Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports has released figures showing that during the first four months of this year, 12 million visitors came to Thailand spending around 620 billion Baht, an increase of 4.71 per cent when compared with the same period in 2016.
Domestic tourism is thriving too, with over 220 billion Baht being generated.
Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, TAT Governor said,
“Thailand attracts many tourists because it offers experiences that are new and unique, no matter how many times you visit. In the first few months of the year, the combination of lovely weather and amazing festivals; such as, Songkran or the Thai New Year celebrations means there’s much to enjoy for travellers, not to mention locals. We are delighted to be doing so well in 2017 and will continue to offer a warm Thai welcome to visitors yet to come.”
These figures also show that the strategy of attracting higher spending, quality tourists put in place by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is now paying off as people recognise that Thailand offers luxury experiences, dining and leisure opportunities which rate among the world’s best.
Of the 12 million visitors to Thailand from January to April, 7.5 million came from East Asia, generating 308 billion Baht.
China remained the leading source market at about 3.2 million arrivals, though Thai authorities have invoked measures to stopping unscrupulous tour operators taking advantage of visitors.
In addition, larger numbers of European visitors arrived to Thailand from January to April, totalling 2.7 million arrivals, up 8.41 per cent when compared with the same period in 2016. They contributed over 200 billion Baht in revenue, showing that despite the growth in Chinese tourism, Europe remains a vital market for Thailand.
Mr. Yuthasak concluded, “We now have a healthy balance between our new Eastern markets and our more traditional tourism markets in the West. But wherever they come from, people visiting Thailand expect unique and memorable visits and this is what we can provide.”
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