Tourist turmoil: DoT’s legal action unfolds in online saga #คัลแลนพี่จอง

The Department of Tourism (DoT) is set to take legal action against a tour company and an unlicensed guide involved in a recent online drama that escalated under the hashtag #คัลแลนพี่จอง. The incident, which spurred widespread criticism on social media, involved a tour guide taking two YouTubers, known as Kallan and Pi Jhong, on a trip that was featured in their latest episode titled Chumphon Day3.

On April 9, the Director-General of the DoT, Jaturn Pookpanich, stated that as the supervisory body for tour companies and guides, the department had ordered a regional office to investigate the matter. It was found that the tour company’s business license had expired on October 3, 2022, and the female guide appearing in the media did not possess a valid tour guide license.

This constitutes a violation of the Tourism Business and Guide Act, which can result in a fine of up to 500,000 baht or imprisonment for up to two years, or both, for operating a tour without a license. Similarly, acting as a guide without proper licensing could lead to a fine of up to 100,000 baht or imprisonment for up to one year, or both.

The Southern Region Office of the Department of Tourism is now expediting the collection of evidence to proceed with legal action. This announcement follows a statement by the tour company apologising for the incident, clarifying that the individual accompanying Kallan and Pi Jhong was not a guide but a deckhand.

Additionally, the woman in charge of the duo’s care, along with another companion named Dan, posted an apology, admitting to inappropriate behaviour without any ulterior motives, reported KhaoSod.

This enforcement action by the DoT underscores the importance of adhering to legal requirements in the tour and guide industry, which is essential for maintaining standards and ensuring the safety and satisfaction of tourists. The incident also highlights the role of social media in bringing such issues to light and the swift response of the relevant authorities to uphold the industry’s integrity.