Bollywood actor and philanthropist Sonu Sood has been appointed as Thailand’s Tourism Brand Ambassador, signaling a strategic move to attract more Indian tourists. This appointment comes alongside the extension of Thailand’s visa-free entry policy for Indian travelers, making travel to the country easier and more accessible than ever. Sood’s influence and the visa-free entry policy are expected to significantly boost Indian tourism to Thailand.
Thailand has significantly expanded its e-Visa program, now making it available to citizens of 39 countries, including key markets like the US, Canada, and the UK. This move, coupled with the introduction of a new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system and expanded visa-free entry policy, is designed to boost tourism and simplify travel procedures for international visitors.
Romania, a European Union member, has implemented a visa-free entry policy for citizens of 88 countries, significantly increasing its appeal as a travel destination. This move aims to encourage tourism and strengthen international relations, allowing visitors to experience Romania’s rich culture, historical sites, and breathtaking landscapes without visa hassles.
St. Barts, a luxury Caribbean destination, is attracting more tourists by offering visa-free entry to citizens of 110 countries. This strategic move aims to simplify travel and boost the island’s economy, which heavily relies on tourism. The visa-free policy allows seamless entry for travelers from major markets like the United States, Canada, and many European countries, making the island more accessible and attractive to high-spending visitors.
Costa Rica’s strategic visa-free entry policy for over 150 countries has dramatically boosted tourism, driving economic growth and infrastructure development. The policy has attracted millions of international visitors, resulting in increased hotel occupancy, cruise ship arrivals, and air travel connectivity.
Oman is experiencing a surge in tourism, driven by visa-free entry for citizens of 105 countries, significant infrastructure investments, and a thriving hospitality sector. The country welcomed over 4 million tourists in 2023, a 41.2% increase from the previous year, boosting the nation’s GDP and creating thousands of jobs.
Belgium, a central European hub, attracts a diverse range of travelers with its rich history, vibrant culture, and strategic location. The country’s visa-free entry policies for numerous countries have significantly boosted its tourism industry, allowing millions of visitors to explore its medieval towns, Renaissance architecture, and renowned culinary scene with ease.
India’s tourism sector is experiencing unprecedented growth fueled by strategic initiatives, significant investments, and a robust economy. The ‘UDAN’ scheme, visa-free entry for 125 countries, and record aircraft orders are transforming travel experiences, attracting a surge in international arrivals, particularly from the USA. With a projected revenue of USD 23.72 billion in 2024 and an anticipated growth rate of 9.62% over the next five years, India’s tourism sector is poised to become a global powerhouse.
Thailand introduces visa-free entry for 93 countries, including India, UK and UAE, to revitalize tourism and stimulate the economy. The move, part of a broader strategy to revive the global tourism sector, allows visitors from these countries to stay for up to 60 days. This new policy aims to increase tourist numbers to between 25 and 30 million annually. Thailand, known for its affordability and allure, welcomed around 24.5 million international visitors in 2023 and aims to attract more travelers with these new policies.
China has implemented a new visa-free policy for foreign tour groups arriving by cruise ships, allowing them to stay for up to 15 days. This initiative aims to revitalize the country’s inbound travel market, which has faced challenges in recent years. The policy permits hassle-free entry and exploration of coastal provinces and Beijing for tour groups managed by domestic travel agencies.
