Thousands of Russian tourists in Thailand have been trapped. They have faced financial problems due to Western sanctions against Russia: cash withdrawal and card payment services of some Russian banks have been blocked. In addition, there have been changes in the airspace, and travelers are locked in resorts. According to Thai media, there is a problem, but the country’s authorities are not panicking yet, but notes that the prospects for the Russians are very bleak.
The situation is exacerbated by Thai businessmen who, wanting to insure themselves, want to shake off live money from Russian tourists.
In mid-February, a large number of vacationers arrived in Thailand. Now they are all trapped both by the effects of international sanctions and by the lack of return flights to Russia. Some have decided to stay in Thailand for a while, while there is an opportunity, some are trying to return to Russia by connecting flights.
According to the president of the Ratchaporna Pulsawata Tourist Association, he is aware of the difficulties and knows that there are many Russian tourists on Samui who cannot use their credit cards. The official explained that many vacationers would like to stay in Thai resorts, at least until the situation stabilizes, but can not pay for accommodation or meals with credit cards. On the other hand, tourists who are not ready to stay in Thailand and are ready to go home, too, can not do so because flights are canceled. Thai publications called it a real mess.
In addition, in their opinion, the prospects for the Russians seem bleak, as it is too early to talk about the lifting of sanctions and a speedy end to the war in Ukraine.
A travel official has asked the resort about the problems facing tourists so that Thai authorities can work to find solutions. He added that tourists in other popular destinations, such as Phuket and Pattaya, also faced similar difficulties.
Let us remind the Russians: 200rf.com – this site was created by representatives of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine. Here you will find information about captured and killed Russian soldiers in Ukraine since the beginning of the occupation.