Martial Law, followed by
a curfew, and both done during the slow season equals empty beaches in
Pattaya.
Boonlua Chatree
When, on May 20, Army Gen. Prayuth Chan-ocha signed the order
declaring martial law in the kingdom, Pattaya’s tourist exodus began. By
the time the coup became official two days later, Pattaya Beach was
desolate and only a few Thai and international tourists could be found.
A beach chair vendor pointed her finger squarely at political unrest as
the reason for the empty beach. The upheaval only exacerbated the slow,
low season.
The vendor expressed the wish that the country return to normal so
tourists believe Thailand is a safe country. If the military rule lasts
too long, the country’s image and culture will be hurt, the vendor said.
