The Phuket Periodical - 0116 - 04.05.2025

The "Spout Free'' Issue

May 04, 2025

Sawadee Khrab Dear Reader,

Every week seems to bring more rain and more public holidays a common occurrence at this time of year, it feel like the island is on the verge of entering hibernation again with rainy season just around the corner.…

... On with the news.

Naked Ned

thank goodness for the handlly located censor sign

A drunk foreign tourist caused outrage in Phuket Town after being filmed walking naked through the streets. The incident, captured on video and shared online, prompted locals to voice concerns about the behaviour of visa-free tourists.

The intoxicated British man was seen strolling along Rattanakosin 200 Years Road, seemingly oblivious to the public attention. Locals expressed frustration, questioning the impact of the visa-free policy and calling for action against such disrespectful behaviour.

Netizens condemned the tourist's actions, with some suggesting stricter controls and better screening of visitors. The incident is the latest in a series of inappropriate acts by tourists in Thailand, including nude photos at sacred sites and public sexual activity.

Trouble Ahead

Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has acknowledged that the country's ambitious tourism targets for 2025 are falling short, citing a confluence of global economic uncertainties, regional instability following the Myanmar earthquake, and domestic safety concerns impacting Chinese arrivals.

In a social media statement, she called for urgent discussions with the Tourism Minister to devise innovative campaigns to stimulate tourism during the low season.¹ The shortfall is significant, with international arrivals showing only a marginal increase.

The government is exploring alternative markets and focusing on attracting higher-spending tourists.² Efforts are also underway to restore confidence among Chinese visitors through enhanced security measures and diplomatic engagement.³ Infrastructure improvements and streamlined visa processes are also part of the strategy to revive the struggling sector.

Expect exciting ‘soft power’ initiatives in the coming days.

Happy

Despite prevailing economic anxieties and global uncertainties, Thailand has registered a notable improvement in its citizens' well-being, climbing nine places to secure seventh position globally in the 2025 IPSOS Global Happiness Index. The survey, conducted across 30 nations, indicated that the vast majority of Thais report a good level of happiness, with only a small fraction expressing deep unhappiness.

Within Asia, Thailand now ranks third. Key factors contributing to this positive sentiment include strong family bonds, feelings of love and acceptance, and a sense of control over one's life. The government has acknowledged these findings and reaffirmed its commitment to bolstering public health and economic stability to further enhance national well-being amidst ongoing global challenges.

Arrival Survival

Thailand has officially launched its Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), a mandatory online immigration form replacing the paper-based TM6 for all foreign arrivals by air, land, or sea. The system, requiring pre-arrival submission of personal and travel details, aims to streamline immigration and enhance security.

The first day of implementation saw mixed results at entry points like Suvarnabhumi Airport. Travellers who completed the TDAC in advance experienced smoother processing, but others faced delays due to last-minute registration or unfamiliarity. Help points were established to assist, though queues formed.

Public reaction on social media showed cautious optimism, with some praising the move towards a paperless system, while others expressed concerns about accessibility for all travellers. The government has promised ongoing support and multilingual guides to ease the transition.

The Phuket Periodical