Travel Pattaya Faces Mixed Reactions Amid Decline in Chinese Tourists

[snoop1130]

Pattaya sign on Laem Bali Hai Pier | Photo via Chadathip BarBeer

 

Pattaya, a bustling resort city in Thailand, is witnessing a notable decline in Chinese tourists—a development that's causing a stir among local business owners and long-term residents. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) recently reported a dip in daily Chinese arrivals to about 5,000, a significant drop from the pre-pandemic figures of 15,000 to 20,000.

 

The shift in visitor demographics stems from several interconnected factors. Rising costs in Thailand, attractive travel packages from other Southeast Asian countries, and ongoing trade disagreements between Thailand and China have collectively contributed to this downturn. A particular point of contention has been Thailand's refusal to reduce tariffs, a decision that did not sit well with Beijing.

 

The drop in Chinese tourists presents a double-edged sword for Pattaya. While businesses catering to mass tourism, such as large hotels, shopping centres, and beachside vendors, feel the pinch, European tourists and permanent residents appear to be embracing the quieter atmosphere. An unnamed European resident expressed contentment, noting, "The concerns mentioned are all true, but everyone knows after Songkran starts the low season, and numerous are happy that the massive levels of Chinese are going elsewhere."

 

 

 

The absence of large Chinese tour groups, once a staple in Pattaya’s vibrant scene, has paved the way for a more laid-back environment. European tourists relish the less crowded beaches and enjoy the slower, less commercialised pace of life. Smaller businesses targeting independent travellers report receiving steadier business from Western visitors looking for unique travel experiences.

 

As the city transitions into its traditional low season post-Songkran, tourism operators are keeping a close eye on these trends. With the realisation that relying too heavily on one market could be precarious, there is growing optimism that a more diversified tourist base might offer Pattaya a healthier tourist economy in the long run.

 

Many are waiting to see if this current trend persists and whether Pattaya can continue attracting a varied array of visitors as it strives for a balanced tourism industry.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-04-28

 

 

[Gottfrid]

2 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

there is growing optimism that a more diversified tourist base might offer Pattaya a healthier tourist economy in the long run.

That is actually one of the smartest things I´ve read today.

[MalcolmB]

Pattaya is really for desperadoes getting Asian women. That is Pattaya number 1 business and has been for decades. 

Chinese have their own Asian women that are on average better looking than the Thai Asian women.

Pattaya isn’t really for Chinese, there are better places to go shopping and eat buffets. I am not surprised they are not keen on Pattaya.