Thailand welcomed 1.3 million international visitors during the first two weeks of January 2025.
Thailand’s Tourism Surge
The Land of Smiles kicked off 2025 with an impressive tourism boom as 1.3 million international visitors flocked to its shores during the first two weeks of January. This remarkable influx demonstrates Thailand’s enduring appeal as a premier travel destination in Southeast Asia.
Economic Impact and Growth
The strong start to 2025 signals a promising year for Thailand’s tourism sector, which remains a crucial driver of the country’s economy. These numbers suggest a continued recovery and growth in the industry, building upon the successful rebound from previous years’ challenges.
Thai tourism officials reported a surge in international arrivals, with 1.3 million visitors entering the country during the first two weeks of January 2024. Chinese travelers led the influx, accounting for approximately 300,000 tourists, followed by Malaysian, South Korean, and Japanese visitors. The significant numbers reflect Thailand’s continued appeal as a winter destination for tourists seeking warm weather and cultural experiences. Major tourist hotspots like Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai experienced high hotel occupancy rates, averaging 85% during this period. The Tourism Authority of Thailand attributes this success to the ongoing visa-free policy for several countries and increased flight connectivity. Local businesses, particularly in the hospitality and retail sectors, reported strong revenue growth compared to the same period last year. The economic impact of these arrivals is estimated at 55 billion baht (approximately US$1.6 billion), providing a robust start to Thailand’s tourism sector for 2024.
Source : 1.3 million tourists traveled to Thailand in the first half of January 2025