foreign tourism

  • Thailand NewsThai entertainment complex bill targets tourists, limits local gambling

    Thai entertainment complex bill targets tourists, limits local gambling

    Council of State Secretary General Pakorn Nilprapunt stated that the controversial Entertainment Complex Bill is primarily aimed at foreign tourism, with stringent measures proposed to minimise the involvement of most Thai citizens due to concerns about gambling. Pakorn recently shared an update on the amendments to the draft bill, noting that it is currently under its second review. The draft…

  • Thailand NewsThailand considers lifting train alcohol ban to boost tourism

    Thailand considers lifting train alcohol ban to boost tourism

    The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) intends to propose lifting the current ban on alcohol sales on trains at the upcoming meeting of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Committee scheduled for Friday, February 21. Previously, the committee, under the Public Health Ministry, had rejected a similar proposal due to concerns it could prove more detrimental than beneficial. Public Health Minister Somsak…

  • Pattaya NewsPattaya’s Oman roadshow draws huge tourism interest

    Pattaya’s Oman roadshow draws huge tourism interest

    Pattaya is making waves in the Middle East. City officials and business leaders landed in Muscat, Oman, to showcase Pattaya’s tourism charm, drawing overwhelming interest from local tour operators. Pattaya City, in partnership with the Chon Buri Provincial Administrative Organisation and the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Pattaya Office, hosted the Pattaya Roadshow to Muscat at the Sheraton Oman Hotel on…

  • Pattaya NewsPattaya’s iconic sign gets a dazzling upgrade

    Pattaya’s iconic sign gets a dazzling upgrade

    Pattaya City’s famous hillside sign is getting a stunning new look, with a high-tech lighting upgrade set to be completed by February 27. Deputy Mayor Manoch Nongyai recently inspected the site on Pratumnak Hill, where contractors demonstrated the state-of-the-art lighting system. “The Pattaya City sign has been a landmark for over 20 years, but time has taken its toll. This…

  • Thailand NewsThailand hotel room rates soar by 15% amid travel demand surge

    Thailand hotel room rates soar by 15% amid travel demand surge

    Hotel room rates in Thailand increased by an average of 15% from 2023, as reported by SiteMinder, an e-commerce platform assisting hotels with direct and third-party bookings. This growth distinguishes Thailand as the only country with double-digit expansion. The Hotel Booking Trends report from SiteMinder, which analysed over 125 million reservations, indicates that the average daily rate (ADR) in Thailand…

  • Pattaya NewsPattaya cracks down on homelessness amid public safety concerns

    Pattaya cracks down on homelessness amid public safety concerns

    Pattaya is stepping up efforts to tackle homelessness and improve public safety along Sukhumvit Road and the beach, responding to growing concerns about crime and disorder. Local officials are rolling out new measures to clean up the streets, provide support for the homeless, and clamp down on illegal activities. Residents have voiced strong opinions on the issue, with many calling…

  • Thailand NewsEx-alcohol chief toasts potential gains from lifting drink sales ban

    Ex-alcohol chief toasts potential gains from lifting drink sales ban

    Former chairperson of the Alcohol Beverage Business Association recently discussed the potential economic benefits of lifting the ban on alcohol sales from 2pm to 5pm as well as on religious holidays. The move aligns with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s directive to review regulations that hinder economic stimulation and contradict tourism promotion policies. Thanakorn Kuptajit highlighted that revisiting these restrictions, including the…

  • Phuket NewsClean hotels with ‘3C’ initiative launches in Phuket

    Clean hotels with ‘3C’ initiative launches in Phuket

    To ensure a safer travel experience, the Department of Medical Sciences is rolling out its ambitious Clean Hotels with 3C initiative across Thailand’s prime tourist spots. Deputy Director General Dr Ballang Uppong launched a crucial training session at the Royal Phuket City Hotel, aiding hotel operators in Phuket, Krabi, and Phang Nga. With over 250 participants, including public health officials,…

  • Thailand NewsThailand gears up for Chinese tourist surge amid charter flight push

    Thailand gears up for Chinese tourist surge amid charter flight push

    Thailand is ramping up efforts to boost Chinese tourist arrivals by increasing charter flights from secondary cities in China while launching a major domestic travel subsidy in June. Chuwit Sirivejkul, regional marketing director for East Asia at the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), revealed that Thailand welcomed an average of 22,000 to 24,000 Chinese tourists daily in January. The numbers peaked…

  • Pattaya NewsInvestors to pump 40 billion baht into Pattaya’s tourism sector

    Investors to pump 40 billion baht into Pattaya’s tourism sector

    Investors are set to inject 40 billion baht into Pattaya, focusing on new hotels and attractions to enhance tourism. On Wednesday, January 29, Wallaya Traisorat, CEO and President of Asset World Corporation (AWC) announced the opening of Meliá Pattaya Hotel, a 234-room property with an investment exceeding 2 billion baht. This hotel targets workcation travellers, digital nomads, meetings, incentives, conferences…

  • Thailand NewsThai tea brand launches bird’s nest drink for Chinese tourists

    Thai tea brand launches bird’s nest drink for Chinese tourists

    Napit Sasiwimolkul, the marketing director of Suntory Beverage & Food (Thailand) Co., Ltd., highlighted the continued focus on health among consumers. According to Eastern beliefs, particularly in China, bird’s nest is considered to have cooling properties. With Thailand’s tourism sector showing signs of recovery, data from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports reveals that 35,545,714 international tourists visited the country…

  • Thailand NewsKrabi park e-ticketing system struggles to curb cash handling risks

    Krabi park e-ticketing system struggles to curb cash handling risks

    A special task force from the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) conducted an inspection yesterday, January 17, at Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Koh Phi Phi National Park in Krabi to evaluate anti-corruption measures. The inspection followed the introduction of an e-ticketing system intended to prevent fraud in park entry fee management. Officials examined the fee collection processes at popular tourist sites such…

  • Thailand NewsThai restaurant sales to soar 15% over new year period

    Thai restaurant sales to soar 15% over new year period

    Central Restaurants Group (CRG) anticipates a significant increase in sales within the Thai restaurant industry during the new year festive season, driven by a boost in dining out and a rise in foreign tourist numbers. This optimism comes as Thailand records approximately 33.5 million foreign visitors from January to mid-December. Leading the arrivals are Chinese tourists, numbering 6.4 million, followed…

  • Thailand NewsSuccessful coral restoration boosts tourism at Koh Larn

    Successful coral restoration boosts tourism at Koh Larn

    A team of marine specialists conducted a diving inspection at Koh Larn to ensure the safety of tourists and coral reefs in the Sea Walker area. The inspection revealed the successful restoration of staghorn coral reefs. Dr Pinsak Suraswadi, Director-General of the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR), led a group, including Ukkrit Sataphumin, director of the Marine Resources…

  • Krabi NewsThailand rolls out the red carpet for Polish tourists

    Thailand rolls out the red carpet for Polish tourists

    Thailand has turned on the charm for Polish holidaymakers, welcoming 294 tourists on a landmark charter flight from Warsaw to Krabi. LOT Polish Airlines‘ Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner touched down at Krabi International Airport yesterday, December 19, marking a high-flying milestone in Thai-Polish tourism. This inaugural seasonal service, organised by leading tour operator ITAKA, is set to run until March 19,…

  • Phuket NewsPlane and simple: Phuket Airport gears up for holiday rush

    Plane and simple: Phuket Airport gears up for holiday rush

    Phuket International Airport is bracing for a surge of holiday travellers, with up to 60,000 passengers expected daily during the festive season. Officials promise streamlined services and enhanced security to handle the crowds. The Royal Thai Police (RTP)’s Immigration Bureau, led by acting commissioner Police Lieutenant General Panumas Bunyalak, joined forces with airport director Monchai Tanode to ensure the airport…

  • Thailand NewsLeopard sighting amazes tourists at Kaeng Krachan National Park

    Leopard sighting amazes tourists at Kaeng Krachan National Park

    A rare sighting of a leopard calmly sitting on a road in Kaeng Krachan National Park left tourists in awe as the big cat appeared unbothered and at ease. The encounter, which occurred yesterday, December 19 at around 6.50am, was recounted by Mongkol Chaiphakdee, head of the national park located in Phetchaburi province. Kritsiphong Ngamjing, a tourist, was fortunate enough…

  • Thailand NewsGolden glory: Lopburi’s sunflower fields spark tourism boom

    Golden glory: Lopburi’s sunflower fields spark tourism boom

    Lopburi province is turning heads as its stunning sunflower fields burst into full bloom, creating a jaw-dropping golden carpet framed by dramatic mountain peaks and vivid blue skies. Tourists are flocking to this seasonal wonderland, capturing dreamy photos and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere. The crown jewel is a 75-rai (12-hectare) sunflower field in the Manao Wan subdistrict, owned by…

  • Thailand NewsPhuket’s tourism extravaganza: Andaman festival set to dazzle

    Phuket’s tourism extravaganza: Andaman festival set to dazzle

    Phuket is gearing up for a tourism extravaganza like no other. Governor Sophon Suwannarat has thrown open the doors to the Andaman Tourism Networking 2024, a dazzling showcase of six Andaman provinces under the banner, Happening Andaman. Mark your calendars for December 6 to 8 at Saphan Hin, because this three-day event promises to be unforgettable. Speaking at a press conference…

  • Thailand NewsPhuket goes green: Old town steps up for carbon-free tourism

    Phuket goes green: Old town steps up for carbon-free tourism

    Phuket Old Town took centre stage on Monday, November 18, as the Department of Tourism unveiled its bold initiative to promote low-carbon tourism routes, marking a milestone in sustainable travel for the 2024 fiscal year. Local leaders and media gathered for the showcase event in the historic heart of Phuket, which spotlighted eco-friendly travel practices and the charm of the…

  • Phuket NewsPhuket’s waste crisis escalates: Larger landfills urgently needed

    Phuket’s waste crisis escalates: Larger landfills urgently needed

    Phuket is battling a mounting waste crisis as the island’s landfills struggle to keep up with booming tourism and business expansion. Deputy Mayor Suphot La-ongphet is spearheading urgent efforts to contain the overflow, making a high-stakes visit to Saphan Hin’s landfill sites 4 and 5 on Monday, November 11 to fast-track expansion projects. Landfill 3 is already beyond capacity, with…

  • Phuket NewsPhuket Airport sees surge with over 30,000 passengers daily

    Phuket Airport sees surge with over 30,000 passengers daily

    Phuket International Airport is experiencing a significant upswing in passenger traffic this High Season, with daily figures surpassing 30,000 travellers and over 300 flights. This uptick in activity has prompted plans for an expansion of the international terminal to accommodate up to 18 million passengers annually. Monchai Tanod, the director of Phuket Airport, shared insights on the anticipated passenger numbers…

  • Thailand NewsHalal Food Festival in Pattaya showcases culinary delights

    Halal Food Festival in Pattaya showcases culinary delights

    A feast for the senses awaits at the upcoming Halal Food Festival in Pattaya. Set to take place over the weekend, starting tomorrow, November 9 until Sunday, November 10 at the Nurul Yakin Mosque in Ban Nern Plub Wan, this event promises a delightful culinary journey. Organised by the Tourism Promotion Club of the Nern Plub Wan Club, the festival…

  • Thailand NewsEF Ultimate Break partners with Thailand for eco-friendly holidays

    EF Ultimate Break partners with Thailand for eco-friendly holidays

    EF Ultimate Break, the experiential travel leader for the 18 to 35 crowd, is taking travel to a whole new level of responsibility with its latest initiative, launched in collaboration with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). Aimed at delivering sustainable, ethically crafted adventures, this new line-up of Thailand tours promises eco-conscious itineraries that will make every traveller feel like…

  • Thailand NewsPhimai Festival to boost tourism in Nakhon Ratchasima

    Phimai Festival to boost tourism in Nakhon Ratchasima

    Nakhon Ratchasima this week launched the spectacular Phimai Festival, featuring a dazzling light and sound show titled Vimayapura Niramit Sri Wirentrasrom. The event aims to boost the local economy and promote tourism in Korat. The Phimai Historical Park in Phimai district, Nakhon Ratchasima, served as the venue for the festival’s opening ceremony. Chaiwat Chuenkosum, the Governor of Nakhon Ratchasima, presided…

  • Phuket NewsPatong slams brakes on taxi conflicts to boost tourism image

    Patong slams brakes on taxi conflicts to boost tourism image

    Efforts are underway in Patong to reorganise the city’s unscrupulous motorcycle taxi services following a recent conflict among drivers over passenger pickups. Local police in the bustling tourist destination are taking steps to address the situation, which has negatively impacted the area’s reputation. Chalermpong Saengdee, a member of the People’s Party representing Phuket, revealed that a meeting took place yesterday…

  • Thailand NewsChon Buri Coffee on the Beach 2024 to perk up Pattaya tourism

    Chon Buri Coffee on the Beach 2024 to perk up Pattaya tourism

    Pattaya is bustling with anticipation for the upcoming Chon Buri Coffee on the Beach 2024 event. Scheduled to take place from November 22 to 24 at Pattaya Beach, this event promises a unique blend of coffee culture and scenic beachfront experiences. Pattaya’s leadership, spearheaded by Mayor Poramet Ngampichet, took centre stage on Monday, November 4, to formally announce this event.…

  • Thailand NewsBDMS Wellness Clinic boosts health tourism with Longevity Card

    BDMS Wellness Clinic boosts health tourism with Longevity Card

    BDMS Wellness Clinic launched a new health initiative amid the rising global interest in wellness, particularly as societies worldwide face ageing populations and an increase in chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, obesity, and stress. This trend has significantly boosted the popularity of the wellness industry. Global wellness market data indicates an expected annual growth of approximately 8.6%, potentially…

  • Thailand NewsIndian tourists get visa-free entry with extended stays in Thailand

    Indian tourists get visa-free entry with extended stays in Thailand

    In a major move sure to excite Indian travellers, Thailand has indefinitely extended visa-free entry for Indian tourists, allowing them to stay for up to 60 days. Previously set to expire on November 11, the visa-free policy will now remain a permanent feature, making Thailand’s stunning beaches, vibrant cities, and rich cultural attractions more accessible than ever, reported India Today,…

  • Thailand NewsPhatthalung plans airport to become Thailand’s logistics hub

    Phatthalung plans airport to become Thailand’s logistics hub

    Officials in Phatthalung are gearing up to transform the province into a bustling logistics hub in southern Thailand with plans to construct a new airport. This ambitious initiative, aimed at elevating the province’s economic profile, is anticipated to be presented to the Cabinet soon. A major step forward was taken when the Phatthalung governor submitted a formal request to the…