Guess what? Thailand is turning up the volume on nightlife! The Thai government just gave the thumbs up for bars, clubs, and karaoke spots to keep the good times rolling with extended opening hours.
So, here’s the lowdown: Thai officials, led by the ever-talkative government spokesperson, Traisulee Traisarananakul, spilled the beans on Tuesday (28/11/2023). The Thai cabinet nodded in agreement to let night owls and party enthusiasts go wild a bit longer.
This after-dark freedom isn’t a nationwide shindig; it’s mainly for the cool spots in Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, and Samui – you know, the places where tourists flock.
What’s the scoop? Well, the deal is that every joint on the entertainment block gets an extra two hours to groove. Translation: the party can now rock until 4:00 AM.
As reported by the party central news outlet, Channel News Asia, the head honcho, Prime Minister Thailand Srettha Thavisin, hinted that the after-hours revolution starts on December 15, 2023.
Why all this commotion, you ask? Thailand’s tourism game needs a boost. It’s been a bit slow on the growth front compared to its Southeast Asian pals. So, Srettha is throwing a lifeline to the sector with some groovy stimulus moves.
Allowing clubs to stay open late is the latest dance move by the Thai government to lure in more global revelers.
Flashback to September – Thailand ditched visa requirements for Chinese tourists, thinking that would be a game-changer. Turns out, the return of Chinese tourists is only at about 40%, even with the “visa-free entry” VIP pass. Looks like the plan needs a remix.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is doing some soul-searching, admitting they might have misjudged the vibe. Their dream of 4 million Chinese visitors is more like wishful thinking. The government’s reality check? Expecting around 3.4 million Chinese visitors, about 31% of the 2019 party crew.
What’s the buzzkill? Rumors of kidnapping and scams in a Chinese film called “No More Bets” seem to have spooked Chinese tourists from choosing Thailand as their vacation jam. But hey, Thailand’s turning up the music, hoping the tourists will catch the beat again!