CHONBURI / TRAT — Thailand’s premier coastal destinations experienced a significant tourism boost during the four-day Mother’s Day holiday weekend (August 9-12), with Chonburi and Trat provinces recording strong visitor numbers. This uptick signals a promising recovery for the tourism sector, which has been grappling with reduced Chinese tourist arrivals and recent border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia.
Pattaya Hotels Report High Occupancy Rates
Thanes Supharasahatsarangsee, President of the Chonburi Tourism Federation Association, provided an encouraging update on holiday tourism figures. According to surveys conducted with FOMA PATTAYA members, hotel bookings exceeded expectations, with occupancy rates averaging over 90% across participating properties.
“Pattaya’s proximity to Bangkok and convenient transportation, combined with its extensive accommodation options, makes it an ideal destination,” Thanes explained. “The shift toward online booking has also made travel planning much more convenient than in previous years, when travelers couldn’t easily check room availability in advance.”
The tourism executive highlighted the seasonal dynamics affecting the region. While high season typically brings European, British, and Russian tourists escaping winter weather, the low season relies heavily on domestic tourism, business conferences, and year-round Asian market visitors.
Challenges and Recovery Efforts
Despite the positive holiday figures, the industry continues to face significant challenges. Chinese tourist arrivals have dropped by 30-40% this year, representing a substantial loss for the sector. However, Thanes noted encouraging signs of recovery in July, attributed to collaborative efforts between private sector operators and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).
“We don’t expect to return to pre-pandemic Chinese tourist numbers immediately, but we’re seeing positive momentum,” he said.
Key challenges identified include the need for more positive media coverage to counter negative publicity, and concerns about the strong Thai baht affecting tourist spending power. Thanes called on the government to address currency issues and increase support for short-haul Asian markets.
Trat Attracts Thousands Despite Border Issues
In Trat province, Acting Sub-Lieutenant Korakot Opas, Director of the TAT Trat Office, reported strong tourist arrivals despite recent border tensions that have since been resolved. Koh Kood island emerged as the standout destination, drawing visitors with its pristine natural beauty.
TAT projections indicate 2,990 tourists visited Koh Kood during the holiday period, representing a 21.89% increase from 2024’s figure of 2,453 visitors. This surge generated approximately 24.16 million baht in revenue for the island.
“Koh Kood’s 51 accommodation facilities, offering 1,360 rooms total, showcase the island’s natural splendor,” Korakot noted. “The crystal-clear waters and peaceful atmosphere make it perfect for family relaxation during Mother’s Day celebrations.”
Industry Optimism Despite Challenges
Pichaya Thachaiditraphap, President of the Trat Hotel Association and owner of Koh Kood Paradise Hotel, emphasized that the rainy season doesn’t diminish the island’s appeal. “The beauty of Koh Kood remains stunning year-round, and this season actually offers a more intimate, private experience,” she said.
Several mid-sized hotels reported advance bookings at full capacity, while Koh Kood Paradise Hotel recorded over 50% occupancy, reflecting strong tourist confidence in the destination.
Provincial Tourism Outlook
For the entire Mother’s Day holiday period, TAT Trat Office projects over 26,190 visitors throughout the province, generating approximately 190.84 million baht in local economic activity.
These figures suggest Thailand’s coastal tourism industry is demonstrating resilience and adaptability, successfully leveraging domestic demand and regional markets to offset challenges in traditional source markets. The strong performance during this holiday period provides encouraging momentum for the remainder of the tourism season.
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