Phuket Prepares to Shine as High Tourist Season Approaches

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File photo courtesy: Wikipedia

 

Phuket is poised to draw in tourists from across the globe as it kicks off its esteemed Phuket Carnival at Patong 2024. Set to span from December 8th to 10th at the bustling Bang La ground near Patong Beach, this annual event signals the advent of the island's high tourism season.

 

With this year's theme, "Phuket Memories of a Lifetime," the 38th edition of the carnival promises over 30 parades and a vibrant mix of festivities, ensuring a memorable experience for all visitors. As Lalita Maneesiri, a deputy mayor of Patong, noted, the aim is to position the carnival as a must-visit for international tourists, symbolizing the start of Phuket's bustling season.

 

The event will see participation from notable figures in Patong's business community, including establishments like Jungceylon Shopping Centre, Central Patong, Phuket FantaSea, and Simon Cabaret.

 

Visitors can look forward to an array of entertainment activities and musical events across the three days, with a spectacular 2-kilometre parade set to take place on December 8th, according to deputy mayor Nasakorn Keesin. The anticipated boost in tourist activity is expected to generate an estimated 100 million Thai Baht in additional income over the course of the carnival.

Patong's allure isn't confined to the carnival alone. It routinely attracts between 5 to 7 million visitors annually, contributing around 500 million Baht per day to the local economy. Known for its safety, the city employs over 10,000 lifeguards and has recently upgraded its CCTV systems to ensure a secure environment for guests.

 

The timing couldn't be better for visiting Phuket, as December offers the ideal weather for tourism. Kong-ek-adul Chuthong, deputy governor of Phuket, highlighted the rise in visitor numbers since early this year. Patong is famed for its pristine beaches, natural allure, and vibrant mix of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

 

In tandem with these festivities, the island is promoting local arts and products, offering tourists a grassroots taste of Phuket's rich culture. Thipchalita Sirithawirat, president of the Patong Hotel Association, reassures potential visitors that Phuket provides a wide array of accommodations, from affordable hostels to top-tier luxury hotels, with bookings extending into 2025.

 

Wirawit Khreausombat, president of Patong's entertainment business operators' club, views Phuket as perpetually in high tourist demand. With new legislation extending nightlife operations until 4 am, local businesses have reported income increases of 20-30%, facilitating additional hiring, reported Bangkok Post.

 

Following the carnival, Patong will enthusiastically host its countdown to 2025, an event famed for drawing large crowds for New Year's celebrations. This year, the festivities incorporate the government’s soft power initiative by featuring performances from local musical artists alongside prominent talents, such as DJ 22Bullets, enhancing the vibrant cultural atmosphere.

 

-- 2024-12-02