PATTAYA, Thailand – As tensions flared along the Thai-Cambodian border last week, concerns are growing in Pattaya and other top Thai destinations that the violence could cause ripple effects through Thailand’s tourism sector—especially if foreign tourists begin diverting their travel plans to perceived “safer” destinations like Bali.
Although a ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodia officially took effect on Monday (July 28), renewed military clashes near the Ta Muen Thom Temple and Thailand’s Ubon Ratchathani province have already resulted in casualties and displaced hundreds of thousands. Thai authorities have accused Cambodia of violating the ceasefire early, raising doubts about the agreement’s durability.
In response, Bali—a long-standing favorite among Indonesian and international holidaymakers—has quietly begun preparations to welcome travelers who may be diverting from Thailand in search of a more stable destination.
According to the Bali branch of the Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association, local tourism operators have reported early signs of changing travel patterns, with more international visitors now choosing Bali over Thai destinations like Pattaya and Phuket due to regional safety concerns.
“Because Bali is seen as a safe and welcoming island, we’ve seen tourists who initially planned to visit Thailand now flowing into Bali instead,” the association representatives told local media on Sunday (July 27).
While no official data confirms diverted flights from Thailand to Bali, the association estimates an increase in tourist arrivals by 10–15% over the past week alone.
In Pattaya, hotel owners are keeping a close watch. The city relies heavily on international arrivals, especially during the upcoming high season. Even though Pattaya is far from the border flashpoints, perception matters—and any prolonged uncertainty could shift the flow of holidaymakers elsewhere.
As the uncertainty continues in Thailand, a portion of international tourists may already be sitting around discussing their options—Bali, Manila, Hanoi, Pattaya, Phuket, and more—deciding where they should make that final booking. As one resort manager in Pattaya put it, “It’s not about distance; it’s about headlines. When tourists hear the word ‘conflict,’ they start looking for other options. And Bali is a big one.”
