Club member Amy Falken presents the PCEC’s Certificate of Appreciation to Duncan Foster for his providing updates on Thai immigration, driving licenses, and banking. PATTAYA, Thailand – On April 23, 2025, Duncan Foster, the director and co-owner of MOT Services, delivered an informative presentation to the Pattaya City Expats Club (PCEC). His talk focused on the latest developments in visa services and immigration processes in Thailand as well as obtaining a Thai driving license and need to have a registered mobile number with a Thai bank account. Duncan introduced himself and outlined the services provided by his company, which include visa services, driving licenses, immigration assistance, and opening bank accounts. A significant focus of his presentation was the new Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), which replaces the old TM.6 entry card for non-Thais entering Thailand by land, sea, or air. This new requirement applies regardless of how long one has lived in Thailand. The TDAC is designed to streamline the entry process into Thailand. Duncan recounted his personal experience navigating the TDAC website, noting that while it is user-friendly, some aspects may be challenging for older individuals or those not familiar with digital forms. The TDAC requires three main sheets to be filled out: personal information, travel details, and accommodation information. He emphasized the importance of having all necessary information ready to facilitate a smoother application process. Duncan highlighted key features of the TDAC, including the submission process, where users receive a TDAC reference number via email, which is crucial for entry into Thailand. He also mentioned the implementation date of May 1st and raised concerns about potential delays at immigration due to the transition. Airlines are informing travelers about the necessity of completing the TDAC, but many may still be unaware of this requirement. He predicted long queues and potential confusion at immigration if the online system fails or if travelers are not prepared. In addition to the TDAC, Duncan discussed recent changes in banking regulations and driving license processes in Thailand. The Bank of Thailand has tightened regulations to combat scams and money laundering, requiring verification of phone numbers associated with bank accounts. He also noted that many foreigners may face difficulties opening bank accounts or renewing driving licenses under the new rules. Duncan explained that the process for obtaining or renewing driving licenses has become more complicated, with new requirements for documentation and proof of residency. In the past, one could use the “pink” ID card or House Yellow Book to prove residency. He advised that individuals must now go to immigration for a residency certificate before applying for a driving license. In conclusion, Duncan emphasized the importance of staying informed about these changes in immigration and banking processes for anyone living in or traveling to Thailand.  To view a video of his presentation on the PCEC’s YouTube Channel visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KAPGL8mkPcY The presentation was followed by the Open Forum where questions and comments about Expat living in Thailand can be made.  To learn more about the PCEC, visit their website at https://pcec.club.

Thailand wrestles with the pros and cons of a very generous entry and visa system. Foreigners can now register online for the actual TDAC (Thai Digital Arrival Card) where several grunts and groans have been resolved.  Expats are now able, if they so wish, to request Thailand (THA) as their country of residence, whilst the earlier instruction to print your intended departure date from Thailand is no longer mandatory.  There are no last-minute reprieves from filling in the TDAC: the only exceptions are those on diplomatic passports, airport transit transfers not proceeding through immigration and foreign traders and stall holders with “border passes”. Other causes of confusion will take time to settle.  The term TDAC is sometimes confused with ETA (Entry Travel Authorization) but they are in fact synonymous in Thailand.  The dropdown menu of foreign countries for the applicant’s passport  issuance contains some surprises.  For example, Britain is spelt “Britian” and, whilst those countries with a monarchy are mostly so listed, Denmark appears as if it’s in republican list.  However, these are not serious form-filling blots.  TDAC doubles as a health form which could cause some confusion for frequent travellers, although the foreign affairs ministry assures that help is available at major immigration entry points. Although TDAC was marketed as a hi-tech convenience to visitors – avoiding filling in manual forms at the airport – the immigration bureau has now conceded that it will also target crime.  Police major general Choengron RImpadee, chief of the immigration bureau, said TDAC will be synced with the bureau’s biometric database which allows checks against criminal backgrounds.  But it remains unsure if the new system will significantly dent well-publicized criminal behavior by ill-intentioned foreigners such as use of nominees in businesses, working without authorization and the illegal renting of condominium units for periods less than one month. Meanwhile, the prime minister has asked several government departments to investigate abuse of the 60 days visa-exempt discretion.  It is believed several options are being investigated.  These could include maintaining the status quo, limiting extensions and border runs for individuals, or reducing 60 days to 30 days for some or all nationalities.  Other suggestions include charging entry fees which could assimilate the long-delayed “tourist entry tax”, or making it difficult for visa exempt tourists to transfer to longer-stay visas such as “student” status which is allegedly open to abuse.

Foreign man brutally attacks Irish tourist in Pattaya — kicks over motorcycle before stabbing victim severely. PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya Rescue Center received a report of a serious assault resulting in severe injuries in front of a condominium located in Soi Thepprasit 17, south Pattaya at 1:36 AM on April 26. At the location, patrol officers and rescue volunteers found Mr. Scott Thomas Lacy, a 34-year-old Irish national, lying in a pool of blood beside a red-plated Honda ADV 150 motorcycle. He had sustained multiple stab wounds to his left arm, abdomen, and both legs. A folding knife was also found on the road nearby, which police collected as evidence. Rescue personnel provided initial first aid before urgently transporting him to a hospital due to the severity of his injuries. A security guard from a nearby condominium told police that he had seen the injured man riding his motorcycle back from a convenience store. As he reached the scene, a foreign man riding another motorcycle approached and kicked Mr. Lacy’s bike, causing him to fall. The attacker then got off his bike and viciously stabbed the victim multiple times before fleeing the scene at high speed, leaving Mr. Lacy lying helplessly in the street. The security guard quickly rushed to assist and called the authorities. Initially, Pol.Capt. Chaowalit Suwanmanee, Deputy Inspector of the Pattaya City Police Station, ordered a broadcast alert to track down the suspect based on the description provided by witnesses. Investigators have been deployed to gather further evidence and are working to apprehend the perpetrator to bring him to justice. Security guard witnesses shocking assault as foreigner kicks over, stabs Irish man on street

Fewer crowds, clearer views: European visitors enjoy a quieter Pattaya as Chinese tourist numbers drop. PATTAYA, Thailand – The number of Chinese tourists visiting Pattaya has seen a noticeable decline in recent months, a shift that has drawn mixed reactions from the city’s residents and long-term visitors. While business owners dependent on mass tourism are expressing concern, many European visitors and residents are quietly welcoming the change. TAT recently issued a report stating that Pattaya is experiencing a significant decline in Chinese tourist arrivals, with daily numbers dropping to approximately 5,000—down from pre-pandemic averages of 15,000 to 20,000. The slowdown comes after several factors converged: growing dissatisfaction among Chinese travelers with rising costs in Thailand, improved travel deals in other Southeast Asian countries, and tensions between Thailand and China over trade negotiations. Notably, Beijing recently voiced its disapproval over Thailand’s refusal to negotiate reduced tariffs, a move that may have further cooled Chinese enthusiasm for visiting. “The concerns mentioned are all true, but everyone knows after Songkran starts the low season,” one European resident commented. “And numerous are happy that the massive levels of Chinese are going elsewhere.” For years, Chinese tour groups filled Pattaya’s hotels, beaches, and shopping centers, often arriving in large, organized groups. Their absence is being felt in certain sectors, especially among businesses that had come to rely heavily on this market. However, for many European visitors, the quieter streets and beaches have brought a sense of relief. Some European tourists and long-term visitors have said that they appreciate the more relaxed atmosphere, fewer crowds, and a return to a slower-paced, less commercialized Pattaya. Smaller, independent businesses — particularly those targeting individual travelers rather than mass tourism — are reportedly seeing steadier support from Western visitors who prefer a different style of travel. Tourism authorities in Pattaya are watching the situation closely. While China’s outbound travel market remains massive, there is now a growing realization that diversifying the tourist base may help Pattaya achieves a better balance in the future. As the city moves into its traditional low season following Songkran, many will be watching whether this trend persists — and whether Pattaya will see a subtle shift in the type of visitor it attracts moving forward.

Despite its flaws, many foreigners still say Thailand feels safer than much of the world. PATTAYA, Thailand – Despite some criticisms and imperfections, many foreigners living in or visiting Pattaya and greater Thailand still believe the country offers a safer and more welcoming environment than many places around the world. Long-term visitors often point out that while Thailand has its challenges, it compares favorably when considering global standards. “Still feel safer than many European or other cities over the world. Go to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and compare the safety,” one expat said. “Here in Thailand, 1% of idiot foreigners makes all the rest look like we are all behaving badly, which is not true. 99% of foreigners behave well and respect Thai culture, especially those of us who live here.” Thailand’s reputation for hospitality, relatively low rates of violent street crime and the general friendliness of local people have long been major draws for foreigners. However, some acknowledge that life here is not without frustrations. Traffic accidents remain a serious concern, and many foreigners notice a casual attitude toward law enforcement and infrastructure issues. “Yep, there are plenty of places worse but many others just as good,” another visitor observed. “Here though, the traffic, lack of locals following any sort of law other than basic guidance, the small or lose face of not assigning blame — really is an out for not being accountable.” Cultural elements like “Mai Pen Rai” (meaning “never mind” or “it’s okay”) are both praised for promoting a laid-back lifestyle and criticized for allowing problems to persist without resolution. “The Mai Pen Rai system of ‘no problem’—I gave myself Mai Pen Rai permission to do what I feel like and don’t dare say anything or it is a grave insult,” another expat commented. Practical concerns like the smell from poor drainage systems, restrictive property ownership laws for foreigners, and bureaucratic hurdles such as mandatory 90-day reporting for long-stay visitors also make some question their long-term commitment. “It’s OK here. I liked it better decades ago, but if I stay, OK — yet I have many other good options too,” a seasoned visitor said. While Thailand is far from perfect, for many it remains a safe, pleasant place to live or visit compared to much of the world. Those who embrace its quirks and cultural nuances often find that the positives continue to outweigh the negatives.

Pattaya prepares for sudden summer storms as Thailand’s weather agency issues warnings for strong winds, hail, and heavy rain from April 27 to May 1. PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya’s sunny skies are about to change as Thailand’s Meteorological Department has issued a warning for summer storms across the upper part of the country, including Chonburi province. Between April 27 and May 1, residents and tourists should prepare for thunderstorms, strong winds, possible hail, and isolated heavy rain. Lightning strikes are also a risk in some areas. The weather shift is due to a moderate high-pressure system moving from China over Vietnam and the South China Sea, combined with hot to very hot conditions already covering much of northern Thailand. By April 28, a westerly trough from Myanmar will also sweep across northern and northeastern regions, intensifying storm activity. While Pattaya itself isn’t expected to experience the worst of the storms, Chonburi province—including popular areas like Pattaya and Jomtien Beach—has been included in the alert, especially on April 27. Residents are urged to avoid open areas, unstable structures, and large trees during storms, and motorists should watch out for localized flooding in low-lying zones. Authorities are also advising farmers to secure crops and protect livestock against sudden heavy rain and strong winds. Additionally, with the seasonal shift bringing abrupt changes in temperature and humidity, health officials encourage everyone to take extra care of their health. Other affected provinces include much of the north, northeast, central Thailand (including Bangkok and surrounding areas), and parts of the east and south such as Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan. Though Thailand is known for its warm, tropical climate, this period of sudden storms—known locally as the “summer storm season”—is a regular phenomenon. Visitors and residents are advised to monitor weather updates closely, plan activities carefully, and stay safe during the upcoming unsettled days.

The latest robbery in Udonthani highlights the lack of effective protection for valuable assets in Thailand’s shopping malls. UDONTHANI, Thailand — A brazen gold shop robbery inside a busy shopping mall in Udonthani has once again exposed the persistent weakness of gold shops operating in Thailand’s malls. Many continue to rely heavily on minimal security measures, leaving law enforcement to clean up the mess when crimes inevitably occur. At around 7 PM on April 26, a man wearing a rider jacket, long pants, sneakers, and a full-face black helmet stormed into a gold shop on the second floor of a shopping center located along Udonthani–Sakon Nakhon Ring Road. Armed with a fake gun and a hammer, the robber threatened four shop employees, smashed a glass display case, and made off with 30 gold necklaces worth approximately 1.6 million baht. Security footage captured the suspect fleeing via an escalator before dashing out the main entrance. Despite desperate attempts by mall staff to alert security guards, the robber managed to escape, abandoning the fake gun and hammer at the scene, before riding off on a yellow Honda Click motorcycle with an unknown license plate. The incident highlights a long-standing issue: while gold shops generate high-value transactions daily, many still depend on passive security measures like CCTV and under-resourced mall security. When crimes strike, the responsibility is quickly shifted onto the police, who are left scrambling to track down well-prepared criminals after the fact. Police in Udonthani are now reviewing CCTV footage and working urgently to track the escape route of the suspect, pledging to apprehend him swiftly. However, this incident has left the public questioning why more proactive security systems and deterrents aren’t in place to protect such obvious targets — especially in high-traffic shopping malls. A bold thief made off with 30 gold necklaces, exposing the severe gaps in security at gold shops in shopping centers. As another gold shop robbery shakes Thailand, authorities work quickly to track down the suspect who snatched 1.6 million baht in gold.

While foreigners are often blamed for road rage, Thais are just as guilty of reckless driving and confrontational behavior daily. PATTAYA, Thailand – Thailand has seen its fair share of traffic incidents over the years, with road rage and disorder becoming increasingly common. While some might quickly point fingers at foreigners for causing chaos on the roads, a closer look at the situation reveals that Thais are equally, if not more, involved in these dangerous behaviors every day. In a society where traffic congestion and aggressive driving are all too common, it’s easy for the public and police to fall into the habit of blaming foreigners when incidents occur. After all, foreigners are often seen as outsiders who may not be familiar with local driving customs or traffic laws. However, the reality is much more complex. Thais are not exempt from road rage or reckless driving — in fact, many of the most dangerous and confrontational behaviors on the roads come from local drivers. While the media might focus on a foreigner causing an accident or getting into a traffic dispute, it’s important to remember that the majority of aggressive drivers are Thai. Tailgating, sudden lane changes, speeding, and road rage are behaviors that can be seen on a daily basis, regardless of the driver’s nationality. It’s not uncommon to witness drivers yelling at each other, swerving dangerously between lanes, or blocking intersections without a second thought. These behaviors are a reflection of a broader issue with driving culture in Thailand. Whether it’s a sense of entitlement or simply impatience, many drivers, both local and foreign, feel they can act however they want behind the wheel. But it’s all too easy for society to single out foreigners while ignoring the everyday madness that Thais themselves engage in on the roads. Soon, Thailand will have to bite the bullet and introduce a zero-tolerance policy for confrontational behavior on the roads. This is not just about penalizing foreigners; it’s about addressing a wider issue that affects everyone. It’s about creating a safer and more respectful driving environment for all, regardless of nationality. Many have pointed out that Thai drivers are no different when it comes to hostility and unsafe driving. As one person remarked, “The Thai drivers are not hostile or drive unsafe? Never…” It’s hard to ignore the fact that Thailand has some of the highest traffic accident rates in the world, and it’s often local drivers who contribute to these statistics. A common phrase that comes up in discussions about driving behavior in Thailand is “The empire strikes back.” This humorous but poignant comment highlights the fact that the situation is much bigger than just a few isolated incidents involving foreigners. The entire driving culture in Thailand needs to be addressed. It’s easy to blame a foreigner for an incident, but the truth is that Thais themselves have been engaging in this behavior for years, and it’s high time for the public and police to acknowledge this reality. As one observer jokingly asked, “Are you kidding?” — questioning why the issue is framed as a foreigner problem when local drivers are just as guilty of reckless behavior. This attitude reflects a deeper need for a collective effort to combat road rage and confrontational driving habits in Thailand, regardless of who is behind the wheel. In the end, addressing this problem will require not only better enforcement of traffic laws but a cultural shift towards more responsible driving and mutual respect on the road. It’s time for all drivers in Thailand to take responsibility for their actions, no matter their nationality. Until then, the blame game will continue, and the roads will remain as chaotic as ever.

Harassment of tourists at Bangkok’s Wat Suthat by illegal parking fee collectors highlights growing safety concerns and unresolved problems in Thailand’s tourism sector, undermining its global appeal. PATTAYA, Thailand – Thailand’s tourism sector, once a major economic contributor, is facing growing challenges that threaten its reputation and appeal. One key issue is the increase in criminal activities and the lack of sufficient law enforcement, as highlighted by a recent incident in central Bangkok. Tourists visiting the famous Wat Suthat, a revered temple, found themselves threatened by a group of homeless individuals demanding parking fees, 20-100 baht—fees that tourists were not supposed to pay. On April 27, tourists reported being harassed and intimidated by these individuals, who were not affiliated with the temple or local authorities but had taken control of parking spaces around the temple. Tourists who refused to pay were met with hostility, creating an unsafe atmosphere. It was also noted that the area had become a gathering place for drug users, further raising concerns about the safety of visitors, including schoolchildren and students. This issue reflects a broader problem in Thailand’s tourism infrastructure. While some efforts were made to address these problems—such as plans to improve parking and remove the illegally operated parking fee system—these initiatives have not been implemented, allowing the issue to worsen. Despite plans for meetings with local authorities and temple officials, no concrete steps were taken to resolve the situation, leading to an ongoing negative impact on the tourism experience. Thailand’s tourism faces a tough challenge as rising crime and tourist harassment tarnish its global reputation. Another contributing factor is the erratic behavior of some law enforcement officers and taxi motorcycle drivers around tourist areas. Tourists who park their vehicles beyond legal time limits (3 P.M.) are often fined immediately, and motorcycle taxi drivers offer “help” by offering to pay the fines for tourists, charging them a fee of 100-200 baht for doing so—even when the police station is just a short walk away. This exploitation adds to the frustration tourists face, damaging their trust in local authorities. These incidents and systemic failures contribute to a growing perception that Thailand’s tourism industry is not doing enough to ensure visitor safety or promote a welcoming environment. As tourism is an essential part of the country’s economy, these unresolved issues, if left unchecked, could have long-lasting negative consequences for Thailand’s global image as a tourist destination. Unresolved safety concerns and ongoing harassment undermine the experience of tourists in Thailand.   Rising crime and tourist exploitation put a damper on Thailand’s once-thriving tourism industry.

Chinese man confesses to gruesome murder of transgender woman in Pattaya, claims he wanted to ‘Play with the Corpse’. PATTAYA, Thailand — A Chinese man admitted to killing a transgender woman because she rejected his sexual advances and kicked him off the bed, April 27. In a fit of rage, he strangled her to death before claiming, “I wanted to play with and prank the corpse.” He then used scissors to mutilate her body, cutting her chest and removing her silicone implants. The victim, identified as Woranan, a transgender woman, was gruesomely murdered by Mr. Tong Yung Fu, a Chinese national. Mr. Tong slit her chest from the neck to the genital area, removed her heart, and took out the silicone implants. Her left lung was also missing, though authorities confirmed that the suspect did not touch it. The incident occurred in a rental apartment on Soi Arunothai in central Pattaya. Woranan’s body was found in the bathroom of the apartment. Afterward, Mr. Tong attempted to flee Thailand and was apprehended at Suvarnabhumi Airport while attempting to board a flight back to Kunming, China. Pattaya Police brought Mr. Tong to the Chonburi Forensic Science Division for tissue and DNA analysis, as part of the ongoing investigation. He appeared nervous and anxious, with visible scratch marks and nearly all of his face injured. Chinese man admits to killing Woranan, the transgender woman after dispute over sex, then mutilates body. Mr. Tong confessed through a translator that he met the victim, who he did not know was a transgender woman, at South Pattaya Beach. They exchanged contact information via the “WeChat” app. On the evening of April 25, they arranged to meet at Mr. Tong’s rented room. When they arrived, they agreed on a price of 8,000 baht for sex. However, when they reached the bed, the victim refused and resisted. Mr. Tong said that after the victim refused, he demanded his money back, but she refused to return it. This led to a heated argument and physical struggle. The victim allegedly kicked him off the bed. Mr. Tong then strangled her to death in a fit of rage. Once he was sure she was dead, he dragged the body into the bathroom and, with scissors he had bought earlier, began mutilating her body. He sliced her chest from the neck to the genital area, removed her heart, and took out the silicone implants. The suspect claimed that he just wanted to “play with and prank the corpse.” CCTV captures Chinese man buying equipment on April 25 at 9:20 PM before brutal attack on transgender woman — suspect claims items were for carrying personal belongings and self-defense during a night out. After cleaning the body and washing away the bloodstains, Mr. Tong left the body in the bathroom, went to sleep as usual, and then booked a flight to flee back to China. He was arrested before he could board the plane. When asked why he committed such a horrific act, Mr. Tong responded, “I don’t know, because I never went to see a doctor.” He explained that his anger escalated after the victim harmed him, leading him to lose control of his emotions. He apologized to the victim’s family for his actions and added that he had visited Thailand three times and found it to be a safe country. Regarding the equipment he bought, he claimed that he purchased it in preparation for the meeting with the victim, stating that he needed it to carry personal items since he didn’t have a suitcase. The scissors were allegedly for self-defense when going out at night. As for the missing organs, police are awaiting forensic and autopsy results to confirm if they were indeed removed, and the investigation into the case is ongoing. (TNA)

After confessing to the brutal murder of a transgender woman, the Chinese suspect is now facing serious charges. PATTAYA, Thailand – The horrifying murder case in Pattaya has left the public shaken as a Chinese man confessed to the gruesome killing of a transgender woman. The crime took place in the city, where the man, identified as 42-year-old Tongyung Fu from China, killed 25-year-old Woranan Phannacha (also known as ‘Note’), a transgender woman who had undergone sex reassignment surgery. The details of the murder are chilling. Fu admitted to violently attacking the victim after being rejected during a sexual encounter. In a fit of rage, he strangled the victim, then proceeded to stab her with scissors, slashing her chest and removing her heart and left lung. He also cut out the victim’s silicone breasts and left them outside the body. The victim’s mutilated body was later found in the guesthouse’s bathroom. The incident occurred at a guesthouse on Arunothai Street in Pattaya, Chonburi, and authorities were able to apprehend Fu at Suvarnabhumi Airport while he was attempting to flee back to China. He was brought back to Pattaya to face charges. Fu explained that the murder was a result of the victim rejecting his sexual advances and subsequently pushing him off the bed, which led to a violent outburst. He insisted that the crime was not related to organ trafficking, despite initial speculations. The victim’s father demands the death penalty for the killer. On April 27, Fu was brought to the crime scene for a reenactment of the crime. The police, led by Chonburi Provincial Police Chief Major General Thawatkiat Jindakwansanong, oversaw the reenactment, where Fu demonstrated how he committed the crime. Public interest was immense, and the police had to control the crowd during the reenactment due to the violent nature of the crime. In a heart-wrenching turn of events, Woranan’s father, Mr. Auan Phannakha, expressed his deep sorrow over the loss of his daughter, who had been a pillar of support for the family. The victim had recently built a new home for his parents. Mr. Auan shared that a fortune teller had once predicted that at the age of 60, he would lose someone dear, but he never imagined it would be his daughter. To make matters even more tragic, Woranan died on her mother’s birthday. The victim’s family is now calling for the death penalty for Fu in response to the heinous crime. Authorities have praised the police for their swift response and their successful coordination with various agencies, which led to the capture of the murderer. The case has sparked a public outcry, with many calling for justice and demanding that Fu face the full extent of the law for his horrific actions. Chinese suspect insists it was driven by anger and not organ trafficking.   The public is left in shock by the brutal nature of the crime.

Safety concerns and regional events lead to a drop in Chinese visitors, but efforts like MEGA FAM Trip aim to restore confidence. PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya is currently grappling with a significant decline in Chinese tourist arrivals, a trend that has been exacerbated by the recent kidnapping of a Chinese actress and earthquakes in the region, leading to a decline in confidence regarding safety. This decline has had a noticeable impact on both group tours and independent travelers (FIT). Thanet Suphasaharangsi, President of the Association of Chonburi Tourism Federation (ACTF), revealed that in March, only 300,000 Chinese tourists visited Thailand, whereas Vietnam welcomed 670,000 Chinese tourists, surpassing Thailand for the first time in the Chinese tourist market. This shift is attributed to improved safety perceptions and the greater readiness of Vietnam’s infrastructure and facilities. The decline in tourists is not limited to China; the South Korean market has also seen a 30% drop in the first quarter of this year. Additionally, the Russian market, while showing some recovery, has seen tourists shifting their flights to Vietnam instead. To address this, the Chonburi Tourism Federation, in collaboration with various associations, has proposed an urgent action plan with three key strategies: MEGA FAM Trip: Inviting 400 Chinese agents and media representatives to visit Thailand to rebuild confidence. Charter Flights: Offering over 1,000 chartered flights from various cities in China with support conditions if the flights are at least 80% full. Expansion to Korea and Russia: Extending similar programs to these markets to boost travel to Thailand. The proposals are currently being coordinated with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and will soon be presented to the government for support, with the goal of driving recovery in the coming quarter. With Chinese and Korean tourist numbers down, Pattaya seeks recovery through strategic initiatives like charter flights and promotional trips, said Thanet. The decline in Chinese and other international tourists leads to urgent plans to boost travel and restore trust in Thailand’s safety.   With new initiatives and partnerships, Pattaya works to recover from a slump in tourism and rebuild visitor confidence.