"The government was dealing another severe blow to the already-battered tourism and entertainment industry by suddenly banning booze during Buddhist holidays next week, business leaders complained yesterday.
"This is the same old issue - the government rising up to destroy tourism. This does not parallel its tourism policy of increasing the number of visitors coming into the country," said Thai Hotels Association (THA) president Prakit Chinamourphong. Enforcement of the decree would hurt tourism venues, especially clubs and restaurants located in hotels, as well as general tourist attractions. . .
Hotel operators are expected to suffer even more from the latest move after getting hit by the global economic crisis and type-A (H1N1) influenza, he said.The industry is expected to be hurt even more by the suspension of alcohol sales."
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2009/07/01...ss_30106427.php
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PM bans alcohol sales on Buddhist holidays
Started by DOLLY, Jul 01 2009 11:25 AM
2 replies to this topic
#2
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Posted 02 July 2009 - 10:11 AM
Just another nail in the coffin of tourism in the Land of Smiles.
#3
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Posted 03 July 2009 - 03:51 PM
I don't understand this ban. Every Thai Buddhist I have ever met saw no problem in drinking beer, wine or the local white lightening. I have even seen monks drinking and smoking at parties and celebrations. If that's the case, why should Buddhist holidays be alcohol free ? I seem to recall that the monarchs' birthdays were also dictated to be booze-free until the government installed by the 2006 coup did away with that prohibition two years ago.
