Thailand's first tourist court has opened in the beach resort city of Pattaya as part of the government's move to reassure travellers of their safety while visiting the country.
From 16h30 to 20h30, foreign tourists can lodge complaints, especially over unfair services and personal security. Consideration of cases will be cut to one day for uncomplicated disputes from the usual six months, says Wirat Chinwinigkul, secretary-general of the Judiciary.
The specialised court will encourage negotiations between parties. If it's a serious issue, the case will be transferred to the regular court. Officials who can speak foreign languages will be available for assistance.
Six more night courts are planned in Pathum Wan district for the Silom area and Dusit district for Khao San in Bangkok, Krabi, Samui, Chiang Mai and Phuket. Those tourist destinations have faced various problems, especially cheating by operators.
