However, Wittaya notes that visitor spending has yet to bounce back to its pre-pandemic zeal, which ranged from 5,000 to 6,000 baht per person per day. Currently, it hovers around a modest 3,000 baht per day. Despite this, Hat Yai continues to be a popular haunt for travelers, especially those from Malaysia, who flock here on Fridays and Saturdays. The downside? Accommodation scarcity, particularly during long weekends or extended vacations, has been a persistent issue ever since over 20 hotels of varied sizes shuttered their doors due to the pandemic’s fallout.
An industry insider has shed light on the challenges faced by hotel operators in Hat Yai, ranging from hotels and guesthouses to apartments and residences. Many struggle to fill reservations because of the limited number of available rooms. When rooms do exist, they come with a heftier price tag, adding another layer of complexity for visitors.
In response to this situation, the Hat Yai-Songkhla Hotels Association, which boasts over 100 members, has initiated measures to stabilize the market. According to its president, Sitthipong Sitthiphataraprabha, a minimum price has been established to maintain market standards and avoid disputes with tour operators. “We’re also focusing on elevating service quality, facilitation, and room availability,” stated Mr. Sitthipong.
This year, five new hotels, each boasting 70 to 80 rooms, will debut, providing a much-needed solution to the accommodation crunch in Hat Yai. The total investment for these establishments touches nearly one billion baht, a clear signal of the city’s commitment to addressing the issue head-on.
Looking ahead, more hotels are planned over the next two years, set to add over 1,000 rooms to cater to Hat Yai’s surging tourist demands. Mr. Sitthipong also pointed out the association’s keen desire for government intervention to develop Ban Dan Nok—a border town in Sadao district—into Dan Nok City, with special administrative status. Such a makeover could potentially supercharge the tourism industry along the Thai-Malaysian border in Songkhla.
On the policy front, the association has been advocating for special legal measures to promote tourism. Among these, extending pub operating hours to 4 a.m. in tourist hotspots like Patong Beach in Phuket and Koh Samui in Surat Thani has been proposed. “Such moves could significantly amplify the economic value of money spent by international tourists,” Mr. Sitthipong added.
As the year draws to a close, Hat Yai is gearing up for a landmark transformation. With these new accommodations in place, the whimsical charm and vibrant allure of this district are set to attract more tourists, both domestic and international, promising a brighter and busier future for this beloved travel destination.
Great news for Hat Yai! But I’m skeptical about the long-term benefits. Will these new hotels really solve the problem?
I think they will help! More rooms mean more tourists, right?
True, but if tourist spending is still low, will it really make a difference? We need more to boost the local economy.
Nadia, you have a point. But let’s give it a chance. Sometimes, infrastructure improvements can spur more spending.
Also, construction jobs will boost local employment!
Hat Yai needs more diverse attractions to keep tourists spending. Just building hotels isn’t enough.
Absolutely. Maybe they could develop more cultural experiences or adventure activities?
Yes! And culinary tourism. Food always brings people back.
Isn’t it concerning that accommodation prices are already high? Adding more rooms won’t necessarily lower them.
Good point, Adam. Tourism policies should also focus on affordability. High prices could scare tourists away.
Exactly, Amara. Balancing quality and affordability is key.
Why aren’t they investing in long-term sustainable tourism? More hotels could mean more strain on local resources.
I’m glad more hotels are coming. I had trouble finding a place to stay last time!
That’s exactly the problem they’re trying to fix. Hopefully, it’ll be easier now.
Finding a place is one thing, but will it still be reasonable in cost?
I hope the government supports these initiatives. Transforming Ban Dan Nok into Dan Nok City sounds promising.
Extending pub hours to 4 a.m. is a bad idea. It can lead to more crime and noise issues.
Or it could bring in more revenue from night owls looking to spend money!
User123, we have to balance economic benefits with community concerns. Both points are valid.
I’m curious about the new hotels’ service quality. They’d better focus on top-notch hospitality.
How about the environmental impact of these new hotels? Nobody seems to be talking about sustainability.
Good point. Increased tourism could mean more waste and pollution.
More hotels are great, but what about local business promotion? Tourists should be encouraged to explore local shops and eateries.