Tourism in Phuket has slightly improved after the military junta lifted the night curfew in the popular resort island, Phuket Tourist Association vice president Phurit Maswongsa said on Sunday.
In addition to the low season at this time, the number of tourist arrivals was lower than expected due to the imposition of martial law, prompting foreign countries to issue a travel advisory for Thailand, Mr Phurit said.
He said the number of Australian tourists was down by 50 to 60% and China by about 30%. Tourism in Phuket would gradually pick up in a month if the situation remained stable.
He called on the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) to help stimulate tourism by encouraging more Thai people to travel in the country.
Kamala Bay Beach in Phuket. (Photo by Tawatchai Kemgumnerd)