Thai hotel's decision to prominently display Palestinian flags in its Booking.com photo gallery sparked controversy among Israeli tourists planning trips to Ko Lanta island, with several travelers canceling reservations after discovering the imagery.
A hotel on Ko Lanta island in Krabi province, Thailand, sparked discomfort and anger among Israeli tourists after displaying photos of the property decorated with Palestinian flags in its photo gallery on Booking.com.
Images shown on the Baan Pakgasri Hideaway hotel page feature Palestinian flags hanging in the hotel's outdoor area, above the guest relaxation zone. The gallery also shows a man photographed next to a flag emblazoned with a fist symbol and the text "Free Palestine," along with additional images in the same vein.
"We searched for a hotel on the island and saw these pictures on Booking, and decided to pass," one user shared. Questions also periodically arise from concerned users about whether it's advisable to visit the Ko Lanta and Krabi area, which are associated with a large Muslim population.
Ko Lanta island and the broader Krabi province area in Thailand are known as regions with a traditional Muslim population, unlike other Thai destinations such as Phuket and Bangkok, where the majority is Buddhist. The island, where most residents are Muslim, includes numerous mosques and offers halal menus for the local population and Muslim tourists. Against this backdrop, the decision to display public support for Palestinians at the local hotel reflects the cultural and religious identity of a significant portion of the island's residents.
A response from Booking will be provided when received.
