Is Thailand becoming less tourist-friendly?

Latest figures reveal a 5% fall in the visits made by tourists to the country, with the first half of 2024 seeing a total of 16.6 million visitors, at a reduction of 17.5 million the previous year. The drop was significant in May 2025 in particular, with 14 percent less tourists than the previous year.

Why are tourists turning away from Thailand?

#bangkok #thailand As of 2025, tourist arrivals in Thailand are decreasing due to a combination of economic, safety, policy, and competitive factors. Here's a breakdown of the main reasons: Drop in Chinese Tourists. Safety & Reputation Issues. Strong Regional Competition. Economic Uncertainty. Visa and Immigra.

Are less tourists going to Thailand?

In Thailand, the complaint is the opposite; visitor numbers are declining, and the government is starting to panic. This year so far has seen a noticeable decline, from 17.5 million tourists in the first half of 2024 to 16.6 million this year, about a 5 percent drop.

Is Thailand friendly to tourists?

Is Thailand a Safe Country to Travel Tol? Thailand is generally considered one of the safest countries in Southeast Asia for travelers, but it's not all sunshine and coconut water. While the Land of Smiles boasts breathtaking landscapes and warm hospitality, it also upholds strict laws that visitors must adhere to.

What is the tourism crisis in Thailand?

𝗧𝗵𝗮𝗶𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗙𝗮𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗧𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗺 𝗖𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗶𝘀 𝗔𝗺𝗶𝗱 𝗣𝗹𝘂𝗻𝗴𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗩𝗶𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗼𝗿 𝗡𝘂𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘀 BANGKOK — Thailand's tourism industry is grappling with its sharpest downturn in years, as foreign arrivals dropped 4.66% in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, according to the Thai Hotels Association (THA).

Why are tourists suddenly avoiding Thailand in 2025?

Why is Thailand on the no travel list?

Terrorism in Thailand

Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Thailand. There are regular terrorist attacks in the 4 provinces in the southern tip of Thailand by the border with Malaysia. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) advises against all but essential travel to these provinces.

What is the biggest concern in Thailand?

Thailand's dramatic economic growth has caused numerous environmental issues. The country faces problems with air, declining wildlife populations, deforestation, soil erosion, water scarcity, and waste issues.

When to avoid traveling to Thailand?

The rainiest months in Thailand are September and October, generally considered the least favorable time to visit. Heavy rainfall can cause flooding in cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai, landslides in mountain areas, flight delays, and rough sea conditions along the Andaman Coast.

Is Thailand overcrowded with tourists?

Here's where experts say you should think twice before booking: ◾Thailand: Thailand's tropical islands have long been a magnet for travelers looking for sun, sand, and affordability. But now there are too many tourists. Experts are advising their clients to steer clear of places like Phuket, Pattaya and Krabi.

Is Thailand safe for UK travellers?

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to parts of Thailand.

Why are Chinese tourists not visiting Thailand?

Why are fewer Chinese tourists coming to Thailand? . China's economic downturn, rising costs and competition from other countries are contributing to the decline in Chinese tourists visiting Thailand. In 2025, Chinese tourist numbers dropped by over 30% compared to last year.

Is Thailand better to live than the UK?

Thailand's affordable cost of living is a big advantage for UK expats. Especially if you want to grow your savings while you're abroad.

What's going on in Thailand in 2025?

In May 2025, the country was described as "inching" towards a political crisis amidst the 2024 Thai Senate election scandal linked to vote buying and systemic fraud, along with tensions linked to former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's hospital detention.

What are the main issues of tourism in Thailand?

However, the Thai tourism industry faces a significant challenge: overtourism. This phenomenon, where the number of visitors overwhelms the destination, has led to environmental degradation, cultural dilution, and infrastructure strain, prompting a critical reassessment of tourism practices.

Is Bangkok tourism down?

BANGKOK — Thailand's tourism industry, a key pillar of the national economy, is facing a turbulent year in 2025 as international arrivals are projected to fall by 5 per cent as a result of a sharp decline in Chinese tourists and mounting competition from other Asian destinations.

What is considered rude in Thailand for tourists?

A calm, respectful approach is always appreciated. Don't Step Over People or Food: In Thailand, stepping over people or items like food is considered rude. Try to avoid stepping over anyone, especially in crowded places.

Is Thailand's tourism declining?

Thailand's tourism declines: 7.14% drop in foreign arrivals amid reduced forecast. This decline reflects challenges in the recovery of the tourism sector, despite China maintaining its position as the largest source market with 3.03 million visitors http://ow.

What is the busiest month in Thailand?

December to February

With the most pleasant weather (low humidity / rainfall and comfortable temperatures) the winter is the best and most popular time to visit Thailand.

How long before travelling to Thailand do you need injections?

At least 8 weeks before your trip: check the latest information on vaccinations and health risks in TravelHealthPro's Thailand guide.

When to avoid krabi?

The wet season in Krabi typically runs from May to October, with the heaviest rains generally occurring between September and October. If beach time and water activities are your priority, it is recommended to avoid these two months as some boat trips may be delayed or cancelled due to extreme weather.

Why is Thailand a high risk country?

Exercise increased caution due to civil unrest associated with ongoing insurgent activities in the Yala, Pattani, and Narathiwat provinces. Periodic violence between Thai security services and armed insurgents has been known to occur in Thailand's three southernmost provinces of Yala, Pattani, and Narathiwat.

What is the natural disaster in Thailand 2025?

A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar (Burma), near Sagaing, on March 28, 2025 (12:50 local time). Several strong earthquakes followed, as well as multiple aftershocks. This was the most catastrophic earthquake in Myanmar since the Maymyo earthquake of 1912.

Is Thailand a respectful country?

Thai culture and etiquette in Thailand is strongly hierarchical. Respect must be given to those of higher social status, and to elders. Education, profession, age, and clothing all help to place a person within this hierarchy and to shape the way that that person is treated by others.