PATTAYA — Pattaya has rolled out a colorful welcome for thousands of US Navy personnel visiting the resort city, lighting up its iconic city sign in the colors of the American flag.
The USS Abraham Lincoln arrived at Laem Chabang Deep Sea Port in Chon Buri on 2 September for a port visit scheduled through 6 September.
Around 4,800–5,000 US Navy personnel are expected to go ashore during the visit to rest and replenish supplies after completing their mission in the Middle East. Many of them have been spending their shore leave in Pattaya.
On the evening of 3 September, the second day of the sailors’ shore leave, Pattaya Mayor Poramet Ngampichet welcomed the visiting personnel with a special display.
The “Pattaya City” sign on the hillside overlooking Bali Hai Pier was illuminated in the colors of the US national flag, creating a striking sight for visitors and residents.
The display was intended as a gesture of welcome to the US sailors and added a festive atmosphere to the city during their visit.
The large number of visiting personnel has also provided a boost to Pattaya’s local economy during the low season.
Besides sightseeing and leisure activities, the sailors have been spending money at restaurants, shops, entertainment venues and tourist attractions across the city.
The influx of thousands of visitors has brought additional activity to businesses throughout Pattaya, creating a lively atmosphere at a time when tourism normally slows during the low season.