Maya Bay to stay closed for at least two more years
Thai authorities confirmed that Maya Bay will remain closed to tourists for another two years at least.
The iconic location for Hollywood flick ‘The Beach’ closed nearly a year ago to allow the beach to recover and for its coral reefs to be restored.
Prior to its closure in 2018 it was visited by up to 5,000 people a day, causing major damage on land and sea.
"The meeting concluded that Maya Bay is to be closed for two more years as the natural environment needs more time to recover," said marine specialist Dr Thon Thamrongnawasawat.
The prolonged closure had been opposed by tour operators in Phuket and Krabi.
Still, it is a victory of sorts for them, as Worapot Lomlim, chief of the Hat Nopparat Thara Phi Phi Islands national park recently hinted it could stay closed for up to five years.
National Park officials have said when it does eventually open there will likely be significant restrictions imposed with a much reduced daily carrying capacity and designated zones for snorkelling and the anchoring of boats.
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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