment laws, and ultimately, purging the death penalty from all legal codes.

 

Despite the NHRC's efforts, the Thai government remains resolute. Their position reflects a broader societal debate on the balance between human rights and crime deterrence. While human rights advocates and various civil sectors back the NHRC's push for legislative reform, the government prioritises public security and justice.

 

For context, Thailand has not carried out an execution since 2018, and it has been periodically pressured by international human rights organisations to re-evaluate its stance on the death penalty.

 

Such entities argue that capital punishment is an irreversible act that has proven to be ineffective as a crime deterrent. Furthermore, they emphasise the importance of aligning with global human rights standards, particularly as Thailand is a key player in international discussions and the ASEAN community.

 

At present, the cost of preserving the death penalty lies not only in potential human rights fallout but also in the broader implications for Thailand's international reputation.

 

With ongoing debates and human rights organisations keeping a watchful eye, Thailand's retention of capital punishment will continue to spark dialogue, both domestically and abroad, reported Bangkok Post.

 

-- 2024-12-18

Thailand Targets Tougher Alcohol Laws to Align with Global Norms. Thailand’s government is pushing forward with the Alcoholic Beverage Control Bill, which is slated for parliamentary submission next month as part of its effort to enhance alcohol regulation. ASEAN NOW

FILE photo courtesy: Wikipedia

 

Thailand's government is pushing forward with the Alcoholic Beverage Control Bill, which is slated for parliamentary submission next month as part of its effort to enhance alcohol regulation.

 

On Sunday, Nipon Chinanonwait, Director of the Ministry of Public Health's Office of Alcohol Control Committee, revealed the bill's progress, aiming to harmonise local laws with international standards.

 

Anticipated to be deliberated in January, alongside other related bills, the draft law focuses on the regulation of alcohol sales hours, potentially altering the current 2–5pm ban to match global norms.

However, round-the-clock sales will remain prohibited. Crucially, the bill proposes the establishment of provincial committees to enforce age restrictions robustly, ensuring minors have no access to alcohol.

 

This legislative push coincides with a recent plea from over 30 anti-alcohol advocacy groups, who submitted a petition to the Public Health Ministry on 6th December. These groups are calling for stricter controls on alcohol-related activities, such as "drinking games," which pose significant health and legal risks, including alcohol poisoning and unconsciousness.

 

Thanakrit Chit-areerat, the Vice Minister of the Ministry of Public Health, has voiced concerns over drink-driving, especially during the upcoming New Year celebrations. He has urged the public, particularly motorists, to remain sober, citing the long-term health risks young drinkers face.

 

In response to these concerns, the ministry plans to increase scrutiny of alcohol-selling establishments and enforce responsibilities among producers and vendors regarding public safety.

 

Additionally, a campaign against drink-driving has been launched by the Thai Health Promotion Foundation in collaboration with the Child Youth and Family Foundation, Life Quality Development Network, and Stop-Drink Network Thailand.

 

Rungarun Limlahaphan, Director of the Social and Health Risk Control Section at the Thai Health Promotion Foundation, reported a slight decline in national drinking rates, from 28.4% in 2017 to 28% in 2021.

 

Despite this decrease, binge drinking remains a critical issue, with over 5.7 million adults admitting to such behaviour last year. Notably, 34% of fatal accidents during last year's New Year festivities were attributed to drink-driving.

 

In light of the proposed legislative changes, road safety expert Thatchawut Jardbandista has cautioned that extending sales hours might exacerbate road safety issues. He advocates for the introduction of stiffer penalties, such as mandatory imprisonment for individuals caught driving under the influence.

 

As the government continues refining its approach to alcohol regulation, the impending debates in parliament will be pivotal in shaping Thailand's stance on aligning with international standards while addressing domestic concerns, reported Bangkok Post.

 

-- 2024-12-16

Thailands 2024 Tourist Arrivals Surpass 32 Million, 2025 Target Set at 40 Million. On December 11th, 2024, Mr. Adith Chairattananon, the Secretary-General of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), disclosed that Thailand recorded 32,719,298 international tourists from January 1st to December 8th, 2024, generating approximately 1.535 trillion baht in revenue.- The Pattaya News

Thailands 2024 Tourist Arrivals Surpass 32 Million, 2025 Target Set at 40 Million

Kittisak PhalaharnThursday, 12 December 2024, 14:18

National — 

On December 11th, 2024, Mr. Adith Chairattananon, the Secretary-General of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), disclosed that Thailand recorded 32,719,298 international tourists from January 1st to December 8th, 2024, generating approximately 1.535 trillion baht in revenue. 

The top five countries contributing to these figures were China with 6.32 million visitors, Malaysia with 4.58 million, India with 1.96 million, South Korea with 1.72 million, and Russia with 1.55 million. Monthly arrivals averaged over 2 million, with the year-end total expected to reach 35 million, aligning with the revised target of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

Although Thailand remains a favorite destination for its service quality, food, and accommodations, Adit highlighted persistent challenges, including underdeveloped transportation infrastructure and limited innovation in tourism products. 

Thailand also lags in digital advancements, such as online marketing and service platforms, which are crucial for attracting more tourists. Addressing these issues is seen as vital to maintaining competitiveness in the global market.

Looking forward to 2025, TAT has set a target of 40 million international arrivals, surpassing pre-pandemic numbers from 2019. The government, under the leadership of Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong, aims to achieve this through the "Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism & Sports Year 2025" campaign. Key strategies include:

1. Grand Festivity: Hosting major events year-round to attract tourists and enhance travel convenience.
2. Grand Moment: Offering exclusive VIP experiences and unique travel routes.
3. Grand Privilege: Promoting seamless shopping, tour packages, and payment solutions.
4. Grand Invitation: Inviting global icons, including musicians, athletes, and Nobel laureates, to share their experiences in Thailand.
5. Grand Celebration: Organizing special festivals and events to draw more visitors.

These initiatives aim to drive tourism growth during high and low seasons, particularly from May to October, by strengthening the market and ensuring Thailand remains a top global destination.

Massage Parlour Visits Turn Fatal: Singaporean Tourist and Thai Singer Die. These incidents have ignited a conversation on the safety and regulation of massage practices in Thailand. Massage is a cherished part of Thai culture, celebrated for its healing and relaxation benefits. However, these tragic cases highlight the potential risks involved, urging tourists and locals alike to approach massage services with caution and awareness. ASEAN NOW

FILE photo for reference only. Courtesy: Freepik

 

A holiday retreat in Thailand took a tragic turn when a Singaporean tourist and a Thai singer both reportedly died following massages in Phuket and Udon Thani.

 

Late last night, Lee Mun Tuck, a Singaporean tourist enjoying his stay in Phuket, met an unexpected fate. After a massage at a local parlour at Patong Beach, Lee collapsed and was later pronounced dead at Patong Hospital.

 

Authorities, led by Pol. Col. Chalermchai Hirasawat, are treating the situation with seriousness, with an autopsy underway to uncover the cause. While no visible wounds marred Lee's body, the suddenness of his death has left many in shock. Lee's unfortunate passing has prompted action from the Singaporean embassy to inform his relatives.

In a parallel event in Udon Thani, the loss of Thai singer Chanida Phraohom, known as Phing Chanida, has further stirred public concern. Chanida died today after an ordeal with a massage parlour that left her physically debilitated.

 

Her poignant social media posts reveal a harrowing account of her experience. What began as a routine shoulder massage to alleviate pain spiralled into a nightmare. Chanida described a sequence of treatments, during which her neck was manipulated, leaving her with severe pain, numbness, and eventual immobility.

 

Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV

 

Initially brushing off the discomfort as a typical post-massage soreness, Chanida's condition worsened after subsequent visits to the same parlour.

 

A third massage further aggravated her symptoms, leading to sensations of electric shocks and escalating numbness on her right side. Despite growing up with massages, as her mother was a masseuse, Chanida never anticipated such dire consequences.

 

These incidents have ignited a conversation on the safety and regulation of massage practices in Thailand. Massage is a cherished part of Thai culture, celebrated for its healing and relaxation benefits. However, these tragic cases highlight the potential risks involved, urging tourists and locals alike to approach massage services with caution and awareness.

 

For now, the families of Lee Mun Tuck and Phing Chanida mourn their untimely losses, as Thai authorities work to ensure that such tragedies are prevented in the future. Their stories serve as a sobering reminder of the importance of vigilance and safety in the pursuit of relaxation and relief.

 

As the investigations continue, the hospitality and wellness industries in Thailand may see heightened scrutiny and possibly new regulations, aiming to preserve the essence of Thai massage while safeguarding its patrons, reported Amarin TV.

 

-- 2024-12-09

Thailand tries again for anti-coup law. The government is planning to outlaw military coups once and for all even though previous attempts have fallen through administrative cracks. The proposals this time would establish a Cabinet-appointed committee to select generals and would empower subordinate military officers to refuse to obey their commander’s instruction to carry out a putsch.- Pattaya Mail

Thailand tries again for anti-coup law

Pattaya MailDecember 8, 2024

A lone demonstrator opposes the 2014 Thai coup d-etat.

SUNDAY EDITORIAL

The government is planning to outlaw military coups once and for all even though previous attempts have fallen through administrative cracks. The proposals this time would establish a Cabinet-appointed committee to select generals and would empower subordinate military officers to refuse to obey their commander's instruction to carry out a putsch. The prime minister would have the power to suspend from duty any military figures suspected of planning to overthrow the elected government. The overall intention would be to deprive coup makers of sovereignty or "ratthathipat".

Surprisingly, the proposals do not seem specifically to mention martial law. In May 2014 the Thai military imposed martial law amid a political crisis "to preserve law and order" but said the surprise move was not a coup. Soldiers took over TV and radio stations and blocked off roads in Bangkok. Then army chief Prayut Chan-o-cha called on rival parties to talk to each other and resolve the political crisis. When they failed to do so, general Prayut declared he was assuming the "supreme power".

New legislation will be opposed in parliament by minority parties which supported the former military-backed government. They are likely to say that street chaos and demonstration could happen again, or that radical politicians might try to compromise Thailand's revered monarchy. In any case, a successful military coup would obviously involve suspending the constitution and replacing it by a decree legitimizing the putsch. Historians have described a vicious cycle of Thai politics in which oftentimes unstable and democratically elected civilian governments alternate with military rule installed on the pretext of restoring order.

The best that can be said for Thai coups – 12 successful ones since 1932 – is that they put temporary sticking plaster over a wound ("ya saman pracham bahn"), and there is no evidence that they achieve higher economic growth than civilian administrations. The last coup-inspired government from 2014 saw a shrinking economy overall, although Thailand was the first country outside China to be hit by covid-19 which decimated international tourist revenue for several years.

As regards the future, anti-coup legislation in Thailand would obviously be useful if an attempted putsch failed as instanced by recent events in South Korea. Here, imposition of martial law was an immediate fiasco with impeachment now looking likely for the perpetrators. Thailand is safe from a coup as long as thousands of discontented people don't camp on the streets of Bangkok for weeks on end. But if politics sinks again to that level of ongoing conflict, best to sound the warning bell. As coup historian Timothy Snyder said, "Never underestimate the ability of the army to convince the public there isn't any alternative."

Government Cracks Down on Illegal Nominee Businesses. The Ministry of Commerce is intensifying its crackdown on nominee businesses operated by foreign nationals in Thailand. The directive, issued by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, seeks to address economic disruptions and illegal activities linked to these enterprises.- The Pattaya News

Government Cracks Down on Illegal Nominee Businesses

Goongnang SuksawatSaturday, 7 December 2024, 14:07

PRESS RELEASE:

The Ministry of Commerce is intensifying its crackdown on nominee businesses operated by foreign nationals in Thailand. The directive, issued by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, seeks to address economic disruptions and illegal activities linked to these enterprises.

Often tied to criminal networks, such businesses have been accused of defrauding Thai citizens and undermining local entrepreneurs. Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan has been tasked with leading a committee to devise measures against unlawful foreign enterprises and substandard products.

To tackle the issue, two subcommittees have been established: one to focus on preventing and suppressing nominee businesses and another to support Thai SMEs while regulating foreign goods. A key meeting, scheduled for December 9, is set to accelerate the implementation of short- and long-term measures to safeguard Thailand's business environment and protect local enterprises.

Recent enforcement operations by the Department of Business Development (DBD) and the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) targeted 46 locations, exposing violations committed by 442 legal entities with a combined registered capital of 1.189 billion baht. These entities, operating in sectors such as retail, tourism, cryptocurrency trading, and real estate, were found to be involved in activities such as online scams, money laundering, and other cybercrime.

A Memorandum of Understanding, signed recently between the two agencies, integrates business registration data with the CIB's Big Data system to enhance monitoring and identification of suspicious entities.

The preceding is a press release from the Thai Government PR Department.

Thai PM Denies VAT Increase to 15 Percent, Reaffirms Economic Policy. On December 7th, 2024, government spokesperson Jirayu Huangsap dismissed rumors of increasing VAT from 7% to 15%, clarifying that Thai PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra firmly opposes such a move.- The Pattaya News

Thai PM Denies VAT Increase to 15 Percent, Reaffirms Economic Policy

Kittisak PhalaharnSaturday, 7 December 2024, 19:52

National —

On December 7th, 2024, government spokesperson Jirayu Huangsap dismissed rumors of increasing VAT from 7% to 15%, clarifying that Thai PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra firmly opposes such a move.

Paetongtarn emphasized that tax policy changes require gradual, well-researched implementation, often taking over a decade in other nations.

The government's priority remains reducing public expenses, enhancing state efficiency, and creating new income opportunities for citizens.

The administration pledged to make decisions carefully, consulting all sectors, and ensuring the best interests of the Thai people to drive sustainable national progress, according to Jirayu.

This effectively ends any speculation about such an increase happening anytime soon.

Read related articles about VAT 15%:

Public Input Urged on Proposed 15 Percent VAT Tax Reform Strategy.

Restaurant and Hotel Industries Fear Collapse Over Proposed 15 Percent VAT Hike.

Dual Pricing in Thai Tourism: Economic Necessity or Hidden Bias? Opinions diverge sharply on this issue. Critics label it as an unfavourable practice that creates a rift between locals and tourists. Many visitors feel targeted due to nationality-based pricing, viewing it as an implicit form of discrimination. ASEAN NOW

FILE photo for reference only

 

ANALYSIS

 

Thailand's dual pricing policy, where foreign tourists often pay more than locals at attractions, sparks ongoing conversation. This practice, grounded in economic rationale, sometimes stirs feelings of exclusion among visitors, leading to mixed reviews and accusations of inequity—although it's crucial to note the difference between nationality-based pricing and racial discrimination.

 

Visitors to popular destinations, such as temples and national parks, encounter this tiered pricing structure, which charges foreigners higher fees compared to local residents.

 

Supporters argue it boosts domestic tourism by offering locals affordable access to cultural sites and helps fund and sustain these attractions amidst the influx of foreign tourists. Defending this strategy, proponents assert it's necessary for the upkeep of the nation's cultural heritage, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

 

Opinions diverge sharply on this issue. Critics label it as an unfavourable practice that creates a rift between locals and tourists. Many visitors feel targeted due to nationality-based pricing, viewing it as an implicit form of discrimination.

While not racially motivated, this differential treatment based on nationality can unintentionally harm Thailand's reputation as a hospitable destination, provoking feelings of inequity among international travellers.

 

Furthermore, the higher costs could deter some tourists, potentially affecting Thailand's competitiveness compared to neighbouring nations without such policies. Charges for foreigners can be significantly steeper, leading tourists to question the fairness of paying more for identical experiences as locals.

 

Nevertheless, Thailand remains a magnetic tourist destination thanks to its diverse cultural offerings. Despite higher fees, many visitors continue to flock to its renowned sites, suggesting that the exotic appeal outweighs financial grievances, at least for now. Advocates for dual pricing insist that these funds are critical for sustaining the infrastructure and services that make the sites attractive and accessible to all visitors.

 

The challenge moving forward lies in balancing the financial needs of maintaining tourist attractions with maintaining Thailand's image as an open and inclusive environment for all travellers.

 

Exploring a more balanced pricing strategy that respects both local and global visitors might enhance Thailand's tourist appeal and mitigate feelings of exclusion. Transparent dialogue about the purpose and benefits could bridge divides, fostering a more understanding atmosphere among international guests and aligning economic strategies with Thailand's longstanding tradition of warm hospitality, reported Pattaya Mail.

 

-- 2024-12-06