Thailand welcomed a total of 780,000 visitors to its capital city over the festive season in 2017, numbers which represent a massive 30 percent increase compared to the same period last year. Around half of these visitors are thought to have been international tourists, the majority of whom originated from either Hong Kong or Singapore.
Bangkok is frequently voted the world’s most visited city, and this year was no different. The Thai capital outstripped its closest rivals again in 2017, attracting more tourists than London (19.06 million), Paris (15.45 million), and Dubai (14.87 million).
Among the top attractions bringing in the crowds, the spectacular ‘Beautiful Bangkok by Magnolias@Ratchaprasong’, attracted many to the city. Attendees were able to celebrate the countdown and see a stunning 3D light art installation projection. Ratchaprasong has evolved over time to become one of the city’s premiere centres for shopping, hospitality, business and tourism. Visitor spending in the region has helped to boost tourism revenue and continues to be the driving force of economic growth throughout the city.
“It definitely brought a joyful year-end to all visitors who came to Bangkok,†said Mr. Visit Malaisirirat, CEO of Magnolia Quality Development Corporation Limited, in response to the celebrations over New Year. “The lighting performance embodies Thai character and our cultural pride; it highlights Bangkok’s status as an international destination for leisure and business travelers, and also for luxury property investors,†continued Mr Malaisirirat.
According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), tourists are expected to have spent some THB 15.56 billion from December 29 to January 2, 2018. According to Mastercard’s annual list, Bangkok surpassed the 20 million tourists mark for the first time in 2017; Thailand’s capital city had welcomed a then-record 19.41 million visitors in 2016.
