Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra said sustainability was the key factor that should govern development of Krabi’s tourism in the long-term. Speaking at an Amazing Andaman conference, late last week, the Prime Minister reiterated an earlier message given by the province’s deputy governor to members of the Association of Thai Travel Agents. She said: “Krabi tourism today is positive, but the province needs to tighten tourism quality, standards and transport systems.” The government has outlined a plan to increase income from tourism to Bt2 trillion by the year 2015. “We need to look at the markets for the Andaman and tap the middle and high-end customers,” she said. “Tourist destinations must have quality, be friendly to the environment and display a high standard of  hygiene, while hotels, spa venues and restaurants have to offer the  highest quality service.” The government has outlined a plan to develop tourist attractions along the Andaman coast — Phi Phi Island, Patong beach, Ao Nang, Phuket Old Town, and Promthep cape. “We want provinces along the Andaman Coast to preserve ecology and to promote ecotourism including presenting quality tourist attractions to boost the region tourism industry,” she said. A budget of Bt2.22 billion will be allocated to support tourism by connecting the provinces and to prepare the country for  entry into the ASEAN Economic Community in 2015. “However, real connectivity is based on convenient  links to the province’s tourist attractions…therefore transport needs to be improved both road and railway links to give convenient access for travellers.” She added that safety and security were essential  to build confidence to travel in the region, while airlines needed to be encouraged to add services. Around 2.3 million tourists visit Krabi annually. Of that total 1.2 million are Thais and 1.1 million are foreigners, mainly European and Scandinavians who spend an average of three weeks in the country. From ttrweekly