There are no prizes for guessing what the hot topic of discussion on the forums has been for the last few weeks. With Thailand’s political crisis deepening and tourist numbers plummeting the situation seems to be going from bad to worse for those in business in Hua Hin. Violence on the streets of Bangkok once again cased chaos as anti-government protesters clashed with security forces in deadly shootouts. Foreign countries issued travel advisories warning against coming to Thailand and foreign arrivals dropped by over half this month.
The western media certainly have not helped the situation by sensationalising reports, publishing biased commentaries, and labeling the country as a war zone. Hua Hin as usual has seen little effect aside from the drastic drop in foreign tourism at an already quiet time of the year. Domestic tourism is on the increase though as Bangkokians flee the city in droves and Hua Hin’s inadequate road system grinds to a halt again.
All of this leaves businesses that cater to foreigners in a quandary, the bills still need paying but there is little coming in. The town’s expats and retirees also seem to be hunkering down as both the Euro and Sterling took a beating recently, the still inexplicably strong Thai Baht only makes life here more expensive by the day for those relying on income from overseas.
The smart business owners are starting to offer more incentives, promotions and price cuts to the ever budget conscious customer. HHAD have also taken this route with a number of low cost marketing options for small businesses that are seeking a large internet audience. For less than ten baht a day local establishments and businesses can get an advertorial thread in the forum that they can instantly update with news and promotions with the option of interacting with existing and potential customers. With over 80 readers per hour there are plenty of people out there that are still interested in Hua Hin related venues, businesses and products.
The big event next month is the Hua Hin Jazz Festival which will run from June 18 to 20. A beach stage and a park stage will feature again this year with performances from American musicians Eric Marienthal, Jeff Lorber, and Jimmy Haslip playing on the beach on Friday 18th, and Lee Ritenour on Saturday 19th. The Jazz Royale stage in the town will have Thai and Filipino bands featuring over the weekend. Make sure you book you accommodation early as Hua Hin gets swamped by jazz aficionados from the big city.
The ever popular “ask the expats” section saw its usual round of bizarre requests last month ranging from where to buy bubble wrap and creosote to shipping agents, watch repairs, shades, and eBay tips. Whatever your requirement, you’ll find an answer on Hua Hin’s only active forum.