People enjoy themselves on the bank of the Ping river in Kao Lieo district, Nakhon Sawan province, on Sunday. (Photo by Chalit Poomruang)The government anticipated 8-16 billion baht was being circulated during the five-day Songkran festival, up 12-14% from the previous year. Government spokesman Lt Gen Sansern Kaewkammnerd based the projection on positive information gathered from tourism organizations which helped spurred spending during the water festival. The Thai Hotels Association reported higher occupancy rates at hotels nationwide, with all rooms booked up in some areas. Lt Gen Sansern said Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha was satisfied with the improved economic situation and spending during Songkran when compared to 2016.

Source: Bangkok Post April 16, 2017 10:41 UTC