India still on track to cross one million visitor arrivals to Thailand

Indian arrivals to Thailand are set to cross the one million mark again this year, thanks to a continued flow of tourists in December, news reports about the political demonstrations notwithstanding.

“Despite what travellers may have recently read or heard in some of the international media, they can be confident that Thailand is still a welcoming tourist destination,” said Ms. Runjuan Tongrut, Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) New Delhi Office.

In January – November 2013, Indian visitors to Thailand totalled 958,921 up 4.07% over the same period of 2012. She voiced confidence they will cross the 1,015,865 arrivals figure achieved in 2012.

According to Mrs Runjuan, “Indian travellers are used to political demonstrations that come with living in a vibrant democracy. They are also smart and savvy users of social media and are well informed about the reality on the ground.

“By and large, Indian visitors are maintaining their travel plans, especially those heading for festive season celebrations in Phuket, Pattaya, Hua Hin, Ko Samui, and Chiang Mai.”

Numerous Indian Weddings are due to be held in Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, Hua Hin, Krabi, Koh Samui, Khao Lak, Rayong, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai between December 2013- June 2014.

In a major vote of confidence for Thailand, a convention-cum-incentive of 600 dealers and salespersons from Amway India proceeded normally between 4-6 December, 2013, with no interruptions or disruptions.

“Any traveller considering a visit to Thailand does not need to worry, as tourists have not been targeted in the political protests”, Mrs Runjuan said.

December is one of the most exciting months for tourists in Thailand with many exciting events and shopping extravaganzas taking place nationwide.

The Amazing Thailand Countdown 2014 will be organised as planned in seven major cities – Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chon Buri (Pattaya), Songkhla (Hat Yai), Phuket, Khon Kaen and Chiang Rai from 25 December, 2013 to 1 January, 2014.

“The TAT New Delhi Team would like to thank all its travel trade partners, media and travellers for their support. We wish them all a prosperous New Year,” Mrs. Runjuan said.