Thailand Tourism Boom Continues
Recent figures reveal that Thailand’s tourism sector is going from strength to strength in 2018. According to a report by Reuters, tourist arrivals to Thailand grew by 16.27 percent in March this year, compared to the same period last year. Meanwhile, data published by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) shows that a growth in the number of Chinese visitors was largely responsible for the surge in numbers. According to the figures, Thailand welcomed 3.5 overseas visitors in March.
If current trends continue, the country could expect to welcome a record 37.6 million foreign tourists in 2018, up from 35.38 million in 2017. A report published by The Bangkok Post has revealed that the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) predicts that 9.1 million overseas visitors will touch down in the Kingdom in the second quarter of 2018. This figure represents an 11.9 percent rise on the same period last year. Global economic recovery and attractive marketing campaigns have both been cited as possible reasons for the surge in visitors.
In the first quarter, the country welcomed a total of 9.84 million overseas visitors to its tropical shores, up 7 percent year-on-year. Key markets include Southeast Asia (2.6 million visitors, up 10.4 percent), East Asia (3.74 million visitors, up 12.5 percent) and Europe (1.25 million visitors, up 10.6 percent).
Ittirit Kinglake, TCT president, revealed that the growing economies of many countries have a part to play in the surge of visitor arrivals. He said that if the increase in visitor numbers continues at its current rate, then the total number of arrivals could even hit 38.93 million. Such an influx is likely to generate approximately THB2.14 trillion (US$75 billion), up 17.4 percent on last year’s revenue.
As well as being attracted by Thailand’s stunning array of beaches, exquisite culinary scene and fascinating culture, the country’s high-end accommodation sector is one of its most alluring gems. In addition to a number of international hotel groups, the Kingdom boasts a diverse selection of lavish private villas – many of which are located in holiday hotspots like Phuket and Koh Samui.
According to the TCT, growth in the domestic tourism sector is also anticipated. Figures show that 25% of local people planned to travel in the first quarter of 2018. Plus, 33% expected to travel in the second quarter. This is thought to be due to the extended Songkran holiday that took place in early April.
Over the past year, the government have implemented a selection of measures to entice more visitors to the country. Yuthasak Supasorn, Governor of the TAT, said the tax break strategy for tourists that spend money in 55 of the country’s secondary provinces will boost visitor numbers by roughly 10 million. The tax breaks are effective until the end of this year. They will be offered to travellers who spend money on accommodation, food and drinks, as well as organisations that organise seminars in the secondary provinces.