Now, Huge Arrival Surge From Malaysia, China, India, Russia, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, UK, Germany, France, Australia, US, Taiwan, Hong Kong And Indonesia, Fueling Record Tourism In Thailand: Here’s What You Really Need To Know
Home»ASIA» Now, Huge Arrival Surge From Malaysia, China, India, Russia, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, UK, Germany, France, Australia, US, Taiwan, Hong Kong And Indonesia, Fueling Record Tourism In Thailand: Here’s What You Really Need To Know
Wednesday, July 23, 2025
With its beaches in Phuket and its markets in Chaing Mai soaked in golden sunlight and the murmurs of more than a dozen languages reverberating through its bazaars, Thailand’s 2025 tourism resurgence has started to crystallise. Irina Volkova, 60, a visitor from St. Petersburg, was among the travelers to arrive, her third trip here in five years. Her travels, like those of millions of others, are part of a surging wave of tourism that has been rolling through the country this year.
Fuelled by travelers from 15 leading source markets — Malaysia, China, India, Russia, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, the UK, Germany, France, Australia, the US, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Indonesia — Thailand is set to cross a highest pre-pandemic tourist arrival landmark. On tranquil beaches in Krabi and in the pulsating center of Bangkok, the open borders mean foreign tourists are once more filling up hotels, winding through the night markets and spending money on the redemption of experiences benefiting thousands of those Thai livelihoods.
A Closer Look at the Numbers
Thailand received over 35.5 million inbound visits in 2024, a dazzling recovery from the pandemic years. This year, it is taking things one step further as it has set an ambitious goal of attracting 39 million tourists by the end of 2025. According to mid-year numbers from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, over 16.6 million tourists had already come by July, and the high season travel months were yet to come.
Visitor volume is still led by Malaysia, with China and India following closely. The three markets together had over 10 million arrivals in 2024, and continued to dominate in Q1 of 2025. It noted that Russia, despite facing economic sanctions and geopolitical rivalry, has had its tourists to Thailand still on the rise, with more than 1.08 million Russians coming by July 20, which was the fourth largest international market.
Why Tourists Keep Coming Back
Combining affordability, accessibility and an immersive experience, it is clear why Thailand has become such a long-standing favourite. With budget backpackers at one end and luxe-seekers at the other, the country comes in shades to fit every lifestyle and wallet.
Chinese tourists are attracted to cultural and spiritual experience, visiting temples and unesco-listed heritage sites. Indian families fly for weddings, wellness retreats and shopping. Russian tourists, who travel to warn climes of Thailand, particulary Phuket, Krabi and nearby islands during Europe’s cold winter months.
The United Kingdom, Germany and France maintain a robust flow of European tourists, especially during Thailand’s relatively dry season from November to March. Meanwhile, travelers from Australia and the United States are taking longer, more immersive trips, encouraged by favorable exchange rates and by remote work policies that have been extended.
Improved air links and easier travel are contributing to the increasing numbers
Greater air access has aided international arrivals. Thailand’s airports have been gradually expanding capacity since late 2023. Charter aircraft from Russia will start to increase a lot in the fourth quarter, especially to Phuket and U-Tapao International Airport. And other paths from Indian metros, Chinese provinces and European cities have also opened up.
Thailand visa waiver and e-visa services have made entry easier than ever. Indian passport holders, for example, enjoy relaxed visa regulations, and the period of stay for those flying in from China, Taiwan, or Russia has been increased. Airport congestion, logistics challenges and administration burdens have been reduced with the addition of Thailand’s digital arrival card in 2025.
Tourism’s Multiplier Effect on the Economy
The inbound tourism rush is having a huge economic impact. Tourism already makes up close to 12% of Thailand’s GDP and is one of the key foundations of the national economy. Foreign tourists contributed more than 768 billion baht in revenue in the first half of 2025 alone, the Ministry of Finance said.
Hospitality, food and beverage, and transport jobs have rebounded strongly. Small operations, whether homestays, cottage industries or food outlets — especially in non-metropolitan areas such as Mae Hong Son or Nakhon Si Thammarat — are enjoying fresh streams of international tourist revenue. This more wide-spread spread of tourism wealth is contributing to narrowing the economic gap among the regions.
Spending on infrastructure is also increasing. There are currently various airport expansions, seawall facilities and eco-tourism projects in progress. These enhancements are coming to meet the growing tourists number on the one hand, and on the other hand to avoid environmental pressure and guarantee security and sustainability.
The Revival of Tourism: Russia’s Role
Thailand remains one of the most popular travel destination for Russians, even after sanctions and economic hardship. Affluent Russians, unfazed by currency fluctuations or political uncertainty, remain eager to travel, TAT’s Moscow office says. A good number are return visitors, returning for Thailand’s warm climate, health care facilities and kid-friendly institutions.
Vietnam’s beaches, such as those in Nha Trang and Phu Quoc, have become popular with Russians. But infrastructure and greater range of hotel options is still the edge that Thailand has. Phuket in particular is still a key port of entry for long-haul visitors, as are newer hubs such as Krabi and Phang Nga.
Some Russians are also opting to head to mountainous areas such as Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai for lengthier stays. As Thailand continues its campaign to present itself as a year-round destination, these less-visited provinces are attracting long-stay and return visitors.
Challenges and Competitive Pressures
Thailand isn’t the only country trying to lure international tourists. Vietnam, Malaysaia, Indonesia, Philippines are all vying aggressively for a share of the Southeast Asian Tourism market. In particular, Vietnam has poached some of Russia’s summer charter flights, reducing seat supply to Thailand by 10% versus a year earlier.
Yet, Thailand still has a competitive edge with a wide range of choices, the modern amenities, rich culture and safe urban settings that it has. The agency is closely looking into the market flow and monitoring travel trends with plans to set strategies into action before winter – the peak season for Russian and European tourists.
Towards a Sustainable and Inclusive Tourism Model
With increasing arrivals, Thailand is confronted with the problems of making tourism development sustainable, just and environmentally conscionable. There are policies to promote low-carbon tourism, promote the digital transformation of local services, and support community-based hospitality projects.
Initiatives such as “Amazing Thailand Year 2025” are encouraging travelers to visit lesser known areas, to support the local craft industry and to participate in activities which are eco-friendly. These are not only designed to safeguard the country’s natural and cultural riches, but also to build long-term economic resilience in tourism.
Final Thoughts: The Numbers’ People
Behind the numbers and forecasts are personal tales of discovery, thankfulness and joy. From solo travelers going for Thai massage and jungle treks to families taking boat rides and eating spicy food by the sea, every tourist brings something to Thailand — and takes something home in the process.
For Irina Volkova, visiting Phuket in July after having been kept away there was more than a vacation, but a reunion with a country that is “a place that always feels like it’s waiting for me,” she says. For the million more Filipinos like her who work there, Thailand is more than a destination. It’s a second home, a celebration of culture and a repository of shared memory.
References
Tourism Authority of Thailand, Ministry of Tourism and Sports Thailand, Thailand Ministry of Finance.
Club Med Holding has appointed Stéphane Maquaire as its new president and CEO, effective 21 July 2025. The French national succeeds Henri Giscard d’Estaing, whose two-decade tenure saw the company through a period of transformation and global expansion.
The decision was made following a formal succession process, led by d’Estaing and endorsed by the Board. Maquaire, previously Executive Director for Carrefour Brazil and Latin America, brings extensive experience in premium brand development and international operations.
Based in Paris, he will guide Club Med Holding through its next phase of growth, with a continued focus on maintaining the brand’s French identity and values. Maquaire has already met with the company’s three Deputy CEOs to establish operational priorities.
“In Stéphane, we have chosen a leader with deep experience in the consumer sector and a remarkable international track record,” said Xiaoliang Xu, co-CEO of Fosun International and chairman of Club Med Holding.
Maquaire described Club Med as “a culture, a spirit, a way of living and sharing,” adding: “I am honoured by the opportunity to lead this unique company into its next chapter of success.”
Two new Board members have also been named: Philippe Heim, a veteran of Société Générale and La Banque Postale, and Takuya Yamada, Chairman of IDERA Capital and close collaborator on Club Med’s Japanese resorts.
Home»TRAVEL ALERT» Summer Travel Alert: The Shocking Risk of Measles During Trips to Southeast Asia and Other Affected Regions – How to Stay Safe and Protect Yourself
Monday, July 28, 2025
Measles, being an extremely contagious viral disease, also spreads with the increased travel this summer between countries. South Korea has also seen 40 percent more measles cases this year — 65 as of July 5 — than it had by the same time last year, the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) said. Seven in 10 patients had history of foreign travel and have been largely known to have visited the following countries, Vietnam, Thailand, Italy, Uzbekistan, and Mongolia in popular travel destinations in Southeast Asia.
In addition to the surge in cases in the Eastern Mediterranean, measles outbreaks are also accelerating in Southeast Asia, where countries such as Cambodia, the Philippines, Laos and Vietnam have seen significant increases. Travellers — particularly those who are unvaccinated or under-vaccinated — may be at increased risk of coming into contact with the virus when visiting these areas, the KDCA also said, placing them at increased risk of bringing the disease back to their home country.
What is Measles?
Measles is a viral respiratory illness caused by the measles morbillivirus. The disease spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or even by breathing the same air. Measles is one of the most contagious diseases, with over 90% of susceptible individuals contracting the virus after exposure.
Symptoms typically appear 7-21 days after exposure and begin with fever, a cough, runny nose, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). This is followed by a distinctive red rash that usually starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. A hallmark sign of measles is the appearance of small white spots inside the mouth.
Severe complications can arise from measles, including pneumonia, diarrhea, ear infections, and in rare cases, encephalitis or subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), which can be fatal. With travel on the rise, it’s essential for global travelers to stay informed and prepared, as even brief visits to outbreak regions can expose them to the virus.
The Growing Global Measles Threat
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), measles remains a significant global health threat. Approximately 360,000 cases were reported worldwide in 2024, with outbreaks particularly prevalent in Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. In the Western Pacific region, countries like Mongolia, Cambodia, Laos, and Malaysia reported notably high incidences of the disease in 2025.
For instance, Cambodia reported 1,097 measles cases, while Laos had 288, and Malaysia recorded 336 cases. This resurgence of measles is partly due to declining global vaccination coverage during the COVID-19 pandemic, leaving gaps in immunity. As international travel rebounds, unvaccinated or under-vaccinated travelers are more vulnerable to contracting and spreading the virus, sparking secondary outbreaks.
Who is Most at Risk?
Of the 65 cases that were acquired in South Korea, adults accounted for the highest proportion — 76.9 percent — while more than half (55.4 percent) either had not been vaccinated or did not remember their vaccination history. Babies under 12 months, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems are particularly immuno-suppressed and also should not travel if at all avoidable in the region, where measles can have serious consequences.
If you’re traveling to a place where there are outbreaks of measles, be sure to get news about the risks and take the appropriate precautions. Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself.
How to Prevent Measles While Traveling
Measles is preventable with the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine. The vaccine is typically given in two doses—one at 12 to 15 months and the second at 4 to 6 years. For infants under 12 months who are traveling to high-risk areas, the KDCA recommends an accelerated vaccination between 6 to 11 months of age.
If your vaccination history is uncertain or incomplete, it is recommended to get the MMR vaccine at least two weeks before traveling. This ensures that you are fully protected against the disease, reducing the risk of exposure and transmission.
In addition to vaccination, travelers can protect themselves by practicing good hygiene. This includes frequent handwashing, using hand sanitizers, and wearing masks in crowded public areas. If you develop symptoms such as fever, rash, or respiratory issues within three weeks of returning from an outbreak region, seek medical attention immediately. It is crucial to inform your healthcare provider about your travel history, especially if you suspect measles.
Public Health Recommendations for Travelers
Medical institutions have been advised to report any suspected cases of measles to local public health centers promptly. Early detection can help prevent the spread of the virus and protect other travelers.
KDCA Commissioner Jee Young-mi emphasized the importance of being prepared for travel, stating, “Please make sure your measles immunizations are up to date before you go abroad. And if you suspect any symptoms after travel, protect others by visiting a medical facility promptly with a mask on.”
Travelers should also consider checking with their healthcare provider for updated travel health recommendations, especially when planning trips to Southeast Asia or regions with high measles activity.
Final Thoughts: Stay Safe and Plan Ahead
And with summer travel in high gear, the risk of getting the measles in outbreak hot zones will increase. As the world continues to rebound from the pandemic, vaccination rates have lagged behind, so it’s more important than ever to make sure you and your loved ones are protected when you travel overseas. You don’t have to worry about catching measles if you’re current on your vaccinations and practice good hygiene while traveling.
Preparation and awareness are key, whether you’re traveling to Southeast Asia, Europe or a hot vacation destination this winter. Remember to be safe and that is also applies to health and make sure you and everybody around you is safe as you experience the world.
Sigiriya, Sri Lanka | Image credit: sander traa/Unsplash
In a recent push to fuel economic recovery, Sri Lanka has announced visa-free entry for travellers from 40 countries, including the UK, the USA, Canada, Australia, the UAE, Iran, and Pakistan. The move, confirmed by Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath on July 25, 2025, follows Cabinet approval last week to expand the free visa scheme beyond the original list of seven nations.
Since March 2023, Sri Lanka has offered free 30-day tourist visas to citizens of India, China, Indonesia, Russia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Japan. The programme, initially a six-month pilot, has been extended and now widened significantly. Eligible travellers must still apply for an electronic travel authorisation, but will no longer be required to pay visa fees.
While Sri Lanka expects to forgo around INR 5,484.6 crore (USD 66 million) in annual visa revenue, Herath says the potential gains from increased footfall outweigh the short-term loss. “We have stabilised the economy, and through policy changes in tourism, we aim to ensure steady growth in arrivals,” he said.
Citizens of the following countries can now travel to Sri Lanka visa-free:
Sneha Chakraborty is a journalist and photographer covering how travel intersects with food, culture, ..Read Moreand identity. Her reporting has appeared in National Geographic Traveller India, Lonely Planet, Conde Nast Traveller, Vogue India, and Hindustan Times, where she spent two years on staff as a correspondent covering travel and culture. She is an alumna of the University of Westminster`s Westminster School of Media, Arts and Design. Currently based in Delhi, she grew up in various cities across India and has lived in Amsterdam, and London. Read Less
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