Trat: Operators and local officials on Koh Kut expect tourism to recover towards the end of this year and into next year, but remain wary of traveller confidence, the border situation and the island’s limited infrastructure.
They said promotion in both domestic and foreign markets would be needed to sustain revenue on Trat island.
Attapol Klinthap, manager of Boon Siri Speed Boat Co Ltd, said Thai visitors had underpinned the market, especially on long weekends and public holidays.
Overall arrivals were little changed from the same period last year, though some foreign markets had fallen. Operators believe geopolitical tensions may have contributed to the drop.
Mr Attapol said the trade was optimistic about the closing months of the year after Thailand-Cambodia border tensions dented confidence in the previous high season. Advance bookings were still relatively low, however, as tourists remained alert to further disruption.
He urged the government to roll out its “Thai Tiew Thai Plus” domestic stimulus programme on schedule, particularly over the year-end period.
Dechathorn Chan-orp, chairman of the Koh Kut tambon administrative organisation and owner of Suanya Resort, said bookings from October through the New Year holiday were expected to reach 70-80%. Tourism on the island could keep growing into next year if no new shock hits the market, he said.
Koh Kut has only about 1,600 hotel rooms, which may not be enough at peak times, especially from November to February when foreign arrivals rise. Some visitors may have to use homestays or camping sites.
Mr Dechathorn also pointed to shortcomings in roads, electricity, water and toilets. He said limits on the use of state land administered by the Royal Thai Navy have constrained expansion and upgrades.