In a hopeful boost for the economy, Thailand is witnessing an impressive surge in tourism numbers amidst the ongoing global health crisis. From January to mid-November this year, over 30.5 million foreign tourists have visited, generating a whopping 1.43 trillion baht for local businesses, as reported by the Tourism and Sports Ministry on November 19th.

 

The highest influx of tourist population is credited to China with 5.97 million visitors, followed by Malaysia (4.36 million), India (1.82 million), South Korea (1.6 million), and Russia (1.4 million). The week of November 11 to 17 alone witnessed 747,944 new arrivals, averaging over 106,850 visitors daily, marking a 1.6% rise from the prior week.

 

The swarm of visitors, particularly from China, Japan, and South Korea, is thought to be attracted by the iconic Loy Krathong festival, held on November 15. Tourism Minister Sorawong Thienthong stated, "Arrivals from these markets rose by 4.53% compared to the previous week.”

 

 

With an expected rise in long-haul visitors from Europe accompanying the high season, airlines are increasing seating capacity by 10% since July, a trend likely to continue until the end of the year. Simultaneously, eased visa regulations and improved land-entry procedures are expected to help achieve the nation's ambitious goal of drawing 36.7 million foreign tourists by year-end, inching closer to the record-hitting 40 million in 2019.

 

Known for its stunning landscapes and cultural richness, Thailand continues to tantalise global nomads. The touristic rebound signals a bright outlook for the 'Land of Smiles', which is poised to reclaim its spot as a top global destination.

 

File photo for reference only

 

-- 2024-11-20

 

 

I think I would get good odds of this picture not appearing in tourist brochures or ads by the TAT

Great but not to put a damper on 30 Million but you know what other country will hit 30 Mil as well:

 

2024

Japan expects to welcome 35 million tourists by the end of the year, a 10% increase from 2019

 

The numbers for "The Land of the Rising Sun" is even more impressive for two important reasons:

 

1) Japan is much more expensive thatn LOS

2) Japan has 3 to 4 months of winter weather that will reduce the number of visitors.

 

Many tourists chose quality over cheap.  I do not see LOS hitting the dream target of 40 Million. 

12 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

In a hopeful boost for the economy, Thailand is witnessing an impressive surge in tourism numbers amidst the ongoing global health crisis

Numbers but certainly not quality. Thailand should work out how to have half those numbers spending 4 times as much.

15 minutes ago, sqwakvfr said:

2) Japan has 3 to 4 months of winter weather that will reduce the number of visitors.

Many visit the northern regions just for the winter season...

A complete enviromental disgrace. 

 

This whole 'we have to reach pre pandemic levels' and meet an arbitary figure is insane. 

 

Quality over quantity matters. Not mass tourism.