Khao Lak Bounces Back

Tourism returning after 2004 tsunami hit

Khao Lak sub-district in Phang Nga province was one of the most seriously affected areas when the tsunami hit the Andaman coastal provinces on Boxing Day three years ago.

Three years after the nightmarish tsunami, tourism in Khao Lak is apparently back to normal. Holiday makers enjoying sunbathing are becoming a common sight again.

According to Prasert Chanphon-ngarm, Chairman of the Tourism Business Association of Phang Nga, the number of foreign tourists in 2007 doubled compared to 2006. In fact, Khao Lak is hosting as many tourists as it did before the tsunami hit.

As good as it seems, Khao Lak’s tourism boom might be derailed by lack of efficient public facilities and mass transport to serve the growing number of tourists.

Prasert Chanphon-ngarm Chairman, Tourism Business Association of Phang Nga said many tourists complain there is not enough light along some roads from Ta-kua-pa district to Khao Lak. Moreover there should be a shuttle bus service at a reasonable fare.

Some tourists said they were not afraid of tsunami recurrence, but they wanted information about the warning system.

While the tourism industry in Khao Lak appears to be on the path to full recovery, all concerned agencies need to improve facilities and transportation. On top of that, it might be necessary to accelerate promotion of tourist awareness and confidence in the tsunami warning system.

Features : Last Update : 10:41:25 6 January 2551 (GMT+7:00)

Source: MCOT TNA English News