Shift Entertainment Complexes to Reduce Overtourism: THA

[webfact]

File photo courtesy of Amarin TV

 

In a move aimed at alleviating overtourism in Thailand's bustling major destinations, Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun, president of the Thai Hotels Association (THA), advocated on Wednesday for the development of entertainment complexes in secondary cities.

 

Speaking at a roundtable organised by Krungthep Turakij, Thienprasit underscored the necessity of securing local consensus via referendums before such projects can proceed, highlighting potential sites like Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Pattaya in Chonburi.

 

However, Thienprasit pointed out that there is notable resistance to such developments, particularly from Phuket's locals. They worry about issues such as increased tourists, traffic congestion, and the challenge of finding room for expansion within the island's confines.

 

Drawing parallels to international models, Thienprasit remarked, "Tourist attractions like Universal Studios theme parks are located outside major cities, and there are no casinos there." He champions the idea of placing entertainment complexes in less-visited cities, presenting them as viable alternatives needing both investments and tourist interest.

 

 

 

Citing resource constraints, Thienprasit highlighted how Phuket and Pattaya already grapple with challenges like water scarcity, exacerbated during peak tourist seasons. By directing tourists towards secondary cities, these areas might not only sidestep exacerbating local resource issues but also enjoy much-needed economic stimulation.

 

On the matter of regulation and oversight, Thienprasit expressed alarm over potential negative implications such as illegal hotels, money laundering, and unregulated casino operations. He called for strict, transparent regulations to ensure these risks are minimised and public trust maintained. Part of his proposal includes casino users agreeing to disclose their information, a move meant to ensure accountability and transparency.

 

He further cautioned influential figures, such as politicians and business owners, to weigh the repercussions of utilising casino facilities on their public image. Younger generations, too, should deliberate on the societal implications of such patronage, he advised.

 

In conclusion, Thienprasit posited that establishing entertainment complexes in lesser-known cities could positively impact both Thailand's tourism and economy. Such a shift could entice visitors to explore beyond the well-trodden tourist hotspots, thereby boosting tourism revenue and distributing the economic benefits more evenly across the country, reported The Nation.

 

-- 2025-03-21

 

 

[Tropicalevo]

2 hours ago, webfact said:

Citing resource constraints, Thienprasit highlighted how Phuket and Pattaya already grapple with challenges like water scarcity, exacerbated during peak tourist seasons. By directing tourists towards secondary cities, these areas might not only sidestep exacerbating local resource issues but also enjoy much-needed economic stimulation.

 

My goodness.

One can tell that Khun Thienprasit is not a politician looking for handouts.

He is actually making a lot of sense. 

Sadly, his recommendations will be ignored by the money grabbers.

[dinsdale]

>Casinos< 

[Caldera]

That's a remarkably sensible proposal. Sadly, that's exactly the reason why it will never happen. 

[CanadaSam]

Great to see a Thai in power talking sense!

 

Putting these "entertainment complexes" into already overcrowded major cities is a recipe for disaster.

 

People wanting to go to a casino will easily travel 30 minutes out of town for the privilege!

[hotchilli]

Put them into another area and screw that up as well...