Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

Phuket is gearing up for lively Chinese New Year celebrations, driven by a resurgence in Chinese tourism and increased flights from China. This optimistic scenario is largely supported by the Phuket Tourist Business Association (PTBA), which noted a significant uptick in interest from Chinese travelers. Thanet Tantipiriyakit, president of the PTBA, highlighted that Chinese tourists are central to this year's festivities.

The surge in Chinese tourists can be traced back to strategic developments from late last year. A pivotal moment was the state visit by His Majesty the King and Her Majesty the Queen to China from November 13 to 17, marking a key diplomatic anniversary. This visit coincided with a doubling of online searches by Chinese travelers for Thai destinations, especially Phuket, signaling a strong renewal of interest.

Another vital factor is the increased flight connectivity between China and Phuket. Airlines have expanded their schedules significantly from January last year, facilitating greater accessibility for tourists. Mr. Thanet also pointed out that prior apprehensions about safety have diminished, reassuring visitors and enhancing the overall tourist experience.

Looking forward, the increased tourist activity is expected to set a positive precedent for the year. With a successful Chinese New Year as a possible indicator, tourism officials and businesses are hopeful about a sustained influx of visitors. This period may also help solidify Phuket's position as a favored destination for Chinese travelers, reported Bangkok Post.

Key Takeaways

• Chinese New Year in Phuket sees a boost from increased tourism.

• State visit and boosted flights contribute to renewed interest.

• Safety concerns have lessened, improving travel confidence.

Related Stories

42.23B Baht Surge Expected in Thai Tourism for Chinese New Year

Thai Tourism War Room Proposed Amid Fierce Vietnam Rivalry

  

Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2026-02-04

 

 

Why does TAT always "wet their knickers" with glee at the slightest uptick in Chinese arrivals?

34 minutes ago, Scouse123 said:

Why does TAT always "wet their knickers" with glee at the slightest uptick in Chinese arrivals?

Because Chinese Tourists spend approximately 55,000 baht per person, per trip. They have a daily average expenditure of roughly 6,300 to 6,600 baht and typically stay for 6 to 8 nights.

2 hours ago, Scouse123 said:

Why does TAT always "wet their knickers" with glee at the slightest uptick in Chinese arrivals?

Because it's a very big, relatively close by market.

1 hour ago, hanbla said:

Because Chinese Tourists spend approximately 55,000 baht per person, per trip. They have a daily average expenditure of roughly 6,300 to 6,600 baht and typically stay for 6 to 8 nights.

I don't believe those numbers.

3 hours ago, hanbla said:

Because Chinese Tourists spend approximately 55,000 baht per person, per trip. They have a daily average expenditure of roughly 6,300 to 6,600 baht and typically stay for 6 to 8 nights.

Not the ones I seemed to see and come across in the past.