Pattaya aims to attract 27 million visitors in 2024, according to the local tourism authority. The target is not considered ambitious since tourist arrivals in 2023 are expected to reach 23 million, meeting their initial goal. The coastal city witnessed a surge in domestic and international tourists in the last quarter of 2023, partly due to the visa exemption scheme. With its diverse attractions, including sports facilities and mega-sized convention centers, Pattaya has maintained its reputation as one of Thailand’s top tourist destinations.
To boost tourism, Pattaya City frequently organizes events and activities, participates in road shows and trade exhibitions in Europe and the Middle East, and receives support from the Chon Buri provincial administrative organization. The city boasts over 70,000 three to five-star hotel rooms, ensuring ample accommodation for visitors.
Russia, India, China, South Korea, and Vietnam were the top five countries providing international visitors to Pattaya in 2023, according to Urai Mukpradapthong, Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Pattaya office. Building on last year’s success and well-planned campaigns for this year, Pattaya anticipates welcoming up to 27 million tourists in 2024.
Another popular destination in southern Thailand, Koh Phangan, attracted over 20,000 tourists on New Year’s Eve. Most of these visitors were foreigners attending the full moon party countdown. The festival offered an exciting lineup of entertainment, including concerts, fireworks, and a wide range of food and beverage options from local vendors. The province of Surat Thani prioritized visitor safety during the event, mobilizing resources with the cooperation of marine and tourist police.
As Pattaya and Koh Phangan continue to draw visitors with their unique attractions and vibrant events, the outlook for tourism in these southern Thai destinations remains promising.
