Survey of tourists highlights problems

PHUKET: The Provincial Government is to look at ways of improving certain aspects of tourism on the island, following a survey of foreign tourists’ attitudes before and after visiting Thailand. The survey, conducted in Phuket by Sasirat Tanapanpanis of the local branch of the Office of Educational, Religious and Cultural Development, spotlighted the following five main problems, in descending order of importance: · Garbage in tourist areas; · Destruction of the natural environment; · Erratic pricing of goods and services; · Poor language abilities of people in the tourism industry; and · Pollution, particularly in Bangkok. Other negative feedback from the tourists concerned traffic and dangerous driving; deception by traders; drug addiction and AIDS management; the cost of transport; and security of life and possessions. On the positive side, the 340 Western and Asian tourists were impressed by Thai friendliness and helpfulness; the beauty of the landscape, particularly the beaches and islands; Thai art and culture; and the quality of hotels and resorts.