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Thailand Aims to Revive Tourism as Chinese Visitor Numbers Plummet

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Wednesday, August 6, 2025

Author: TTW News Desk

Tourism in Thailand, an important pillar of its economy, is having a tough year in 2025. International tourist arrivals have fallen 5%, led predominantly by a fall in visitors from China and competition from alternative destinations in Asia.

Between January 1 and July 5, 2025, Thailand received 16.8 million international visitors, lower than 17.7 million during the same period last year. The largest decrease was from neighboring nations, which dropped by 12.2%, with East Asia also experiencing a steep 24.8% decline. The main reason being the smaller number of Chinese tourists, which dipped by 34.2% from pre-pandemic 2019 levels.

Shifting Tourist Demographics

While long-haul travelers from markets like India, Japan, Singapore, Australia, and the U.S. have increased, their numbers remain relatively small, accounting for only 28% of total arrivals. These tourists typically spend more, but their growth cannot fully compensate for the loss of Chinese visitors.

Before the pandemic, China was Thailand’s largest tourism market, supplying 28% of all international arrivals—about 11.1 million visitors in 2019. However, Chinese tourists now make up just 13.6% of total arrivals. Estimates suggest that 2025 will mark the first time in over a decade (excluding COVID-19 years) that Chinese tourist numbers fall below 5 million.

Government Measures to Revive Tourism

Tourism contributes 20% of Thailand’s GDP, making its recovery crucial. The Thai government has introduced several initiatives to counter the downturn:

1. Delaying the Tourist Fee

Originally set for 2025, the government postponed the “Kha Yeap Pan Din” fee (a 300 THB charge for air arrivals and 150 THB for land/sea entries) to mid-2026. The funds will enhance tourist facilities and provide insurance coverage for foreign visitors.

2. Subsidies for Charter Flights

To attract more visitors, authorities are offering 350,000 THB per charter flight. New partnerships with travel agencies in Chongqing, Lanzhou, and Hangzhou aim to bring an additional 150,000 Chinese tourists to Thailand.

3. Digital Entry System

Earlier in 2025, Thailand launched a digital entry system, replacing paper-based immigration checks with a faster, online registration process to improve the traveler experience.

Factors Behind the Decline in Chinese Tourists

Several key factors contribute to the drop in Chinese visitors:

1. Economic Slowdown in China

China’s economic challenges, including a sluggish property market and weaker consumer spending, have led to reduced outbound tourism. Middle-class travelers, who once fueled Thailand’s tourism boom, are now more cautious with discretionary spending.

2. Rising Competition from Other Destinations

Countries like Vietnam, Japan, and South Korea have aggressively marketed themselves to Chinese tourists, offering easier visa policies and new attractions. Japan’s weakened yen, for example, has made it a more affordable option compared to Thailand.

3. Changing Travel Preferences

Post-pandemic, Chinese tourists are favoring shorter trips and domestic travel over long international vacations. The popularity of “revenge travel” within China has also diverted potential visitors away from overseas destinations.

4. Safety Concerns and Negative Perceptions

Reports of scams targeting tourists and safety incidents in Thailand have circulated on Chinese social media, damaging the country’s reputation as a secure destination. The Thai government is working to address these concerns through tighter regulations and public awareness campaigns.

Private Sector Initiatives in Thailand

Hotels, airlines, and tour operators are also adapting to the changing market:

  • Discounts and Bundled Packages – Many resorts are offering all-inclusive deals to attract budget-conscious travelers.
  • Luxury and Wellness Tourism – High-end hotels are focusing on medical tourism and wellness retreats, particularly targeting European and Middle Eastern visitors.
  • Sustainable Tourism – Eco-friendly resorts and community-based tourism projects are gaining traction among environmentally conscious travelers.

Future Outlook for Thai Tourism

Experts are of the view that these stimulus steps will begin yielding fruit by the end of 2025. Assuming no serious disruptions, Chinese tourist arrivals may return to 70-80% of pre-pandemic levels towards the end of 2026.

Thailand, despite present difficulties, is a leading travel destination, and the efforts of the government seek to reinstate it as a player in the international tourism arena. The emphasis currently is on diversifying sources of visitors and improving traveler convenience in a bid to develop long-term growth.



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Filipino Travelers Remain Taiwan Top International Visitors in 2025

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Published on
August 9, 2025 |

Taiwan, a island of the coast of East Asia, has quietly become the number one vacation place for travelers from the Philippines. The latest numbers from the Taiwan Tourism Bureau prove this. Filipino tourists keep arriving in greater numbers than visitors from any other country, month after month, year after year. This isn’t a flash-in-the-pan success; it’s a long-running tale of nearby neighbors, shared history, and close cultural ties that keep Taiwan at the top of the list for every Filipino vacation planner.

Filipino visitors are among the first to return, giving the island’s tourism a much-welcome boost. For travelers from the Philippines, Taiwan is easy to reach, easy on the wallet, and packed with must-see sights.

Strong Bilateral Relationship Fuels Filipino Tourism to Taiwan

The strong relationship between Taiwan and the Philippines has been instrumental in fostering the continued popularity of Taiwan among Filipino tourists. This connection goes beyond just tourism and spans economic, cultural, and social exchanges. The ease of travel, combined with Taiwan’s cultural offerings, makes it an appealing destination for Filipinos seeking a close yet diverse international getaway.

This convenience is a key factor in why Filipino tourists continue to top Taiwan’s visitor statistics year after year, contributing to Taiwan’s economic and cultural landscape.

Top Attractions for Filipino Tourists in Taiwan

Taiwan is a diverse and multi-faceted destination that caters to various interests, making it ideal for Filipino tourists who are seeking a mix of culture, history, nature, and modern attractions.

This stunning national park, known for its towering marble cliffs and lush green scenery, is a haven for hiking and outdoor activities.

Role of Direct Flights and Convenient Travel in Taiwanese Tourism Growth

The increase in Filipino visitors to Taiwan has been supported by the availability of direct flights between the two countries. These direct connections have significantly lowered the barriers to entry for Filipino travelers, increasing the ease and appeal of traveling to Taiwan.

Furthermore, Taiwan’s efficient and affordable public transportation system makes it easy for tourists to explore the entire island. Filipino visitors can easily hop from one city to another or explore the countryside, further enhancing Taiwan’s attractiveness as a destination.

A Bright Future for Taiwanese Tourism with Filipino Visitors

The post-pandemic recovery in Taiwan’s tourism sector has seen Filipino tourists lead the charge, with the number of Filipino visitors steadily increasing.

In addition to the usual attractions, Taiwan has increasingly diversified its tourism offerings, with new eco-tourism and wellness tourism initiatives gaining traction. These sectors are expected to attract more Filipino tourists seeking unique and sustainable travel experiences. Taiwan’s burgeoning reputation as a gastronomic destination is also helping to draw Filipino food lovers eager to explore Taiwanese cuisine and traditional recipes.

With the continued development of Taiwan’s infrastructure and tourism offerings, Filipino visitors will have even more reasons to make Taiwan their go-to destination. The strong bilateral ties between Taiwan and the Philippines will undoubtedly continue to foster tourism growth, making Taiwan a top choice for Filipinos seeking a memorable and enriching international travel experience.

Taiwan: Slice the World for Filipino Travelers

Taiwan keeps winning the hearts of Filipino tourists now make up the biggest group of international visitors to the island. From friendly hotel welcomes to high-speed trains that take you from crowded streets to quiet temples in a blink, Taiwan knows how to show us a good time.



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Atul Jain as MD and Shantanu Chakravartty as CEO Launches “Globiq” Travel Retail Brand in India and South Asia – First India

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Atul Jain as MD and Shantanu Chakravartty as CEO Launches “Globiq” Travel Retail Brand in India and South Asia  First India



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Thailand, Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, And More Demonstrate Strong Growth In Repeat Travel As Agoda Reveals The Favourite Cities That Keep Visitors Coming Back

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Published on
August 9, 2025 |

Thailand, Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, and several other countries are experiencing remarkable growth in repeat travel, driven by travelers’ deepening appreciation for their unique cultures, vibrant cities, and diverse experiences. According to Agoda’s latest data, these destinations are home to favorite cities that consistently attract visitors back, highlighting their ability to offer unforgettable stays, rich local attractions, and exceptional hospitality that inspire repeat visits and foster strong traveler loyalty.

Agoda, the prominent digital travel platform, has revealed its latest Repeat Visitor Ranking, shining a spotlight on Asian cities that travellers can’t seem to resist coming back to. This ranking draws on booking data collected during the first half of the year, identifying the top destinations with the highest numbers of repeat visitors. For the second year running, Bangkok retains the number one position, followed closely by Tokyo, Seoul, Bali, and Osaka. Each of these cities offers unique attractions and experiences that encourage travellers to return again and again.

Top 10 Most Revisited Destinations

  1. Bangkok, Thailand
  2. Tokyo, Japan
  3. Seoul, South Korea
  4. Bali, Indonesia
  5. Osaka, Japan
  6. Taipei, Taiwan
  7. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
  8. Da Nang, Vietnam
  9. Johor Bahru, Malaysia
  10. Hong Kong

Source: Agoda Repeat Visitor Ranking

Repeat visits act as a clear indicator of success for tourism boards and destination marketers. When travellers return to the same place multiple times, it reflects well on the destination’s appeal and the effectiveness of promotional campaigns. Many visitors do not just revisit their favourite cities; they also use those return trips to explore less familiar areas within the same country or region.

Agoda’s data shows that a considerable portion of travellers book trips to the same city or country multiple times, underscoring the emotional and experiential bonds that draw people back. The cities topping this list consistently offer vibrant cultures, excellent food, and a wealth of attractions, making them irresistible for those seeking both familiar comforts and new discoveries.

Bangkok Remains Unrivalled

Bangkok has reclaimed the number one position, solidifying its reputation as one of Asia’s most irresistible travel hotspots. Tourists regularly highlight the city’s vibrant street scenes, diverse and delicious food offerings, and abundant cultural treasures. To keep this momentum going, the Tourism Authority of Thailand has stepped up its initiatives by rolling out targeted promotions and collaborating closely with industry stakeholders to elevate the overall visitor experience.

Other regions in Thailand are also drawing in returning visitors. Phuket, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, and Hat Yai have all seen substantial repeat visitor numbers, highlighting the country’s broad appeal beyond just its capital. To support this growth, Thailand has invested in upgrading its transportation infrastructure. These improvements include expanding domestic airports, enhancing intercity rail networks, and developing urban mass transit systems to make travel more convenient and comfortable for visitors.

Why Do Travellers Keep Coming Back?

Agoda’s surveys help explain why people repeatedly visit these top destinations. The key factors include:

  • Ease of Travel: Destinations that offer straightforward access, good connectivity, and efficient transport systems make returning trips hassle-free.
    Culinary Experiences: The variety and richness of local food greatly influence travellers’ choices. Destinations known for their flavorful and diverse cuisine encourage visitors to come back repeatedly to explore new tastes and enjoy familiar favourites.
  • Convenient Location: Proximity to other destinations or natural attractions often encourages repeat visits as travellers use one city as a base to explore nearby areas.
  • Safety and Cleanliness: Visitors feel more comfortable revisiting places where they perceive high standards of safety and cleanliness.
  • Positive Previous Experiences: Most importantly, travellers return to places where they have already had enjoyable and memorable experiences.

These motivations create strong emotional connections between travellers and destinations, making repeat visits a natural choice.

Traveller Demographics and Trip Purposes

Agoda’s data also reveals interesting patterns related to traveller demographics and the reasons behind their repeat visits. For example, many travellers from countries such as the Philippines, Vietnam, and India show a strong inclination to revisit their favourite cities. Their reasons vary widely, from seeking adventure and exploring local food scenes to reconnecting with family and friends.

This diversity in purpose highlights that repeat visitors are not a monolithic group. Some return for leisure and relaxation, others for cultural immersion or business, and many combine several motivations. Repeat travel often strengthens these bonds, encouraging travellers to explore new parts of a destination they had not previously experienced.

Loyalty Programs and Traveller Benefits

Alongside these travel trends, Agoda supports frequent travellers with its loyalty programmes. The Agoda VIP programme offers tiered membership levels — Member, VIP Silver, VIP Gold, and VIP Platinum — which travellers can unlock based on the number of bookings they make. As travellers move up the tiers, they gain access to exclusive discounts, special offers, and personalized services.

Additionally, Agoda provides a PointsMAX feature, allowing users to earn airline miles or other loyalty points from partner programmes when they book accommodation through the platform. This integration adds extra value for repeat visitors and encourages loyalty to Agoda’s services, complementing the overall traveller experience.

What This Means for Asian Tourism

The Repeat Visitor Ranking reflects a vibrant and growing interest in Asia’s travel destinations. Cities like Bangkok, Tokyo, Seoul, and Bali continue to draw visitors with a mix of tradition, modernity, and accessible experiences. For tourism authorities, high repeat visitation rates confirm that their promotional strategies resonate well with travellers, and their investments in infrastructure and services pay off.

Furthermore, these cities act as gateways to their respective regions, inspiring visitors to explore surrounding areas on subsequent trips. With tourism expected to grow steadily in the coming years, destinations that nurture repeat visitors stand to benefit from sustained economic impact and cultural exchange.

Thailand, Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, and more are seeing strong repeat travel growth as Agoda reveals that their favorite cities offer unique cultural experiences, excellent hospitality, and vibrant attractions that keep visitors coming back time and again.

Agoda’s Repeat Visitor Ranking offers valuable insights into which Asian cities travellers love enough to revisit repeatedly. The data highlights not only popular destinations but also the qualities that inspire loyalty — from culinary delights and ease of travel to safety and memorable experiences. As tourism boards continue to refine their strategies, repeat visitation will remain a key metric of success, helping cities maintain their place on the traveller’s map for years to come.



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