Tourists evicted from makeshift camp on Patong Beach, Phuket

An unexpected event unfolded on the sandy shores of Patong Beach when a group of international tourists found themselves in a bit of a pickle with the local authorities. Having set up a makeshift camp, complete with a tent on the beach, they were informed by the Phuket Tourist Police that such arrangements were simply not allowed.

The incident came to light on Sunday, December 10, when complaints were made about the group’s unique choice of accommodation. Swift to respond, the Phuket Tourist Police, backed by officials from the Patong Police Station and local municipal representatives, addressed the situation. The unsuspecting tourists were politely informed that their beach campsite was inappropriate and were advised to seek alternative lodging.

An online post released by the Phuket Tourist Police confirmed that the group had been directed towards finding new accommodations. It seems the allure of the beach had been too tempting for the foreigners who decided to pitch their tent on the picturesque beach.

The timing of the occurrence was rather significant. This past weekend, Phuket was alive with the vibrant Phuket Carnival in Patong. The event, which kicked off on Friday, drew thousands of people to the area for an array of live concerts and energetic electronic dance music (EDM) performances headlined by renowned DJs.

Ratchadaphon O-in, the head of the Phuket office of the Ministry of Tourism & Sports, disclosed some interesting facts about the visitor influx to the island. According to her, nearly 40,000 to 50,000 domestic and international travellers passed through Phuket International Airport each day since the start of the long weekend (December 9-December 11).

It appears that a large number of these tourists were not just drawn to the carnival but also to the charm of Phuket Town. The unfortunate group of tourists who found themselves in a bit of a dilemma were, in all likelihood, among those attracted by the allure of the festival and the town’s enchanting appeal, reported Phuket News.