Also present for the talks was Mr Søren Nutzhorn Hede, the Danish honorary consul for Phuket, Phang Nga and Krabi.
“They asked for support on every issue affecting Danish tourists in Phuket, but they were especially concerned about the safety of their people while they were in Phuket,” Gov Nisit told the press after the meeting.
“I advised Ambassador Mikael that more CCTV cameras have been installed all over the island, especially in tourist areas, to monitor any suspicious activities.
“The number of Danish tourists coming to Thailand is increasing every year because Phuket and Denmark has such a great relationship. Security and safety for their people is their main concern and Phuket must deliver that,” he said.
Gov Nisit explained that the problems involving tourists renting jet-skis had abated since the beach zoning campaign was rolled out last year, and earlier this year.
“I told Ambassador Mikael that since we set up zones for beach operators and increased the the number zones for jet-skis from three to five,we have had fewer problems to deal with. The recent campaign to ensure jet-skis are registered and insured has also helped to clear the issue,” he said.
Regarding efforts to resolve traffic congestion on the island, Gov Nisit explained the ongoing slew of major roadworks underway and slated for construction in the near future, including the underpasses and flyovers at major traffic choke points. (See story here).
“I also explained the efforts to improve public transportation in Phuket, including the bus services available for tourists to take from the airport to attractions around the island, that and we have added more metered taxis on the island so travellers get quickly and conveniently get to anywhere on the island and other provinces,” Gov Nisit said.
Danish nationals requiring assistance can contact the Danish Embassy in Bangkok by calling 02-343 1100, email to bkkamb@um.dk or visiting the website here.
The Consulate of Denmark in Phuket is located at 59/148 Moo 7, Sai Yuan Road, T. Rawai, A. Muang, Phuket 83130. Tel/Fax: 076-388283. Email sh@pava.nu.
The office is open from 10am to 1pm, Tuesday to Thursday, and receives calls from 10am to 11am.