Thailand sees Lunar New Year travel boom as Chinese tourists back in droves

South China Morning PostEN 1 min read 100% complete by Aidan JonesFebruary 22, 2026 at 08:00 AM

AI Summary

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Thailand is experiencing a Lunar New Year travel boom driven by a resurgence of Chinese tourists. Since January, over 30,000 Chinese visitors have arrived daily, with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) projecting 241,000 arrivals during the February holiday. This rebound follows a decline in Chinese tourism due to safety concerns, economic factors, and currency exchange rates. To attract Chinese tourists, the TAT invested heavily in promotional campaigns, including hiring Chinese influencers and featuring K-pop star Lisa Manobal. Early indications suggest these efforts have been successful, with resorts near capacity and businesses reporting strong sales. The TAT anticipates exceeding one million Chinese visitors since the start of 2024.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Vietnam 40% Pattaya 50% Blackpink 50% Bangkok ×260% Lalisa "Lisa" Manobal ×260% Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) ×270% China ×270% Lunar New Year ×280% Thailand ×490%

Keywords

lunar new year 100% chinese tourists 90% thailand 90% tourism 80% travel boom 70% tourism authority of thailand 60% economic rebound 50% chinese influencers 50% lalisa manobal 40%