PATTAYA, Thailand — Pattaya is preparing to welcome around 5,000 US military personnel during a port visit to Laem Chabang from Sept. 2–6, with hotels beginning to see bookings and businesses across the city anticipating increased spending during their shore leave.
The visiting personnel are expected to spread across hotels and guesthouses throughout Pattaya, while some may remain aboard their vessel during the shore leave. The number staying in the city is expected to vary depending on the size of the vessel and the length of the visit.
Local businesses are looking beyond hotel stays, with restaurants, cafes, massage and spa operators, tourist attractions and shopping malls expected to benefit from the additional visitors. Based on previous visits, food and beverages have accounted for a significant share of spending, followed by shopping, entertainment, wellness services and other leisure activities. The influx is therefore expected to generate economic activity across a broad range of businesses rather than benefiting hotels alone, with spending circulating through Pattaya’s tourism and service sectors.
Hotels and businesses in the city are making preparations to accommodate the visitors, including arranging transport, check-in facilities, food services and other amenities. However, the impact is expected to be temporary, as visits by US naval vessels are not regular and depend on factors including vessel schedules and operational requirements. The upcoming visit nevertheless provides Pattaya with an opportunity to showcase its tourism services and attract repeat visitors.
Local businesses are also being encouraged to act as good hosts by maintaining service standards, providing accurate tourism information and paying close attention to visitor safety, helping create a positive impression of Pattaya among the visiting personnel.
