Bangkok —
On November 23rd, 2024, Mr. Sanga Ruangwattanakul, the president of Khaosan Business Association, revealed that hotel bookings in the Khao San Road area for December 30th-31st, are averaging 60%, still lower than the 70% recorded for the same period in 2023.
The slow bookings are attributed to concerns among European tourists, especially regarding the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, which is deterring travel plans. Currently, 80% of visitors to Khao San Road are from Europe—countries such as the UK, France, Germany, and Italy—while 20% are from Asian nations.
Despite this, bookings are expected to increase as the year-end approaches, according to Sanga.
Khao San Road will host a New Year’s countdown event on December 31st, with an expected attendance of 50,000-70,000 tourists. The average spending per person is estimated at 1,000 baht, potentially generating over 70 million baht. Christmas lights will be turned on from December 24th to enhance the festive atmosphere.
Although the countdown at ICONSIAM will feature popular K-pop artist Lisa, Sanga believes Khao San Road will remain a popular destination for many tourists. Regarding alcohol sales, he noted no significant growth, as the purchasing power of Thai tourists has declined due to lower incomes and increased spending restraint.
Sanga called for more government measures to stimulate spending, such as tax deductions through initiatives like “Easy E-Receipt (Shop Dee Mee Kuen)” or “Khon La Khreung (co-payment subsidy).”
He also expressed support for the government’s efforts to boost revenue from the “5F” industries—food, film, festivals, Thai boxing (Thai fight), and fashion—urging better support and promotion to attract more international visitors.
This article originally appeared on our sister website The Pattaya News.
