Pattaya repositioning as a sporting destination
Thailand’s Pattaya aims to lift the resort’s image by developing world class sports facilities.
Tourism minister Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul, said Pattaya already has extensive sports and recreational facilities but can do more.
It has excellent tennis facilities, golf courses and even a motor racing circuit but is short of international standard stadiums and Olympic size swimming pools.
"The ministry is confident if the government succeeds in upgrading the city as a world-class sports tourism destination, it will help improve Pattaya’s image from just a nightlife destination," the minister said.
Pattaya has suffered for many years with its ‘sin city’ image and perception as a hotbed for sex tourism.
"The ministry and related organisations were studying the feasibility of the upgrade, particularly for marine sports, with the ministry to spearhead the development along with cooperation from other relevant public and private organisations," Kobkarn added.
The minister admitted it would require substantial investment in infrastructure to raise standards to an appropriate level in order to attract major sporting events.
Over 9 million tourists travelled to Pattaya in 2013, an increase of 6.35% from 2012, although 2014 will likely see a fall in numbers due to months of civil disorder and martial law in Thailand this year.
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