19/08/2011 | C. Martin
Thailand has seen a dramatic surge in the number of foreign tourists visiting the country.
There has been a 24.36% rise in the number of international visitors which totalled 8.2 million, according to figures released by the Tourism Authority of Thailand.
Most of the visitors are from the US, Russia, India, China and Japan. And Phuket is one of the most popular locations for them.
With an increasing number of foreign tourists now opting for Thailand holidays, the revenue generated by the country out of the sector is expected to touch 600 billion baht by the end of the year.
Thai authorities are continuing their efforts to lure more tourists from Europe, especially from the UK and Germany.
"More tourists are heading to Phuket not just for its inexpensive lifestyle and shopping, but also to relax and enjoy the surroundings of nature," said Jarrat Beaumont, an official with real estate developer Castlewood Group.
Copyright Press Association 2011