Myeik Archipelago tourism halts during monsoon season

Taninthayi Region receives high rainfall and strong winds in the sea. Therefore, Myeik Archipelago tourism is suspended during the monsoon season, tour operators said.
The strong winds have prevailed as monsoon season started, forcing Myeik’s tourism businesses to stop operations for the safety of the visitors starting from 15 May.
“Some companies hire speed boats and some create sporting activity. It would be better if the government allows the responsible business to run on some virgin islands for better conservation and management of islands. No permit can impede tourism development as well,” said an official of the Myeik Tourism Entrepreneurs Association.
The famous spots for homegrown visitors and tourists are Smart Island, Bailey Island, Kyalleik Island, Donenyaunghmine Island and Don waterfall. Hnaphethla Island and Padan Island have become good destinations for tourism.
Out of the beautiful islands in the Kawthoung area, NyaungU Phee, Kayinkhwa, 115 and heart-shaped islands attract the majority of the visitors.
There were approximately 40 tour companies who have been offering services to Myeik Islands. Now, only ten have survived.
The number of visitors in the Kawthoung area during the Thingyan Festival has estimated at over 10,000 and only 1,000 visitors entered Myeik Archipelago, the tour operators said. — Myint Oo (Myeik)/GNLM