Pattaya expects to welcome more Chinese tourists during the Chinese New Year, which falls on Jan 22.

The Thai Hotels Association said tour companies have resumed their business after news that the Chinese government will allow the Chinese to travel internationally, starting this Sunday.

Initially, visitors who travel by themselves rather than with tour groups will arrive during the Chinese New Year in late January. As for those who travel in groups through agencies, they are likely to start visiting Thailand around March.

The association added that hotel owners and the tourism sector are prepared to welcome Chinese tourists and also have Covid-19 preventive measures to provide comfort and safety to both locals and international tourists.

However, tourism might not grow as much this year as it did before the pandemic due to many reasons, such as the recession.

Meanwhile, Indian tourists are either postponing or cancelling their trips to Pattaya as their government now requires them to be tested for Covid-19 before their return home.

Besides Pattaya, Phuket is also another city pleased by the news of incoming Chinese tourists.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand will launch a campaign welcoming Chinese tourists, as many of them are set to celebrate Chinese New Year in Phuket.