Tourism Phuket Sees Surge in European Off-Peak Travel, Revenue Set to Soar

[snoop1130]

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

Phuket is witnessing a remarkable shift in tourism dynamics as European visitors increasingly choose the island for off-season travel. The Phuket Tourist Association anticipates this change could augment tourism revenue by over 40 billion baht (approximately £900 million) this year, reflecting a significant 10% growth.

 

Thanet Tantipiriyakit, the association’s president, observed heightened interest from tourists hailing from the UK, Germany, and France in visiting during the so-called 'green season', traditionally considered a quieter period.

 

"This shift in travel behaviour is promising," Thanet remarked, highlighting a rise in direct flights from Europe, especially from France, as a pivotal factor. The influx is projected to boost revenue in Phuket by an impressive 40 billion baht in 2025, up from 498 billion baht last year, even if visitor growth lags slightly.

 

A particularly fascinating change is emerging in traveller demographics from Asia. Chinese tourist numbers dwindled by about 50% during the previous green season, yet visitors from India surged by an equivalent margin.

 

“Chinese tourists have declined, but Indian tourists have increased by about 50%,” Thanet noted. The differences extend beyond mere numbers—Indian travellers often stay in Patong, favouring Indian restaurants and vegetarian cuisine. On the other hand, Chinese tourists, particularly the Free Independent Travellers (FITs), explore more and invest considerably in local dining and shopping.

 

Local retailers and restaurateurs, previously reliant on Chinese tourists, feel the pinch as Indian visitors typically spend less. This demographic shift, despite stable overall tourist numbers, underscores the nuanced impact on local businesses.

 

As the high season approaches, Thanet is optimistic yet cautiously aware of global economic uncertainties and geopolitical tensions. Nevertheless, early bookings indicate strong demand, particularly for international hotels, many of which have already secured reservations for peak dates.

 

“If conditions remain stable, Phuket tourism should outperform last year. Projections suggest a 10% growth in value,” Thanet added.

 

Phuket's governor, Sophon Suwannarat, underscored the strategy to attract higher-quality tourists rather than simply increasing numbers. The current visitor count of 13 to 14 million annually is deemed appropriate, but the focus is shifting towards markets known for higher expenditure.

 

"We should aim to attract high-spending tourists," Sophon emphasised, pointing towards potential markets like Kazakhstan and China, with initiatives such as roadshows to entice these lucrative segments.

 

Interestingly, a resurgence of Chinese tourists is already being witnessed, partly aided by school holidays in July and August which have seen many flights from Bangkok to Phuket filled with Chinese nationals.

 

Efforts to reinstate direct flights, including engaging in discussions with Zhanjiang—Phuket’s sister city in China—further signal an optimistic horizon. Direct connections to Don Mueang and ultimately Phuket are on the discussion table, potentially revitalising Chinese tourism inflow and boosting economic prospects for local businesses.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-18

 

 

[CallumWK]

3 minutes ago, snoop1130 said:

Thanet Tantipiriyakit, the association’s president, observed heightened interest from tourists hailing from the UK, Germany, and France in visiting during the so-called 'green season', traditionally considered a quieter period.

 

Nothing new to see.

 

European's always travel July and August, because that are the months they have their yearly 3 week holiday from work and school holidays