Why do Chinese tourists like coming to Thailand?

By Kanjana Lao Nation Graphics

A Nielsen Survey has asked Chinese tourists why they like coming to Thailand.

Thailand remains popular among Chinese tourists, of all ages, due to its relatively low costs. Despite the Phuket boating tragedy on July 6, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports expect the arrival of Chinese tourists in 2018 to exceed the 2017 total.

Compared with other destinations Chinese tourists say they prefer Thailand for rest and relaxation, the temples, restaurants and cultural performances. More than 80% of people participating in the Nielsen survey about Chinese tourism habits said they also love the Thai street food culture. Spas and Thai massage were also high on the list of reasons Chinese enjoyed coming to Thailand.

Shopping destinations for Chinese tourists were mostly duty-free stores and convenience stores where they like to purchase local specialty goods, skincare products and food.

Thailand remains the forth most popular country/region for Chinese tourists to visit – only Hong Kong, Japan and Macau are ahead. In Thailand, Phuket remains their favourite destination (although the impact of the July 6 boating tragedy has not full impacted tourism numbers at this stage).

Chinese are amongst the top spenders when they visit Thailand although their visits are usually only measured in days rather than the weeks of tourists from other countries.

(Click on the infographic below to read)