Phuket airport welcomes 26 millionth visitor to Thailand in 2015

The visitor, Tommy Jeppsson, who arrived on flight TG205 from Bangkok, was surprised to receive a grand welcoming ceremony which was led by Thailand’s Minister of Tourism and Sports Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul who was joined by representatives from leading tourism organisations and businesses when he walked into the passenger arrival lounge.

For being the 26 millionth visitor, Mr Jeppsson was awarded two economy-class return tickets from his original destination to Thailand valid for one year, a voucher for five-nights stay at a luxury accommodation, a mobile phone with a 4G sim-card and seven-day internet usage for use during the trip, and a “Thailand’s Luckiest Visitor” certificate from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Airports of Thailand, the Immigration Bureau, Thai Airways International and True Corporation.

Mr Jeppsson said, “I chose Phuket as my travel destination for the winter break so I can enjoy the nice weather, amazing Thai food and culture, beaches and natural attractions.

“I have visited Phuket seven times already and on each trip I have stayed for two weeks.”

The “Thailand’s Luckiest Visitor” activity, launched in June this year, is in conjunction with the “2015 Discover Thainess” campaign that aims to encourage the number of international tourists to visit Thailand in order to explore the endless charm of Thailand, the diversity of destinations, full flavours of Thai cuisine, fascinating uniqueness of the traditions and culture, as well as the friendliness of its people which brings about a memorable journey that sets the travelling experience apart from other countries.

Visitor numbers to Thailand for this year surged from 25 million to 26 million in just 10 days as the Kingdom counts down to the end of year. Thailand aims to welcome 28.8 million international visitors for this year. 
Ms Kobkarn said, “The “Thailand’s Luckiest Visitor” activity will put us on the map again and it will boost tourism and the economy. More and more travellers will want to come to Thailand and I think we will reach our goal and maybe will welcome more than 28.8 million international visitors by December.

“We would like to thank all the supporters of Thailand for having confidence and selecting our country as their travel destination.

“November and December are among the most pleasant times to visit Thailand, and during this period tourists can enjoy a cool breeze in most parts of the country, azure seas with blue sky in the south, and there are numerous festive activities to enjoy,” she added.