National—
On November 10th, 2023, Mr. Thanet Supornsahasrungsi, the Executive Director of Sunshine Hotels & Resorts in Pattaya, publicly revealed that despite the extended-hour service to 4 AM in four pilot provinces, trends in family tourism are increasing in Pattaya.
Previously, more than 90% of foreign tourists aimed for nightlife where they gathered in crowded areas such as Walking Street, Pattaya Beach, and Buakhao Road. The entertainment zones should be made clear in order to minimize prominent issues like noise pollution and other negative effects in local communities,Thanet stated.
“In fact, it is well-known that entertainment districts open further than the legally prescribed time at 2 AM can cause loud noises late at night disturbing local residents,” said Thanet.
According to the previous statement from Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, the Deputy Prime Minister, on the extended-hour services, Thanet voiced his concern that open-air dining restaurants or bars may not be able to control noises as do indoor pubs or bars. Especially, the open-air entertainment venues in local communities would affect the local living at nighttime.
Thanet further added that the Thai government should lift the ban on the sale of alcohol during certain periods of the day and on religious days. Many foreign tourists may not understand the reasons as they are on vacation and drink for relaxation anyway.
“The alcohol sales should be available all day to satisfy all parties,” said Thanet.
