1. Panellists Matthew Fryar, Simon Angove, and Brendon Meppem discuss key challenges and opportunities shaping Pattaya’s tourism future. PATTAYA, Thailand – On Friday, June 13, the British Chamber of Commerce Thailand (BCCT) hosted a high-level panel discussion at the Holiday Inn Pattaya, attracting leading voices from the hotel, tourism, property, and hospitality sectors operating in Thailand’s fast-developing Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). The event was moderated in an engaging and forward-looking manner, as three respected general managers took to the stage to share practical insights and strategic forecasts: Matthew Fryar, GM of Avani Pattaya; Simon Angove, GM of Pullman Pattaya Hotel G; and Brendon Meppem, Regional GM for IHG Hotels & Resorts in Thailand Central and GM of Holiday Inn Pattaya. The discussion addressed 12 core themes shaping the region’s tourism recovery and long-term trajectory. Topics ranged from emerging traveller profiles and domestic travel shifts to short-haul market potential, key trends, and the future hotel pipeline through 2030. The conversation also touched on investment outlooks, infrastructure developments like the expansion of U-Tapao Airport, and event-driven tourism, including the rising interest in golf tourism and year-round destination positioning for Pattaya and nearby areas. All three panellists agreed that while Pattaya faces challenges—including a shortfall in domestic travel, increased competition, and outdated perceptions spread online—the region remains well-positioned for sustainable growth. They emphasized the importance of product differentiation, staff development, and maintaining strong public-private collaboration, including good working ties with Pattaya City officials and the mayor. Local business leaders and hospitality professionals participate in an interactive Q&A on travel trends, infrastructure, and market dynamics. The projected increase in international hotel brands over the next five years, potentially extending down the coastline to Bang Saray, was another highlight of the session. Panellists noted that this trend underscores the need to improve urban infrastructure, embrace data-led decision making, and meet evolving consumer expectations with better experiences and value-driven offerings. Audience members—ranging from local entrepreneurs and property developers to regional tourism experts—actively engaged in the Q&A segment, raising key concerns about policy clarity, overdevelopment risks, and how to preserve Pattaya’s competitiveness amid shifting global travel patterns. The evening concluded with a warm and relaxed networking reception, complete with fine food, wines, and local brews, fostering new relationships and continued dialogue among attendees. A heartfelt thanks was extended to Greg Watkins MBE, Executive Director of BCCT, as well as to the outstanding staff of the Holiday Inn Pattaya and all participating panellists. Their candour and shared commitment to the EEC’s future offered a clear message: while challenges persist, collaboration, innovation, and honest dialogue remain key to driving sustainable success in Pattaya’s evolving travel and tourism landscape. Guests enjoy post-panel refreshments while building valuable connections within the EEC tourism and hospitality community.   BCCT Executive Director Greg Watkins MBE thanks speakers and attendees for supporting a shared vision for sustainable growth in the region.