YALA, Thailand — Tourism in the southern Thai border town of Betong has surged during the Malaysian school holidays and the year-end festive period, with spending estimated at more than 20 million baht ($570,000).
On December 26, crowds of Malaysian tourists were seen crossing into Thailand at the Betong border checkpoint in Yala province, many travelling with their children during the mid-term school break in Malaysia and the run-up to the New Year. The influx has brought a lively atmosphere to the town, with hotels, restaurants and shops reporting brisk business.
Visitors have been travelling with their families to Betong’s tourist attractions, shopping at local stores and street food stalls, and buying Thai dishes and traditional snacks. Local vendors said Malaysian tourists continue to return for the distinctive flavours of southern Thai cuisine.
Many visitors also travel to Aiyerweng to experience the cool weather and view the sea of mist and sunrise in the early morning, before heading on to take boat trips through the Hala–Bala forest area. The trips offer views of rivers, mountains and wildlife along the Hala–Bala waterways. Tourists also take the opportunity to visit temples and make merit as part of New Year traditions.
Naratep “Seng” Weeramutikrai, 64, owner of Seng Dim Sum restaurant, said the Malaysian school holidays and the year-end festive season have drawn large numbers of families to Betong.
“The town is very lively. Parents bring their children to travel, eat and shop here, which has increased income for local traders,” he said.
He added that tourists from Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand have been visiting Betong in large numbers during the year-end period, with many hotels and accommodation fully booked through to February next year.
Local businesses said visitors have been spending on food, souvenirs and travel to nearby attractions, helping to steadily improve the local economy. Authorities estimate that spending in Betong during this period has exceeded 20 million baht.
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