PATTAYA, Thailand – Tourism operators in Pattaya have raised concerns about Thailand’s declining appeal to international visitors, citing complaints about overcharging, cannabis use in public areas, corruption, limited tourism development and increasingly complicated visa rules.
Comments shared by people working in Pattaya’s tourism businesses point to a growing sense that Thailand risks losing ground to neighboring destinations, particularly Vietnam, which several contributors say is becoming more competitive in both price and quality.
One contributor described being overcharged from the moment of arrival at the airport, while another complained about the strong smell of cannabis along public roads and a lack of fresh ideas in tourism development. Corruption among officials was also raised as a concern.
Price comparisons featured prominently. One operator recounted a recent trip to Vietnam, where a seafood meal consisting of grilled fish, prawns in sauce, butter-fried sweet clams, grilled squid with roe and three beers cost around 600 baht.
Another contributor said tourists could face inflated prices at local markets, recalling being quoted 500 baht for a printed pair of trousers at a night market and questioning how much a foreign visitor might be charged.
Visa costs and uncertainty were also mentioned, with one commenter suggesting that some retirees are considering Vietnam because it is cheaper and presents fewer visa complications. Expensive airfares were another factor cited.
The comments also reflected concern about Thailand’s reputation for hospitality and trust. Japan was held up as an example of a destination where visitors feel confident that prices are fair and services can be trusted.
Others called for a more constructive national response, urging Thai people to work together rather than blame one another, improve the visitor experience and make the country somewhere tourists want to return.
One contributor questioned whether Thailand was looking backwards while other countries focused on the future. Another claimed Vietnam’s international visitor numbers had risen by 20% this year, although the figure was not independently verified.
The discussion highlights concerns among some Pattaya tourism operators that Thailand cannot rely indefinitely on its established reputation. Fair pricing, reliable services, a welcoming atmosphere and clear policies were identified as important factors in encouraging visitors to return.
