Chiang Mai officials and tourism operators have met to discuss preparation for the forthcoming high season, including measures to deal with crime. Tourism operators in the province have welcomed PM Srettha Thavisin’s economic stimulus plans and the proposal to offer free visas to travellers from China and India.
Chiang Mai governor Worawit Chaisawat says the free visa proposal will help boost arrival numbers, with both countries offering direct flights to Chiang Mai. He adds that officials and private businesses are now focused on how best to welcome visitors, suppress crime, and ensure tourists’ safety.
According to the report, visitor numbers are expected to increase this coming high season and Worawit has asked Chiang Mai residents to be good hosts. He has called for tourists to be supported if they run into any difficulties, while also urging residents to report any tourists they see causing trouble.
Meanwhile, officials say more awareness is needed about the rise in the number of scammers taking advantage of government stimulus measures to steal cash or personal data from individuals. Worawit says scammers are present, both in every day real life, and online.
Pluemchit Singsutthichan from the Chiang Mai office of the Comptroller General says there is evidence scammers are trying to use the government’s 10,000-baht digital cash handout to steal money or personal information. She says people should only use information they’ve received from official agencies and refrain from clicking on links received via social media or text message.
SOURCE: Nation Thailand
