PATTAYA, Thailand – Locals and long-term visitors in Pattaya are calling on the government to clearly define what constitutes a “quality tourist” after yet another sleepless night of street racing — this time allegedly involving groups of Kuwaiti holidaymakers near Soi Yensabai in South Pattaya.
Pattaya police responded by setting up late-night checkpoints in an attempt to curb the disruption. Dozens of motorcycles were stopped, many driven recklessly by tourists without helmets, licenses, or respect for local traffic laws. The disturbances, which stretched into the early hours, sparked fresh public frustration and raised questions about Thailand’s “quality tourism” strategy.
Online, reactions were swift. Some commenters voiced sarcasm — “As always, the quality tourists,” — while others focused on the local businesses: “Why not go after the rental shops that hand these bikes to anyone with a passport?”
Many noted that large groups of young tourists from the Middle East, especially during school breaks, often arrive ready to pay fines but show little understanding of local norms. “They’re not here to cause harm deliberately — just chasing thrills,” one resident observed. “But that doesn’t make the streets any safer.”
Others questioned the effectiveness of current measures. “You arrest them and let them go. What’s the deterrent? They’re back every year,” wrote one user. Calls are growing for Thai authorities to introduce blacklists for repeat offenders and strengthen screening processes at the visa level. “Disruptive visitors should face prosecution and a ban on returning,” urged another commenter.
Some residents also warned against painting all tourists from certain countries with the same brush, instead highlighting the need for better enforcement regardless of nationality. “It’s not where they come from — it’s what they do when they’re here,” noted one local woman.
The incident comes amid broader debates in Thailand’s tourism sector about the long-term sustainability of mass arrivals and whether raw visitor numbers translate into economic or cultural value. As the country promotes its “soft power” and aims for higher-quality tourism, Pattaya residents say clearer standards and real enforcement are essential to protect the peace and safety of their communities.
