Photo courtesy of Thai Newsroom

 

Thai Airways International has unveiled its flight data from January to July 2025, showcasing Tokyo as the top destination for Thai tourists in Asia. Meanwhile, Colombo, Sri Lanka, has seen a remarkable 100% increase in Thai visitors, according to the Thai Rath newspaper.

 

Mr Kittipong Sarasomboon, Chief Commercial Officer at Thai Airways, announced that alongside Tokyo, the other popular Asian cities for Thai travellers are Singapore, Shanghai, Osaka, and Seoul. This diverse range of destinations reflects Thais' growing interest in travel across Asia.

 

Significantly, Thai tourists are increasingly opting for full-service flights, appreciating the convenience of a one-time payment that covers all travel needs.

 

The standout route in terms of growth is Colombo. The city has captured the interest of Thai travellers, doubling its visitor numbers. This rise marks Colombo as an emerging hotspot within the region.

 

Similarly, Shanghai has seen an 80% increase in Thai passengers. To accommodate this surge, additional flights have been scheduled to Shanghai and Colombo, as well as to Denpasar in Bali.

 

Guangzhou has also become a city to watch, with a significant rise in Thai tourist numbers compared to last year. Travellers are drawn not only to shopping but also to local museums, spectacular sightseeing, and vibrant street food scenes.

 

The surge in Chinese tourism is partly due to the Chinese government's visa-free policy, which has simplified travel for Thai visitors. China presents an enticing market, offering a wide array of experiences that range from natural beauty to historical and cultural attractions. These include celebrated theme parks like Disneyland, which attract tourists looking for experiences not found in destinations like South Korea or Japan.

 

Mr Kittipong highlighted China's broad appeal, citing its wide range of affordable destinations and attractions catering to diverse interests. This mix of economic accessibility and cultural richness makes China an attractive option for those seeking new experiences.

 

With Thai Airways experiencing record numbers in several key markets, it's clear that Thai tourists are eager to explore and connect with their Asian neighbours. This growth not only benefits the airline but also strengthens cultural and economic ties throughout the region.

 

As travel dynamics continue to shift, Colombo and Chinese cities like Shanghai and Guangzhou are expected to remain prominent in travel itineraries, influencing where people choose to spend their holidays and explore new cultures.

 

In Thailand, this trend emphasises a broader regional integration, highlighting the increasing interconnectedness of Asian nations through travel and tourism. With tourism playing such a crucial role in economic growth, these trends underscore the vitality and dynamism of Southeast Asia's travel industry.

 

Overall, the data reflects a year poised for exciting developments in travel, with Thai Airways leading the way in connecting people with the vibrant cultures and destinations within Asia.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-09-04

 

 

37 minutes ago, snoop1130 said:

Sri Lanka, has seen a remarkable 100% increase in Thai visitors, according to the Thai Rath newspaper.

What did they do? Add a couple of new flights per day or something?