Four markets key to Thailand recovery

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has identified four key growth markets it hopes will continue to drive arrivals growth in 2009. The Bangkok Post has reported that continued healthy growth in foreign arrivals from India, China, Russia and Eastern European countries is considered key to the Kingdom’s tourism recovery.
The TAT expects Chinese tourists will become the largest foreign visitor market to Thailand in the next three years, despite recent setbacks. Governor Phornsiri Manoharn said the latest roadshows in three Chinese cities – Xian, Xiamen and Shenzhen – from 10-12 September helped lift confidence among Chinese tour operators and tourists. The TAT will also promote at the China International Travel Mart in Shanghai in November.