Thai tourism
- Business News
Thai economy to be driven by private consumption, tourism in 2023
Stimulating private consumption is a reasonable strategy for the government to maintain economic growth amidst global uncertainties, according to Tim Leelahaphan, an economist at Standard Chartered Bank Thailand. The first half of 2023 saw a 7% year-on-year increase in the country’s private consumption. Expectations are high for private consumption and tourism to be the main drivers of economic growth in…
- Business News
Chinese tourism to Thailand lags despite lifted travel restrictions
The number of Chinese tourists visiting Thailand continues to fall behind predictions, despite China lifting travel restrictions over eight months ago. By September 10, a total of 2.28 million Chinese arrivals had been recorded for the year, with estimates for the end of the year standing between 4 and 4.4 million. This falls short of the initial target of 5…
- Business News
Chiang Mai tourism recovery slower than expected despite visa-free policy
Despite the gradual revival of tourism, a significant number of rooms in Chiang Mai‘s hotels and the international airport remain unoccupied, with the return of travellers seemingly slower than anticipated post-pandemic. Adding to the concerns is the anticipated PM2.5 dust during the peak season. Over the weekend, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin undertook an inspection of the airport in light of…
- Thailand News
Ancient ice cream tempts tourists to Thai heritage park Si Thep
A unique idea of ancient ice cream moulded from artefacts found in the historic Si Thep Park has attracted a swarm of tourists. The Si Thep (SI THEP Towards World Heritage) Facebook page yesterday posted images of the ice cream, designed with various patterns matching those in the ancient site in Si Thep, Phetchabun. “Ancient ice cream of the ancient…
- Business News
Thai PM’s ‘spice of life’ plan: Srettha Thavisin to boost Thai-Indian tourism in Modi meet
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin announced his impending visit to India, scheduled for later this year, with an agenda to discuss boosting Indian tourism in Thailand with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The two leaders aim to resolve ongoing issues with visa application procedures and achieve approval for a visa-free policy for Indian tourists. Srettha told the media yesterday that he…
- Tourism News
Srettha Thavisin to bolster Thai-Chinese tourism, bilateral ties in China visit
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is slated for a diplomatic visit to China from Oct 8-10 to negotiate on 10 pivotal issues, among which strengthening bilateral relations and enhancing Thai-Chinese tourism cooperation take precedence. The announcement came yesterday during his visit to Chiang Mai, where he also hinted at the renewal of the Thai-Chinese memorandum of understanding on the loaning of…
- Tourism News
Chaiya Pier 60m baht investment to boost Surat Thani tourism
A significant boost to Chaiya district’s tourism is on the horizon as provincial authorities of Surat Thani have earmarked a budget of 60 million baht for the construction of a new pier. The announcement came from Surat Thani governor, Witchawut Jinto, who confirmed that construction will commence shortly. The construction is said to be positioned near a public park in…
- Thailand News
Thailand and Laos in talks to link tourism routes and build second bridge
In a bid to boost tourism and enhance relations, Thailand and Laos initiated discussions to connect tourism routes and expedite the construction of a second Thai-Lao friendship bridge in the Pak Chom district of Loei. The talks took place yesterday between Tawee Sermpakdeekul, the governor of Loei, and Khamphan Sithidampha, the governor of Laos’ Vientiane province, during the 20th Thai-Lao…
- Tourism News
Chinese embassy applauds visa-free ‘tour-de-force’ to revive Thai tourism
The Chinese embassy expressed gratitude towards the Thai government’s visa-free policy, anticipating it would encourage an influx of tourists from China and rejuvenate Thailand’s tourism industry. The embassy, in a Facebook post, conveyed the Chinese government’s support for the initiative but simultaneously emphasised the necessity for the Thai government to safeguard Chinese tourists during their stay. The visa-free scheme, unveiled…
- Business News
Thai tourism aims sky-high: 3 trillion baht revenue target unveiled
The Thai tourism and sports minister announced an ambitious new target for foreign tourism revenue: an unprecedented 3 trillion baht. The minister, Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, revealed the goal, which marks a considerable increase from the 1.9 trillion baht recorded in 2019, is part of a broader strategy to position the nation as a leading hub for sports and entertainment. Sudawan acknowledged…
- Tourism News
Thailand tourism shifts focus to Kazakhstan amid slow Chinese tourism recovery
Chinese tourists aren’t expected to immediately surge to 700,000 arrivals per month, despite a prospective Thailand tourism visa–free scheme, due to safety concerns and lower flight frequencies, currently at half of their pre-pandemic 2019 levels. Phuket’s tourism operators are instead setting their sights on Kazakhstan, to be granted visa-free entries from September 25 to February 29, 2024. Travel agents see…
- Thailand News
Thailand’s tourism reboot: aiming high with a 2.4 trillion baht comeback
The Thai government unveiled an ambitious strategy aimed at revitalising its tourism industry, to generate revenue of 2.4 trillion baht this year. This figure equates to approximately 80% of the income recorded in the sector’s peak year of 2019. A spokesperson for the government, Chai Wacharonke, revealed the plans yesterday. The government has further goals for the domestic tourism sector,…
- Business News
Koh Samui tourism seeks extended stays for European travellers amidst water crisis
Koh Samui’s tourism sector called for the government to extend stays for European travellers, arguing that the proposed visa-free travel for Chinese tourists will not significantly benefit the island. This comes from Ratchaporn Poolsawadee, the president of the Tourism Association of Koh Samui, who noted that Chinese nationals only make up a small percentage (10%) of the island’s foreign tourist…
- Thailand News
Royal battleships make a reefinement splash as underwater tourism sets sail off Koh Tao
The royal battleships Su Phairin and Han Hak Satru just took their last splash as they were submerged undersea to form refinement ambassadors. Rear Admiral Charasakiat Chaiphan, commander of the 2nd naval area, led the initiative, all part of the underwater learning park project to take the plunge into underwater tourism. The two decommissioned vessels found their new home off…
- Business News
Thai tourist numbers set to soar with anticipated visa exemption for China
The Thai tourism industry is poised for a significant boost, as an anticipated visa exemption for Chinese travellers could trigger a surge in foreign tourists, according to Chinese government-owned Thai brokerage, CGS-CIMB Securities (Thailand). However, the firm predicts that the arrival figures for tourists from China will still lag behind the 2019 statistics due to the economic challenges faced by…
- Thailand News
Chinese ambassador backs visa perks to boost tourism
Han Zhiqiang, the Chinese Ambassador to Thailand, expressed support for the impending visa privileges aimed towards Chinese tourists. These measures are being considered by both governments, to bolster Chinese tourism and investment in their respective countries ahead of the approaching peak season. Han voiced his endorsement during an orientation for the 18th Mandarin for Government Officers Workshop. This event was…
- Tourism News
Thai hotel industry fears revenue and tax loss over reclassifying small properties
The Thai Hotels Association (THA) voiced concerns over recent ministerial regulations that exclude accommodations with fewer than eight rooms and 30 guests from being classified as hotels. The THA predicts this new rule will result in a 15-20% decrease in hotel tourism revenue, heightened safety risks, and loss of tax revenue. This regulation, announced in the Royal Gazette, has been…
- Thailand News
Tourism’s thrilling twist: Thapanee takes the helm at TAT
A new chapter unfolds in Thailand’s tourism sector as Thapanee Kiatphaiboon, the former Deputy Governor for Tourism Products and Business, steps into the esteemed role of Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) today. An individual renowned for her innovative leadership and technology acumen, Thapanee’s work has significantly contributed to the development and promotion of Thailand’s tourism industry. During…
- Business News
Premium privilege: Thailand Elite Card set to increase membership fee by 50%”
Thailand Privilege Card Co (TPC), operator of the Thailand Elite Card, announced plans to increase its base membership price by 50%, raising it from 600,000 baht to 900,000 baht. The move is part of the company’s strategy to boost its annual revenue to 8 billion baht. In addition, the company will be introducing four new types of cards, all of…
- Thailand News
Thailand Privilege Card targets luxury long-term residency market with rebranding
The Thailand Privilege Card (TPC) has adopted a fresh approach to attract high-end foreign residents who seek extended stays. Managed by the Thailand Elite Card Project under the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), TPC has undergone rebranding, introducing a new logo, redesigned uniforms, and innovative card formats across four tailored packages to suit various global lifestyles. Over two decades, TPC…
- Guides
5 souvenirs unique to Thailand
Thailand is one of the significant countries where both foreigners and locals are eager to say ‘yes’ to a request to visit. Not only are there numerous tourist attractions and delicious cuisine, but there are also intriguing mementos for those returning home. Today, we would like to share some souvenir gift ideas that you may not have considered before. Unique…
- Economy News
Thai tourism faces strain from sluggish Chinese, Japanese economies
Tourism operators in Thailand are facing significant challenges due to the sluggish economies of China and Japan and an uneven recovery in Thai tourism that benefits larger operators. A recent survey by the Thai Hotels Association (THA) and the Bank of Thailand revealed that 29% of three-star or lower-rated hotels have been severely impacted by interest rate hikes and may…
- Phuket News
New PM Srettha visits Phuket, talks airport expansion, busin
The new Prime Minister of Thailand, Srettha Thavisin, recently made an official visit to Phuket. He held extensive discussions concerning the proposed expansion of Phuket International Airport and future strategies for the development of the province’s tourism industry. Srettha, renowned for his proactive approach to governance, arrived at Phuket International Airport yesterday around 11am. In a series of meetings with…
- Thailand News
Prime time for Thai tourism: Thailand’s new PM heads south for strategic talks
The new Prime Minister of Thailand is set to visit Phuket and Phang Nga this weekend to deliberate with local communities and seek input from the private sector on how to boost Thai tourism in the southern provinces, according to an announcement by the Phuket office of the Public Relations Department (PR Phuket). Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and the tourism…
- Economy News
Pheu Thai leadership welcomed by tourism operators
The Pheu Thai political party’s potential leadership of the Tourism and Sports Ministry has been warmly welcomed by tourism operators. This development arises from growing speculation around the formation of the new Cabinet. Numerous news outlets suggest that the ministry might transition from the Bhumjaithai Party to Pheu Thai. Adith Chairattananon, the honorary secretary-general of the Association of Thai Travel…
- Economy News
Domestic tourism in Thailand hits 93% recovery
Thailand’s domestic tourism sector has seen a significant recovery, reaching 93% of its pre Covid-19 levels, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). The TAT expects to record approximately 160 million domestic trips in the country this year, a sharp contrast to the dismal figures witnessed at the onset of the pandemic in 2019. At a press conference, Suladda…
- Thailand News
Traffy fondue: Phuket launches English app to assist foreigners
An English language-enabled version of the Traffy Fondue application has been launched by the provincial office of Phuket, Thailand. This platform has been developed to assist foreign visitors in airing their grievances about local environmental conditions and public services. The Phuket Governor, Narong Woonciew, announced yesterday that the application has been well-received by residents seeking an expedited resolution to common…
- Business News
Chinese economic woes dampen bookings for Thai tourism sector
Tourism operators indicated a slowdown in forward bookings from China for the upcoming Golden Week holiday in October due to a challenging economic climate. A representative from the Tourism Council of Thailand, Surawat Akaraworamat, revealed that a sluggish economic rebound and potential deflation are having far-reaching effects on disposable income for prospective tourists from the Chinese mainland. “Travel agents have…
- Thailand News
Thailand’s OTP takes the high road for Andaman tourism boost
The Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning (OTP) in Thailand recently announced a forthcoming impact study concerning a proposed coastal road project linking the provinces of Ranong and Satun to boost Andaman tourism. The proposed two-lane highway, covering a distance of 600 kilometres, is designed to notably enhance the ease of access for tourists to key attractions spread…
- Pattaya News
International influencers invited to bolster Thai tourism in TAT initiative
In a move to bolster the nation’s tourism industry, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) held a lively event over the previous extended Mother’s Day holiday weekend, extending an invitation to notable international influencers. Write Your Own Amazing New Chapter was the title chosen for the event that took place over five days, from August 9 to August 13. The…
- Economy News
Thai tourism embraces easier visa rules, faster approvals for Chinese tourists
In a move geared towards promoting Thai tourism, the government has implemented policy changes that lessen the rules for obtaining a tourist visa and slashes approval time for Chinese visitors. Chinese travellers emerged as the majority of international arrivals over the past week, the deputy government spokeswoman, Rachada Dhnadirek, confirmed yesterday. Statistics displayed that 95,581 visitors from China arrived in…
- Economy News
Thai tourism industry anticipates growth under Pheu Thai government
The Thai tourism industry is buzzing with optimism as the Pheu Thai Party is potentially gearing up to form the anticipated government. With Pheu Thai’s known successful stint in the realm of governance and its proven track record in enhancing the economy, the tourism sector is eagerly waiting for efficient tourism policies to be rolled out to mitigate existing challenges.…
- Tourism News
TAT and EVA Air sign LOI to jointly promote Thai tourism
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and EVA Airways Corporation signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) to cooperate in the promotion of Thailand’s tourism for the mutual benefit of the two parties, which will see EVA Air’s global route network used to boost visitor numbers from key worldwide markets to the kingdom. Yuthasak Supasorn, TAT Governor, said… “Together, TAT and…
- Tourism News
Dramatic leap in tourism to Thailand rakes in 1.08 trillion baht
Exceeding expectations and the grim shadow of the previous year, the tourist influx to Thailand recorded a dramatic leap in the first half of 2023. From January to the end of July, over 15 million people travelled in Thailand, marking an increase in tourism to Thailand of 384% in comparison to the same period in the prior year, according to…
- Pattaya News
Pattaya retains travelers’ top spot during Mother’s Day holiday
Pattaya‘s status as a hotspot for families is once again confirmed as online booking firm Agoda discloses that the resort city holds its charm for domestic travellers anticipating their extended Mother’s Day holiday. According to data derived from Agoda, Pattaya emanates an irresistible allure to Thai vacationers planning their holiday from August 12th to the 14th in observance of National…
- Economy News
Thai tourism stays firm amid debt rise, 200 million domestic trips targeted
Despite a backdrop of tepid consumption, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) remains steadfast in its pursuit of 200 million domestic tourism trips within the current year. Data from a survey conducted by the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce paints a rather gloomy picture of increased household debt levels, up by 11.5% this year from last year. It…
- South Thailand News
Koh Tao sees record-breaking one-day tourist influx
The island of Koh Tao has seen a record-breaking number of tourists reported to have landed on July 28. The Surat Thani Provincial Governor, Wichuwat Jinto, shared the good news earlier today. Koh Tao, the smallest of the three main southern gulf islands, welcomed a staggering 3,106 visitors, all of whom arrived via boat on the same day. This influx…
