Thailand restricts tourists on Similan

THE SIMILAN islands are one of the best-known island groups off the coast of Thailand and Myanmar.

Located 80 kilometres northwest of Phuket in the Andaman Sea, the area is best known for its corals and marine life – landmarks that have suffered in recent years under increasing tourism.

That’s why officials have banned overnight tourist stays on the popular islands, as the government takes another step towards tackling environmental problems caused by mass tourism.

The ban covers all overnight stays except for those operated by certain licensed deep-sea diving tour companies, according to the Royal Gazette. Day trips will still be permitted.

Thailand’s booming tourism industry, which contributes to more than 20% of the country’s gross domestic product, has seen a constant rise in tourist numbers, from 32 million visitors in 2016 to 35 million in 2017, and an estimated 38 million this year.

The latest ban follows the closure in June of Maya Bay, popularised by the 2000 Hollywood movie The Beach.

In late September, the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation resolved to indefinitely close Maya Bay until damaged corals in the area are fully rehabilitated.

The pristine beach on Koh Phi Phi island was visited by more than 5,000 tourists each day – twice the actual capacity the beach could accommodate. – dpa