Thailand’s tourism sector is seeing a notable upswing as Russia climbs to the third spot among foreign visitors, according to statements delivered at a press briefing in Bangkok. The information comes from Sudavan Wangsuphakitkoson, the chairman of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, and was reported by RIA News.
Wangsuphakitkoson noted that 347,847 Russian travelers visited Thailand during the first seven weeks of the year. This places Russia behind only China and Malaysia in visitor numbers, with South Korea and India following in fourth and fifth places, respectively. These figures reflect a broader rebound in international tourism as travel demand returns to pre-pandemic levels. RIA News provides the attribution for these numbers.
Overall, Thailand has welcomed 5,217,000 international visitors since the start of the year, a rise of about 49 percent compared with the same period in the previous year. The surge in tourist arrivals signals a strong recovery in Southeast Asia’s tourism corridor and highlights the country’s ongoing appeal as a travel destination for a wide range of travelers, including those from Russia, Europe, and Asia. RIA News notes this growth as part of Thailand’s broader tourism strategy.
Officials attributed the growth to government actions designed to make travel easier for visitors. Specifically, the visa-free entry period for Russian citizens was extended from 30 days to 90 days, and entry was opened to visa-free travel for Chinese visitors. These policy changes aim to spread economic benefits more broadly across domestic regions and extend stays for travelers who contribute to local tourism ecosystems. The measures are cited by Wangsuphakitkoson as a key driver behind the increased flows, with RIA News providing the official context for these visa policies.
In related developments, Thai Prime Minister Settha Thavisin has discussed the resumption of direct flights between Bangkok and Moscow, a move seen as a catalyst for sustained growth in bilateral tourism exchange. Restoring direct air links is viewed as a practical step to facilitate easier travel, reduce transit times, and boost overall visitor numbers from Russia to Thailand. RIA News covers this potential milestone as part of the broader efforts to bolster international tourism ties.
As travel rebounds, comparisons across markets continue to evolve. The Thai government’s visa policy adjustments, along with enhanced air connectivity, are shaping a more favorable environment for long-haul travelers and seasonal visitors alike. Observers note that the combination of policy incentives, improved flight options, and the country’s diverse attractions positions Thailand to sustain momentum through the year. RIA News provides ongoing coverage and official statements that frame these developments within Thailand’s broader tourism strategy.
Earlier, a separate report highlighted an unusual cultural anecdote from the Philippines involving a Shrek figurine, which was linked to a prayer practice that ultimately revealed a misunderstanding about its religious significance. While not connected to tourism policy or visitor statistics, this incident underscores the varied and sometimes surprising stories that circulate in conversations about travel and culture. Attribution for that report is provided by its source.