Hat Yai tourism reels as Chinese New Year bookings plungeLocal tourism and hotel operators say slow implementation of flood relief measures has led to stagnant tourism recovery in Hat Yai following the flooding in November last year. Visitor numbers were expected to reach only 25,000, far below the usual 50,000–60,000 during peak years, according to a Matichon Online report. Sompol Cheewawattanapong, former president of the Tourist Business Federation of Songkhla, said Hat Yai still “looks like a ghost town”, with numerous businesses unable or unwilling to reopen. Operators lack confidence because earlier government promises of flood prevention and recovery support have yet to materialise,” he said. Push for revivalThe Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) will host Amazing Thailand Chinese New Year 2026 from Feb 17–20, featuring cultural shows and performers from Fujian, China.

Source: Bangkok Post February 15, 2026 14:48 UTC