As flood waters seep into Bangkok, Pattaya hotels have become refuges for disaster victims and the Tourism Authority of Thailand and Thai Hotels Association are working to ensure displaced families can find temporary quarters at discounted rates.
More than 40 area hotels set aside rooms at special rates for victims of the flooding disaster even as the two associations tried to reassure international travel agents the city is still able to accommodate high-season tourists.
Athapol Wanakit, director of TAT, Pattaya Office.
“At the moment, hotels, resorts and various accommodation venues are being recruited to offer pricing to help alleviate troubles for victims in finding a room for either three nights, a week or a month,” said TAT Pattaya Office Director Athapol Wanakit.
Nearly 40 hotels have offered more than 500 rooms at discounted rates for victims. While Athapol said he believes the quantity of available rooms will be sufficient, “prior booking is a must.” Hotels of all price ranges are available, but a minimum stay of three nights is required.
With Thailand’s floods making news worldwide, tourists abroad are concerned Pattaya also may be impacted by the crisis. TAT officials are working hard to dispel the false perception Pattaya has been flooded as well.
“As a tourism destination not directly affected by the current natural disaster in Thailand, Pattaya has an airport ready to service tourists by arriving straight to U-Tapao Pattaya International Airport,” Athapol said. “We are clarifying for tourists and international agents which locations are flood-impacted and the efficiency of travelling to the city.”
Athapol said it was also important to clarify that Pattaya has more than 50,000 rooms to offer tourists and that the city offers many attractions and amenities not impacted by flooding, such as shopping malls, golf courses, health spas and restaurants.
Information on participating hotels is available contacting TAT’s Pattaya office at 038-427-667,or 038-428-750.
