yesterday I went for a walk in a major tourist hotspot.
All I could see around me were empty bars, restaurants, pubs etc..
Not to mention all the boarded up buildings, for sale signs, call to rent signs etc.
Establishments seem to be closing just as fast as they open!
This place is famous worldwide and it is on it's knees.
The Thai economy must be in dire straits at the moment.
I was on the blower to a pal of mine who lives really close to another famous tourist hotspot and he said it's the same there too.
I have also noticed a steep increase in the prices at certain establishments.
170 baht for a large local beer!
the retail price is between 55-60 baht..
what is going on??
The touts also seem extra pushy at the minute.
one tuk-tuk driver tried to physically usher me into his car for a ride.
you can see the worry and angst in their eyes.
maybe some days they don't make anything..
It almost makes me feel sorry for them, but then I remember how they treat foreigners when the going is good so it's no wonder they aren't coming back!
about the only place in Thailand that seems to be doing well is Phuket.
but for the life of me I can't figure out why!
bob.