Pattaya splurges on countdown

Pattaya has invested Bt30 million to host  a New Year countdown celebration targeting over 500,000 visitors and Bt500 million in revenue.

In 2008, the resort invested Bt17 million on its New Year celebrations that were held at the Bali Hai pier over seven nights.

Pattaya City mayor, Ittiphol Kunplome, announced his plans, earlier this week, at a press conference  in Bangkok.

“Pattaya city wants to be the centre for countdown celebrations in Thailand and to achieve that goal the city will invest at least Bt30 million next year, conducting road shows and finding more partners to gain 5 million visitors.”

This year, the celebrations are sponsored by MCOT Public Company, TOT Public Company and Thai Beverage Public Company. The countdown event warms up on 25 December and continues until New Year’s Eve.

Tagged the “Amazing Pattaya Amazing Countdown” the advertising message is that Pattaya is offering bargains for accommodation and holiday services.

The main beach road will be illuminated for the celebrations. The actual countdown event, including a display of 10,000 fireworks, will be broadcast on Channel Nine’s ModernineTV from 2230 to 0100.

Activities include live performances by Grammy artists, food stalls, shops, and a Thai cultural performance show.

Advance bookings in Pattaya for the festive season are down this year. Hotel occupancies average 70% instead of the usual 80% to 90%.

However, city authorities have high hopes believing their investment will draw 4 million visitors by the end of this year, compared to 3.7 million visitors last year.

In 2010, there will be at least seven major events including Pattaya International Marathon, Food and Hotels, Golf LPGA Tour, Pattaya Vegetarian Festival, Pattaya Music Festival and Pattaya New Year Countdown.