Thailand’s 5-Star hotels squeeze small operators with discounts


In this file photo taken on September 30, 2020 a lone customer walks past a swimming pool at the Vijitt Resort in Phuket, which has seen a lack of tourists due to ongoing restrictions relating to the l coronavirus. - AFP

BANGKOK, March 9 (Bloomberg): A stunning plunge in international visitors during the pandemic has been a disaster for Thailand’s tourism industry, decimating the ranks of small operators and leaving the landscape dominated by luxury hotels.

"Most hotels in key tourist destinations, such as Phuket and Samui, have been hit hardest, with some 80% of those hotels remaining closed since the first lockdown last year,” Marisa Sukosol Nunbhakdi, president of the Thai Hotels Association, told Bloomberg TV on Tuesday.

Unlock 30% Savings on Ad-Free Access Now!

Monthly Plan

RM13.90/month
RM9.73 only

Billed as RM9.73 for the 1st month then RM13.90 thereafters.

Annual Plan

RM12.33/month
RM8.63/month

Billed as RM103.60 for the 1st year then RM148 thereafters.

1 month

Free Trial

For new subscribers only


Cancel anytime. No ads. Auto-renewal. Unlimited access to the web and app. Personalised features. Members rewards.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Others Also Read


Want to listen to full audio?

Unlock unlimited access to enjoy personalise features on the TheStar.com.my

Already a member? Log In