Monday, September 16, 2024 Phuket, once a serene paradise, now battles overtourism as record-breaking visitor numbers overwhelm its infrastructure, pushing the island to seek sustainable solutions. Phuket’s transformation from a tranquil island paradise to one of the world’s most congested tourist destinations is alarming. With tourists now outnumbering locals by an astonishing 118 to 1, the island, renowned for its beautiful beaches like Kata and Karon, as well as its vibrant nightlife in Patong, has struggled to cope with the post-pandemic surge in visitors.
While tourism has breathed life back into the economy, it has also strained the island’s infrastructure and environment. Overtourism in Phuket became glaringly evident as global travel rebounded following the COVID-19 lockdowns. Eager to compensate for lost time, tourists flooded popular destinations, and Phuket was no exception.
The sheer number of visitors, especially in hotspots like Patong Beach, has led to severe overcrowding, robbing the island of its once-peaceful allure. Although the tourism surge has been a boon for businesses, it has also exposed the island’s crumbling infrastructure. Roads, water supplies, and waste management systems are all struggling under the weight of increased demand, sparking concerns about sustainability and Phuket’s future as a top destination.
In response to the overwhelming influx, Thailand recently implemented a 300-baht tourist fee to manage the crowds and fund infrastr.