A visa exemption policy for Chinese and Kazakh nationals is anticipated to bring a surge of Chinese tourists to Thailand. The policy, which was announced in the Royal Gazette on September 19, allows citizens of China and Kazakhstan to stay visafree for 30 days. The scheme will be in effect until February 29 next year.
Chinese Ambassador to Thailand, Han Zhiqiang, has expressed his support for the new government’s policies regarding visa privileges for Chinese visitors. This move is expected to stimulate tourism and investment between the two countries. Mr. Han discussed the visa measures during an orientation for the 18th Mandarin for Government Officers Workshop, organized by the ThaiChinese Cultural Relationship Council (TCCRC) and the King Prajadhipok’s Institute. Pol Lt Gen Pitak Jarusombat, deputy president of the TCCRC, also attended the event.
As the holidays approach, thousands of eager tourists and their vehicles are boarding ferries to the beautiful islands of Ko Kut and Ko Chang off the eastern province of Trat. On Friday morning, at the Laem Sok boat pier in tambon Ao Yai, Muang district, travelers embarked on five ferries that departed one after another between 10:30 AM and 1:00 PM.
Ko Samui, a popular island resort in the southern province of Surat Thani, has seen a significant increase in tourism during the recent sixday long holiday. The surge began on Friday, the first day of the extended vacation, which was made possible by the cabinet’s decision to declare Monday, July 31, an extra day off. This decision led to a bustling and lively atmosphere at the Ko Samui airport, with numerous Thai and foreign tourists arriving on the island.
Prime Minister Prayut Chanocha of Thailand recently held a meeting with Abdullah Mohammed Ibrahim AlSheikh, the chairman of Saudi Arabia’s Consultative Assembly. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss tourism and investment opportunities, particularly in Thailand’s Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), which spans the provinces of Chon Buri, Rayong, and Chachoengsao. The deputy government spokeswoman, Tipanan Sirichana, elaborated that the meeting aimed to strengthen legislative cooperation between the two countries.
The Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board, commonly known as Tourism Malaysia, plans to promote lesserknown tourist destinations within the country to attract more Thai travelers. Currently, the most popular Malaysian destinations among Thai tourists are Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Pahang, and Malacca.
On July 12, 2023, the 2nd edition of the Tourist Volunteer Training Program course focusing on the prevention and surveillance of injuries from toxic jellyfish commenced. The opening ceremony took place at Chaweng Conference Room, Suratthani Rajabhat University, Ko Samui District, and was presided over by Vice Mayor Ms. Supinya Sri Thongkun. A total of 50 participants attended the event, including government officials, municipal staff, nurses, and hotel employees. The lecturers for the event were Ms. Krisana Phromko and Dr. Maratsayu Ingkhaphatsakorn.
Thailand has witnessed a significant increase in foreign tourists, with 15 million international arrivals within the first seven months of the year, according to deputy government spokesperson Rachada Dhnadirek. The school summer breaks in northern hemisphere countries have contributed to this rise in international tourist numbers.
The Culture Ministry of Thailand is planning to promote locations featured in the new Korean television series, “King the Land.” The aim is to attract Korean tourists and fans of the drama. Culture Minister Itthiphol Kunplome appreciates the series for showcasing the country’s beauty and boosting tourism. He encourages fans to visit Thailand and explore the filming locations.
During a routine patrol, security officers of the Koh Samui Municipality stumbled upon a black leather shoulder bag left behind by a tourist at the famous Lad Koh Viewpoint. Realizing the importance of the situation, the officers promptly notified the local police at Bo Phut Police Station for further inspection.