Tourism operators in Samui are anticipating growth as the high season approaches in the Gulf of Thailand, with a focus on European visitors. They are advocating for extended operating hours at the airport to accommodate 20 more daily flights, potentially leading to a 10-20% increase in tourist numbers.
President of the Tourism Association of Koh Samui, Ratchaporn Poolsawadee, expressed optimism about the island’s full recovery during the high season, citing the resumption of flights at Samui airport as a contributing factor.
Key source markets like Germany, the UK, France, and Australia are expected to drive tourism, with foreign visitors benefiting from extended visa stays of up to 60 days across 93 countries.
With increased flights to Surat Thani airport and enhanced ferry services, hotel occupancy rates are projected to peak at 80-90% in July and August, aligning with the Gulf of Thailand’s high season.
Mr. Ratchaporn highlighted the popularity of the monthly full moon party at Koh Phangan, anticipating over 50,000 attendees per event during the high season.
The Pride Nation Samui International festival, held last month, helped boost the island’s profile ahead of the peak season.
While the island’s 30,000 rooms may be adequate for the influx of tourists, transportation infrastructural limitations need to be addressed, particularly the airport’s limited capacity and the availability of boat services.
Samui airport currently operates between 7am and 10pm, accommodating around 50 flights daily. Plans are underway to hold a public hearing in July to discuss extending operating hours, potentially allowing for 73 daily flights and an additional 2,000 daily tourists.
Mr. Ratchaporn emphasized the efforts of ferry operators in expanding their fleets to meet growing demand. He also suggested that lifting restrictions on alcohol sales could increase tourist spending, alongside the importance of enforcing regulations to ensure public safety.
Recent relaxations on opening hours for bars and entertainment venues until 4am indicate a joint effort between the public and private sectors to maintain safety measures on the island.
