A Russian tourist who visited Thailand's famous Phi Phi island has described her holiday as a nightmare, stating that she and her companions waited for their departure like never before.
Sharing her review on the Russian travel portal Tonkosti Turizma, the unnamed traveller detailed a series of grievances involving crowded beaches, constant boat noise, and unhelpful hotel personnel.
The Phi Phi archipelago, located in the Andaman Sea off southern Thailand, is one of the country's most prominent tourist destinations, famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs and clear waters. Tonkosti Turizma, which translates as Subtleties of Tourism, is a widely read Russian website where holidaymakers publish feedback and reviews of foreign travel spots.
Resort staff and beach litter
The tourist complained that resort cleaners and service staff spent their time sitting on the beach, connecting to the internet, and occupying sun loungers intended for guests. She also reported seeing workers wheeling heavy carts of garbage across the sand throughout the day.
Environmental conditions at the location also drew criticism from the traveller. She reported that motorboats, launches, and yachts were constantly present in the water, generating noise, exhaust fumes, and a foul stench.
According to her review, there was zero nature left at the spot, with only fish and sea urchins remaining on the seabed. She added that large amounts of trash littered both the shore and the water, which visitors collected into bags themselves while local workers sat by without taking action.
Boat traffic and crowded lagoons
The visitor expressed further frustration over the continuous arrival of excursion vessels into the resort's lagoon. She reported that approximately 30 boats arrived each day carrying tourists for snorkeling trips.
Under such crowded conditions, she said there was no possibility of quiet, privacy, or feeling a connection with the sea and nature. Snorkeling is a popular recreational activity in tropical coastal regions, but the tourist lamented that instead of rest and relaxation, holidaymakers received a nightmare stream of people and boats.
Wider concerns over Thai resorts
Her review follows warnings from another Russian travel blogger who recently highlighted unexpected issues on Phuket, Thailand's largest island and resort hub. The blogger cautioned tourists that coastal waters on Phuket are not always calm or picture postcard perfect, contrary to popular travel advertisements.
Thailand remains a major holiday destination, attracting millions of international visitors each year, with Russian travellers forming a significant portion of foreign arrivals in the country's southern beach destinations.
