Transcript of the above video:

As the title of this video suggests, we are discussing a pro-tourism paradigm here in Thailand. I have made a number of videos; some could call them a little bit negative if you will. I think that is a little bit too strong a word; critical might be the right word.

I am just trying to do the analysis based on what we are seeing in the information that is given out either by Thai Immigration or in the press, presumably that comes from Thai Immigration or those that are dealing with Thai Immigration. Long story short though, and I think this is something that really folks need to keep in mind when being critical of some of the policies that Thai Immigration is making. I want to be clear on this. I am not being an apologist for Thai Immigration. I have certainly been critical of certain policies especially here recently. I do think people need to keep in mind, this isn't just a tourism oriented video I think it is useful, I think it is of interest because it colours the analysis with respect to expats here, retirees etc. which is Thailand is still trying to maintain a pro-tourism paradigm. They are still trying to encourage tourism most notably the Phuket sort of "sandbox" idea, they are continuing to try to push that and I think that this should be viewed for what it is which is a good faith effort to get this place reopened as much as they can; get tourism going. There seems to be certain corners of the internet that believes there is a vast conspiracy to keep things closed. I don't think that is the case here. I don't think Thailand wants to keep its tourism industry shackled the way that it is right now. I think of anything they want quite exactly the opposite to occur. 

Now they have their own concerns with respect to Public Health but the overall message of this video if you will is I think folks should take some heart in the fact that Thailand is at least trying to get re-opened to tourism. They are not going out of their way to keep it closed and hopefully folks see that for what it is. In my opinion that is a good sign and hopefully we will see further good signs in the days and weeks to come.