Pattaya has seen an increase in police presence this week following the arrival of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln. The vessel, carrying 5,000 US personnel, has docked at Laem Chabang Port near Pattaya for shore leave after 286 days at sea.
The Chon Buri government has deployed 600 officials to provide security and assistance, according to Governor Narit Niramaiwong. Pattaya's mayor, Poramase Ngampiches, stated on Facebook that preparations focus on safety and ensuring fair pricing for the visiting personnel.
Restrictions for the US personnel include prohibitions on purchasing cannabis, despite its legal status for medicinal use in Thailand, and bans on jet skiing, water skiing, paragliding, and visiting Soi 6, known as a red-light district. Authorities have also issued a reminder that prostitution is illegal in Thailand.
The 5,000 US personnel are expected to spend 15 million baht (£335,000) during their short stay, providing an influx of funds at a time when Thailand is experiencing a drop in tourism numbers.