Thailand: Tourist tax: A solution against overtourism?

Thai tour operators are urging the government to implement a 300 baht tourist tax to combat overtourism. This move takes cues from similar initiatives seen elsewhere. Popular Thai destinations like Phuket, Samui, and Pattaya are nearing saturation. The Federation of Tourism Associations suggests redirecting tourists to lesser-known cities and developing tourism infrastructure there. Funds collected would be reinvested for this purpose.

Authorization in Thailand: Opium and Hallucinogenic Mushrooms: A New Medical Frontier?

The Thai Ministry has officially authorized the use of opium and psilocybin mushrooms, previously classified as Category 5 narcotics, as part of its strategy to become a medical research hub. This decision follows a pilot project aimed at cultivating these substances experimentally to reduce dependence on imported morphine and antidepressants. Psilocybin mushrooms, also known as “magic mushrooms,” show therapeutic potential in treating various psychological disorders, while opium, used for its analgesic properties, could enable Thailand to become its own supplier and potentially export.

Thailand: Songkran Festival 2024 Review: Positive Impact on Tourism

This year’s Songkran festival in Thailand brought in approximately 140 billion baht in tourist revenue, with 1.9 million foreign tourists visiting the country during the three-week celebration. Revenue exceeded forecasts, reaching 140.335 billion baht. Government measures such as visa exemptions and the cancellation of certain immigration forms contributed to the increase in foreign tourist arrivals. The top ten countries supplying tourists were China, Malaysia, India, Russia, South Korea, Laos, the United Kingdom, Taiwan, the United States, and Indonesia. Thais also traveled during this period, generating 50.12 billion baht.