An Influx of Visitors in Phuket during Chinese New Year 2019 – Positive Signs for Tourism

The Chinese New Year which fell from 5th to 19th February also brought with it an increase in visitors to Phuket, especially those from China. While visitor numbers saw a decline last year, due to improved safety standards and initiatives like this year’s Lantern Festival, more and more Chinese tourists have been arriving in Phuket. Beach hotel options abound on the island with accommodation options such as Anantara Layan Phuket Resort amongst the beachside properties available to travellers.

According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), hotel operators reported almost a 90% occupancy rate between 2nd to 10th February. This was mainly due to the Chinese New Year falling during this period. Another measure that encouraged visitors during this period was the waiver of the visa-on-arrival fee (2,000 baht) which is in effect until the end of April; this waiver was applicable to 20 countries including China.