Zara McDermott has travelled to Thailand for a new BBC documentary, exploring the conflicting sides of the country's tourism industry. The series, part of a franchise that previously examined Ibiza, investigates the hidden costs of paradise, including wild parties, drugs, cheap alcohol, and the sex trade.
McDermott said she was shocked by the easy availability of cannabis and cheap fake alcohol, particularly at the Full Moon Party. She also looked into the death of British tourist Regan Kelly, who was found dead off Patong Beach in January. Speaking with his sister, McDermott described the experience as emotional and heartbreaking, noting the family still lack answers.
The documentary features interviews with young British travellers, including Loukas, a solo traveller in Pattaya, and Mac, a content creator who makes YouTube videos with his young girlfriend, Beverly Hills. McDermott said she and Mac held opposing views on the sex industry, leading to difficult conversations.
McDermott also spoke with sex workers, drawing on her experience in the violence against women space. She said her aim was to make the women feel seen and heard, adding that she has empathy for those pressured to work in an unpredictable and unsafe industry.
Reflecting on Thailand's appeal, McDermott said she understands why people go and never want to return to the UK, citing low prices, freedom, lifestyle, and beauty. However, she warned that 'it really does have it all. But that can come with other costs.'
