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Showdown on Phuket: Mayor of Patong Aims to Restore Sunbeds, Keep Jet-Skis
By Prasit Tarnsirisin and Alan Morison Tuesday, November 25, 2014
PHUKET: Patong Mayor Chalermlak Kebsub aims to keep the jet-skis and restore umbrellas and sunbeds to Patong beach if she can, she revealed at a Patong Council meeting today.
The mayor, elected just before the military cleared sunbeds, umbrellas and vendors from all of Phuket's beaches, said that she believed her plan for beach zoning would work.
Under the plan, central Patong beach would be divided up into a 500 metre zone for swimmers, a 300 metre zone for jet-skis, a 500 metre zone for swimmers, and a 300 metre zone for jet-skis.
Mayor Chalermlak said she intends to restore beach loungers and umbrellas to those sections of Patong beach directly behind the 500 metre swimming zones.
Royal Thai Navy 3 Commander Vice Admiral Saiyan Prasongsomret, Phuket Governor Nisit Jansomwong, Phuket's mayors and district chiefs will be at Thursday's key meeting to discuss the future of jet-skis, umbrellas and sunbeds and vendors on Phuket's beaches.
Governor Nisit told a meeting at Phuket Provincial Hall yesterday that he intended to ask the Land Department whether it was possible for him to be given authority to restore sunbeds and umbrellas on Phuket beaches.
Had the Patong mayor taken the trouble to visit her local beach today, she would have seen swimmers in the water in the zones that are supposed to be exclusively for jet-skis.
She would have also seen the private umbrellas that more and more tourists are bringing to Phuket's beaches these days - despite a wild tabloid newspaper rumor that they have been banned.
WE HOPE Vice Admiral Saiyan reinforces the message at Thursday's meeting that Phuket's beaches are for the public and adds that the jet-skis and parasailers should be banned, just like the sunbeds and umbrellas already have been.
As Phuketwan has already said, Patong beach without the sunbeds is a wonderfully vital public space that has every chance over time of rivalling Sydney's Bondi beach, the Copacabana in Rio and Kuta in Bali as one of the world's great public beaches.
Getting rid of the jet-skis entirely would achieve that aim.
Banning the noisy, dangerous machines would fulfill a promise made to the people of Phuket more than a decade ago, when the then governor announced that the jet-skis were going to be phased out.
As for the cock-eyed idea of a partial restoration of sunbeds . . . that's total madness. To do so would carve up the public beach into haves and have nots.
Even if the concept is well-managed and the cash goes to protecting the beach, the idea comes from someone who clearly is bowing to pressure and has not the slightest idea of what makes a great public beach.
With two 300-metres stretches of prime beachfront, the jet-skis would have far too much of a profile. Inevitably, because of the length of the jet-ski zones, unknowing swimmers would wander into them and be exposed to danger.
Phuketwan has walked the length of Patong beach more than once in the past couple of weeks and reckons Patong has never looked so appealing. Without the jet-skis, it would be even better.
So much of Phuket's future in tourism hinges on the correct decision being made about Patong and other beaches on Thursday. Yet we feel undeserving business interests that are entirely based on short-term profit and greed are likely to be a powerful influence.
The vice admiral and the governor should resist the zoning idea, which can't possibly work, and instead get rid of the jet-skis and the parasailers.
Putting Phuket in step with Phang Nga and Krabi as Andaman provinces where jet-skis, speedboats and sunbeds and umbrellas are banned will give the region the future it deserves. Pandering to special interests means all the good work done by the military will be rapidly undone.
We hope sanity and a strategic view of the need for a balance with nature prevails.
Phuketwan was the only English-language news outlet with a reporter at today's meeting.
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Comments
Comments have been disabled for this article.
bringing back the sun beds is a great idea but limit them. I'm with you phuketwan but remember their is a lot of elderly people from all around the world that flock to the beach daily .for some getting down and up is very difficult so they require a chair or sun bed
Posted by
reg
on
November 25, 2014 15:26
Editor Comment:
If tourists are too old to get up off a beach towel, they should stay by the pool, reg. Patong needs a brighter future for the time when the lotus layabouts are all in less warm places.
Bringing back the sunbeds? What a WISE, sorry VERY WISE decision.
The editor is not obliged to go to a beach with sunbeds. If he prefers a beach without sunbeds, he is free to go to that beach.
Posted by
Klaus
on
November 25, 2014 15:39
Editor Comment:
I am hoping the military will stick to its principle - that the beaches are public and for everyone - and preserve them for future generations. The editor is obliged to seek the best outcome for Phuket and ignore the views of the self-interested.
Zoning is a reasonable idea although NO zone for jetskis or parasails would be far better.
Bringing back some limited supply of sunbeds will be welcomed by most tourists, despite what the editor says.
Posted by
jimbo34
on
November 25, 2014 15:57
Editor Comment:
Just imagine this, jimbo34: there is one last sunbed left and 10 tourists want it. So the next day, there's another row of sunbeds. The same thing happens - a fistfight is narrowly avoided - and another row is added. Before long, the entire beach is covered, the foreshore is packed again with private businesses making money, and the beach looks like a cesspit again.
At least you will be happy.
Great news, i work near the beach and customers want sunbeds, NEED umbrellas its what they come to this holiday destination for.
Posted by
cookie
on
November 25, 2014 15:59
Editor Comment:
Let's hope it doesn't happen. The future was bright there for a minute.
"If tourists are too old to get up off a beach towel, they should stay by the pool" Who the f*** do you think you are to decide that.
Posted by
FS
on
November 25, 2014 16:09
Editor Comment:
I don't decide that, FS, old age does. Another comment where all you prove is how coarse you really are. .
Finally, common spence is returning to Phuket.
Alan stop blogging. You don't even go to the beach and spend the day. Stop trying to tell the rest of us how we should live.
Posted by
Jim in Patong
on
November 25, 2014 16:14
Editor Comment:
Common Spence left without paying his bill some years ago, Jim. I'm suggesting to Thailand how to save its beaches and make Patong comparable with the best public beaches in the world. What you do is, and hopefully remains, entirely your affair.
I fully support the Ed here - a plan to bring back partial sunbeds will not work
But a walk down the beach road this afternoon showed that things are nearly back to the way they were - parking spaces rammed with hire cars and bikes, the east side of the road rammed with taxis and tuktuks the whole length. Jet skis and parasailing everywhere
Only thing missing is the sunbeds.
I am sure they will be back imminently and then everything back to status quo
What a waste of time and energy the army was - now all the cockroaches are even more empowered than they were before - they have beaten the army now - they are officially invincible
I am not a doomsayer - just observing.
Posted by
Amazing Thailand
on
November 25, 2014 16:19
Chalermlak Kebsub, isn't it the lady who wanted muai thai trucks banish from the street and fireworks after 10am prohibit ?
A powerless leave in the wind, the decisions are not made by her.
What an undignified and embarrassing mess and the world is watching.
Posted by
Georg The Viking
on
November 25, 2014 16:21
The Aussie wrote: "As Phuketwan has already said, Patong beach without the sunbeds is a wonderfully vital public space that has every chance over time of rivalling Sydney's Bondi beach, the Copacabana in Rio and Kuta in Bali as one of the world's great public beaches."
- and what entitles you, Morisson, a foreigner here to have a say in this? Why should you advocate something that people really dont want????
Go home, back to Bondi Beach, thats your home, there you can tell them what to do, not here, understand????
Posted by
Wilai
on
November 25, 2014 16:21
Editor Comment:
The beaches of Phuket belong to all Thais, Wilai, not just a few money-grubbing local residents who pretend to be the owners. People in Isarn have as much right to enjoy the public beaches as locals do. The military government can give you some good advice on that. Perhaps you've missed the Thai name in the byline on this article. Pretend Thais, of course, have no rights whatsoever.
Fingers-crossed the "Mayor-we-hoped-would-show-some-leadership" stops bowing to "local" business pressure and think of Phuket. Long-term Phuket. Put the long-term viability of Phuket first rather than the pockets of an influential few. C'mon.... wake up and do the right thing (for once).
Posted by
Duncan
on
November 25, 2014 16:24
this whole sunbeds saga unfolded on the presumption that the law has been broken broken in the past , at first place by municipal council giving illegal permission to use beaches for commercial activities, and then by business who with or without such illegal permissions engaged in illegal profiteering.
is the presumption , on which the crackdown has been based, is not valid anymore ?
of course it is valid, and no amount of land department - councils etc. permission that simulates that profiteering is legal will help.
Posted by
Sue
on
November 25, 2014 16:36
I am gobsmacked! Sorry Ed, you put up a good fight on this as many other topics.
Posted by
Logic
on
November 25, 2014 16:52
Editor Comment:
A decision has yet to be made. Sanity may prevail.
Great news - The mayor is finally listening to what the people want - what the tourist wants and acting.
Zones have always been a good idea with the money going to keep these beaches clean, tidy and safe.
Finally a compromise that all can live with. Well done to the mayor.
Posted by
Phuket Saviour
on
November 25, 2014 17:00
Editor Comment:
A compromise that puts swimmers at risk because of the 300 metre zones for jet-skis is no success, PS. I guess you have a vested interest.
You are always talking about that every poll says clearly that people wan't The Loungers of the beach..
Infact the recent pole in Phuket Gazzete shows that only 21 % don't wan't loungers back...
The rest want's they back one way ore the other...
I don't understand how a newspaper like Phuket Wan can take a stand for ore not..
A newspapers first job is to be objectiv and report to the
public what's happening...
Also The Editor say if they to old they should go back to theyre resort..
Note to Editor. Not every old man ore woman lives in a resort..
Editor is trying to box all people that wan't loungers fore different need's ore pleasures in one box..
The poll says 79% wan't it back...
I belive this people are from al walks of life..
Why haven't Phuket Wan reported anything from the people who want's umbrellas and loungers back ????
There have been many regulares that had there last trip and also are canceling there trips because
umbrella and loungers issue.
And the answer to that question from the Editor
is always Phuket don't need this layabout's...
Infact They do...
Phuket are a mass tourist area and alot off the econemy is based on tourist to come here and that they spend money...
Example Without them Phuket Wan vould not ecsist without tourist and English speaking expacts since most Thais not read newspaper
in English...
The other thing the Editor always nag about
is the poulution the loungers and Umbrella do..
What polution I ask ??
They were all removed within 36 houres and it
was no trace off them ever being one the beach..
Phuket Wan should be a newspaper and report
what is happening objectelly...
And also the Editor should stop making cleaver names and dissrespectfull remarks to who readers that has a different opinion then him self..
Maybe the Editor is so old that he should'nt
work in ore run a newspaper and retire to he's
Villa and forever be silent....
And let the rest of Us enjoy loungers and umbrellas in any way the THAI goverment approve...
Posted by
Phil
on
November 25, 2014 17:08
Editor Comment:
What we're able to do is tell right from wrong, Phil. We don't think the majority is necessarily important. People should be given what they need, not what they want. The beaches are for all Thais, and all tourists, not just those who pay to be pampered and hog the space so that others can't use any of it. The past few weeks have shown how the beaches can appeal to everyone - not just the layabouts and the few people who profit from them. We are not a newspaper. Newspapers are dying and PW will be around long after they've gone, still being able to tell right from wrong. Anyone too old to get up off a towel shouldn't be on the beach. The pollution of the sunbeds is mostly visual but they also pose an unwelcome barrier to people who want to stroll or play. Let's hope the military doesn't change its mind.
@ Ed, Ed states "People should be given what they need, not what they want" is this not pure fascism?
Posted by
Feisty Farang
on
November 25, 2014 17:29
Editor Comment:
Only in your mind, FF.
(moderated)
Posted by
Resident
on
November 25, 2014 17:38
Editor Comment:
Freeloaders are free to behave as they wish, Resident. Byeee.
Al, you got to relax this is Phuket stop attacking your readers. You sound like a grumpy old man over and over again. I was just joking but you go into attack mode.
Posted by
Feisty Farang
on
November 25, 2014 18:37
Editor Comment:
@ Ed, Ed states "People should be given what they need, not what they want" is this not pure fascism?
How do I tell you are joking, FF?
I agree with the editor on this. The sunbeds before were like a cancer and I found annoying to have to navigate through them. Anyone who didn't want a sunbed had nowhere to go.
I've travelled the world extensively to some of the worlds most famous beaches that have NO sunbeds. If you really want a beach with sunbeds then go to a private beach. There are a few around.
I also agree that the jet skis are a menace and so too the parasailing boats.
The first time I walked down the beach without the sunbeds was wonderful. It felt like a world class beach . I do hope the military stand their ground.
Posted by
Al martin
on
November 25, 2014 18:39
Your going to loose your crusade on this one Ed because overwhelming the people want chairs and umbrellas. You have blogged for months saying they will never come back, but here we are where the powers that be are listening to the people.??
As to your respose to Phil, you are welcome to tell the majority they are wrong, but you will loose. Also, it remains to be seen if PW will be around a long time. Apparently you have gotten into some hot water with the military and may have to leave in February and shut down PW. Your words not mine.
Posted by
Jim in Patong
on
November 25, 2014 18:44
Editor Comment:
PW faces problems but i have never said i ''may have to leave'' in February. How can that be when i am required to stand trial in July? Jim, your imagination seems to be a problem. No decision has been made about the sunbeds.
Sure i have a vested interest. An interest in seeing people taken care of and there needs met. Your opinion - my opinion doest matter - the only peoples opinion that really matters is that of the Thai people and what they want. If they decide that they want chairs and umbrellas back on the beach then thats there decision and should be respected.
Public representatives such as the mayor are elected by the people to represent the people. She obviously has her ear to the ground and listening to what the people want and making the right decision for her district. The truth is the only person who seems to be so gun-hoe about this issue is you the Editor. Every second story is about this topic along with your bias.
The beds are on the way back sooner rather than later. If its before or after martial law is lifted that remains to be sen but they will be back.
Posted by
Phuket Saviour
on
November 25, 2014 18:45
Editor Comment:
The mayor is being harassed by locals who have lost money and by tourists who have lost their sunbeds. The fact is, the military made a good decision that benefits all tourists and all Thais, for generations to come. The beaches belong to us all. Let's hope greed and self-interest fail.
Ha! Didn't take long for our new major to change her tune! Same, same.....
Posted by
Simon Luttrell
on
November 25, 2014 19:05
The Mayor Chalermlak Kebsub is democratically elected and thus represents the people of Patong.
Thus strangers should not counter fight her sensible decision about allowing a limited amount of sunbeds.
People from Esaan, Bankok or anywhere else in Thailand don't care, so let the final word be local.
However a 3-5 spacing for swimmers/jetskies, seems a bit undemocratic.
So dear crusaders, let the locals decide, what they want to use their own land for. Thai people don't make campaigns for how to rule overseas beaches.
Posted by
Sherlock
on
November 25, 2014 19:08
Editor Comment:
It's not up to the locals to decide because it's not ''their own land'' - it has never been their land. The beaches belong to all Thais. The beaches are for the public, for Thais from Isarn and for tourists from everywhere. Your wallet is showing again, Sherlock.
To me it looks like the corruption is with the New Mayor as well as the old.
The LAW is - NO business on the beach. It is the LAW.
Why not abide by the decision.
I find it amusing how people don't want corruption back, but are willing to bend the rules for sunbeds/umbrellas etc.
Standards are Standards, if one person goes against the grain, why shouldn't everyone else.
Posted by
Tbs
on
November 25, 2014 19:13
Years ago, I used to walk Patong beach end to end every morning at 6:00 am, when the beach chair custodians were setting up and cleaning their area of the beach (including every cigarette butt). I think they do provide a service, although it should not be mandatory that beach goers have to pay for a lounger if they don't want one. The lounge chair / umbrella leasers also tend to watch out for folk's belongings while they enjoy a swim. On another note, to sit on the beach between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm without some shade would be inviting a serious burn and possible future skin cancer.
Posted by
Harvey
on
November 25, 2014 19:15
Editor Comment:
Harvey, please bring your own umbrella. Many of the sunbed fans actually spend long hours tanning in the sun, so the idea that the sunbeds and umbrellas are needed to save them from getting cancer is ridiculous. Buy a hat, wear some sunscreen. Problem solved.
I really hope that at least, a number of controlled sunbeds and umbrella's come back. It's not really fair to say that older people should stay at the resort. There are a lot of older people coming here from countries that don't even have a beach. My parents are 76 and 78 years old. They want to go to the beach, to have fun with their grandchildren, but with my mother, recently broke her hip, and my dad diagnosed with skin cancer, they really appreciate a bit of comfort and shade on the beach.Every 2 years, they come with their sisters and brothers, all in the same age range.I don't want to tell these people that they are too old to go to the beach.Come on, be fair.
Posted by
Carl
on
November 25, 2014 19:19
Editor Comment:
Your dad, diagnosed with skin cancer, wants to spend time at the beach? Wow. As I said, Carl, anyone who can't sit on a towel then stand up unaided probably should hang out at a resort swimming pool instead. Your elderly family members would be more comfortable, and safer. Let them go for long walks along Patong beach and watch their grandchildren build sandcastles where there used to be sunbeds.
Editor Under what exactly definition is Phuketwan ??
If Phuketwan is following any journalistic ethics
it has to report objectevlive...
You say it's important to give people what they need not what they wan't ??
Old people and Handy capped people what
they need...
I fact they're voice should be sencored by
the almighty Dictator PW...
Again retire back to youre Villa where I'm
sure you have both a Lounger and a umbrella...
And let the Thai people and Government
prosper of the Lotus eating layabouts...
At least that money for food one the plate and generat tax money if done the right way....
Don't say that it can't be done, because it can..
Ore are your faith in the Thai people and their government so low ??
Posted by
Phil
on
November 25, 2014 19:28
Editor Comment:
The military government has done a wonderful thing for all Thai people by reclaiming the public beaches. If this was about money, it would never have happened. Spend your money where you please, Phil, but as I have said: all Phuketwan is doing is telling right from wrong. Old lotus eating layabouts are better off beside resort swimming pools, leaving the beaches to be enjoyed by practically everyone else.
Thai beaches belongs to the Thai people, not to foreign tourists.
The family of the Isarn girl i just hired, cares more for their monthly upkeep, than for a remote possibility of seeing a chair less beach.
Posted by
Sherlock
on
November 25, 2014 19:40
Editor Comment:
Perhaps you need to explain to her the beauty and the breadth of her natural heritage, Sherlock. Unless she's just another worker to you.
I do not think it is my task to explain the Thai populace about the beauty of their own country, nor how the country should be governed. I leave that task to wiser people.
Posted by
Sherlock
on
November 25, 2014 20:19
Alan you have said you may have to leave in February, go back and read your articles. That said, it is interesting that you are now moving the timeline to a July trial.
Posted by
Jim in Patong
on
November 25, 2014 20:34
Editor Comment:
Untrue, Jim. Go back and find those comments. You won't because they're not there. The July date for the trial has been known for months.
To the editor: yes, my dad wants to spend some time on the beach.He was diagnosed with skin cancer on his nose in it's early stages last year. They even cut skin from his upper leg, to put on his nose. But he wants to enjoy life to the fullest, and a few days on the beach here in Thailand is still on the list. And in regards to the long walks on the beach... come on, my mum broke her hip, and i don't see them walking with an over sized umbrella from left to right. By the way, my kids are 12, 18, and 20, so they don't build sand castles anymore, but i have taught them to be respectful to elders.As i said, i hope a number of controlled chairs and umbrella's will come back. And i'm sure that i'm not the only one.
Posted by
Carl
on
November 25, 2014 20:40
Editor Comment:
I'm sure you are not the only one, but the case for losing the private invasion of public beach space that belongs to all Thais - not tourists - is overwhelming.
Wow. The blinkered views from many commentators on here. Follow the rule of law. Something the current government needs to instill throughout the country as the norm. Sunbeds/ umbrellas are a great starting point for this. Central government has made a decision, that some local Phuket authorities think they now should be able to change that decision (that law) is the old way of thinking. Something Phuket does not need and something Phuket did start to move away from. Let's hope it keeps on moving away... and at a more rapid pace. Shame on you Mayor.
Posted by
Duncan
on
November 25, 2014 20:59
In Phuket, but mainly in Patong NOTHING can change... nothing... Because in order to keep the power must take agreement with the "local powers": Jet ski mafia, tuk tuk mafia and the rest of votes from the most lucrative business in Patong: sun beds and umbrellas...
Posted by
dave
on
November 25, 2014 21:10
To give the Jet Skis zones of 300 meters is way to much!
The best thing to do is to give them 100 meters on each side of Patong Beach.
People will then be able to swim safely and without having to worry about the dangerous, poluting and noisy Jet Skis on almost the entire beach. The ones that wants to ride a Jet Ski just have to walk to the end of the beach. Good for everyone!
To have the beach sliced in pieces for swimmers/no swimmers and Jet Skis/no Jet Skis and claim that everyone have to take note of that all the time is a very bad idea!
Returning some sun chairs and umbrellas in designed zones are a good idea!
Use the money earned on rents for life guards and cleaning of the beach, including puting out trash bins.
Posted by
PhuketFriendly
on
November 25, 2014 21:52
All my comments are said in a light flavour come on this is Phuket - The Jewel Of The Andaman. Be good - good night don't bash your readers.
Posted by
Feisty Farang
on
November 25, 2014 21:53
Ok Ed time for a fact session i think! I believe we all know that jet skies as well as sun beds will always be there and if got rid of will only creep back 1 or 2 months down the line. So, how about running a poll on the best way to deal with this (like a brainstorming session)? Regarding jet skies and their well known scams over fake damage claims and co-operating police, i think maybe with some work these idea's are not too bad. Strictly enforce the zoning area, governed by perhaps a newly created tourism safety position, which in turn shows the tourists etc that the government is really taking tourism safety seriously and not just face saving talking about it! If any jet ski operators are found in breach of these rules, a hefty fine even for a minor infraction of say 10,000 baht, continuing upwards to confiscation of the jet ski machine involved and/or imprisonment of the operators involved. Secondly there should be large billboards which are easily seen along the beach road and especially in the zoning area's where the tourists actually hire the jet skies, informing the tourists of where they can ride these machine's and of a phone number to call incase they are charged for damage to the bike. Maybe asking them, for their own protection, to take photo's of the jet ski before they get on it? Of course, this would only ever work if the 'special'unit dedicated to enforcing the beach rules have the moral character to refuse the lure of bribes or threats to their safety!
Same thing with sunbeds, only allow a certain number with always clear access for everyone to walk up and down the beach and lay down where they like without being threatened etc. Billboards again with a number to call if this happens and hefty fines and removal of their operating licenses if bad enough. I am not saying i like jet skies as i know they are dangerous when driven by boy racers who most likely are drunk when getting on them! (Ahh, just thought, i bet this does happen? so maybe tourists take a breathalyser before hiring?) Brainstorming remember so don't bite my head off! I am just being a realist here. Look forward to knowing what you think?
Posted by
Mr Wolf
on
November 25, 2014 22:02
Editor Comment:
Billboards along the beachfront. In how many languages, Mr Wolf?
Those who are "for" sunbeds have missed to realize that they are feeding corruption. They are contributing to stronger maffia and exploitation of natural beaches.
Posted by
Sam
on
November 25, 2014 22:24
Editor Comment:
Self-interest smothers all principles.
In some time the tourism will go down for sure, we have many cancellations already and then you will recognized, that sand is not for eat - and your sentence: older people can stay at the hotel pools - how many hotels have no pool in Patong area.
Posted by
KGP
on
November 25, 2014 22:26
Editor Comment:
The beaches belong to Thailand, not tourists.
The editor ignores other opinions. He has no problem with earning money as long as it is his income. If he think that a poll suits his puprpose it is a newspaper. When it doesn't it is just a tabloid.
Al martin talks about sunbedcancer. I have more problems with skincancer than with sunbedcancer. Skincancer protection according to the editor? "Buy a hat, wear some sunscreen. Problem solved." Do I need to say more?
Posted by
Jean
on
November 25, 2014 22:26
Editor Comment:
People who work all day in the sun wear hats and sunscreen. For anyone with a fear of skin cancer, the beach is not the right place. The opinions of selfish, biased people are not of great value, Jean.
The mayor makes a decision now in the name of all sunbed lovers. They are happy now.
Is anybody here who believe she do it in order to give a favour to those?
She follow her orders.
That's the point. Her next decision maybe is completely tourist unfriendly.
I sit back, and wait for the whining.
Oh sorry I must not wait. Isn't it the overwhelming majority of people too who want have removed the jet skis?
Posted by
Georg The Viking
on
November 25, 2014 22:58
To quote The Who- here's to the new boss, same as the old boss. No surprise her family land between Kalim and Kamala is now being built on. Nepotism rules. It could have been a breath of fresh air, now it just stinks.
Posted by
Mister Ree
on
November 25, 2014 23:18
Ed via FS. I am young, have chronic arthritis and recently just been diagnosed with stage 3 cancer. I have two replacement knees.
Thank you for being so insensitive to tell me, that because I cant get up and down off a beach towel, I am no longer welcome to go to the beach. I should just eF off because of old age. I am on a Permit to Stay and Re-Entry Permit. Do I read a large part of Discrimination here? Please do not tell me I am not welcome to enjoy the beaches of Phuket. Ex pat of 12 years.
Posted by
Inepto Cracy
on
November 26, 2014 01:23
Editor Comment:
We should support the private use of public beaches because of your knees? Sure, IC, sure. Shouldn't you be complaining first about buildings with stairs and no elevators? Of course, it's all about our ''discrimination,'' not your selfishness.
How can I stay 3 month without the Sun Beds and the umbrellas? If the beach condition is not going back to what it was before, that means bye-bye to Phuket for future. I'll spend my money someplace else!!!
Posted by
Doug
on
November 26, 2014 02:14
TO THE EDITOR! The beach is still all about sunbeds and umbrella coming back! We have visited patong faithful in the past 10 years, my impression is att the tourists who use the beach not resident Thais
If this comes back wild many tourists choose other destinations in 2016!
The tourists are important for Thailand !! I totally agree att it is good and get cleaned up and get this going again in a regulated manner! But be so negative for and get sunbeds and umbrella back is not good !!
One thing that I found is also important! Who will clean the beach for garbage when there is someone who rents out sunbeds and umbrella! When do you plan and do something about water quality? in periods bath water of poor quality smells like sewage / septic
This is much more important and do something than and ban sunbeds and umbrella !!
Posted by
OT
on
November 26, 2014 04:18
How many people owns all the jet-skis in Phuket ? is it 1 man on every beach ?
Posted by
tommy
on
November 26, 2014 07:10
(moderated)
Posted by
Phuket Saviour
on
November 26, 2014 09:04
Editor Comment:
No interest in your valueless opinions, PS. Best keep them to yourself.
wilai i come from bondi beach not the editor .yes we dont own thailand just trying to bring it back to its natural state.my first visit to thailand but pattaya was back in 1968 it was oh so pleasent.started to come to phuket 30 yrs ago .the beaches were also pleasent.
no beds or umbrellas and all the thais would come to the beach play football and swim.sure after the storm when the beach was clean the thais came back as their was only 1 row of chairs permitted then the greed took over and 15 rows, no more football (no room)so how long do you really think it would take to become sh-- hole again.i suppose the only hope would be the russians to start hiring them out then the beach boys who are not thai anyway would leave for sure. i only said russians as they seem to have the most tour guides etc
Posted by
bondi
on
November 26, 2014 09:42
OT:
I understand your Swinglish is good. You know the problem with selfish Swedes and other selfish westerners is ("att") they are missing they are feeding the corruption. Patong beach like any other beaches in Thailand belongs to all visitors and not only to those who coming from cold countries wish to "lazy" on the beach all day long.
Who is cleaning the beaches? You better tell me who is polluting them first?
Beaches are polluted by LOW QUALITY sunbed tourists who drink and berry their cigarettes in the sand.
Arguments like "tourists are not coming back" or "we are sorry for locals who lost their jobs" are just Pathetic.
Phuket is crowded by tourists. They may not be scandinavians!
Posted by
Sam
on
November 26, 2014 09:56
it's not often I'll say this but I'm in agreement with the editor here. The beach chair and umbrella people should never be allowed back. Since the loungers and umbrellas are gone Phukets beaches are looking stunning. Umbrellas are still available for purchase for those who want them, and there's nothing to stop anyone bringing their own fold up chair or lounger. What we don't need is rows of beds like before like a poxy beach in benidorm. It's also no good to just allow this in Patong as that just opens the doors to send every beach back to the way it was. It would be a massive shame in my opinion but unfortunately another Patong official who was set to come and change the corruption is crumbling already. Shame on the mayor!
Posted by
Chalongian
on
November 26, 2014 11:02
These columns always make entertaining lunch time reading if nothing else but for the Editors seriously biased opinion. There is no grey here just what he personally decides is right. This is perfectly OK,its his on-line paper so he has right to use it as his own platform. Phuket has become such a huge tourist destination because people came and liked what they saw and experienced during their visits and passed the word to their friends. It does not really matter what the Editor wants or what I want because at the end of the day if there is a big enough demand for the sunbeds etc they will return. Thailand has always had corruption and that will not change in my or my children's lifetime. A tourist destination needs tourists and that's the bottom line. Without tourists Phuket will die and the Thais will have all to themselves. If the Editor is right in his observations that we need to give people what they need instead of what they want it will be proven over the next couple of years but I would not be putting any money on it. Its great to read all the comments and its obvious where the popular choice lies. Time will tell who is correct and I only hope it does not cause too much hardship to the Thai people. For the record I hate jet ski's but appreciate the sunbeds so yes I am a lotus eating layabout and happy with that. Have a great Christmas everyone.
Posted by
Craig Gold Coast
on
November 26, 2014 11:07
Editor Comment:
Oh of course. Australia shuts down about now and opens up again at the end of January. No wonder the economy is not quite there.
''m suggesting to Thailand how to save its beaches and make Patong comparable with the best public beaches in the world.'
You've obviously never been to that little heap of seaweed strewn rubble with a concrete backdrop that is Bondi Beach then.
Posted by
jonty
on
November 26, 2014 11:41
I feel 'in favour' so far with view of PhuketWan when it comes to re-set the Phuket beaches. However, responsible authorities do not pick up on this matter. They contradict in press, talk 'cloudy'. and when decision making moment are there they get transferred or go for a china trip. What for, a Phuket governor who is just be installed on Phuket has to go China? Who is paying for that? Is that NCPO policy?
Posted by
Kurt
on
November 26, 2014 11:52
Editor Comment:
These trips come up from time to time and there's sense in Governors seeing other parts of the world. Probably a Chinese Government trip.
Mr Morrison.. it could be that it is the People in charge that are the doom doers .... not ur readers that are doom sayers..... and """@ Ed, Ed states "People should be given what they need, not what they want" is this not pure fascism?"""" it is truly Fascism and scary as hell that u make a comment like that according to this..... and i am NOT joking.. (waiting to get moderated).
Posted by
Frog
on
November 26, 2014 12:19
Editor Comment:
No fascism here, Frog. Socialism works like that, too.
(Editor Comment:
Oh of course. Australia shuts down about now and opens up again at the end of January. No wonder the economy is not quite there) ...
Seriously Editor where have you been. Australia is one of the stronger economies of the world. Not that it really worries me but please get your facts right.
Posted by
Craig Gold Coast
on
November 26, 2014 13:55
Editor Comment:
Strongest economies in the world? In your dreams.
@ Craig Gold Coast
"at the end of the day if there is a big enough demand for the sunbeds etc they will return"
I am really afraid you not get it.
There is a big enough demand for removing jetskis, but?
What about the big demand for public transport system, free toilets and showers? Demand not big enough?
It is not important what tourist demand. Has never been.
Posted by
Georg The Viking
on
November 26, 2014 14:37
Craig Gold Coast:
Those locals you having spending your money on are just fine.
They are driving luxury imported cars having dinner at exclusive clubs where you can't afford it. Wake up dear.
Nothing wrong with that right?!
Enjoy your lunch and have a great Xmas.
Posted by
Sam
on
November 26, 2014 16:01
Patong Mayor Chalermlak Kebsub ran on a campaign ticket of change.. i see no change happening here.. just more compromise..
Posted by
another steve
on
November 26, 2014 16:56
"No fascism here, Frog. Socialism works like that, too."" yea.. and Communism as well,,, not much better... Thought we lived in a paradise and a free world.... where we could have our own choices... not been told what we need and not get what we want... ur statement alone is awful and has nothing to do about if sunbeams are iegal or not.. its a lot going on here that are against the law and still fulfil a purpose... myself would love the beaches free from both sunbeds and jet skis...
Posted by
Frog
on
November 26, 2014 17:03
Sun beds to benefit the elderly, please. Don't see any down here in Australia so why Thailand. If people decide to travel elsewhere because sun beds are not available then perhaps the place is better off. I'm attracted to this place for its people, culture and natural beauty. It's the best thing that has happened for the place. Hopefully it continues and reduces the number of people to a manageable level to will protect this area for the next generation to come. Viva Thailand see you in April next year.
Posted by
Roscoe
on
November 26, 2014 18:08
I have no vested interest. I am an English holiday maker who has visited Patong every year for the past 6 years. I am coming again in February because I had booked my flights before the "beach clean up" began. Had I not already booked I would not be coming. If, when I get there, I cannot find a lounger or chair and umbrella on the beach I will not be coming again. In previous years there have been row up on row of loungers put out every morning and many were not used. Areas with loungers and area without makes perfect sense. I hope the mayor has success otherwise many tourists, like me, will stay away.
Posted by
Richard
on
November 26, 2014 23:03
Editor Comment:
Making judgements in advance is perhaps unwise.
Editor.. Just for the record assuming you actually read financial reviews,here is a quick excerpt from a report. Australian economy ranked among world's safest ...Australia is one of the safest trade and foreign investment destinations globally, ranking alongside Canada, Germany, Norway, Sweden and Switzerland, according to an analysis of 131 countries on Dun & Bradstreet's Global Risk Indicator (GRI)...
Not just in my dreams Eh!
Posted by
Craig Gold Coast
on
November 27, 2014 05:36
Editor Comment:
Why the need for cuts to social welfare and public broadcasting, then? Whe the diving Aussie dollar, lowest in four years? On the nose and on the slide, the economists say.
Similar comments about the diving Thai economy being made at the moment especially in relation to the effect on tourism.
Back on topic though is the future for Patong Beach really to be like Copa Cobaba? A fabulous public beach lined by glitzy hotels full of quality tourists but behind are some of the worst slums and highest levels of poverty in the world! The debate about sunbirds and umbrellas on all Thsiland's beaches is just a small issue compared to what Thailand currently is and what it could be.
Meanwhile I will continue to lie about lotus like on my sunbed under the casuarina trees on publicly controlled land to where the previous illegal beach restaurants have been located. Nowadays copying Phuket beach life is not as appealing to visitors to Khao Lak. The local authority has Ben planning and implementing these relocations for the past three years, long before it took a military government to enforce national law.
Perhaps Phuket could learn a lot from its northerly neighbour for a change - a change for the better!
Posted by
Alan
on
November 27, 2014 12:23
Editor Comment:
The economy is looking up, according to the Wall St Journal.
We are talking about public beaches, not the urban sprawl behind them.
Dear Editor, you are making me smile, trying to fight like a Don Quichote for the poor for a 'clean and proper' beach without the bad boy hedonic tourists asking for a bit of luxury and shadow in their holidays. But one thing is for sure, money makes the world go round and if this thesis is true elsewhere, then it is true for Phuket in particular. I am 100% sure, next spring I will find the same equipment on Patong beach again, I even believe renting it at same guys place as every year again. The only thing it will be maybe more expensive than before, but I don't care about that. To you it would be much more of purpose trying to solve the rainforest or some indogene population elsewhere in the world than loosing all your writing energy in this battle already lost. kind regards anyway, Fred
Posted by
Fred
on
November 27, 2014 15:34
Editor Comment:
It's not possible to be 100 percent sure about something you have no control over, Fred, so I am 100 percent sure you don't know what you are talking about. I am also sure that the decisions from now on are likely to be made for the long-term benefit of Thais and Thailand, not for a few tourists who happen to like sunbeds.
It would appear that IF the latest reports are correct of locals being allowed to sell sun beds and umbrellas to tourists and the Mayor allowing the return of sun beds and umbrellas albeit in zones that the authorities gave been listening to tourists and not PW and that their long term view of the future of Phuket is somewhat different than yours. I fully expect now that PW will campaign vigorously to reverse this view and get rid of us aged lotus layabouts forever! Money trumps altruism always!
Posted by
Alan
on
November 28, 2014 13:07
Editor Comment:
The people making the decisions only hear those squealing loudest - the sunbed loungers and their buddies, the profit-taking sunbed operators. Wiser tourists, PW and sensible people in the industry have got it right. But there's no stopping the selfish.
Think her plan is to be re elected
sadly in the real world forigners and forign opinion dont vote at the Patong ballot box on election day.
Posted by
slickmelb
on
November 29, 2014 23:33
Editor Comment:
Precisely. This is why control of the beaches shouldn't be in the hands of the councils. Their priority is to provide jobs for voters . . .
At last sanity prevails. When you say Phuket doesn't need sun beds you mean it doesn't need tourists. Alan, you are so one eyed to be unbelievable, and the vast majority of people do not agree with your thoughts, so hurray for the parasitic lazy lotus eaters who by the way keep everyone in work. Look forward to lazing on the beach for New Year.
Posted by
Dave from Brisbane
on
December 4, 2014 19:23
Editor Comment:
Are you going to the Gold Coast?
''The vast majority'' who matter are Thais. I think they're reasonably pleased to have their beaches back.
Are lotus eaters lazy and parasitic? Your words, not mine.
ED, where on earth do you get the idea that loungers are only used by elderly people who cannot get up from a towel on the beach? Being a regular visit to PhuketI reckon about 70% of users are in their 30's 40's and 50's myself being one.
Without loungers and parasols it will not be an attractive place to sit for a days relaxation.Its very difficult to imagine Patong beach without them and I cannot understand why you and the authorities want to ban them.You are going to drive tourists away and where will that leave Phuket???
Posted by
doolittle
on
December 5, 2014 21:52
Editor Comment:
The authorities want to ban them because they're illegal and because public beaches are meant for everyone to enjoy, not just those who have money to pay.
Quote the beaches belong to Thai people not tourists
Well Mr editor if there are no tourists
Patong would cease to exist and many Thai people would be out of work
A limited controlled amount of umbrellas and chairs should be allowed
for people who require them
Go stir people up back in Australia, you are not Thai, become a citizen if you want to whinge about Phuket and how it is run and see how you go
You can have a Thai passport then but it wont help you with your problem
Posted by
Peter Allen
on
December 6, 2014 18:36
Editor Comment:
If there were no tourists Patong would go back to being a sleepy fishing village. The Thais will decide whether or not Patong needs sunbeds. Our commitment against corruption and in favor of law enforcement must be too difficult for you to follow.
If patong beach has to live on with jet skies, than why they need zones of 300 meters ? A zone of 50 m would be enough as a corridor from beach to open water where they can sail, away from swimmers. And why not 2 or 3 platforms in the bay, away from beach and swimmers, for parasailing. Is that now so difficult to realize for all these 'Officials'? I am very flabbercasted to see how passive Phuket authorities are. Not pro active at all. When?
Posted by
Kurt
on
December 7, 2014 09:55
In the past there was corruption. Now there is corruption. In the futue there will be corruption. The corruption argument doesn't make sense. What more is there? A few jealous people. Jealous of people who make money.
Posted by
Levie
on
December 9, 2014 18:57
Editor Comment:
Huh? What an odd philosophy.
I have been visiting phuket for 20 years and to be able to eat wonderful thai food cooked on the beach then retire to a sunbed with an umbrella was wonderful. My husband had had skin cancer and I have had 4 hip replacement operations. If I cannot get a sunbed and umbrella we won't be back. I find it totally disgusting to be discriminated against by not being welcomed on the beach because we can't get down onto a towel. Tourism will die here is that what the government want? After more than 10 visits we won't be back.
Posted by
drobey
on
February 19, 2015 23:10
|
bringing back the sun beds is a great idea but limit them. I'm with you phuketwan but remember their is a lot of elderly people from all around the world that flock to the beach daily .for some getting down and up is very difficult so they require a chair or sun bed
Posted by reg on November 25, 2014 15:26
Editor Comment:
If tourists are too old to get up off a beach towel, they should stay by the pool, reg. Patong needs a brighter future for the time when the lotus layabouts are all in less warm places.