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Last vacation in Thailand?

Thanks for the help

Last vacation in Thailand?

Editor;
I have vacationed in Thailand five times over the past two and one half years. My brother suggested we visit Thailand for the first time in 2004. I fell in love with the people, the culture, the sites, the markets and the food. I have brought four of my closest friends with me over the years to see the country known as the “Land of Smiles”. Each time we have enjoyed our vacations in Bangkok, Pattaya and Koh Samui.
However, things have changed and oh so quickly I might add. In Pattaya last year I had a digital camera taken by a pickpocket on a Baht bus. I chalked it up to an unfortunate incident as it could have happened on any given day here in the states. The crime in Pattaya appears to be increasing and the city is becoming too dangerous for tourist.
The new airport, Suvarnabhumi, of which I flew into and out of in October 2006 appears to be unsafe for air traffic. In addition, the airport fee for departing international flights has increased from 500 baht to 700 baht. In addition, tourists are charged a premium for everything they do in Thailand from baht bus rides, entrances fees, merchandise, etc., and taxis.
It’s just amazing that a country that relies so much on tourism continues to show a lack of gratitude to those bringing money into their economy. I will always love Thailand and cherish my memories of my holidays spent in the “Land of Smiles” but March will perhaps be my last holiday in Thailand until things change for the better.
Sincerely,
H.S.B.
United States of America

Thanks for the help

Editor;
Aloha to all, as I do my waster-sizing on Jomtien Beach, which is bending at the waist to pick up the waste and getting rid of both, I find that more and more people are starting to realize that a small effort on their part can make a big difference on the planet in which we all live.
I want to thank first the beach vendors who, more and more, are starting to rake away from the incoming tide, instead of into the ocean. They are now playing a part in making it safer for the children and the wildlife, by removing the toxic cigarette filters, broken glass, sharp pointed bar-b-q sticks, plastic bags and so on.
I want to thank the tourists and locals that help me in my quest, to make our home a better place to live. Without them it would have all been pointless. I want to thank the local papers that have allowed me to surface. Between all the papers and the people, we have made a big difference in Jomtien and other areas. Mahalo to all the beautiful people that care.
KOTO (Keeper Of The Ocean)
[email protected]

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