During this hottest time of the year, with 35 degrees and scorching sun, Bangkok is still deserted by tourists, but this time, it’s worse,” says Sami, who sells bus tickets and tours at an agency. “I have been working in tourism for over 30 years and now, attendance is declining, it’s because of the war, it’s a hard blow for tourism companies.”
Located near Khao San Road, very popular and known among budget travelers, Sami sees fewer European or North American tourists than usual in her agency. “The cheapest flights that go through the Middle East have been canceled and tickets are more expensive. Tourists coming to Thailand are spending less, as their countries are also experiencing the crisis.
In Kayk’s youth hostel, the dorm beds, although cheap at 6.50 dollars a night, are struggling to fill up. “We have had many online cancellations, normally in April or May, we have 50% occupancy, so at least 4-5 clients per day, but every day we are zero, zero, and zero.” Like many merchants, he is now concerned about the rising prices in transportation, food, and electricity.
If the conflict continues, some merchants will have to decide whether to close or not. “Right now, I really wonder what we are going to do. I hope the war will be resolved and that many tourists will come back to Thailand.”
To limit losses, the National Tourism Agency says it is focusing on high-end, more lucrative services rather than the number of visitors. A major issue, as tourism accounts for over 10% of Thailand’s GDP.
