Thai Police Raid Brothels Before US Carrier Arrives

"We are doing our best, but it is difficult," Pattaya police chief Anek Srathongyoo said Monday, noting that sex workers could solicit in public areas without authorities knowing.

Local business leaders see money. Pattaya Mayor Poramase Ngampiches estimated each service member could spend 1,000 to 3,000 baht a day — roughly $30 to $91 — depending on how long they stay ashore and whether they stay overnight. "It should help stimulate Pattaya's economy in the short term," he said.

"When we heard the news that a U.S. Navy warship would be docking in Pattaya, it became a source of hope for us," said Lisa Hamilton, president of the Pattaya Nightlife Business Association. "I have lived in Pattaya for more than 20 years, and I have never seen any year as slow as this one."

Others warned about the downside. Pipatpong Fakfare, an associate professor at Bangkok University's School of Humanities and Tourism Management, cited "the risk to health and safety, as the influx of a large number of customers may increase the likelihood of sexual exploitation and the spread of sexually transmitted diseases." He also pointed to the reports of stress and suicide attempts aboard the carrier as an added concern.