Monday, July 15, 2024
Reading Time: 3 minutesThe impact of these changes is anticipated to be substantial, especially considering the recent surge in tourist numbers. As of July 7, Thailand saw a 35% increase in foreign arrivals compared to the same period in 2023, reaching 18.2 million visitors. This influx has generated significant revenue, amounting to 858 billion baht ($24 billion). The top sources of tourists so far in 2024 have been China, Malaysia, and India, indicating a strong interest in Thailand from neighboring regions.
Thailand’s appeal as a tourist destination continues to grow, thanks to its beautiful beaches, nature reserves, rustic countryside, and vibrant cities filled with historical temples. The country’s renowned cuisine, exciting nightlife, and high-quality yet affordable accommodation further enhance its allure. With the new visa-free policy, Thailand is poised to attract even more tourists and short-term business travelers, contributing to economic growth and solidifying its position as a top global travel destination.
“Travellers from these qualified nations can visit Thailand for tourism or short-term business purposes,” stated Ministry spokeswoman Traisuree Taisaranakul. Additionally, the number of territories eligible for a visa on arrival will increase from 19 to 31. These changes are expected to simplify travel and attract more international visitors.
Here’s a chart detailing flights to Thailand from India, China, and Malaysia, including airlines, departure and arrival cities, departure times, arrival times, and prices: Airline Departure City Arrival City Departure Time Arrival Time Frequency Duration Price (USD) Air India Delhi (DEL) Bangkok (BKK) 02:00 07:50 Daily 4h 20m 250 – 400 IndiGo Mumbai (BOM) Bangkok (BKK) 08:00 13:30 5 times a week 4h 00m 220 – 350 Vistara Delhi (DEL) Phuket (HKT) 10:00 15:30 4 times a week 4h 30m 270 – 400 Thai Airways Bangalore (BLR) Bangkok (BKK) 23:30 05:00 (+1) Daily 3h 50m 280 – 420 China Eastern Shanghai (PVG) Bangkok (BKK) 09:00 12:30 Daily 4h 30m 300 – 450 Air China Beijing (PEK) Bangkok (BKK) 14:00 18:00 Daily 4h 00m 320 – 470 China Southern Guangzhou (CAN) Bangkok (BKK) 11:00 14:30 Daily 3h 30m 310 – 460 Malaysia Airlines Kuala Lumpur (KUL) Bangkok (BKK) 07:00 08:10 Daily 2h 10m 150 – 250 AirAsia Kuala Lumpur (KUL) Bangkok (DMK) 12:00 13:10 Daily 2h 10m 120 – 200 Malindo Air Kuala Lumpur (KUL) Phuket (HKT) 10:00 11:00 4 times a week 1h 30m 130 – 220
Visa-free travel allows passport holders to enter Thailand without obtaining a visa before or upon arrival. However, travelers must still pass through immigration control where their passports are checked and stamped for validity. This streamlined process is expected to boost Thailand’s appeal as a travel destination.
The country has already seen a substantial increase in tourist numbers this year. By July 7, Thailand recorded an 18.2 million foreign arrivals, a 35% increase compared to the same period in 2023. This surge in tourism has generated 858 billion baht ($24 billion) in revenue. The top sources of tourists so far in 2024 have been China, Malaysia, and India.
Thailand’s growing popularity is attributed to its diverse attractions. From beautiful beaches and nature reserves to rustic countryside and vibrant cities filled with temples, Thailand offers something for everyone. The country’s renowned cuisine, exciting nightlife, and high-quality, affordable accommodation further enhance its allure.
With the new visa-free policy, Thailand is poised to attract even more tourists and short-term business travelers, contributing to economic growth and strengthening its position as a top travel destination.