Thailand is set to cancel its 60-day visa-free scheme for tourists from more than 90 countries, a move that will impact backpackers and retirees seeking extended stays. Since July 2024, passport holders from 93 nations have enjoyed visa-free access for up to 60 days, part of a post-pandemic strategy to revive tourism. However, a proposal to cut this period back to 30 days is expected to be approved soon, creating logistical hurdles for regular visitors.
Shift Towards Quality Tourism
Surasak Phancharoenworakul, Thailand's Minister of Tourism and Sports, stated: "We will not focus only on tourist numbers. The emphasis must be on quality tourists, not simply on making entry easy and achieving high volume. The prime minister has instructed that visa issuance be considered carefully to strengthen safety and improve the tourism system as a whole." This shift comes as authorities crack down on rule-breakers and unruly tourists, with coordinated inspections targeting nightlife districts, short-term rentals, and co-working spaces in Phuket, Pattaya, and Bangkok.
Overcrowding in Phuket
Last year, Phuket was named the world's most overcrowded spot, with research from MoneyTransfers.com revealing 118 tourists for every local resident. The island, Thailand's largest, offers roughly 90 miles of coastline, including famous beaches like Kata and Karon. However, experiences vary dramatically: Patong is known for its lively nightlife and crowded beaches, while the northern and eastern coasts provide quieter retreats and authentic Thai cuisine. One frustrated visitor on Tripadvisor lamented: "I made my first trip to Phuket in the mid 70's and have returned many times since... Nothing could have prepared me for the hordes of people crowding the island, the beaches, and the day tours."
Tourist Levy and Environmental Concerns
Thailand introduced a tourist levy in April 2024, adding £6.60 to all flights into the country. The nation's tourism sector has been volatile, with visitor numbers crashing from 40 million in 2019 to just 200,000 in 2020 before rebounding sharply. To avoid crowds, travellers should steer clear of the peak season from November to March, though temperatures remain around 30°C. The popularity of the film The Beach led to an influx of tourists at Maya Bay on Phi Phi Leh island, causing environmental damage. The bay was closed for several years from 2018 and reopened in 2022 with restrictions: vessels are banned, swimming is prohibited, and visitors must buy a 400 baht (£8) ticket for a one-hour visit. One recent traveller likened the scene to "Times Square in New York."
