international tourism

  • Thailand NewsPhilippines and Thailand forge tourism pact amid casino buzz

    Philippines and Thailand forge tourism pact amid casino buzz

    In a landmark move to bolster tourism and cross-border collaboration, the Philippines and Thailand inked a five-year deal focusing on mutual growth in the travel and hospitality sectors. The agreement, signed on Sunday, January 19 also hints at Thailand’s potential legalisation of casinos: a game-changing development for its tourism landscape. The Philippines, a regional leader in the casino industry with…

  • Thailand NewsThai airports get safety and check-in boost as travellers rise by 14%

    Thai airports get safety and check-in boost as travellers rise by 14%

    The Transport Ministry has instructed the Department of Airports (DoA) to enhance measures in support of travellers following more than 14% rise in passenger numbers over the new year period. Deputy Minister Manaporn Charoensri announced yesterday, January 7, that from December 27 to January 2, the DoA recorded 319,275 passengers, reflecting a 14.12% increase compared to the previous year. The…

  • Thailand NewsThailand steals the spotlight at China’s Harbin Ice Festival (video)

    Thailand steals the spotlight at China’s Harbin Ice Festival (video)

    Thailand has taken the Harbin Ice and Snow Festival by storm, dazzling visitors with a spectacular cultural display and an enchanting photo exhibition. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has pulled out all the stops at this year’s Nihao! China: China Ice and Snow Tourism Overseas Promotion Season 2025, making waves with its Thai Charm showcase. The festival, which kicked off…

  • Thailand NewsThai AirAsia crowned Thailand’s punctuality king – again

    Thai AirAsia crowned Thailand’s punctuality king – again

    Thai AirAsia has soared above the competition once more, retaining its title as Thailand’s most on-time airline and securing fifth place in Cirium’s prestigious list of top 10 on-time airlines in the Asia-Pacific region. With a punctuality rate of 77.46%, it’s the only Thai carrier to earn a spot in the rankings. CEO Santisuk Klongchaiya hailed the achievement as a…

  • Phuket NewsPhuket welcomes tourists on first Bucharest flight

    Phuket welcomes tourists on first Bucharest flight

    Phuket rolled out the red carpet for the first-ever direct charter flight from Bucharest, Romania, marking a new milestone in Thai tourism. Operated by Romania’s HiSky airline in collaboration with top tour operators Dertour and Karpaten, the inaugural flight, H4 7467, landed at Phuket International Airport on Thursday, December 19. Passengers were greeted with a warm ceremony hosted by the…

  • Thailand NewsThailand goes high-tech: New E-Visa set to transform travel

    Thailand goes high-tech: New E-Visa set to transform travel

    Thailand is taking a leap into the digital age with the launch of its revolutionary Thai E-Visa system, simplifying life for globe-trotters everywhere. From January 1, 2025, international travellers can kiss goodbye to cumbersome paperwork and apply for their visas online with ease. This slick new development promises to make the visa process faster, safer, and more convenient, ensuring the…

  • LifestyleMaldives: Where luxury meets the ultimate exclusivity

    Maldives: Where luxury meets the ultimate exclusivity

    The Maldives is renowned as one of the world’s most luxurious and expensive beach tourism destinations. It is also celebrated for its exclusivity, attracting discerning travellers from across the globe. The tropical paradise comprises 1,192 islands, of which around 200 are home to the local population. Each of the 180 resort islands is geographically isolated, requiring access by boat, seaplane,…

  • Bangkok NewsBangkok named world’s most visited city with 32.4m tourists

    Bangkok named world’s most visited city with 32.4m tourists

    Bangkok has been named the world’s most-visited city for 2024, welcoming an impressive 32.4 million international tourists. This announcement was made in a report by Euromonitor International yesterday, December 6. The Thai capital experienced a significant growth of over 30% from the previous year, solidifying its status as a leader in global tourism. The city’s allure is attributed to its…

  • Thailand NewsThai beauty influencer named first Phuket tourism ambassador

    Thai beauty influencer named first Phuket tourism ambassador

    Thai social media influencer, Sasisom Phadungkingtrakul, also known as Mook, has made history as she takes on the role of the first-ever Phuket Tourism Ambassador of Thailand. The accolade, awarded by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) under the Amazing Thailand initiative, designates Sasisom as the island’s cultural and promotional representative until the end of 2025. The announcement was made…

  • Thailand NewsHigh ambitions: Suvarnabhumi aims to triple transit traffic by 2030

    High ambitions: Suvarnabhumi aims to triple transit traffic by 2030

    Suvarnabhumi Airport, Thailand’s busiest international gateway, is gearing up for a major transformation to become Southeast Asia’s ultimate transit hub. Airports of Thailand (AOT) plans to raise the airport’s transit flights from a mere 4% to a soaring 20% as part of an ambitious master plan to rank among the world’s top 20 airports by 2030. This bold goal is…

  • Thailand NewsSuvarnabhumi Airport to offer early check-in by February

    Suvarnabhumi Airport to offer early check-in by February

    Suvarnabhumi International Airport is set to introduce an early check-in service, allowing passengers to complete their check-in process up to 24 hours before departure. This initiative, announced on the Transport Ministry’s social media platform, is aimed at enhancing traveller convenience and reducing congestion at Thailand’s primary international gateway. Airports of Thailand (AoT) President Kerati Kijmanawat indicated that the service is…

  • Thailand NewsPattaya lights up: Giant 3D screen draws crowds

    Pattaya lights up: Giant 3D screen draws crowds

    Walking Street in South Pattaya just turned up the heat on its nightlife scene, and tourists are lapping it up. On Saturday night, November 9, the city’s iconic strip of bars, clubs, and neon lights added a high-tech twist—a gigantic 3D LED screen that has quickly become the area’s newest magnet for visitors. Crowds of both local and international tourists…

  • Business NewsHong Kong urged to innovate for tourist spending boost

    Hong Kong urged to innovate for tourist spending boost

    Hong Kong businesses need to innovate to attract tourist spending, rather than focusing on the decline in visitor expenditure, a senior official has advised. Warner Cheuk Wing-hing, Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration, highlighted yesterday, October 20, that tourists are still eager to spend but have heightened expectations. “We cannot just complain about why people aren’t spending money. It’s not that…

  • Thailand NewsThailand’s Koh Chang is world’s second-best tropical destination

    Thailand’s Koh Chang is world’s second-best tropical destination

    Thailand celebrates as Koh Chang is named second-best tropical holiday destination in the world by Travel + Leisure. The announcement was made by Neramit Songsang, head of the Mu Ko Chang National Park in Trat province. Koh Chang, often referred to as the Gem of the Gulf of Thailand, achieved this prestigious ranking alongside other notable destinations in Southeast Asia,…

  • Phuket NewsPhuket Airport ramps up for 18 million passengers by 2025

    Phuket Airport ramps up for 18 million passengers by 2025

    Phuket International Airport is gearing up for a major overhaul as it plans to handle a whopping 18 million passengers by 2025. Airports of Thailand (AoT) is fast-tracking Phase 2 of its expansion, boosting flight capacity from 20 to 25 flights per hour to keep up with the influx of tourists. Airport director Monchai Tanod revealed that the airport currently…

  • Tourism NewsBanyan Tree Samui scoops trio of top awards

    Banyan Tree Samui scoops trio of top awards

    In a dazzling display of luxury, Banyan Tree Samui in southern Thailand is basking in the glow of three major international awards—all in just one week. This exclusive beachfront resort has proven it’s not just a tropical paradise, but a world-class destination that knows how to make waves in the luxury travel industry. First up, the prestigious Michelin Guide, which…

  • Thailand NewsVisa-free travel: Indonesia opens doors to 13 countries

    Visa-free travel: Indonesia opens doors to 13 countries

    Indonesia is rolling out the red carpet for citizens of 13 countries, with its latest visa-free travel policy set to shake up tourism and economic development. Announced in Presidential Regulation No. 95 of 2024, which was formally ratified on August 29, this groundbreaking move targets 11 of Indonesia’s Asian neighbours, alongside Colombia and Suriname. The lucky 13 nations—Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia,…

  • Bangkok NewsBangkok named fourth friendliest city in the world for 2024

    Bangkok named fourth friendliest city in the world for 2024

    Bangkok has been named the fourth friendliest city in the world in 2024, according to Condé Nast Traveller. The travel magazine, known for its focus on luxury and independent travel, announced its annual Readers’ Choice Awards, highlighting the 10 friendliest cities as voted by travellers worldwide. Singapore topped the list with a score of 94.84. Known for its financial hubs,…

  • Thailand NewsThailand climbs the global ranks: 28th best country in the world

    Thailand climbs the global ranks: 28th best country in the world

    Thailand secured its spot as one of the world’s best places to live, work, and explore, leaping up one place to 28th in the US News & World Report’s 2024 Best Countries in the World ranking. This comes as the country continues to shine globally for its rich heritage, booming industries, and irresistible tourism appeal. The list, compiled in collaboration…

  • Tourism NewsThailand races to attract 10 million more tourists before year-end

    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…

  • Tourism NewsThailand welcomes 26 million tourists, earns 1.214 trillion baht

    Thailand welcomes 26 million tourists, earns 1.214 trillion baht

    Thailand welcomed over 26 million international tourists from January 1 to yesterday, October 1, generating an impressive 1.214 trillion baht in revenue. Sorawong Thienthong, the Minister of Tourism and Sports, confirmed these figures, underscoring the nation’s strong recovery as a premier global travel destination. Among the top contributing countries, China led with 5,227,573 tourists, followed by Malaysia with 3,734,847, India…

  • Thailand NewsThailand’s top hotels get the Michelin treatment

    Thailand’s top hotels get the Michelin treatment

    The Michelin Guide has just upped the ante in Thailand’s luxury hotel game, unveiling the first-ever “Key” ratings for 58 of the country’s most outstanding hotels. If you thought Michelin was all about fine dining, think again. Now, the world-renowned guide is here to tell you where to stay too. After four years of revamping its hotel selection process, Michelin…

  • Thailand News93 countries including Singapore will require ETA for Thai entry

    93 countries including Singapore will require ETA for Thai entry

    Soon, Singaporeans and travellers from 92 other visa-exempt countries will need to apply for an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) before their trip to the Land of Smiles. Reports suggest a pilot programme might kick off in December, with full implementation expected by June 2025. However, The Straits Times has learned that the exact launch date is still up in the…

  • Thailand NewsThailand launches halal app to boost Muslim tourism

    Thailand launches halal app to boost Muslim tourism

    Muslim tourists in Thailand can now explore the country without a hitch, thanks to the newly launched Halal Route app. Developed by the Halal Science Centre at Chulalongkorn University, this game-changing app offers a comprehensive guide to halal-friendly restaurants, hotels, mosques, and even prayer locations. As Islamic tourism booms globally, with a predicted 168 million Muslim tourists this year, Thailand…

  • Bangkok NewsWorld’s best hotel: Bangkok’s Mandarin Oriental steals the show

    World’s best hotel: Bangkok’s Mandarin Oriental steals the show

    Bangkok’s iconic Mandarin Oriental Hotel has officially snagged the prestigious title of the Best Hotel in Asia and the World, according to The Telegraph’s Hotel Awards. The British media giant, known for its high standards, placed the luxurious Thai retreat at the top of its 2024 list, beating fierce global competition. This award comes after The Telegraph’s hotel and destination…

  • Thailand NewsPattaya City officials invited to China’s Hunan for strengthened ties

    Pattaya City officials invited to China’s Hunan for strengthened ties

    Pattaya City officials received a visit from the Vice Governor of Hunan province in China, accompanied by a delegation. They extended an invitation for Pattaya officials to visit Hunan province, aiming to enhance friendship and mutual understanding between Thai and Chinese communities. The initiative seeks to promote shared prosperity through cooperation in economics, trade, tourism, science and technology, culture, education,…

  • Phuket NewsPhuket launches urgent cleanup to boost tourism on Karon Beach

    Phuket launches urgent cleanup to boost tourism on Karon Beach

    Phuket officials initiated an urgent cleanup operation at Karon Beach, aiming to address concerns over its impact on tourism. Governor Sophon Suwannarat led a meeting with the local Joint Public and Private Sector Committee on Economic Development, focusing on regulating beach umbrellas at Karon Beach, Kata Beach, and Patong Beach. The cleanup drive targets the removal of beach umbrellas and…

  • Thailand NewsExpats: New Thai visas make elite status obsolete

    Expats: New Thai visas make elite status obsolete

    Longstay expats are in uproar as Thailand’s new visa policies render their costly long-term options nearly worthless. The introduction of a 60-day visa-exempt policy and the 180-day Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) has left many feeling shortchanged. Geoffrey Fisher, a Brit who recently forked out 900,000 baht (approximately £20,000) for a five-year Elite visa, lamented, “I’ve wasted my money as more…

  • Thailand NewsTourists from 93 countries can now come to Thailand visa-free

    Tourists from 93 countries can now come to Thailand visa-free

    Thailand is set to become the ultimate tourist hotspot as the Ministry of Interior rolls out a sweeping visa waiver, allowing travellers from 93 countries to enter visa-free starting next Monday, July 15. This move, designed to boost tourism and simplify travel, marks a significant increase from the current 57 visa-exempt nations. Traisulee Traisoranakul, secretary to Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul,…

  • Business NewsVietnam Airlines surges 179%, top-performing airline stock in 2024

    Vietnam Airlines surges 179%, top-performing airline stock in 2024

    Vietnam Airlines made a remarkable return to profit, emerging as the world’s best-performing airline stock this year. The state-owned carrier soared to 179% in 2024, buoyed by a resurgence in travel demand. This surge in performance has allowed the airline to post a significant first-quarter profit, breaking a streak of over four years of consecutive losses. This turnaround is particularly…