Tourism Comeback in 2024 – Thai Hotel Association President Expresses Optimism

In an exclusive interview, Marisa Sukosol Nunbhakdi, the President of the Thai Hotel Association (THA), conveyed her optimism regarding Thailand’s tourism outlook, foreseeing a remarkable resurgence from the pandemic’s impact by the latter half of 2024.

Despite 2023 witnessing Thai hotels operating at a 60% occupancy rate, down from the pre-Covid peak of 75% in 2019, Marisa remains hopeful. She cited increased flights to Thailand and a recovering global economy as catalysts for the hotel industry’s steady recovery. The optimistic projection suggests a triumphant return to pre-Covid occupancy levels by the end of 2024.

Marisa emphasized Phuket’s pivotal role in Thailand’s tourism revival during the ongoing high season from November 2023 to March 2024. The rise in tourist arrivals is associated with direct flights from overseas to the island and visa-free entry for visitors from Kazakhstan, China, India and Taiwan. Furthermore, Russian nationals now benefit from an extended visa-free stay, from 30 to 90 days, contributing to the positive momentum in Thailand’s tourism sector. Furthermore, those booking a Bangkok hotel in Sukhumvit can make use of the special packages on offer at hotels like Gardina Asoke which will boost tourist arrivals even more.