By Amy Kadori
Visitors have to search long and far to find any visible effects of the tsunami that devastated the west coast of Thailand in December 2004. Debris has long since been removed, properties rebuilt and renovated, and infrastructure updated.
History
Reminders of the tsunami are few. Here the ruins of a lone boat lies landlocked.
The tsunami of Decamber 26, 2004 was the worst natural disaster to hit Thailand in recorded history. There was extensive damage to property, the economy and the environment along coastal areas of the Andaman Sea, including the popular beach towns of Phucket, Phi, Phi and Krabi. More than 8000 people were declared dead or missing.
Significance
Phuket's beaches have been restored to their former beauty
Much of the damage was in areas along the coast. This had a severe impact on tourism and fishing industries. However, relief efforts have restored and improved those areas.
Effects
Relief efforts have been completed and coastal accommodations have been updated, repaired and renovated. Popular water activities, such as fishing and diving have recovered as well. Damaging fishing techniques have been updated and coral reefs have recovered more rapidly than expected.
Considerations
Patong Beach on Phuket Island is still a popular place to people watch
Today's Thailand is a bargain for the budget traveler. Vacancies are plentiful, particularly at high-end resorts. The lack of tourism is causing an economic tsunami and prices are low to attract visitors.
Benefits
Both the government and general public in Thailand are more aware of potential natural disasters and show concern for a safer environment. Examples include signs pointing out evacuation routes along the coast.
About the Author:
Amy Kadori, a former dietician, has a degree in health and nutrition from the University of Massachusetts and writes on health issues and travel reviews. Before moving to Arizona Amy wrote a travel guide to Florida and a prize winning industrial newsletter.
