Thailand’s visa-free scheme for Chinese and Kazakh tourists has been a huge success, with bookings from Chinese tourists increasing almost 20 times compared to last year. This initiative aims to boost tourism and stimulate the economy while emphasizing the importance of tourist safety. #ThailandTourism #QuickWinPolicy #VisaFreeScheme #BoostingEconomy #TouristSafety
A Warm Welcome: The Response to the Visa Scheme
Thailand’s Prime Minister and Finance Minister, Srettha Thavisin, has praised the positive response to the visa-free scheme, which has been implemented for Chinese and Kazakh tourists. The scheme is active from September 25th to February 29th, strategically coinciding with China’s National Day on October 1st, the Mid-Autumn Festival, and Chinese New Year in February. This initiative is part of the government’s “Quick Win” policy, aimed at stimulating the economy.
The Prime Minister reported on X (previously known as Twitter) that, according to a CNN report, Chinese tourists have reacted positively to the visa exemption, and the best is yet to come. He emphasized Thailand’s popularity as a top destination for Chinese tourists and noted his happiness for businesses that would benefit from the increased number of visitors.
Soaring Statistics: Travel Bookings and Hotel Reservations
Mr. Srettha cited data from Trip.com, which operates China’s largest travel booking platform, Ctrip. According to this information, travel bookings from China to Thailand have skyrocketed, with nearly 20 times more bookings compared to the same holiday period last year. Additionally, hotel reservations made by Chinese tourists have seen a staggering 6,220% increase compared to the previous year.
The Prime Minister expressed Thailand’s enthusiasm for welcoming Chinese travelers, highlighting the country’s beautiful beaches and diverse Thai cuisine. He wished every tourist a safe journey and hoped that they would have positive experiences during their stay.
Safety First: Government’s Emphasis on Tourist Safety
Government spokesman Chai Wacharonke stressed the importance of keeping tourists safe, which will ultimately boost Thailand’s reputation for safety. He believes the government’s visa-free policy will help spur the economy.
Domestic Tourism Benefits: Increased Local Visits to Tourist Sites
The visa exemption scheme has not only benefited international tourism but also domestic tourism. State-run Transport Company managing director Sanyalak Panwattanalikhit reported that the number of locals visiting tourism sites has increased during weekends. With schools on term break, the company has seen 30,000-35,000 passengers traveling over the weekend.
One of the most popular routes is Bangkok to Chiang Khan in Loei. Chiang Khan, a town along the Mekong River, is known for its old wooden shophouses and laid-back atmosphere. The Transport Company plans to increase its service on this route from two trips to four trips per day. Additionally, the company will resume its Bangkok-Ban Phaeng route in Nakhon Phanom starting today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the primary goal of Thailand’s visa-free scheme for Chinese and Kazakh tourists?
Thailand’s visa-free scheme for Chinese and Kazakh tourists aims to boost tourism and stimulate the economy while emphasizing the importance of tourist safety. It has been successful so far, with a significant increase in bookings and hotel reservations from Chinese tourists.
2. How has the visa-free scheme affected travel bookings and hotel reservations?
According to data from Trip.com, travel bookings from China to Thailand have increased almost 20 times compared to the same holiday period last year. Hotel reservations made by Chinese tourists have also seen a staggering 6,220% increase compared to the previous year.
3. How does the visa exemption scheme impact domestic tourism in Thailand?
The visa exemption scheme has not only benefited international tourism but also domestic tourism. State-run Transport Company managing director Sanyalak Panwattanalikhit reported that the number of locals visiting tourism sites has increased during weekends, with 30,000-35,000 passengers traveling over the weekend. Popular routes, such as Bangkok to Chiang Khan in Loei, have seen a surge in demand, leading to increased service and additional route openings.
