Asia's Sex Capital Braces For US Navy Sailors Who Spent Over 270 Days At Sea

Pattaya, Thailand, is increasing security ahead of the U.S. Navy aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln’s return to the United States after more than 270 consecutive days at sea during the Iran War. Local officials in the city expect thousands of sailors and Marines and have reportedly mobilized about 600 officials to provide security and assistance, according to provincial governor Narit Niramaiwong. Pattaya has pushed to be more family-friendly but remains known for nightlife and red-light districts, with thousands of sex workers still operating despite crackdowns on illegal prostitution over the past two decades. Some businesses welcome the arrival, citing a tourism slump linked to the war. The Lincoln’s deployment faced scrutiny before departing, with reports of severe mental exhaustion and sailors attempting to jump overboard.