Undeterred by August’s Bangkok bombings and recent reports of the rape and accidental death their countrymen in Pattaya, Chinese tourists continue to flock to the area and in particular, Koh Larn.
The island has become a popular option for holidaymakers buzzing daily with ferries and speedboats packed with tourists, particularly the Chinese who’ve supplanted Russians this year in Pattaya.
Business is booming with Chinese tourists going to Koh Larn, and the speedboats that take them there.
Koh Larn offers beautiful scenery and cleaner beaches for people who like to snorkel, swim, sunbathe or just hang out around the area and enjoy the breeze. Restaurants and most other business vendors in Koh Larn are doing well while most places on the mainland are suffering.
Koh Larn beaches have full facilities including restrooms and showers, and there are also many restaurants that serve up delicious fresh seafood.
There are many resorts on the island and they have a variety of options, from budget rooms to luxury accommodations. While room rates are a little higher on the island than in Pattaya or Jomtien, it is well worth the experience of spending the night.
Tourism Authority of Thailand Pattaya office Director Suladda Sarutilavan said the number of Chinese tourists in Pattaya has grown more than 100% year-on-year in the past three months. Even more are expected next year.
TAT, however, is aware of the “Zero Coin Tours” that attract low-end tourists who spend nothing locally and do little to boost Pattaya’s economy.
She said 4.6 million Chinese have arrived in Thailand this year, and TAT in 2016 is predicting up to 7 million mainland travelers.
