Monday, September 16, 2024 The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) recently hosted the China Roadshow, Beijing Station 2024, to boost Chinese tourist arrivals in Thailand. This event saw TAT leading a delegation of travel operators and partners to engage with Chinese travel companies, with the goal of enhancing tourism and fostering stronger ties between the Thai and Chinese tourism sectors. While Chinese tourists are well-acquainted with major Thai destinations like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Pattaya, and Koh Samui, lesser-known cities such as Phang Nga, Krabi, Rayong, and Trat are rich in cultural experiences and poised to attract more visitors.
A key element of the promotional effort is the “5 Must Dos” concept, which emphasizes: New tourism products are tailored to offer Chinese visitors unique experiences, including Thai cooking classes, traditional Thai massage, Muay Thai training, and natural experiences like bathing and preparing food for elephants. Next year, Thailand will commemorate the strong relationship with China by declaring 2025 the “Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism Year.” TAT has scheduled numerous events in collaboration with the Chinese government, including Songkran, Chinese New Year, Loy Krathong, and the Wai Kru Muay Thai Festival to welcome Chinese tourists throughout the year.
Currently, flights from 42 Chinese cities to Thailand cover most of China. Although flight availability has not yet fully returned to pre-pandemic levels, TAT is actively working with Chinese and Thai airports, airlines, and the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) to restore flight services. To streamline travel for Chinese tourists, Pakkanan Winitchai, director of the TAT Beijing Office, announced adjustments to flight operations, including charter flights designed to bring visitors to key tourist destinations in Thailand.
TAT aims to attract 7.389 million Chinese tourists this year, with the government setting a target of 8 million. Over the next four months, TAT plans to highlight Thailand’s unique offerings compared to northern and northeastern China, including its climate and cuisine, to generate interest.
Despite previous safety concerns from Chinese tourists, Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn, president of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), reassured that these concerns have diminished. He affirmed that Thailand’s tourism services have seen significant improvements..
