Phuket must prioritise quality over quantity in its tourism strategy. By attracting high-value visitors who appreciate the island’s unique offerings, Phuket can ensure a sustainable future for its tourism industry, environment, and cultural heritage.
THE ALLURE AND ALLURE’S COST: A DOUBLE-EDGED SWORD
Tourism undeniably fuels Phuket’s economy. It provides jobs for thousands of locals, generates revenue for businesses and contributes significantly to Thailand’s GDP. During the COVID pandemic, the island suffered harshly due to a lack of visitors and their spending ‒ as Phuket’s tourism industry contracted by 85%.
At the time of the pandemic, there were calls from all sides for the island to rebuild its tourism with an emphasis on quality over quantity. However, as is evident by the just-completed high season the sheer volume of tourists has pushed the island beyond its capacity. Overcrowded beaches, strained infrastructure and polluted waterways paint a stark picture of the consequences of unchecked growth.
THE ENVIRONMENTAL TOLL
Mass tourism leads to increased waste generation, both on land and at sea. Plastic pollution which is so rife in Thailand with no restraints on single-use items chokes coral reefs, while improper waste disposal contaminates water sources and disrupts local ecosystems. Uncontrolled development to accommodate tourist influx destroys natural habitats and displaces native wildlife.
INFRASTRUCTURE UNDER PRESSURE
The island’s transportation network is straining at the seams to cope with the constant influx of visitors. Traffic congestion plagues major roads, with lines of tourist minibuses and irate taxi drivers blocking the island’s major arteries, tied with woefully insufficient public transport options force reliance on private vehicles, further exacerbating the problem. Water and electricity infrastructure also feels the strain, with frequent shortages and disruptions becoming a reality.
A DILUTION OF CULTURE
The character of Phuket is slowly being eroded by mass tourism. Local traditions and customs are often commercialised to cater to tourists’ expectations, leading to a loss of authenticity. The focus shifts from cultural immersion to mass-produced experiences, diminishing the very essence that makes Phuket unique. The huge residential development of most areas has led to rows and rows of white concrete squares and rectangles with no significant Thai design aspect.
LEARNING FROM OTHERS: A GLOBAL TREND
Phuket isn’t alone in facing these challenges. Popular tourist destinations worldwide, from Venice to Amsterdam, are grappling with the negative impacts of mass tourism. In response, many are implementing strategies to promote quality over quantity. Amsterdam, for instance, has enacted a ban on new hotels within the city centre to curb overcrowding. There have been protests by locals in the Canary Islands over the past few weeks about the region’s policy toward tourists, with a desire to move to a more sustainable model. These examples serve as valuable lessons for Phuket.
THE PATH TO SUSTAINABLE PARADISE: EMBRACING QUALITY TOURISM
The solution lies in a paradigm shift. Phuket’s tourism industry needs to focus on attracting discerning travellers who value authentic experiences and responsible practices. This shift has numerous benefits:
- Reduced Environmental Impact: Fewer tourists translate into less waste generation and a lower ecological footprint. Eco-friendly tourism practices can be nurtured, from promoting responsible waste disposal to supporting sustainable businesses.
- Revitalised Infrastructure: With a smaller tourist base, infrastructure can breathe a sigh of relief. Traffic congestion can be eased, and resources can be reallocated to improve existing infrastructure and develop sustainable transportation options.
- Preserving Cultural Heritage: Focusing on quality tourism encourages interaction with local communities and appreciation for their traditions. This leads to a more authentic cultural experience for visitors and fosters respect for the island’s heritage.
- Economic Benefits Retained: High-value visitors often spend more on experiences, local crafts and quality accommodations. This ensures that the economic benefits of tourism reach a broader spectrum, benefiting local businesses and communities. This is not always a simple swap, we can’t imagine many taxi drivers will look to retrain to serve higher-end quality tourists rather than their current ‘easy option’.
IMPLEMENTING THE SHIFT: A MULTI-PRONGED APPROACH
Shifting to quality tourism requires a multi-pronged approach, encompassing government regulations, industry initiatives, and tourist education:
- Government Regulation: The government can play a crucial role by implementing regulations to limit tourist numbers, incentivise sustainable practices and discourage harmful activities. Zoning restrictions can protect natural areas, while regulations on waste disposal and water usage can promote responsible tourism.
- Industry Initiatives: The tourism industry itself needs to embrace the change. Hotels, restaurants, and travel agencies can collaborate to offer eco-friendly tours, promote local culture and prioritise responsible practices. Certification programs that recognise sustainable businesses can provide valuable incentives.
- Tourist Education: Educating tourists about the island’s environmental and cultural sensitivities is crucial. Information campaigns can highlight responsible behaviour, promote sustainable choices and encourage visitors to respect local customs.
EMBRACING A BRIGHTER FUTURE
The island feels like it is at breaking point and now is the time to make a change and try to strike a balance between tourism and sustainability. By prioritising quality over quantity, the island can preserve its natural splendour, safeguard its cultural heritage and ensure economic prosperity for generations to come. A shift towards quality tourism isn’t just about protecting the environment – it’s about protecting the very soul of Phuket.
Simon Causton is a long-time Phuket resident, founder of Citadel Phuket and author of ‘The Phuket Periodical’ newsletter. X (Twitter): @SimonCauston