Monday, September 16, 2024 Phuket’s Overtourism Dilemma: The Battle Between Popularity and Sustainability Phuket, Thailand, now finds itself at the forefront of the global overtourism crisis. Once a peaceful paradise, this island now faces overcrowding with a jaw-dropping ratio of 118 tourists for every local resident. Known for its stunning beaches like Kata and Karon, along with its lively Patong nightlife, Phuket has witnessed a massive influx of tourists since global travel resumed after the COVID-19 pandemic.
While this boom has sparked economic recovery, it has also placed immense strain on the island’s infrastructure and environment. Overtourism’s Rise in Phuket As travel restrictions eased, Phuket became a go-to destination for tourists eager to make up for lost travel time. This surge, particularly in popular spots such as Patong Beach, has overwhelmed the island, turning once peaceful getaways into crowded hubs.
The rapid increase in visitor numbers has created severe pressure on Phuket’s infrastructure, with roads, water supplies, and waste management systems struggling to meet the demands of the tourist population. How Phuket is Tackling the Overtourism Crisis In response to these challenges, Thailand introduced a 300-baht tourist tax aimed at curbing overtourism and funding the island’s infrastructure improvements. Similar to measures adopted by cities like Venice, this tax is designed to manage visitor flow and promote sustainability.
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