Songkran hotel bookings in Hat Yai hit 60% amid fuel worries

2026-03-25 - 11:00

HAT YAI — Hotel bookings in Hat Yai for the upcoming Songkran festival have reached around 50–60 percent, driven largely by visitors from Malaysia and Singapore, though concerns over potential fuel shortages are prompting some cancellations. Sompol Cheewattapong, adviser to the Songkhla Tourism Industry Council, said Songkran celebrations in Hat Yai from 10–14 April are expected to draw tens of thousands of tourists each year, generating 400–500 million baht in revenue. Key venues include Hat Yai, Dan Nok in Sadao district, and Muang Songkhla, with activities ranging from water splashing and merit-making to stage performances. He said bookings have already exceeded 50 percent and called on the Tourism Authority of Thailand to step up international promotion, as the festival is seen as a crucial opportunity to revive the local economy following severe flooding late last year. Sittipong Sittiyakrapapha, president of the Hat Yai–Songkhla Hotel Association, said foreign bookings have reached 50–60 percent but remain unstable due to concerns linked to the Middle East conflict, particularly fears of fuel shortages and price volatility in Thailand. Some tourists have reportedly cancelled reservations amid uncertainty, prompting operators to urge the government to reassure visitors that fuel supplies remain sufficient during the Songkran period.