Phuket Unfazed by Terror Threats to Israeli Tourists

[webfact]

File photo courtesy: Wikipedia

 

Phuket remains poised and undeterred despite recent warnings from Israel regarding potential terrorist threats targeting Israeli citizens in Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand.

 

The threats were highlighted following the assassination of an Israeli rabbi in the United Arab Emirates, raising concerns for Israeli tourists in popular destinations like Phuket.

 

The Phuket Tourist Association (PTA) has reassured tourists of their bolstered security measures. Bhummikitti Ruktaengam, the PTA's advisory chairman, emphasised that despite global conflicts over the past two years, Phuket has consistently welcomed tourists from all backgrounds without mishaps. He assured that local security forces are vigilant and prepared for any threats.

 

Phuket boasts an extensive network of CCTVs, and thorough checks are in place at airport immigration points. Security patrols, both on land and sea, are regularly conducted by the Royal Thai Navy's 3rd Area Command, ensuring a secure environment for all visitors.

 

As the high season approaches, Phuket's hotels are witnessing strong booking trends, with some even facing overbookings, according to Mr Bhummikitti. The constant flow of visitors indicates undiminished confidence in the island's safety.

Adding to the confidence, Thaneth Tantipiriyakij, president of the PTA, remarked that additional personnel have been deployed by both Phuket's provincial and tourist police at key tourist attractions.

 

The tourism scene remains vibrant, with Israel's national airline, El Al, maintaining its regular direct flights from Tel Aviv to Phuket, undeterred by any threat. Mr Bhummikitti pointed out that the major hurdle for Phuket's tourism industry isn't terror threats but rather the slow development of public infrastructure, which can sometimes lag behind the island's expanding needs.

 

Data from the Tourism Authority of Thailand's (TAT) Phuket office shows that the island welcomed over 10 million visitors in the first ten months of the year, contributing approximately ฿390 billion. Despite global tensions, Israeli arrivals showed only a slight decrease, numbering around 57,000 within the same period.

 

Lerdchai Wangtrakoondee, director of TAT's Phuket office, expressed optimism for the year's tourism revenue, anticipating a new high between ฿450 billion and ฿500 billion, surpassing 2019's record of ฿440 billion. The diversity of Phuket’s tourism, attracting visitors from Australia to Saudi Arabia, underscores the resilient appeal of this tropical haven.

 

Phuket's robust security frameworks and enduring allure make it a steadfast destination amid a turbulent global backdrop, reassuring tourists of their well-being amid journey bliss, reported Bangkok Post.

 

-- 2024-12-05

 

 

[hotchilli]

20 hours ago, webfact said:

Phuket remains poised and undeterred despite recent warnings from Israel regarding potential terrorist threats targeting Israeli citizens in Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand

Somehow I don't think Thailand will be targeted...