During this peak period of the year, the hottest, 35 degrees, with scorching sun, Bangkok is still deserted by tourists, but this time, it’s worse, Sami explains, she sells bus tickets and excursions in an agency. “I have been working in tourism for over 30 years and now, attendance is declining, it’s because of the war, it’s a tough blow for tourism companies.”
Located near Khao San Road, very popular and known among budget travelers, Sami sees fewer European or North American tourists than usual in her agency. “The cheapest flights that go through the Middle East have been canceled and tickets are more expensive. Tourists coming to Thailand are spending less, as their countries are also experiencing the crisis.”
In Kayk’s youth hostel, the dormitory beds, although cheap at 6.50 USD per night, also struggle to fill up. “We had lots of online cancellations, normally in April or May, we have 50% occupancy, so at least 4-5 customers per day, but now every day we are at zero, zero, and zero.” Like many merchants, he is now worried about the rising prices in transportation, food, and electricity.
If the conflict continues, some merchants will have to decide whether to close or not. “Right now, I really wonder what we are going to do. I hope the war will be resolved and that many tourists will return to Thailand.”
To limit losses, the National Tourism Agency says it is focusing on high-end, more lucrative services rather than the number of visitors. A significant issue, as in Thailand, tourism accounts for over 10% of the GDP.
