A trip to the popular mountainous retreats at Phu Thap Boek and Khao Kho in Phetchabun province has turned into a nightmare for many tourists seeking for a peaceful and slow weekend, due to an invasion by about 6,000 motorcyclists.
Organised by an online influencer, known as ‘Mayline Ratchada’, the bikers from various provinces, including Bangkok, joined the weekend trip called the “No Bathing Trip”.
Ahead of their arrival this morning, highway police and local officials in Phetchabun set up road blocks on the route to the two popular tourist attractions, to ensure that the motorcyclists strictly complied with the law.
Those who were not wearing crash helmets, did not have driving licenses or license plates on their bikes will be facing fines. They were also warned not to engage in reckless behaviour.
Many residents and tourists have complained that the motorcyclists are a nuisance, with some driving recklessly and causing a lot of noise by revving their engines. They also complained that the bikers do not contribute to the tourism industry in the province and have driven some tourists to cancel their reservations.
One motorcyclist is reported to have been killed in an accident and a monk is reported to have been injured by a hit-and-run biker.
The organiser of the trip has conceded that this might be the last “No Bathing Trip” that they will organise.
