…and visitors from other countries too.
Over 7,600 Russians have applied to extend their stay on the island of Phuket, according to the local immigration office. Immigration boss Thanet Sukchai says word about the “tourist delights of Phuket is spreading and more Russians are coming”.
“Phuket is a nice place to visit with delicious food and good weather. As word has spread about the island, Russian tourists keep coming to the province. Many obtain visas to stay on the island for 3 months or not more than 90 days. There are also Russian business operators holding business visas. Russian nationals stay mostly in tambon Rawai and tambon Chalong.”
According to a Bangkok Post report, a total of 7,596 Russians have sought to extend their stay on the island. Most are in Muang district, followed by Thalang and Kathu, according to Thanet. Russians also make up the most foreign arrivals by nationality, followed by India, Kazakstan, England, and Australia. In total, Thanet says 31,128 foreign nationalities have sought to extend their stay in Phuket.
Russian arrivals are three times more than the Number 2 most numerous nationality arriving in Phuket, visitors from India. 3,000 – 4,000 Russian visitors arrive each and every day.
There’s no doubt the Russians are flocking to Phuket, many of whom want to escape their country while it remains at war with Ukraine. Some are even hoping to leave their country for good due to the war situation and its effect on the Russian economy.
In related news, Immigration police have launched a so-called “white accommodation” project, highlighting accommodation that is crime-free and drug-free, aimed at keeping both tourists and locals safe.
SOURCE: Bangkok Post
