China’s stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage captivated visitors at the 30th Thai International Travel Fair, held in Bangkok. The event, which opened on Thursday, drew tourists from across Southeast Asia eager to explore the allure of the ancient oriental nation.
This year’s fair, featuring over 500 tourism-related enterprises from around the world, marks a special milestone as China was invited as the guest country of honor. The invitation coincides with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Thailand.
For attendees like Nam Sitanant, a 51-year-old Thai resident, the fair offered a unique opportunity to plan future trips to China. “The booths showcasing famous Chinese destinations are amazing. You can preview your trip, try local food, and even see handicrafts. It’s a fantastic experience,” she said.
Nam, who has visited Beijing and Yunnan province, praised China’s diverse cultures and landscapes. “As close neighbors, I hope to explore more of China in the future,” she added.
China remains a key player in Thailand’s tourism industry. Last year, Chinese tourists topped the list of foreign visitors to Thailand, with over 6.73 million arrivals generating 378 billion baht ($10.93 billion) in revenue, according to Thai tourism authorities.
The trend is mutual. Han Zhiqiang, China’s ambassador to Thailand, noted a growing interest among Thai tourists in visiting China. “China is now one of the most popular destinations for Thai travelers,” he said.
To boost tourism, China has introduced a series of visa policy optimizations over the past year. These include full visa exemptions for 25 countries, trial unilateral visa exemptions for 38 countries, and transit visa exemptions for 54 countries.
The efforts have paid off. In the first three quarters of 2024, China recorded a 78.8% year-on-year increase in inbound tourism, with 94.62 million visitors. Han also revealed that the number of Thai tourists visiting China during the same period nearly tripled compared to 2023.
“The growing exchanges between the peoples of China and Thailand have brought vitality to both nations’ social and economic development, fostering a shared future for our communities,” Han said during the fair’s opening ceremony.
Organized by the Thai Travel Agents Association (TTAA), the four-day event featured 12 Chinese airlines, financial institutions like UnionPay, and tourism providers from six Chinese provinces. These exhibitors showcased high-quality travel products, services, and curated travel routes for international visitors.
Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, highlighted the significance of China’s participation. “Thailand is a top global travel destination, and this year’s fair, with its strong Chinese presence, will enhance international exchanges and cooperation,” she said.
Charoen Wangananont, President of TTAA, emphasized the deep-rooted friendship between China and Thailand. He estimated the fair would attract over 300,000 visitors and generate $9 million in revenue.
The event not only celebrated the enduring ties between the two nations but also underscored the growing appeal of China as a must-visit destination for global travelers.
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