As the Election Commission validates candidates for MP-elect roles this week, tourism operators express concern about a slowdown in domestic spending. Travellers appear to be delaying their plans, whilst local businesses hesitate to reinvest until a government is established.

 

“There will still be a vacuum period until the government is formed,” stated Sanga Ruangwattanakul, president of the Khao San Road Business Association.

 

Sanga highlighted that domestic tourists seem reluctant to spend on travel due to the ongoing political uncertainty, particularly if protests arise.

Khao San Road businesses rely heavily on domestic tourists, especially during weekends and the low season for European market visitors, while the short-haul market has yet to return to its 2019 levels, Bangkok Post reported.

Sanga commented that the economy is at a standstill, with not much the caretaker government can do about it, adding that the Tourism Authority of Thailand should enhance promotional campaigns in partnership with airlines.

 

by Alex Morgan

Picture courtesy of Khaosan Road Today - ถนน ข้าวสาร Facebook

 

Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/business/election-uncertainty-affects-thai-tourism-domestic-spending-slows-down

 

-- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-06-21

 

- Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here.

 

The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

3 minutes ago, webfact said:

Sanga highlighted that domestic tourists seem reluctant to spend on travel due to the ongoing political uncertainty, particularly if protests arise.

Rubbish.

Real people are being careful with their money because of employment uncertainty and high inflation.

4 hours ago, webfact said:

Travellers appear to be delaying their plans,

Tourists don't give a fig about elections, they only stop traveling when bullets start flying around and tanks are driving up the city streets.

7 hours ago, Tropicalevo said:

Rubbish.

Real people are being careful with their money because of employment uncertainty and high inflation.

Tourism [generally speaking] has little effect and importance on the real economy. Born of a myth.

Yet, the dogma that is repeated loud and often enough creates a deluded standard of reality. 

 

Might be surprised as to the number of reasoned types that easily fall for the trickery of what is and what isn't. 

Too many here have. 'Tis obvious.