US sailors can roam Phuket island during visit - Bangkok Post

Photo: Phuket Times Around 5,000 US navy sailors who arrived in Phuket on Sunday for a six-day rest and recreation visit can travel freely around the island during their stay.

The aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77) and the guided-missile destroyer USS Delbert D. Black (DDG-119 anchored off-shore from the Phuket Deep Sea Port in tambon Wichit.

The USS George H.W. Bush has 4,820 personnel, and the USS Delbert D. Black 289. 

Officials said they will be allowed to travel freely around the island, but are prohibited from renting vehicles or riding pillion on motorcycles.

Most are understood to be young, many making their first trip to the island.

For security, Phuket authorities are using the "Phuket Eye", an AI-linked CCTV network that monitors the island for unusual activity.  The camera network covers key areas across Phuket. 

Phuket authorities have stressed the importance of cooperation from US personnel in complying with Thai law, regulations and local customs, particularly respecting local traditions and culture. They emphasized that Thailand is predominantly Buddhist and that Buddhism is closely intertwined with the country's culture and way of life.