How Cannabis Tourism Can Recover Tourist Industry in Thailand
With the Coronavirus that has affected many countries around the world, tourism is one of the industries that have been affected negatively. This goes the same when it comes to Thailand. When the virus struck Thailand during March of 2020, the number of foreigners that visited Thailand dropped 83% from the previous year (Phoonphongphipat, 2021). However, Thailand may have a way to recover from the loss of tourists in the form of cannabis tourism.
Being that Thailand is the first Southeast Asian country that has legalized multiple aspects of cannabis, this can open doors towards more tourists who want an experience on legalized cannabis infused products. To be more specific, it may attract those who are seeking medical remedies that involve cannabis. In fact, according to Marut Jirasrattasiri, director general of the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine, stated that “Thailand is already a tourist destination for many foreigners, and marijuana will be another attraction for the country and for medical tourists” (Bangkok Post, 2020).
This has resulted in many restaurants and bars serving legal cannabis infused meals and drinks. Aside from restaurants, bars, and cafes, there are now clinics and spas that use products and medicines that are cannabis infused.
With all of this being said, Thailand may have a benefit of gaining more tourists back due to the legalization of cannabis for medical use. This may bring high hopes for the tourism industry that has been devastated by the virus and surely show the light to the end of the tunnel.
Sources:
https://thethaiger.com/news/national/cannabis-tourism-may-be-a-key-to-thailands-recovery