BANGKOK, 1 October 2013 – The Association of Domestic Travel has predicted that a number of Thais will cut down on their traveling during the Chinese vegetarian festival this year, thanks to the high cost of living.
According to President of the Association of Domestic Travel Yuthachai Sunthornrattanawet, domestic tourism will likely decline during the coming vegetarian season, especially tour groups and free independent tourists (FIT), which have been predicted to drop by 20% and 30% respectively.
Low public relations activities and the Thai economic slowdown have led to higher spending and cost of living. As a result, a great number of people have decided to enjoy vegetarian food at home or in nearby places, Mr Yuthachai said.
Meanwhile, Vice President of the Phuket Tourism Association Phurit Maswongs said the number of tourist arrivals during the Chinese vegetarian festival in Phuket this year will likely be the same as that in 2012, adding that the overall tourism in the province would still grow judging from hotel reservations of 75% for this year’s high season.
