A Thai restaurant owner in Phuket has raised concerns about public sanitation after foreign tourists were caught defecating outside his establishment on two separate occasions. The incidents occurred at Salaloy Restaurant, owned by Pananut Asawapitakchon, who shared his frustrations on Facebook on May 22, 2025.
Details of the Incidents
- Timing: The incidents took place last week and again this week, both when the restaurant was closed.
- Owner’s Response: Pananut mentioned that his restaurant typically allows customers in urgent need of a bathroom to use the facilities, regardless of whether they are dining there. He expressed his willingness to cover the costs of maintaining the restrooms, including water, electricity, cleaning, and supplies, to support tourism and the local economy.
Public Health Concerns
Despite his efforts, the lack of public bathrooms nearby led tourists to resort to defecating outside the restaurant. Pananut shared a photo of a foreign woman involved in the latest incident, highlighting the challenges faced by his staff, who had to clean up the waste.
- Broader Implications: Pananut emphasized that these incidents reflect a larger issue regarding Phuket’s ability to cater to tourists adequately. He called on government agencies to address the lack of public restroom facilities, which he believes is essential for maintaining the island’s reputation as a world-class tourist destination.
Community Reactions
The issue of public sanitation has been a topic of discussion among Thai netizens, who have previously reported similar incidents involving tourists urinating in public places. Many have pointed out that the absence of accessible public bathrooms contributes to these behaviors.
Pananut concluded his post by acknowledging that while the problem may not seem urgent compared to other issues, it is still worthy of attention for future improvements. He expressed his commitment to continue addressing the situation, even if it means personally dealing with the aftermath of such incidents.
Conclusion
The incidents at Salaloy Restaurant underscore the need for improved public sanitation facilities in tourist areas like Phuket. As the island continues to attract visitors, addressing these basic needs is crucial for enhancing the overall tourist experience and maintaining public health standards.