Thailand to earn 48 billion baht from tourists in Chinese New Year

BANGKOK, Feb 9 (TNA) -- Nearly 900,000 foreign tourists will visit Thailand and the country is likely to earn 48 billion baht from tourists during the Chinese New Year festival, according to the Tourism and Sports Ministry. Pongpanu Svetarundra, permanent secretary of the ministry, said 888,472 foreigners would visit the country during the Chinese New Year festival and the number rose by 20% year on year. Arrivals of Chinese tourists would be historically high as about 10 Thai consulates in China reported that 304,192 Chinese people would visit Thailand on Feb 15-21, Mr Pongpanu said. He said the government and the private sector are joining forces to guarantee safety and conveniences for tourists. Safety measures and convenient services cover airports, major tourist destinations and venues of important events related to the Chinese New Year. The Chinese embassy in Bangkok has informed Chinese tourists of Thai cultures and lifestyles as Thailand is the most favourite desitnation of Chinese travelers. All the measures and efforts were aimed at impressing visitors and encouraging their repeated visits, Mr Pongpanu said. He predicted that the country would earn 48 billion baht from tourism during the Chinese New Year celebrations. (TNA)