No Bathing Trip but lots of noise as safety ride becomes a gamble (videos)

The Phetchabun Provincial Transport Department and police emphasised safety improvement in the controversial motorcycle trip, known as the No Bathing Trip as only one death was reported. However, gambling, fake banknotes, and loud noises continued to make headlines.

A group of more than 6,000 motorcyclists and their followers, led by the YouTuber May Rai Ratchada, held their annual No Bathing Trip on November 23 and 24, visiting two tourist attractions in Phetchabun: Phu Thap Buek and Khao Kho.

The trip sparked controversy on Thai social media, as it does every year. Some argued that the large group could boost the province’s economy and tourism while others criticised the participants for their modified motorcycles and violations of traffic laws.

Many local vendors welcomed the group, as the influx of visitors increased sales. However, others disagreed, with numerous negative reports about the group circulating online.

Some netizens claimed the group caused excessive noise, with disturbances continuing past 10pm each night and engines revving as early as 3am. One woman lamented that her peaceful holiday in the area was disrupted by the group.

Some domestic tourists who booked accommodation to enjoy the winter atmosphere decided to cancel their reservations or put them up for resale to avoid the gang.

During the trip, one motorcyclist reportedly crashed into a monk while another was accused of using a counterfeit 1,000-baht bill to buy items. Some were reportedly gambling in their accommodations. Many participants were also caught using drugs or drinking alcohol while driving.

Despite these issues, the Phetchabun Provincial Transport Department and local police insisted that this year’s event showed improvements compared to previous years. Among the more than 6,000 motorcycles, police recorded 453 traffic violations.

Only five road accidents were reported during the event, resulting in one fatality. The deceased motorcyclist reportedly died en route to Phetchabun.

After this year’s event concluded, many Thai netizens and locals raised a question to the relevant department about whether the event should continue in future years.

Police urged anyone who found the No Bathing Trip inappropriate to discuss the matter with the provincial government departments that permitted the activity.