Thailand races to attract 10 million more tourists before year-end

Thailand is pulling out all the stops to reclaim its crown as a world-class tourism destination. In a high-profile meeting yesterday, October 3, at the Dusit Thani Bangkok, the Tourism and Sports Ministry, along with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), unveiled their ambitious plans to attract more tourists to the Land of Smiles. With representatives from TAT’s 74 domestic and international offices in attendance, the stakes couldn’t be higher.

Tourism Minister Sorawong Thienthong revealed that a spike in both domestic and international flights is expected during Thailand’s high season, driving a surge in foreign tourists.

“Suvarnabhumi Airport is now welcoming 200,000 passengers a day. We aim to draw at least 10 million more foreign travellers by year-end, bringing our total to 36.7 million.”

Foreign arrivals are already up 30% year on year, with 26.08 million visitors between January and September. China tops the list with 5.25 million tourists, followed by Malaysia, India, South Korea, and Russia.

“International flight services are critical for this push, and we expect flight capacity to fully recover by next year.”

However, it’s not all smooth sailing. Sorawong acknowledged the ongoing Middle East conflict and the strengthening baht could impact tourism. Flooding is also a concern, particularly as the fourth quarter approaches. But he remains optimistic:

“We will focus on making Thailand a world-class destination once more.”

TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool echoed the sentiment, confirming efforts to hit the tourism target despite the challenges.

“We’ve already seen a significant rise in group tour bookings from China, up 200% compared to last year.”

The race to the 36.7 million mark is on, and all eyes are on Thailand’s tourism revival, reported The Nation.

In related news, the enchanting atmosphere of Phuket’s iconic Vegetarian Festival has officially started. The ceremonial raising of the Go Teng poles took centre stage on October 2 at Chinese shrines across the island, heralding a nine-day celebration that promises to captivate both locals and visitors alike.