Martial Law, followed by a curfew, and both done during the slow season equals empty beaches in Pattaya.
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.
Martial Law, followed by a curfew, and both done during the slow season equals empty beaches in Pattaya.
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.
