Hotel operators have mixed feelings over travel for the two upcoming long holidays in July as the spike in Covid infections and oil prices continue to impact tourism.
The Thai Hotels Association said the fuel cost from Bangkok to Hua Hin previously was 1,300-1,500 baht per trip, but it has increased to 2,300-2,500 baht. Combined with rising living costs, locals are even more price conscious.
The average occupancy rate in Hua Hin during the next holiday on July 13-17 should reach 65-75%, while the occupancy this month is expected at 50-55%.
Hotels currently had only 20-30% advanced booking for the remaining holiday in the final week this month.
Moreover, local tourists with purchasing power have turned to Vietnam or Singapore during the long weekend.
Around 5% of guests had to cancel or postpone their trips recently after testing positive for the virus.
Hotels in Pattaya should see at least 70% occupancy for the upcoming long weekend, while occupancy in July might be close at 60-70%.
Occupancy in Chiang Mai during the five-day weekend would be around 45-50%, rising from 20% last month.
