Tao tourism tumbles

BANGKOK Tourism Council of Thailand says the murder of two British tourists on Tao Island had caused bookings to fall dramatically in the short-term for this popular dive destination.
TCT president, Piyamarn Techapaibul, said tourism bookings to Tao Island slowed down soon after news of the double murders broke in the international press.
“The incident should be taken as a warning that all relevant agencies need to be vigilant in providing a safe environment for visitors and tourists themselves need to be vigilant at all times to ensure their own safety.”
The president added that the horrific murders of two young travellers would have a impact on the country’s tourism sector in the short term.
Authorities continue their investigation under considerable pressure from Prime Minister Prayuth Charn-Orcha.
“There has been progress in the investigation and the joint effort by the private and public sectors on the island are regulating migrant workers to restore tourists’ confidence,” she said.
However, migrant workers were not the prime suspects after a failure to find DNA matches. The investigations are now focusing on Thai suspects.
According to Dusit Poll released earlier this week, 84.05% of 1,229 respondents said the case would have a very negative impact on the country’s tourism image.
Also, 83.16% of those interviewed urged the authority to reorganise regulations in tourist destinations, tighten safety and security measures and increase patrols by local polices and volunteers.
CCTV has been a useful tool in the current investigation and there are calls for increased CCTV cover at all tourist destinations especially near beaches.
The poll showed that 80.47% wanted authorities to strictly enforce the law, while 75.67% said tourists should also take care of themselves and avoid risky areas, such as remote areas of beaches after dark.
In addition, 69.49% suggested destinations needed to warn and educate visitors of the risks and also increase surveillance.
The poll was conducted 16 to 20 September.

sourced:ttrweekly.com