international tourism

  • 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 NewsPhuket and the Netherlands strengthen ties over tourism and traffic

    Phuket and the Netherlands strengthen ties over tourism and traffic

    H.E. Remco van Wijngaarden, Ambassador of the Netherlands to Thailand, met with Phuket Vice Governor Samawit Suphanphai at Phuket Provincial Hall, alongside Sven Smolders, Honorary Consul for the Netherlands in southern Thailand. The gathering highlighted a shared commitment to bolstering ties through tourism, infrastructure development, and citizen welfare. With 500 Dutch nationals residing in Phuket and over 250,000 Dutch tourists…

  • 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 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…

  • Thailand NewsInternational fireworks festival to light up Pattaya later this month

    International fireworks festival to light up Pattaya later this month

    The International Fireworks Festival 2024 in Pattaya is set to dazzle spectators with a vibrant display from five countries on November 29 and 30. Following a meeting chaired by Pattaya Mayor Poramet Ngampichet at Pattaya City Hall, the event promises to be both exciting and well-organised, ensuring safety and success as seen in previous years. Held along Pattaya Beach Road,…

  • 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…

  • 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…

  • Tourism NewsKo Samui sails into bronze in the most beautiful beach awards

    Ko Samui sails into bronze in the most beautiful beach awards

    Ko Samui had to settle for third behind Vietnam’s Phu Quoc and Bali in the annual Readers’ Choice Awards’ Most Beautiful Island in Asia. In a survey by Condé Nast Traveller, Phu Quoc trailed behind Bali, Indonesia’s tropical paradise, with Thailand’s Koh Samui claiming third place. Phuket, famous for its white-sand beaches, took sixth. Malaysia’s Penang, known as the Pearl of…

  • 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,…

  • 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…

  • Phuket NewsPhuket’s veggie fest: A taste of tradition that’s un-beet-able

    Phuket’s veggie fest: A taste of tradition that’s un-beet-able

    The enchanting atmosphere of Phuket’s iconic Vegetarian Festival has officially started. Yesterday evening, October 2, the ceremonial raising of the Go Teng poles took centre stage at Chinese shrines across the island, heralding a nine-day celebration that promises to captivate both locals and visitors alike. At the heart of the festivities, thousands flocked to the Jui Tui Tao Bokeung Shrine…

  • 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 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…

  • Phuket NewsPhuket gears up for international tourism event

    Phuket gears up for international tourism event

    Phuket is readying itself for a monumental moment in global tourism. The Joint Public and Private Sector Committee for Economic Development of Phuket Province met yesterday, September 12, to fine-tune plans for the upcoming International Tourism Island City Conference (ITICC). The Pullman Phuket Karon Beach Resort will host this prestigious event from September 24 to 27, drawing industry heavyweights, experts,…

  • 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…

  • 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…

  • Tourism NewsAgoda prepares for tourist boom in India as report shows growing interest from Thais

    Agoda prepares for tourist boom in India as report shows growing interest from Thais

    Multinational travel agency Agoda is preparing for increased tourism in India, as Thais have shown a growing interest in travelling to the country. Agoda, according to data from their digital platform, has observed a 16% increase in searches from Thailand looking for accommodation in India. This growth in search volume comes days after the Indian government announced they would waive…

  • 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,…

  • Thailand NewsSouth Korea’s tourism boom leaves Thailand in the dust

    South Korea’s tourism boom leaves Thailand in the dust

    South Korea witnessed a staggering 87% surge in foreign arrivals this year but Thai visitors tell a different story. According to recent data from the Korea Tourism Organisation, arrivals from Thailand have plummeted by over 21% from last year, totalling just 119,000 visitors from January to April. The decline has raised eyebrows across the tourism industry, with experts pointing fingers…

  • Thailand NewsMinistry seeks 1billion baht tourism budget for new routes

    Ministry seeks 1billion baht tourism budget for new routes

    The Ministry of Tourism and Sports plans to request a 1 billion baht budget from the central emergency reserve fund to develop new tourism routes linking major cities to 55 notable destinations in a move to establish long-term tourism strategies. The proposed budget aims not only to organise events but to also develop new tourism routes and enhance infrastructure. Specifically,…

  • Thailand NewsPattaya mayor’s big bet on Irish tourism

    Pattaya mayor’s big bet on Irish tourism

    In a significant push to boost international tourism, Mayor Poramet Ngampichet welcomed H.E. Patrick Bourne, Ambassador of Ireland to the Kingdom of Thailand, and his delegation. The high-profile visit centred on strengthening tourism ties and introducing measures to support Irish tourists in Pattaya. During the meeting, Mayor Poramet expressed his delight and honour in hosting Irish ambassador Bourne. Poramet emphasised…

  • Thailand NewsWorld Tourism Council: Innovative strategies to combat overtourism

    World Tourism Council: Innovative strategies to combat overtourism

    Tourism is in crisis as overtourism sparks protests and unrest across the globe. The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) has a plan to turn the tide, urging cooperation between businesses and local communities to manage the influx of visitors. As travel demand skyrockets post-pandemic, locals in several countries are pushing back, calling for measures to control the surge of…

  • Thailand NewsBangkok Airways, SO/ Maldives eye growth in tourism boom

    Bangkok Airways, SO/ Maldives eye growth in tourism boom

    Bangkok Airways and luxury resort SO/ Maldives are optimistic about expanding their business in the Maldives, a popular destination among Thai tourists. The Maldives achieved a significant milestone in tourism last year, welcoming over 1.8 million visitors, the highest number in a year, according to the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corp. Bangkok Airways resumed flights to the Maldives in…

  • Thailand NewsTourism boom: Thailand clocks in 14.3 million visitors

    Tourism boom: Thailand clocks in 14.3 million visitors

    Thailand welcomed 14.3 million international tourists in the first five months of this year, generating close to 683 billion baht (US$18.7 billion) in revenue. The Tourism and Sports Minister, Sermsak Pongpanich, shared these figures, highlighting the significant contribution of foreign visitors to the country’s economy from January 1 to May 26. The top five countries with the highest number of…