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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Sponsored 12Go introduces Japan Rail Passes to enhance travel accessibility for international travellers
For those who have travelled throughout Thailand, 12Go is a well-known provider of various trips, though the platform itself has a much wider reach. Ranging from buses to planes, 12Go is undoubtedly a leading booking platform for travel throughout the...
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Pattaya’s tourism takes a hit after Chinese abduction (video)
Thailand’s tourism industry has been rocked by the recent abduction of Chinese actor Wang Xing, leaving popular hotspots like Pattaya eerily quiet. The star was allegedly lured to Thailand under false pretences before being trafficked across the border and held captive in Myawaddy, Myanmar. While Thai police scrambled to rescue the actor, the fallout was swift. News of the terrifying…
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Thailand to launch digital TM6 for tourists, delays 300-baht fee
Starting May 1, all foreign visitors to Thailand will need to complete a mandatory digital version of the TM6 immigration form, replacing the old paper-based system. The Ministry of Tourism and Sports confirmed the move, which aims to streamline immigration procedures and boost safety confidence among tourists. Natthriya Thaweevong, the ministry’s permanent secretary, explained that the online form will help…
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South Korean tourists outnumber Chinese in Chiang Mai amid direct flights boost
The South Korean market may surpass the Chinese in terms of tourist arrivals in Chiang Mai this year, attributed to the increase in direct flights and favourable winter weather, as reported by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). Patsalin Swetarat, director of TAT’s Chiang Mai office, noted that a decline in safety confidence among Chinese travellers has somewhat affected tourism…
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Thailand braces for 770,000 Chinese tourists this Lunar New Year
The Thai government anticipates 770,000 Chinese nationals to visit Thailand during Chinese New Year, from January 24 to February 2, marking a 22.6% increase compared to the same period last year. Sasikarn Watthanachan, deputy spokeswoman for the government, stated that various agencies, including the Department of Airports and Airports of Thailand (AoT), have been instructed to prepare for the influx…
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DoA prepares for 14.3% passenger surge during Chinese New Year
The Department of Airport (DoA) is preparing to accommodate an anticipated surge in passengers during the Chinese New Year, with a projected increase of at least 14.3% in visitors to tier-two cities compared to last year, according to the government yesterday, January 22. Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri announced that the ministry has instructed the DoA to carry out a…
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Thailand tops as dream destination for Southeast Asian travellers
Thailand has emerged as the top dream destination for Southeast Asian travellers, as revealed by Grab’s SEA Travel Insights 2024 report. Chantsuda Thananitayaudom, senior director of commercial and marketing at Grab Thailand, highlighted the importance of Southeast Asian tourists to Thailand’s tourism industry. In 2024, Thailand welcomed over 10.6 million travellers from Southeast Asia, representing 30% of its international arrivals.…
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Thailand tackles high airfares for Songkran festival
The Transport Ministry has directed the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) to tackle the high cost of airfares during long weekends and holiday periods, in preparation for the Songkran festival in April. Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit stated yesterday that CAAT has also been instructed to devise long-term measures to control prices, ensuring airfares remain within a reasonable limit while…
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Thailand assures China on tourist safety amid rising arrivals
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra plans to personally assure Chinese President Xi Jinping of the safety measures in place for Chinese tourists during her visit to China next month, according to Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong. Thailand aims to attract 9 million Chinese tourists this year, marking a 35% increase from last year’s figure of 6.7 million. Sorawong stated that…
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Thai tea brand launches bird’s nest drink for Chinese tourists
Napit Sasiwimolkul, the marketing director of Suntory Beverage & Food (Thailand) Co., Ltd., highlighted the continued focus on health among consumers. According to Eastern beliefs, particularly in China, bird’s nest is considered to have cooling properties. With Thailand’s tourism sector showing signs of recovery, data from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports reveals that 35,545,714 international tourists visited the country…
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Thailand to rethink visa-free policy for Chinese citizens: Senate
The Senate has urged the Government of Thailand to reconsider its visa-free policy for Chinese citizens, expressing concerns that Thailand may become a centre for criminal activities. Senator Wanchai Ekpornpichit raised these issues during a recent Senate meeting led by Speaker Mongkol Surasajja. Wanchai pointed out that the policy, initially designed to boost tourism, has been misused by criminal groups.…
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Top adventure activities to enjoy in Thailand
Thailand may be known best for its beautiful beaches, magnificent temples and world-class cuisine, however, it is also a top destination for those seeking thrills and adventure. With its diverse landscapes and exotic nature and wildlife, this Southeast Asian country offers visitors countless opportunities to get their pulse racing and live life to the fullest. In this article, we’ll explore…
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Thailand tourism surges with 1.3 million visitors in early 2025
Thailand experienced a significant influx of international tourists in the first 12 days of 2025, with over 1.3 million visitors, marking a 19.89% increase compared to the same timeframe in the previous year. Government reports attribute this surge to tourism revenue amounting to 66.089 billion baht (US$1.9 billion). Key visitor origins included China, Malaysia, Russia, South Korea, and India, with…
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Bangkok crowned second best city globally in 2025 rankings
If you’re dreaming of your next urban escape, look no further than Cape Town, crowned the world’s best city for 2025 by Time Out! From breathtaking nature to buzzing nightlife, this South African gem offers it all. “Where else can you visit a colony of African penguins, sip world-class wines, stroll pristine Blue Flag beaches, and enjoy views from one of the…
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CNY rush: Thai airports brace for over 4 million passengers
Thailand’s airports are gearing up for a passenger surge as the Chinese New Year festival approaches, with an expected 4.03 million foreign arrivals between January 24 and February 2. The Transport Ministry has ordered Airports of Thailand (AoT) to ensure smooth operations and safety during this 10-day travel boom. Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit revealed that Bangkok’s airports would bear the brunt…
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Rising sun eclipses Thailand: Japan now No.1 for Chinese tourists
Japan has dethroned Thailand as the top destination for Chinese tourists in a stunning reversal of fortunes. A remarkable surge in visitors last year sent Thailand scrambling to refocus its tourism strategy across other Asian markets. According to the Japan National Tourism Organisation, Japan welcomed a whopping 6.98 million Chinese tourists in 2024, a staggering 188% increase. Meanwhile, Thailand’s Tourism…
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Chill factor: Thailand braces for cold, frosty spell as mercury dips
Thailand is braced for a cold, frosty spell as temperatures plunge by an additional 1-2 degrees Celsius across the nation. Frost dusts the peaks of high mountains while strong winds batter the seas, turning up the tumultuous weather conditions. As winter tightens its grip, the South sees relentless rainfall, adding to the weather woes. Forecasts from the Meteorological Department of…
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Bangkok steals top spot for Chinese New Year celebrations
Bangkok has emerged as the top destination for Thai and foreign tourists planning to celebrate Chinese New Year in Thailand, according to data from the digital travel platform Agoda. The vibrant capital outshone other popular spots, with accommodation searches surging ahead of the festivities starting January 29. Agoda revealed yesterday, January 15, that Bangkok topped the list for Thai tourists,…
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Chaos on Pattaya Beach: Drunk tourists fuel brawls in hotspot
Pattaya Beach, known for its stunning coastline and electrifying nightlife, is grappling with a surge in alcohol-fuelled brawls involving unruly tourists. Once a haven for relaxation and revelry, the iconic destination has seen a troubling rise in disruptive incidents, leaving locals and officials concerned about the city’s reputation. Reports reveal that drunken altercations have become an all-too-common sight, particularly after…
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Phuket cracks down on parasailing risks following accident
Officials in Karon announced a sweeping crackdown on water sports safety protocols following the death of a parasailing staff member earlier this month. The high-profile meeting, held on Tuesday, January 14 at Karon Municipality, aimed to bolster safety for tourists and operators. Chaired by Karon Police Chief Police Colonel Khundet Na Nongkhai and Phuket Marine Office Chief Natchapong Pranit, the…
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Northern Irishman fights for life after Thailand holiday accident
Friends, family, and co-workers are rallying behind a Northern Irishman left fighting for his life following a shocking accident while on a dream holiday in Thailand. Ryan Daly, from Portadown, had set off on an ambitious round-the-world trip when tragedy struck, leaving him on life support and his loved ones in turmoil. The 27 year old care attendant, known for…
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Retail therapy: Tops looks for Lunar New Year discounts, tourists
Central Food Retail Co., (CFR), the powerhouse behind Tops grocery stores, is banking on a flurry of government stimulus and a tourism boom to set tills ringing as the Lunar New Year approaches. Chakkit Chatupanyachotikul, the marketing maestro at CFR, is upbeat about the impact of the government’s Easy E-receipt tax deduction scheme, a nifty initiative running from January 16…
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Thailand slashes barriers for elite visas: LTR programme
Thailand is making bold moves to attract wealthy foreigners and digital nomads by easing visa restrictions to position the country as a global hub for long-term residency. The Cabinet approved sweeping changes to its Long-Term Resident (LTR) visa programme, streamlining the application process and eliminating outdated Smart visa categories, a Government House source revealed. The revised LTR visa rules target…
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Chinese tourists cancel Thailand trips amid safety concerns
Hotels and airlines are experiencing widespread cancellations from Chinese tour groups ahead of the Chinese New Year holiday, with independent tourist bookings also slowing due to safety concerns in Thailand. Eason Chan, a singer and actor from Hong Kong, cancelled a planned concert in Thailand last week, citing safety concerns for Chinese fans visiting the country. Additionally, Hong Kong’s Security…
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Hat Yai gears up for Chinese New Year with parades and contests
Hat Yai is pulling out all the stops for a dazzling Chinese New Year celebration, promising a week of vibrant festivities from January 28 to February 2. This iconic festival, a highlight for Thailand’s Chinese community, will take over Srinakorn Foundation School with parades, dragon and lion dances, fireworks, and breathtaking lantern sculptures. The festival is packed with activities to…
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Thailand greenlights legal casinos to boost tourism and economy
In a game-changing move, the Thai Cabinet has given the nod to a draft bill that would legalise gambling and casinos, aiming to turbocharge tourism, job creation, and investment. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced the bold move today, January 13, heralding a new era for the country’s economy. Under the government’s ambitious plan, the legislation, soon to be debated in…
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South Korea to upgrade airport structures after Jeju Air crash
South Korea is set to enhance the structures housing the antennas that facilitate landings at its airports, following the December incident where a Jeju Air aeroplane crashed after skidding off the runway. The Boeing 737-800 hit one such structure at Muan Airport, leading to a fire. The Transport Ministry has been assessing safety at airlines and airports since the crash…
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What keeps tourists entertained online during their stay in Thailand?
Thailand is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, attracting millions of visitors annually with its stunning beaches, vibrant cities, unique culture, and incredible street food. While exploring Thailand’s temples, islands, and bustling markets is a must, a significant part of the travel experience for modern tourists involves staying connected online. With the increasing integration of digital…
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Tourism stocks tumble amid Chinese tourist fears
Thai tourism stocks took a hit this morning as concerns mounted over a potential decline in Chinese tourist arrivals during the Chinese New Year. The drop follows revelations about a Chinese actor, Wang Xing, who was found in Myanmar and is suspected to have been a victim of human trafficking. This incident has cast a shadow over Thailand’s safety reputation.…
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Casino kingpins eye Thailand: Melco’s big gamble on Bangkok
Macau gambling giant Melco Resorts & Entertainment is rolling the dice on Thailand, as they devise plans to dive headfirst into the country’s booming tourism scene and cultural tapestry. With whispers of legalised gambling on the horizon, this move could be a jackpot for the casino giants. At the helm, Lawrence Ho, Melco Chairman and CEO, is singing the praises…
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Thai tourism faces 20% drop in Chinese visitors amid safety fears
The Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) anticipates a potential 10 to 20% decline in Chinese tourists during the upcoming Lunar New Year, attributed to reduced safety confidence. This follows an incident involving a Chinese actor who fell victim to a human trafficking gang using Thailand as a gateway. ATTA President Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn indicated that the impact could be minimal…
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