Thailand tourism
- Tourism News
Thailand tourism threatened, Bangkok mall shooting deters Chinese tourists
The tragic shooting at Siam Paragon in the heart of Bangkok yesterday has potentially hampered Thailand tourism. Thousands of Chinese netizens criticised the incident on Weibo, some even stating they would never visit Thailand again. Several casualties, including Thai, Myanmar, and Chinese nationals, resulted from the incident. As soon as the unfortunate event occurred, the hashtag #Paragon started trending on Twitter. The…
- Economy News
Tourism confidence in Thailand plummets amid economic jitters
The tourism confidence index in Thailand has taken a hit, with figures sliding from 91 in the same period of 2019 to 69 in the third quarter of this year, according to the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT). The third quarter’s number also represents a decline from 74 and 72 recorded in the first and second quarters of 2021 respectively.…
- Chiang Mai Travel
Top 8 things to do in Chiang Mai
“If you haven’t tasted Khao Soi or seen the view from Doi Suthep, you haven’t been to Chiang Mai.” This famous Thai saying clearly rings true, as visitors to Northern Thailand will find that there are certain things to try in order to fully experience the city. Chiang Mai is definitely more relaxed than Bangkok, and its northern mountain air…
- Tourism News
TAT’s the spirit: E-book showcasing Thailand’s spiritual sites to boost faith-based tourism
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has sponsored an e-book titled Connecting to Spiritual Thailand: A Guide to 60 Powerspots, which showcases 60 lesser-known spiritual sites in Thailand, reflecting the country’s rich cultural and religious diversity. The e-book has been crafted in response to the global rise in faith-based tourism, which is projected to triple in economic value over the…
- Business News
AIS and Trip.com partner to boost Chinese tourism in Thailand
Thailand’s leading 5G digital service provider, Advanced Info Service (AIS), is partnering with China’s top online travel agent, Trip.com, to create a smooth travel experience for Chinese tourists. This move comes in response to the government’s recent introduction of a visa-free policy for Chinese visitors. AIS aims to stimulate Thailand’s tourism sector by offering a comprehensive user experience for Chinese…
- Business News
Phuket hotels thrive amid economic uncertainty, thanks to diverse visitor base
Phuket hotels are showing resilience amid a sluggish European economy and a weak British pound, with Laguna Phuket setting sights on its best high season yet. This optimism is fuelled by the return of Chinese tourists and a rebound in international travel demand. Paul Wilson, who holds the position of Vice-President and Deputy Managing Director at Laguna Phuket, revealed that…
- Thailand News
Visa-free policy for Chinese, Kazakh tourists boosts Suvarnabhumi Airport readiness
Suvarnabhumi International Airport is preparing to welcome an influx of tourists from China and Kazakhstan following the announcement of a new visa-free policy, effective from next week. The Immigration Bureau (IB) is set to bolster its officer presence at the airport in anticipation of the increased arrivals. The visa-free policy, approved on Wednesday, September 13 and publicised in the Royal…
- Business News
Tourism safety concerns: Thai Government urged to reassure China
The Thai administration is being prodded to collaborate with Beijing before implementing a visa-exemption scheme for Chinese tourists, as the country’s image suffers due to its portrayal as a transit hub for fraudulent activities in recent Chinese media, hindering tourism safety. A Chinese film titled No More Bets, which revolves around scammer networks in Southeast Asia, grossed a whopping US$505…
- Economy News
New Thai Cabinet prioritises economic recovery, property and tourism sectors
The newly confirmed Cabinet, featuring many Pheu Thai Party members, is focusing on economic recovery matters and pledged to reduce energy costs to ease financial burdens. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin engaged with various business sectors but concerns about potential bias make it unlikely that the property sector will receive preferential treatment. Tritecha Tangmatitham, MD of SET-listed developer Supalai, believes the…
- Business News
ATTA doubts efficacy of free visa plan for Chinese tourists
The Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) has expressed scepticism about a government proposal to offer free visas to Chinese tourists as a means of stimulating demand. ATTA cites economic difficulties and a weak currency as challenges that could render this initiative ineffectual, particularly in the face of flight and staff shortages. The Federation of Thai Tourism Associations and the…
- Pattaya News
National Mother’s Day weekend anticipates 2.6 million trips boosting Thai tourism revenue
Anticipation is building up in the kingdom of Thailand as the upcoming long weekend for National Mother’s Day approaches, strategically set from August 12 through August 14. According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the weekend is estimated to see a surge of 2.6 million local travels yielding total revenue of approximately 8.76 billion baht (US$249 million). This flurry…
- Tourism News
Chinese tourists to Thailand may drop as tour group restrictions lift
In the wake of China’s announcement to allow tour groups to visit Japan and several other nations for the first time since 2020, Thailand’s tourism industry braces itself for a sharp fall in Chinese tourists. This drop is in part caused by ongoing visa application challenges, in spite of the government’s efforts to simplify the process. This recent development comes…
- Thailand News
Central Retail and Ant Group introduce Alipay+ for Asian tourists in Thailand
Central Retail Corporation Limited (CRC) in collaboration with Ant Group has introduced Alipay+, a comprehensive international digital payment platform. The service launched by Piyawan Leelasompop, Deputy Managing Director of Marketing at CRC, facilitates seamless transactions for Asian tourists from China, Hong Kong, Malaysia, and South Korea through their existing local mobile wallets. The tie-up with Ant Group will enable visitors…
- Business News
Tourism revival in Thailand risks airport slot overcrowding, suggests alternative options
In anticipation of the upcoming high season, Thailand’s Tourism Authority (TAT) expressed concerns over the slot capacity at international airports. As more flights are set to resume, it is predicted that the country will receive around 8 million tourists this year, primarily derived from long-haul markets anticipating a significant tourism revival. The deputy governor for Europe, Africa, the Middle East,…
- Tourism News
Thailand expects holiday tourism boom earning 16.6 billion baht
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is forecasting a substantial influx of travel and expenditure within the nation from July 28 to August 2. Projections are currently pointing at nearly five million voyages, which could potentially rake in 16.6 billion baht across the country. TAT Governor Yuttasak Supasorn, indicates that the estimated surge in domestic travels during this unique long…
- Business News
Budget airlines hike flights to China amid sluggish post-Covid recovery
In an attempt to achieve post-Covid recovery, budget airlines across the globe have increased flight frequencies to China. However, travel and capacity are yet to reach pre-Covid volumes. On its side, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is being circumspect about implementing a visa fee waiver scheme to draw in more international visitors. Despite loom border controls from the start…
- Business News
Thailand eyes record 2 million Russian tourists despite geopolitical tensions
With an increase in flights and a neutral position on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Thailand’s Tourism Authority (TAT) is poised to welcome a record-breaking 2 million Russian tourists next year. Khanittha Phanworawat, the Moscow office director, emphasises the urgent need to preserve Thailand’s image as a friend to Russian travellers, as a measure to achieve this ambitious goal, especially if other…
- Business News
Chiang Mai targets Saudi tourism boom with ‘THAILAND MEGA FAIR 2023’
A wave of visitors hailing from Saudi Arabia is anticipated by several travel agencies in Chiang Mai, as plans are set in motion to execute a roadshow this year, within the Middle Eastern nation. The aim of the event is to reinforce mutual cooperation and entice more tourists to visit Thailand. Yesterday’s meeting was led by the deputy governor, Weerapong…
- Economy News
Thailand’s economy eyes rebound in 2023 buoyed by China’s booming influence
A light of hope has started to shine on the future of Thailand’s economy as we look forward to this year, and China’s influence as a significant driving force cannot be ignored, so suggests a leading Thai economist. The said economist, Kirida Bhaopichitr, who honours the position of Director for the Economic Intelligence Service at the Thailand Development Research Institute…
- Business News
Thai tourism minister proposes bolstering sector for sustainable tourism
To boost the national economy, Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Thailand’s Tourism and Sports Minister, has put forth a proposal to prioritise tourism as a national agenda, with a focus on making Thailand a destination for sustainable tourism. He strongly encourages his successor to continue this endeavour. Phiphat’s aspirations don’t end there, as he also suggested elevating the status of the tourism ministry,…
- Economy News
Thai tourism surge: 25 million visitors forecasted, boosting economy
In a recent announcement, the Thailand is on track to welcome a staggering 25 million tourists by the year end, offering a much-needed booster to the economy. This follows a significant surge in Thai tourism, exceeding 12 million arrivals recorded late last month, as relayed by deputy government spokesperson Traisuree Taisaranakul. Between January and June 25 of this year, the…
- Press Room
Sichon set to champion tranquil tourism in Southern Thailand as destination emerges as new travel hot spot
Seafront enclave in Nakhon Si Thammarat to start welcoming international flights Travellers are able to explore the authentic cultural and natural heritage of the region Former Laguna Phuket CEO, Ravi Chandran, heralds the huge potential of the destination Southern Thailand never fails to wow the world’s travellers with its sandy beaches, spectacular scenery and rich cultural heritage. Now, a new…
- Tourism News
Russian tourism faces a slowdown in Thai markets amid Moscow’s political tension
Amid heightened political tensions in Moscow, the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) observes a potential slowdown in Russian tourists to Thailand, although an increase in long-term stay visitors is also predicted if the situation worsens further. To comprehend the short-term market movements of Russian tourism in detail, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has instructed its Moscow office to…
- Business News
Chinese tourism deterred by tourist scams in Thailand, says ATTA
Fear of being conned by tourist scams poses a bigger concern to prospective Chinese tourists than Thailand’s political ambiguity, advises the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA). Given a sluggish economic recovery on the mainland, the Chinese tourism market could slightly be affected. Calling for tougher safety measures, ATTA’s president, Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn, indicated that improving the country’s image and reassurances…
- Economy News
Thailand tourism thrives as it ranks second in global travel, Bangkok tops city list
Thailand tourism continues to thrive, as online travel platform Agoda recently revealed that the country holds the title of the second most popular destination for travellers worldwide, with Bangkok topping the list of favourite cities for global travellers. The ranking came from an analysis of booking data collected from January to May of the current year, shared by government spokesman…
- Tourism News
Muay Thai travel experience campaign launched by TAT
The ‘Amazing Muay Thai Travel Experience’ campaign has been launched in an attempt to expand Thailand’s tourism industry. This unique initiative aims to showcase the diverse ancient Thai martial arts across the four regions of the country. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) held an opening ceremony for the programme at Thanarat Hall in its Bangkok headquarters. Apichai Chatchalermkit, TAT’s…
- Things To Do
6 best things to do in Hua Hin
Packing the bags and jetting off to the delightful seaside resort of Hua Hin is becoming quite the hot ticket for locals and expats alike. With its prime position along the Gulf of Thailand, this lovely destination serves as a delightful getaway for those toiling away in bustling Bangkok. Moreover, stunning landscapes and a plethora of captivating activities make it…
- Business News
Thailand tourism eyed by Agoda CEO as business hotspot rivaling Japan, Vietnam
Agoda, the online travel agency, foresees a bright future for Thailand tourism as the country emerges as a preferred destination for business travellers, potentially rivalling top hotspots like Japan and Vietnam. Ranked second in Agoda’s largest inbound markets between January and May, Thailand’s tourism trails behind Japan in terms of overall popularity. Agoda’s Chief Executive, Omri Morgenshtern, believes Thailand’s potential…
- Business News
Siam Piwat Simon plans second Premium Outlets in tourist hotspot
Shopping mall operator Siam Piwat Simon Co is exploring options for the best location to open a second branch of Siam Premium Outlets Bangkok, focusing on provinces with a large local population and high foreign tourist numbers. Michael Tang, the company’s managing director, highlighted the importance of excellent transport infrastructure and convenient access for travellers when selecting the location for…
- Business News
Tourism promotion: TCT urges government to market Thailand as prime retiree destination
Tourism promotion has driven the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) to urge the new government to market Thailand as a prime destination for retirees while advocating for regulatory changes that would encourage the development of the tourism industry. The TCT yesterday met with representatives from the Thai Sang Thai Party to discuss these proposed changes, following the party’s consultation with…
- Economy News
Thailand’s tourism rebounds with 11.4 million visitors
Thailand has experienced a surge in foreign tourist arrivals, with 11.4 million visitors recorded from January to June 11, according to a statement released by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. This figure has already surpassed the total number of tourists in 2022, which reached 11.15 million. The statement also revealed that tourist spending during this period amounted to 472…
- Thailand News
Thai economy set for boost as tourism and domestic consumption surge
The Thai economy is predicted to experience a boost in the second half of the year, driven by a surge in tourism and domestic consumption, according to the Economic Intelligence Service (EIS) of the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI). However, ongoing political instability remains a factor to watch. The EIS forecasts that Chinese tourist arrivals in Thailand will increase by…
- Phuket News
New Na Klang-Ao Jik road links Phuket and Phang Nga, boosting tourism
The newly completed Na Klang-Ao Jik road, which connects Phuket and Phang Nga, is set to provide a boost to local tourism and cross-provincial transport. The Department of Rural Roads (DRR) has invested approximately 282.8 million baht (US$8.5 million) in the 4.2-kilometre road, which is part of a city expansion project in Phang Nga’s Thai Muang district. The concrete road…
- Thailand News
Thai tourism campaign targets secondary cities for foreign visitors boost
Thailand‘s Tourism Authority (TAT) has revealed a significant increase in international travellers visiting the country in the first five months of 2023, with a total of 10,568,485 visitors. In collaboration with Central Pattana Plc., TAT aims to promote local and alternative tourism destinations, targeting a shift in the proportion of travellers from major to secondary cities. During the first five…
- Tourism News
Surat Thani sees 155% increase in international visitors, boosting revenue
Surat Thani sees a significant increase in international tourists, with over 1.5 million visitors arriving in the province so far this year, a 155% increase compared to the same period last year, according to the provincial governor. Governor Witchawut Jinto announced that since January, the province has welcomed a total of 2.05 million visitors, with 1.5 million being international tourists.…
- Thailand video news
Phi phi rakes in more than 1 million baht per day | GMT
https://youtu.be/9rJmmLO5ck0 Entry fees to Thailand’s Phi-Phi islands have been reeling in about 1 million baht a day for the country’s Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, since the introduction of the e-ticketing system last July. Chiang Mai‘s work from home measure, introduced by the provincial administration yesterday will continue until tomorrow (Sunday), Thai PBS reported. This is due…
- Things To Do
Top eco-friendly hotels in Thailand for green getaways
Tourism is a significant contributor to Thailand’s economy with its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and delectable cuisine attracting millions of tourists each year. However, environmental concerns have increased due to the surge in tourism. The hospitality industry has recognized this issue, and as a result, eco-hotels have emerged as an alternative to traditional accommodations. Eco hotels in Thailand are designed…
