Will Thai Tourism Suffer?

Thailand’s tourism sector is said to be already reeling from the global economic downturn.  The country’s reputation as a destination suffered a fresh blow as People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD) anti-government protesters forced Suvarnabhumi airport to suspend outbound flights for several days recently.  Does that mean you should give up on Thailand as a holiday destination?  Here at Tropical Sky, we hope not!

Damaged Reputation?

Airline and tourism executives inside Thailand warn that political tensions could deal another heavy blow to the country’s international image, but with the resignation of the prime minister PAD supporters appear to have achieved their objectives, so hopefully we won’t see a repeat of the airport shutdowns.  Aside from Suvarnabhumi airport, PAD rallies in late-August closed Krabi, Phuket and Hat Yai airports and have certainly put the country’s “Land of Smiles” image in jeopardy.   It’s true that arrivals have been dropping in recent months.   In September they were 16.5% down on last year, with hotel occupancy rates dropping to 46.3% compared with 57.5% in August.

Not all Bad News!

But that’s not necessarily bad news for Tropical Sky customers.  We tend to arrange bespoke packages that depend much more on our own knowledge and contacts within the country rather than the “usual” resources and venues. And in a more competitive tourism environment we’ll probably be able to get even better deals or extended packages for Tropical Sky customers.  Aside from all those purely financial considerations though, we here at Tropical Sky would urge you not to be put off Thailand.  The country is still fantastic, the food is still incredible, the wildlife is still stunning and the people are still warm, open and very welcoming!

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