Thailand’s southern province of Surat Thani saw a wave of tourism income generated during the Songkran holiday. Many tourists came to the province for the famous Full Moon Party on Kho Pha Ngan, among other tourist attractions. Tourism officials said the province gathered up a total of 895.7 million baht from 83,000 visitors between April 13-17.
The income is up by 84% from last year. About 76% of the money was spent on Koh Samui, Koh Pha Ngan and Koh Tao, according to the Surat Thani director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand. The director said the province’s success during the holiday could be credited to allowing fully vaccinated tourists to attend festive activities, as well as government subsidies for local travellers.
The number of visitors reportedly jumped by 47% from last year, up 14.5% for Thai visitors, and 783% for foreign visitors. There were 20 to 30 flights and 17 ferry trips to Koh Samui each day of the holiday.
Historically, the Full Moon Party was held on the night of, before, or after every full moon. But until Saturday, it hadn’t been held in full since the Covid-19 pandemic first broke out two years ago. This year, the party co-incided with Songkran and Easter, making it a popular destination for people who had the time off and wanted to welcome back the iconic beach party.
Eight more Full Moon Parties are planned on Koh Pha Ngan this year, the next one May 16. Watch a video from a Full Moon Party reveller below…
SOURCE: Bangkok Post