A selection of bitesize stories and positive developments making the news in the Land of Smiles recently:
Thailand welcomes 28.28 million foreign tourists
Thailand’s Tourism and Sports Ministry permanent secretary Natthriya Taweewong said Thailand recorded 28.28 million foreign tourist arrivals from Jan 1 to Nov 16 this year. Malaysia is Thailand’s current leading source of foreign tourist arrivals, with more than four million Malaysians visiting the kingdom as of Nov 16 this year. She added that the top five source countries were Malaysia with 4.06 million visitors, followed by China (3.95 million), India (2.11 million), Russia (1.53 million) and South Korea (1.34 million).
(source: The Star)
Long-haul tourism projected to reach 11.66 million in 2026
Thailand is on track to welcome 11.66 million international tourists by 2026—a significant milestone that promises to reshape the country’s travel landscape. With this surge in long-haul tourism, airlines like United Airlines, EVA Air, and Thai Airways are gearing up for an unprecedented growth phase. The tourism boom is expected to not only enhance Thailand’s global appeal but also drive substantial growth for the hospitality industry.
(source: Travel and Tour World)
Thailand opens doors to inclusive tourism with Taiwan visit
Thailand recently welcomed a group of Taiwanese travellers with mobility disabilities for a five-day pilot tour, aiming to promote the country as an inclusive destination. The initiative is part of a pilot programme led by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), in partnership with the Association of Thai Travel Agents. The group, hailing from FLOW, Inc., a Taiwanese social enterprise that supports employment for people with disabilities, arrived at Suvarnabhumi Airport for a five-day exploratory tour.
(source: Thaiger)
Royal visit to China spurs tourism revival hopes
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is actively building upon the overwhelmingly positive momentum generated by the recent official visit of Their Majesties the King and Queen to the People’s Republic of China, with plans to accelerate the recovery of the vital Chinese tourist market. Their Majesties visited China from 13–17 November 2025 at the invitation of President Xi Jinping. The event garnered an exceptional reception across Chinese mainstream media and social platforms, reflecting widespread public enthusiasm.
(source: Nation Thailand)
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