Carrier visit to Thailand's Pattaya lifts hope and sex-tourism risk

The US Navy aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln is set to dock in Thailand’s Pattaya this week, at Laem Chabang, alongside two accompanying vessels, bringing nearly 5,000 sailors and Marines ashore for rest after more than 200 days at sea. Thai authorities say they’re stepping up patrols in Pattaya’s main beachfront and nightlife areas after weekend raids detained 40 to 50 people suspected of prostitution. While Pattaya Mayor Poramase Ngampiches expects short-term spending—1,000 to 3,000 baht ($30 to $91) per person per day—the visit also raises concerns about sexual exploitation and sexually transmitted diseases, as prostitution remains illegal but visible in tourist hubs.