Tourism News
Thailand tourism news, travel updates, visa policies, and destination highlights—stay informed on hospitality trends, cultural experiences, and major infrastructure projects. Get the latest from The Thaiger, your trusted source for Thailand travel news.
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Starting a new life abroad is exciting—new culture, new lifestyle, and new chances to grow. But living far from home also means taking steps to protect your health in unfamiliar surroundings. Without the right coverage, even small health issues can...
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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…
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Hippo hooray: Moo Deng ‘charges’ up Chon Buri’s tourism boom
Chon Buri province is experiencing a significant boost in tourism revenue, largely due to the popularity of a baby pygmy hippo named Moo Deng. This charming young hippo, only four months old, has become a major attraction at the Khao Kheow Open Zoo. Governor Thawatchai Srithong announced that Chon Buri’s tourism-related revenue reached 27 billion baht (US$777 million) from July…
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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…
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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…
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Loy Krathong festival to generate 6.9 billion baht tourism revenue
Thailand’s Loy Krathong festival is set to boost the economy, with an expected 6.9 billion baht in tourism revenue from 1.9 million domestic trips, as reported by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). The northern region is forecasted to be the most popular destination, drawing the highest number of tourists. TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool projected a 9% increase in tourist…
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Thailand crowned 2025 Destination of the Year by Travel + Leisure
New York City-based travel magazine Travel + Leisure has recognised Thailand as the 2025 Destination of the Year. The editor-in-chief shared her love for Thailand and highlighted the charm that drew her to this enchanting country. This marks the tenth consecutive year that Travel + Leisure announced its Destination of the Year, recognising a country that travellers simply must visit…
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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…
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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…
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Phuket Tourist Police boosts safety with new High Season drive
Phuket Tourist Police have initiated a comprehensive campaign to enhance tourist safety as the island gears up for the approaching High Season. The initiative, announced on Wednesday, November 6, involves collaboration between various agencies, including the Marine Police, Phuket Provincial Police, and the Phuket Marine Office, among others. This campaign is in line with national efforts to reinforce tourist safety…
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Thailand targets 8 million European tourists to boost long-haul numbers
Thailand aims to attract eight million European tourists next year as part of a strategy to boost the number of long-haul visitors to a record 11 million, the Tourism and Sports Ministry announced. This move follows plans to collaborate with airlines and foreign ambassadors to ensure a full resumption of international flights. Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong emphasised the…
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Thai airlines told to go full throttle for new year travel surge
With new year travel set to soar, the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) is calling on Thai airlines to go full throttle to meet skyrocketing demand. The CAAT urged airlines to increase flights, expand routes, add more seats, and extend operating hours to prevent travel chaos during the holiday peak. In a strategic meeting held yesterday, November 6, the…
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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…
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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…
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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,…
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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.…
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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…
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Purr-fect: Chubby clouded leopard charms all at Chiang Mai Safari (video)
A clouded leopard named Mangpor, residing in Chiang Mai Night Safari, has captured the hearts of social media users with its chubby appearance and playful nature. The 16 year old feline, often mistaken for a giant cat, has become an Internet sensation as visitors flock to catch a glimpse of its endearing antics. Mangpor is part of the Jaguar Trail,…
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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,…
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Crimson crisis: Phuket’s urgent Rh-negative blood donation plea
Phuket is in the grips of a crimson crisis as the bustling tourist High Season unleashes a surge of road accidents, putting the squeeze on blood supplies for life-saving emergencies. In response, the Phuket branch of the Red Cross Society and Vachira Phuket Hospital are ramping up their efforts to boost blood reserves, particularly with a call for the desperately…
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Phuket steps up: Old town charm and cultural delights awaits
Get ready to step back in time and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Phuket as the island gears up for the Travel Old Town, Telling Phuket tourism festival. From November 27 to December 1, Queen Sirikit Park on bustling Thalang Road will transform into a cultural hotspot, with the iconic dragon statue standing guard over festivities. Organised by…
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Bus-ting with green energy: Phuket’s smart bus takes fresh direction
All aboard the eco-friendly Phuket Smart Bus express. Phuket’s transport scene is getting a high-voltage makeover with the launch of the spanking new Phuket Smart Bus service, and it’s already steering the island’s travel scene in a new direction. Connecting Phuket Town and Patong with ease and style, this service is run by Phuket City Development Co Ltd (PKCD) and…
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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…
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Loy Krathong festival set to light up Wat Arun on November 15
Bangkok’s Wat Arun is set to illuminate the night on November 15 with its Loy Krathong festival. The festival promises a multicultural experience, underscored by a theme song performed in an array of languages, including Thai, English, Chinese, Korean, Japanese, and Spanish, to foster a deeper understanding of the event’s cultural importance. Culture Minister Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol announced that the Suntharaporn…
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15,000 Malaysian tourists flock to Thailand for Diwali, Halloween
Thailand’s southern border districts are experiencing a significant surge in visitors from Malaysia as tourists flock across the border to celebrate Halloween and Diwali. Yesterday, October 31, marked a notable influx, with over 15,000 Malaysian tourists crossing the Sadao immigration checkpoint in Songkhla‘s Sadao district. The day coincided with Malaysia’s public holiday for the Diwali festival, prompting many to take advantage…
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Thailand airports see passenger surge with 19% increase
Thailand’s air travel sector is experiencing a significant upswing, with the nation’s six principal airports reporting a surge in passenger numbers. In the fiscal year ending yesterday, these airports welcomed 119.2 million passengers, marking a 19% increase from the previous year, as reported by the Airports of Thailand (AoT). The AoT oversees operations at Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Phuket,…
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Thailand cash splash: Foreign tourists send Visa spending soaring
Thailand is basking in a financial boom, with foreign tourists spending a staggering 90% more on Visa credit cards this year compared to the pre-pandemic high of 2019. While Thai travellers are tightening their purse strings amid a sluggish economy, foreigners can’t seem to get enough of the Land of Smiles. Visa Thailand’s country manager, Punnamas Vichitkulwongsa, revealed that Thailand…
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British Airways spreads its wings: Gatwick-Bangkok flights back on
In a move that’s set to soar to new heights, British Airways relaunched its direct flights from London Gatwick to the bustling city of Bangkok. The inaugural flight, BA 2231, took to the skies from Gatwick, yesterday, October 29, making a graceful touchdown at Suvarnabhumi Internationa Airport this afternoon, marking a triumphant return to the Land of Smiles. Tourism Authority…
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Phuket tourism revenue poised to exceed 2019 levels
Tourism revenue in Phuket is on track to surpass the 2019 figures, with visitor numbers approaching pre-Covid-19 pandemic levels, as revealed by Thanet Tantipiriyakit, President of the Phuket Tourist Association. “Phuket has now transformed into a destination for quality tourists, as total spending of tourists has risen above the amount recorded in 2019 despite the overall number of visitors falling…
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Thai-panic: AirAsia flight defies disaster over denied landing in India
A Thai AirAsia flight found itself in a death-defying situation straight out of a Hollywood blockbuster when it was denied permission to land at an airport in India. Passengers were left fearing for their lives as the aircraft was forced to circle for a staggering 45 minutes with only 30 minutes of fuel remaining in the tank. The drama unfolded…
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Thai airports to launch biometric ID system this November
Six major Thai airports will introduce an automated biometric identification system using facial recognition technology later this year, allowing passengers to present their physical ID only once during their journey. This system, set to launch for domestic passengers on November 1 and for international passengers on December 1, will be operated by the Airport Authority of Thailand. Kirati Kitmanawat, the…
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