US carrier visit to Thailand's Pattaya lifts hope and sex-tourism risk

A U.S. Navy aircraft carrier, the Abraham Lincoln, will dock in Pattaya, Thailand this week, generating optimism for an economic boost. The carrier, which spent over 200 days at sea, is expected to dock on Wednesday alongside two accompanying Navy vessels, allowing nearly 5,000 sailors and Marines to rest and recuperate. Pattaya police have prepared increased patrols and raids to address concerns about the city's reputation as a sex tourism destination.

Prostitution is illegal in Thailand, yet remains a visible element in major tourism hubs, including Pattaya and Bangkok. Police Chief Anek Srathongyoo acknowledged the difficulty in combating the issue, as sex workers may solicit in public areas without authorities' knowledge. Despite occasional crackdowns, the sex industry persists in Pattaya, a fishing village that transformed into a tourism center during the Vietnam War.

Some residents of Pattaya hope for a financial boost from the U.S. military personnel, who could spend between 1,000 to 3,000 baht per day on their shore leave. Mayor Poramase Ngampiches expects the deployment to stimulate the city's economy in the short term, as personnel will not all disembark simultaneously.

However, the influx of a large number of customers could also increase the risk of sexual exploitation and the spread of sexually transmitted diseases, according to Pipatpong Fakfare, an associate professor at Bangkok University's School of Humanities and Tourism Management. Reports of mental health concerns and suicide attempts among the sailors add another layer of concern to the situation.