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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Sponsored Digital nomading in Chiang Mai? What US$1,000 a month really gets you
Chiang Mai has become a popular destination for digital nomads due to its low living costs, rich culture, and active remote work community. The city offers affordable housing, tasty food, reliable internet, and many co-working spaces, making it a great...
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Heavy traffic in Phuket forces travellers to allocate extra time
Phuket International Airport is once again reminding those scheduled to fly out of the island to factor in additional travel time to reach the airport. This advice, which was initially issued for the new year period, has been reiterated due to persistent heavy traffic on the island’s main roads. This renewed call for travellers to allocate an extra two to…
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Bangkok reigns as the most visited city by international tourists in 2023
Bangkok has taken the top spot as the most visited city by international travellers in the previous year according to Travelness, a popular travel website. The ranking was based on the Global Destination Cities Index gathered by Mastercard, which considered the total number of foreign tourists who stayed overnight and their expenditure. In the previous year, The Thai capital Bangkok…
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Thai hospitality groups eye global expansion amid tourism recovery
The global tourism recovery has spurred Thai hospitality groups to broaden their horizons beyond domestic borders, tapping into the robust demand in numerous destinations. In the previous year, many hotel management companies reported substantial profits, with some even witnessing their average daily room rates surpass 2019 levels, particularly in prime locations. Minor International (MINT), the largest hotel chain in Thailand,…
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Thailand targets 3.5 trillion baht tourism boost for economy
Thailand’s government is setting its sights on a 3.5 trillion baht (US$101 billion) boost to the economy via the tourism sector this year, aiming to establish the nation as an all-season tourist hotspot. A spokesperson for the government, Chai Wacharonke, revealed that over 27 million international travellers graced the country in 2023, with the majority stemming from Malaysia, closely followed…
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CNN chooses Wat Arun for New Year’s Eve bash
CNN International has handpicked the iconic Wat Arun in Bangkok to be the star of their global New Year’s Eve Live celebrations. Under the banner of Wichit Arun, this extravaganza promises to showcase the vibrant tapestry of Thai identity through a stunning display of fireworks. On the eve of December 28, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) proudly announced that…
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South Korean YouTube channel explores national parks in Thailand
South Korean YouTubers behind the hugely popular Cullen Hateberry channel are teaming up with Thailand’s national parks for an exciting venture to boost tourism. Atthaphon Charoenchansa, the director general of the National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation Department (DNP), revealed the intriguing collaboration that is set to unfold in the coming year. “We’ve reached out to the Cullen Hateberry channel,…
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Thailand’s Louis Tussaud wax museum to unveil lifelike King Charles III figure
Following the resounding success of the Joe Biden wax figure debut last year, the Royal Dynasty room at Louis Tussaud’s is unveiling a life-size wax figure of the British monarch King Charles III. Nestled within the Royal Garden Plaza Pattaya shopping center in Chon Buri province, this cultural hotspot promises an unparalleled display of regal wax royalty. King Charles III,…
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Thailand tourism: 10 provinces elevated to first tier attractions
Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has handpicked 10 second-tier provinces to be promoted as first-tier tourist hotspots on December 26. This strategic initiative, concocted in collaboration with the Thai Chamber of Commerce and the Board of Trade of Thailand, is set to revolutionise the tourism landscape. The chosen provinces, brimming with untapped potential, include Phrae, Lampang, Nakhon Sawan, Nakhon Phanom,…
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Bangkok crowned world’s most visited city in 2023
World of Statistics has recently crowned Bangkok as the world’s most visited city in 2023, bringing in an impressive 22.78 million tourists. This achievement is doubly significant as Thailand sees not just one, but three of its cities listed in the top 20 most popular tourist destinations. Alongside Bangkok, Phuket and Pattaya also made the cut, ranking 14th and 15th…
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Neos Air takes off on Milan-Brno-Phuket route: Thai welcome extravaganza marks grand inauguration
Neos Air‘s maiden flight on the Milan-Brno-Phuket route was greeted with a vibrant Thai traditional welcome dance and personalised greetings, organised by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). The spectacular event aimed to immerse passengers in the richness of local culture, enhancing their travel experience. Italy’s Neos Air, with Flight NO216, officially launched its operations on this exciting route, landing…
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Thai tourism minister welcomes Chinese influencers to boost 2024 travel
On December 26 Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, the Thai Minister of Tourism and Sports, extended a warm welcome to a large contingent of Chinese media representatives and influencers. Their visit was part of the Amazing Festive & Exclusive Trip in Thailand, a grand event scheduled from December 21 to 28. The event saw the participation of more than 93 Chinese influencers, all…
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Airfares to plummet next year
Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has announced a breath of fresh air for travellers— airfares are set to drop next year. With an influx of licenced airlines and a squadron of new aircraft on the horizon, the skies are about to become a lot more affordable. According to the latest revelation from the CAAT today, December 27, a stellar…
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Erawan Shrine: The bombing and astonishing comeback
Towering over the vibrant Ratchaprasong Square, Erawan Shrine, haven to the Hindu god Brahma outshines seven other shrines dedicated to deities like Ganesha, Trimurti, Uma, Lakshmi, Chatumaharajika, Indra, and Narayana. But amidst the spiritual serenity, tragedy struck in 2015, when the Erawan Shrine became the unexpected target of a bombing, claiming 20 lives and injuring 125. Shockingly, an ethnic Uighur…
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Thai Vietjet’s festive fares drop to 24 baht
Thai Vietjet has unwrapped a festive treat for travel enthusiasts – the Season’s Greetings promotion. This airline extravaganza is gifting travellers with special fares starting from just THB 24 (excluding taxes and fees) for a sleigh-full of domestic and international routes. But this offer is only available for booking from December 21 to 25. Pack your bags for a holiday…
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Waves ban on Pattaya boats after tourist catamaran capsizes
The Marine Department, Pattaya Office, imposed a ban on small boats venturing into the Pattaya sea. With a red flag fluttering halfway up the mast yesterday, December 25, the Department issued a stern warning to fishing boats, jet skis, speedboats, and towing boats, urging them to stay ashore amid the turbulent waters. Large fishing vessels escaped a categorical ban but…
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Americans’ top 3 festive escapes: Italy, Japan, and Thailand take the lead
Italy reigns supreme as the ultimate festive haven, clocking in nearly 93,000 average searches from September to December this year. An ever-popular year-round destination, Italy transforms into a winter wonder with charming markets, exceptional skiing facilities, and high-altitude luxury in the Italian Alps – a must-visit for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Taking an unexpected second place is Japan, with 33,275.49 average…
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Pattaya’s New Year’s Eve beach bash: Extended hours and giant umbrellas
In a move to ring in the New Year with a bang, Pattaya has given the green light for beach umbrella operators to stay open overnight on New Year’s Eve. In a meeting chaired by Deputy Mayor Wuttisak Rermkijakarn on December 21, set the stage for exciting changes in the beach umbrella scene. Over 150 operators, along with top city…
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Diving boat carrying tourists sinks near Surin Islands, two missing
The Heaven Tour diving boat sank in the sea around 4 miles away from the Surin Islands, following a trip with tourists for diving. The incident led to the disappearance of two individuals, with 14 being rescued. The search operation kicked off at 9am today, December 23. The Third Region Maritime Interests Promotion Center (SRP.3) revealed that they were informed…
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Pattaya floating market: Loss of Chinese tourists amidst safety concerns
In a bid to revive Pattaya‘s reputation, the operator of the iconic Pattaya Floating Market is sounding the alarm, urging authorities to dispel safety concerns that have plagued Thailand. Amidst the ongoing struggle for a tourism comeback, Sumaporn Srimuang, the market’s general manager, reveals shocking statistics and pleads for a shift in perception. “China remains the linchpin of Pattaya’s tourism,…
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Staggering investment of 150 billion baht in AOT airports
In a move set to revolutionise Thailand‘s air travel scene, Airports of Thailand (AOT) has unveiled ambitious plans for the construction of two new airports and a staggering investment of 150 billion baht. Speaking exclusively at the Section II: Next Step seminar on December 20, AOT’s dynamic CEO, Kirati Kitmanawat revealed plans for the Lanna and Andaman airports. These megastructures,…
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Thailand Winter Festival fuels tourism boom
Thailand‘s vibrant cultural tapestry, woven with ancient traditions and modern spectacles, is driving a tourism surge, with the Thailand Winter Festival taking the spotlight as the grand finale of 2023. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) wrapped up the year with a dazzling Thailand Winter Festival, featuring five cultural extravaganzas, including a Colorful Canals promotion for the mesmerising Loy Krathong…
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Thai health charter chairman advocates for cannabis in wellness tourism
Dr Kampon Sriwatanakul, chairman of the Thailand National Charter of Health, has called for the adoption of a holistic wellness technique to leverage the potential of cannabis in bolstering the nation‘s tourism. He delivered these remarks at the 4th CISW MedCann Investment Summit 2023, which took place yesterday, December 20. The chairman advocated for a wellness tourism model revolving around…
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Phuket paradise beckons: TAT teams up with Saudia Airlines for tourism extravaganza
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has joined forces with Saudia Airlines, setting their sights on a jaw-dropping target of 300,000 arrivals and a staggering 27.68 billion baht in revenue. TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool revealed ambitious plans after a high-stakes meeting in Riyadh with Saudia Airlines bigwigs. Thapanee disclosed discussions that could make this a game-changer for Saudi tourists seeking…
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Thai government ditches 300-baht fee for tourists: Massive insurance plan
In a bold move to restore tourist trust, Thailand‘s Tourism and Sports Ministry has abandoned the long-delayed 300-baht tourism fee and is now looking for another type of insurance for tourists. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is spearheading a grand plan to offer a whopping 500,000 baht coverage for injuries and a jaw-dropping 1 million baht in the event of a…
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Phuket to host luxury boat show: Multi-billion baht yachts and jets
In a dazzling display set to elevate Phuket‘s status on the global luxury stage, the Thailand International Boat Show A Luxury Lifestyle Event is gearing up to showcase a spectacular line-up of yachts, private jets, and more. This high-profile event is poised to inject a staggering 500 million baht into Phuket’s economy, drawing in a crowd of High Net Worth…
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PM Srettha reveals bold plans for seamless tourism and rice boost in regional summit
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin revealed visionary plans to foster seamless tourism among Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. The grand revelation unfolded during a high-profile meeting with the leaders of these nations on the sidelines of the Tokyo summit, celebrating Japan’s half-century collaboration with ASEAN countries. During a tête-à -tête with Vietnam President Võ Văn Thưởng, Srettha enthusiastically announced the revival of…
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Thailand’s growing spa industry (video)
President of the Thai Spa Association, Sunai Wachirawarakarn, or Nai, talks about the secrets behind Thailand‘s spa industry meteoric rise and unveils the trends reshaping the wellness landscape. The Thai Spa Association, a non-profit powerhouse dedicated to propelling Thailand’s spa industry, boasts 200 privileged members relishing perks like exclusive newsletters, seminars, and high-profile networking events. Across the Middle East, spa…
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Honesty prevails: Seafood restaurant staff’s noble act returns lost fortune to tourists
In a heartwarming twist of fate, a group of tourists, seemingly from the Middle East, narrowly escaped a financial catastrophe after leaving behind a bag loaded with 9,275 Dirhams and 105 US Dollars, totalling around 100,000 baht at the renowned Moom Aroi seafood restaurant in the Na Kluea area. On the evening of December 13, two women and two men…
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Visitors to explore the depths of heroism in Thailand’s Tham Luang Cave
A handful of thrill-seeking visitors now have the golden ticket to explore the hidden depths of chambers 2 and 3 in Tham Luang Cave, nestled within Chiang Rai province. Renowned for the sensational 2018 Wild Boar football team rescue, this daring escapade promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of heroism. Registration kicked off on December 15, granting access to…
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Foreign buyers flock to Thailand’s tropical condos: Chinese and Russians lead
Foreign buyers such as the Chinese and Russian are dominating the condominium scene, turning Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket into international real estate playgrounds. A staggering 10,703 units, raking in a jaw-dropping 52.3 billion baht, exchanged hands in the nine months leading up to September, marking a whopping 38% surge from the previous year, according to the Real Estate Information Center,…
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