Tourism News

Thailand tourism news, travel updates, visa policies, and destination highlights—stay informed on hospitality trends, cultural experiences, and major infrastructure projects. Get the latest from The Thaiger, your trusted source for Thailand travel news.

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    12Go introduces Japan Rail Passes to enhance travel accessibility for international travellers

    For those who have travelled throughout Thailand, 12Go is a well-known provider of various trips, though the platform itself has a much wider reach. Ranging from buses to planes, 12Go is undoubtedly a leading booking platform for travel throughout the...

  • Thriving start-up culture flourishes in Thailand’s surf capital: Khao Lak

    Thriving start-up culture flourishes in Thailand’s surf capital: Khao Lak

    As the rainy monsoon season blankets the Southern coast of Thailand’s Andaman Sea, the high-energy surf season springs to life in Khao Lak. At the heart of this burgeoning aqua sports scene is Memories Beach in Pakarang, a magnetic locale that captivates a diverse mix of enthusiastic Thai and foreign travelers. In recent years, Khao Lak’s surf scene has experienced…

  • International influencers invited to bolster Thai tourism in TAT initiative

    International influencers invited to bolster Thai tourism in TAT initiative

    In a move to bolster the nation’s tourism industry, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) held a lively event over the previous extended Mother’s Day holiday weekend, extending an invitation to notable international influencers. Write Your Own Amazing New Chapter was the title chosen for the event that took place over five days, from August 9 to August 13. The…

  • Travel industry girds for weak low season amid cost and weather challenges

    Travel industry girds for weak low season amid cost and weather challenges

    The travel industry is bracing itself for an exceptionally weak low season, with predictions of stagnant demand, escalating operational costs at popular destinations, and the impacts of tropical storms. The president of the Thai Travel Agents Association, Charoen Wangananont highlighted that the season’s sale rate for outbound packages significantly lags behind the comparison period recorded before the pandemic. He cited hesitancy…

  • Chinese tourists to Thailand may drop as tour group restrictions lift

    Chinese tourists to Thailand may drop as tour group restrictions lift

    In the wake of China’s announcement to allow tour groups to visit Japan and several other nations for the first time since 2020, Thailand’s tourism industry braces itself for a sharp fall in Chinese tourists. This drop is in part caused by ongoing visa application challenges, in spite of the government’s efforts to simplify the process. This recent development comes…

  • Skateboard skirmish between foreigner and police sparks stir at Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok (video)

    Skateboard skirmish between foreigner and police sparks stir at Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok (video)

    A fracas erupted at Don Mueang International Airport as a foreign man attempted to assault a police officer with a skateboard, resulting in a significant online reaction. The skateboard incident occurred yesterday according to a video posted by TikTok user @angpao.cn. Clip via TikTok user @angpao.cn The clip, which rapidly stirred up an online storm, shows a foreign national assumed…

  • Home Sweet Home horror game draws global attention to Thailand culture

    Home Sweet Home horror game draws global attention to Thailand culture

    A remarkable partnership in Thailand is harnessing the power of online gaming to stimulate global interest in the country’s rich cultural heritage and potentially boost tourism. The launch of this pioneering project that matches the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) up with the popular horror game Home Sweet Home was announced yesterday in Bangkok. The TAT has united forces with…

  • Malaysian tourist influx remains steady despite uncertainty in Thailand’s south

    Malaysian tourist influx remains steady despite uncertainty in Thailand’s south

    Malaysians are still streaming into Songkhla, despite safety concerns and uncertainties following the recent fireworks warehouse explosion and a car bombing in Narathiwat. The blasts brought ensuing speculation over safety concerns across Thailand’s southernmost provinces. But an average of 10,000 Malaysian tourists each day are visiting Southern Thailand anyway. Songchai Mungprasithichai, spearheading the Songkhla Tourism Promotion Association, expressed that the…

  • Smooth skies ahead: THAI-turkish partnership signals global travel upswing

    Smooth skies ahead: THAI-turkish partnership signals global travel upswing

    A monumental leap forward for international air travel took flight yesterday when Thai Airways International (THAI) and Turkish Airlines secured a memorandum of understanding. The anticipated partnership will focus on the cut-throat competition prevalent on Asia-Europe routes. Commonly, airline collaborations entail synchronising schedules and revenue sharing. For instance, Qantas Airways and Emirates have a working partnership on Europe-Australia services. However,…

  • TAT and EVA Air sign LOI to jointly promote Thai tourism

    TAT and EVA Air sign LOI to jointly promote Thai tourism

    The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and EVA Airways Corporation signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) to cooperate in the promotion of Thailand’s tourism for the mutual benefit of the two parties, which will see EVA Air’s global route network used to boost visitor numbers from key worldwide markets to the kingdom. Yuthasak Supasorn, TAT Governor, said… “Together, TAT and…

  • Hua Hin Airport upgrade to attract tourists and boost Thai economy

    Hua Hin Airport upgrade to attract tourists and boost Thai economy

    In a move poised to encourage tourism, Hua Hin Airport, operated by the Department of Airports (DoA), is set for a vast upgrade that will escalate it to international status, as confirmed by acting director Rattapol Charoenphon recently. The Hua Hin Airport has already made significant strides towards this goal, extending its runway to reach a length of 2.1 kilometres…

  • Dramatic leap in tourism to Thailand rakes in 1.08 trillion baht

    Dramatic leap in tourism to Thailand rakes in 1.08 trillion baht

    Exceeding expectations and the grim shadow of the previous year, the tourist influx to Thailand recorded a dramatic leap in the first half of 2023. From January to the end of July, over 15 million people travelled in Thailand, marking an increase in tourism to Thailand of 384% in comparison to the same period in the prior year, according to…

  • Thai tourism stays firm amid debt rise, 200 million domestic trips targeted

    Thai tourism stays firm amid debt rise, 200 million domestic trips targeted

    Despite a backdrop of tepid consumption, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) remains steadfast in its pursuit of 200 million domestic tourism trips within the current year. Data from a survey conducted by the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce paints a rather gloomy picture of increased household debt levels, up by 11.5% this year from last year. It…

  • Maya Bay closed until September 30 for nature restoration and tourist safety

    Maya Bay closed until September 30 for nature restoration and tourist safety

    Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Koh Phi Phi Nationa Park authorities, located in the southern province of Krabi, announced they will close Maya Bay and Loh Sama Bay from August 1 to September 30. The move aims to preserve nature and prioritise tourist safety during the monsoon season. Ratchanok Parenoi, the national park director, pointed out that Thailand experiences the monsoon season…

  • Koh Tao sees record-breaking one-day tourist influx

    Koh Tao sees record-breaking one-day tourist influx

    The island of Koh Tao has seen a record-breaking number of tourists reported to have landed on July 28. The Surat Thani Provincial Governor, Wichuwat Jinto, shared the good news earlier today. Koh Tao, the smallest of the three main southern gulf islands, welcomed a staggering 3,106 visitors, all of whom arrived via boat on the same day. This influx…

  • Thai tourism seeks visa fee waiver to attract Chinese and Indian visitors

    Thai tourism seeks visa fee waiver to attract Chinese and Indian visitors

    A plea for the revival of a visa fee waiver programme has been issued by Thailand‘s tourism industry, seeking an influx of visitors from populous nations like China and India. The request follows a lukewarm recovery in numerous essential markets and is viewed as vital for enhancing arrivals this year. President of the Thai Hotels Association, Marisa Sukosol Nunbhakdi, emphasized…

  • Thailand expects holiday tourism boom earning 16.6 billion baht

    Thailand expects holiday tourism boom earning 16.6 billion baht

    The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is forecasting a substantial influx of travel and expenditure within the nation from July 28 to August 2. Projections are currently pointing at nearly five million voyages, which could potentially rake in 16.6 billion baht across the country. TAT Governor Yuttasak Supasorn, indicates that the estimated surge in domestic travels during this unique long…

  • Unprecedented six-day holiday leads to tourist boom in Pattaya

    Unprecedented six-day holiday leads to tourist boom in Pattaya

    Yesterday marked the kick-off of an unprecedented six-day holiday. Pattaya‘s beaches and tourist hotspots were abuzz as visitors flocked, particularly to Koh Larn, a stunning island located roughly 7 kilometres from the coast. According to local accommodation providers, the entirety of the island’s estimated 3,000 rooms were booked out. The rush of tourists, both Thai and foreign, regularly set sail…

  • Thai tourism boost: Long public holiday to generate over 16 billion baht

    Thai tourism boost: Long public holiday to generate over 16 billion baht

    The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) estimates that the long public holiday period, approved by the Thai cabinet to promote travelling in Thailand, will contribute to a substantial income of 16.6 billion baht. The consecutive holidays extend over six days, from July 28 until August 2. The extended public holidays include the King’s Birthday on July 28, Asalha Puja (Dharma…

  • Thao Wessuwan spirit invocation ceremony in Rayong draws devout Buddhists and tourists

    Thao Wessuwan spirit invocation ceremony in Rayong draws devout Buddhists and tourists

    Amidst a downpour, villagers assembled for a traditional ‘Thao Wessuwan’ spirit invocation ceremony at the Wat Noen Suk temple, also known as Wat Laok, in Rayong province yesterday. The event, led by Anan Nakniyom, the Deputy Governor of Rayong, saw participation from various government and private sector organisations, as well as devout local Buddhists. The temple area turned into a…

  • Thai tourism minister proposes bolstering sector for sustainable tourism

    Thai tourism minister proposes bolstering sector for sustainable tourism

    To boost the national economy, Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Thailand’s Tourism and Sports Minister, has put forth a proposal to prioritise tourism as a national agenda, with a focus on making Thailand a destination for sustainable tourism. He strongly encourages his successor to continue this endeavour. Phiphat’s aspirations don’t end there, as he also suggested elevating the status of the tourism ministry,…

  • TAT unveils revolutionary Meaningful Wellness Travel programs

    TAT unveils revolutionary Meaningful Wellness Travel programs

    Embarking on a wellness journey in the 21st century has taken a significant turn as people across the globe seek deeper meaning in their lives. Meaningful Wellness Travel has emerged in the realm of wellness tourism, reflecting the aspirations of post-Covid wellness travellers who yearn for more than just a spa retreat. Travellers are seeking a transformative voyage that nurtures…

  • Thai tourism boost: 25.8 million Asian tourists expected in 2024

    Thai tourism boost: 25.8 million Asian tourists expected in 2024

    In a bid to breathe fresh life into the Thai tourism sector in 2024, The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) aims to attract an impressive tally of 25.8 million tourists. The focus is on visitors from geographically proximate Asian and South Pacific countries categorised as short-haul markets, shared Thanet Petchsuwan, TAT Deputy Governor. This quota forms a significant portion, 74%…

  • Andaman provinces appeal to continue Phang-nga Airport study amid fears of overcrowding

    Andaman provinces appeal to continue Phang-nga Airport study amid fears of overcrowding

    The Joint Public and Private Sector Consultative Committee (JPPSCC) spanning the Andaman provinces appealed to Airports of Thailand (AoT) to ensure the continuation of its feasibility study on the proposed Phang-nga Airport. Previously, a discussion between the JPPSCC across the provinces of Krabi, Trang, Phang-nga, Phuket, Ranong, Satun, and Phuket Airport took place concerning the same issue. As a result…

  • Vibrant pink Siam tulips in northeast Thailand draw tourists

    Vibrant pink Siam tulips in northeast Thailand draw tourists

    Nature enthusiasts and flower fans have flocked in their thousands to Sai Thong National Park in Chaiyaphum province to witness the breathtaking sight of a vast field of blooming pink Siam tulips. The influx of tourists began over the weekend, with visitors eagerly capturing photos and selfies amidst the stunning display. Spanning four districts – Nong Bua Rahaew, Thep Sathit,…

  • Thai tourism hit by weak Chinese market and waning local interest

    Thai tourism hit by weak Chinese market and waning local interest

    The sluggish Chinese economy and hesitant local budget travellers have dealt a blow to Thai tourism operators along the eastern seaboard, casting a gloomy cloud over this year’s revenue prospects. The slow recovery marks it as a testing time for places like Pattaya, particularly with a quiet Chinese market yet to bounce back and local visitors not returning en masse,…

  • Japanese tourism numbers in Thailand threatened by weak yen and slow Japan flight reintroduction

    Japanese tourism numbers in Thailand threatened by weak yen and slow Japan flight reintroduction

    In light of Japan’s hesitant return to tourism and a faltering yen, Thailand’s Tourism Authority (TAT) admitted there may be difficulty in meeting the year’s target of 850,000 Japanese arrivals. The figure reflects 50% of the Japanese tourism figures reported in 2019, considered an optimistic scenario by the Tokyo office director of TAT, Kajorndet Apichartrakul. As enclosed by Kajorndet, the…

  • Severe flooding hits Phuket prompting widespread road closures

    Severe flooding hits Phuket prompting widespread road closures

    Substantial flooding due to heavy rain last night and early this morning swamped the holiday resort of Phuket, prompting police to shut down several of its main roads. Streets across the town became untraversable, leading to police-imposed road closures. The water levels in Bang Yai Canal, the canal that transits through the city providing a key drainage channel into the…

  • Thailand aims to boost economy with health tourism campaign

    Thailand aims to boost economy with health tourism campaign

    The Thai government has launched an ambitious campaign, “Discover the New You” to entice international visitors to spend upwards of 18 million baht (US$510,000) by September of this year. This initiative is a concerted effort by the government, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), and over 130 healthcare, wellness businesses and service providers including hotels, spas, health resorts, hospitals, and clinics.…

  • Trang unveils Nang Fa Waterfall, capturing the hearts of tourists

    Trang unveils Nang Fa Waterfall, capturing the hearts of tourists

    Trang province boasts a brilliant new tourist attraction that has already grabbed the attention of foreign visitors. Named Nang Fa Waterfall, also known as the slider, offers shimmering water amid a backdrop of stunning nature and enthralling activities. The local community plays a part in preserving and promoting this tourist spot. Residents of Tambon Chong in Trang’s Na Yong district…

  • Canal revitalisation: Bangkok’s waterfront upgrade to boost touristic activities

    Canal revitalisation: Bangkok’s waterfront upgrade to boost touristic activities

    The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is implementing a strategic canal revitalisation to improve the walkways flanking Klong Phadung Krung Kasem. This canal is one of the three waterways that flow through the heart of Rattanakosin Island. Deputy Governor Wisanu Sapsompol yesterday stated that the refurbished pedestrian path would build a connection between Klong Phadung Krung Kasem and the two neighbouring canals…