Thai resort city Pattaya is taking the next step in a quest to rid itself of its notorious ‘Sin City’ reputation.
From October 1, boozing on the beach is banned.
Pattaya sanitation chief Wasinpat Chimtin informed all beach vendors that they are no longer permitted to sell alcohol.
Thai Government and city officials are determined to clean up the resort’s image and cultivate a more family-friendly atmosphere.
Vendors have been ordered to start selling Thai snacks and soft drinks instead and must wear special aprons which mark them out as officially licensed vendors.
The move comes ahead of the International Fleet Show in November, which is a military regatta organised by the Thai Royal navy to mark 50 years of the ASEAN bloc.
It also includes an air show and sailing competitions throughout the month.
Keen to change perception away from its sleazy sex tourism reputation, early this year Pattaya launched a safe and ‘wholesome’ Happy Zone on Walking Street to make it more welcoming for families, supported by increased security patrols.
