The last few days of August and I traveled throughout Phuket, Krabi and Lanta to see with my own eyes the state of the tourist market. There is no way to dress this up, it is pretty desperate.
Through no fault of their own the travel industry in Thailand is on its back. Many hotels I spoke to reported occupancy as low as 2% and many are fearful that as other hotels start to reopen post-pandemic this will make matters even worse. With more hotels open and all fighting for that domestic tourist, room rates will surely fall still further.
With an industry built to serve a global market and now relying 100% on domestic tourism, there is just not enough tourists available for everyone.
It is heartbreaking for everyone concerned. My family and I loved exploring Phuket, Krabi and Lanta, they are all exceptional travel locations and can compete on a global stage no problem. We just need a recovery when the moment is right for the country to feel safe.
All we can do now is pull together and help each other get through this. From my part, Thaivisa.com – the leading expat website in Thailand – is offering free promotion to travel operators under the Expat Explore campaign. You can visit the new website – just click here.
As an Expat, there are some incredible travel offers and I would recommend you take advantage of these why you can. My family (wife, two kids and myself) got a return flight from Bangkok to Phuket for 2,200 baht all in. You can stay in the finest 5 star hotels for less than 3,000 baht a night or you can now easily find very comfortable hotels for under 1,000 baht. Travel in Thailand has never been cheaper.
Let Dan know where you need help and he will send you recommendations and help you get set up
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