Tourism industry jittery

Operators are concerned a possible resurgence of domestic political violence and knock-on effects from the flood crisis will scare away arrivals in 2012.

Published: 9/01/2012 at 08:29 AM
Newspaper section: Business

Domestic political uncertainty will likely return as a major risk to tourism in 2012, as many believe the way that Yingluck Shinawatra's administration is managing the country will trigger a fresh round of political violence.

The International Horticultural Exposition Royal Flora Ratchaphruek 2011, which runs until March 14 in Chiang Mai, is one of Thailand’s main attractions for 2012. Tourism operators fear continued risks could cause more damage to industry performance.

The private sector has expressed concern over sensitive post-flood issues, especially those related to former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, Ms Yingluck's older brother.

This article is older than 60 days, which we reserve for our premium members only.You can subscribe to our premium member subscription, here.

About the author

: Writer: Chadamas Chinmaneevong; Position: Reporter

Keep this article in your social bookmark:

Latest stories in this category:

Your comments

visiting
Post : 82
Send message

Discussion 2 : 09/01/2012 at 10:39 AM2
Post this to my Facebook
"A series of negative factors _ the 2003 Sars epidemic, the 2004 tsunami, the 2006 military coup, the yellow shirt demonstrations and closure of Suvarnabhumi airport in 2008, the global economic crisis in 2009, the red shirt demonstrations and unrest in 2010 and the 2011 flooding _ have made Thailand a risky destination in the eyes of international tour operators."

Yes, but other regional players have faced the SARS epidemic, tsunami, and global economic crisis. These were beyond their control, but they rebounded well. The other issues... well... those were local and manmade and can only be fixed by the same.
Like dislike 0 people liked / 0 people disliked this comment
falangsur
Post : 129
Send message

Discussion 1 : 09/01/2012 at 06:30 AM1
Post this to my Facebook
Why blame a gov't official that comincated news about bombs found in the city? The problem is the bombs - not properly communicating the inforamtion about it. Same as the silliness of blaming flood images from Don Muang for perceptions around the world. The truth may hurt - but fix the problems, do not try to cover things up. Cannot be done anyway with the internet available. There will be a delay in return of tourism - floods in the south show that long term solution is needed. Political violence will make it worse for sure. But fixing it will take a genuine look at the issues and a plan to fix it. The news recently of deaths of tourist shows a problem in the tourism industry - not a problem with news coverage.....
Like dislike 0 people liked / 0 people disliked this comment

Tourism industry jittery | Bangkok Post: business