US sailors, Marines free to explore Pattaya, but cannabis shops off limits

The USS Abraham Lincoln arrived at Laem Chabang port this morning for its first port call in nine months, with about 5,000 US sailors and Marines set to spend their shore leave in Pattaya under restrictions, including a ban on visiting cannabis shops and taking part in certain high-risk water activities, including jet skiing and parasailing.

The matelots can visit Pattaya's Walking Street and other tourist areas, but those visiting the nightlife district must leave and return to their hotel accommodation by 2am.

They will also face restrictions on entering some entertainment venues during certain hours after sunset but are free to visit Lan Island and other tourist destinations.

Pattaya City has denied earlier reports that US personnel would be banned from visiting certain areas, saying they are free to travel around the city, but should take their own safety into consideration.

The city said the US military has issued rules for its personnel during the five-day visit, while Pattaya City will coordinate with relevant agencies to facilitate security and maintain public order.

Pattaya City says that the restrictions are intended to help ensure the safety of US personnel during their shore leave and should not be interpreted as a ban on access to particular areas of the city.

The resort city also stresses that the measures do not constitute a general ban on tourist attractions or businesses in the city.

The city’s role is limited to coordinating with relevant agencies and facilitating security measures to ensure public order during the port visit.

All tourist attractions and other areas in Pattaya remain open as usual. Members of the public, other tourists and businesses can continue to use public spaces and operate their businesses without any additional restrictions.

The USS Abraham Lincoln and its accompanying vessels are scheduled to remain at Laem Chabang, a half-hour drive from Pattaya, for five days after 286 days at sea, most recently serving in the Middle East.

"We're all very excited, it should get quite lively," said Anthony Jones, a 60-year-old musician from New Zealand, who performs every night at a beach bar in Pattaya according to AFP.

A banner outside the bar reads: "Welcome all US military personnel. Thank you for your service."

"It's been the talk of the town for the past few days… it will be a boon for businesses," Jones told AFP, saying he is planning to perform some American classics to entertain the sailors.

Authorities recently cracked down on sex workers in the city, insisting that this was routine, denying it was linked to the Americans’ arrival.

Security has also been stepped up.

"Our arrival in Laem Chabang provides a well-deserved opportunity for our sailors and Marines to rest and recharge," Rear

Admiral Robert Loughran Jr., commander of the US Carrier Strike Group 3, said in a statement.

The USS Abraham Lincoln's commanding officer, Captain Dan Keeler, added that its first port visit of the "historic deployment" would “allow our crew to enjoy this beautiful and historic country".

It is the first dry-land call since leaving California in November for duty in the South China Sea. The carrier was rerouted to the Middle East before US-Israeli attacks on Iran began in February.

Reports of deteriorating living conditions and poor mental health on board, including attempted suicides, made headlines in the United States and provoked criticism of the ongoing conflict.