Starting October 9, overnight stays for tourists on the Similan Islands in Thailand have been banned, in a new attempt to address environmental issues caused by mass tourism.
The ban applies to all overnight stays, except for those provided by certain agencies selling deep-sea diving tours.
Day trips to the island will still be permitted.
The Similan Islands, located 80 km northwest of Phuket, are among the most famous island groups in the Andaman Sea, but the area, renowned for its corals and marine fauna, has suffered in recent years as tourism intensified.
At the end of September, Thailand’s Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation decided to close Maya Bay indefinitely until the corals in the area fully recover. The decision was made as the bay’s beach was visited daily by 5,000 tourists – double the number the beach could accommodate.
Source: Profit
Frequently Asked Questions
Are day trips still allowed on the Similan Islands?
Yes, day trips to the Similan Islands remain permitted for tourists despite the overnight stay ban.
Why did Thailand ban overnight stays on the Similan Islands?
The ban was implemented to combat environmental degradation and coral damage caused by mass tourism.
Are there any exceptions to the overnight stay ban?
Exceptions are made only for specific deep-sea diving tours organized by authorized agencies.