The Covid-19 Pandemic Affecting the Tourism Economics

Abstract

Tourism in Thailand has a major role in economic growth by contributing income specifically to the local economy, which consists of tourist cities and tourist routes. According to a report from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, Chinese tourists played a significant part in the Thai economy, causing a massive income and impelling a greater money circulation in this country every year. Nowadays, tourist attractions, accommodation, and traveling routes have greatly expanded. For example, there have been new tourist attractions, more local hostels, and more varied travel routes. Since the COVID-19 pandemic unexpectedly befell, tourism in Thailand has been affected due to an ongoing global situation, including issues in coping with COVID-19 and receiving news regarding the pandemic. As a result, apart from finding solutions for 3rd wave COVID-19 in Thailand and ever growing new cases, the New Normal with strict hygiene is needed. Tourism industry should always be ready to adapt to a sudden change in situation, whether it happens abruptly or gradually. There are ways to protect ourselves from COVD-19 which include wearing masks, washing hands with alcohol-based hand sanitizer, and social distancing to prevent further spread. Moreover, each local store should regularly clean and disinfect their own shops as well.