Trat: Koh Kood, a serene island in Thailand’s Trat province, is set to undergo a significant transformation to become a premier ecotourism destination. Minister of Tourism and Sports Sorawong Thienthong recently visited the island to address existing challenges and capitalize on its potential to attract environmentally conscious, high-value travelers seeking a tranquil retreat.
Key discussions with the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA) and local tourism operators highlighted hurdles such as low visitor spending relative to tourist numbers, water shortages, land rights disputes, and limited mobile network coverage. Despite these challenges, Koh Kood’s pristine landscapes, adventure trails, and basic public utilities make it a unique attraction. Plans are underway to enhance infrastructure and accessibility while maintaining the island’s ecological integrity.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s administration is reviewing development proposals aimed at aligning Koh Kood’s growth with community aspirations. The focus remains on preserving the island’s natural beauty while improving connectivity, including potential private sector collaborations to introduce air travel to the island.
This initiative underscores Thailand’s commitment to sustainable tourism, balancing environmental preservation with the development of infrastructure to benefit both residents and visitors.