Thailand has welcomed 22.1 million foreign visitors so far this year. The number covers the period from January 1 to September 19. It is about 3.7 percent lower than the same period last year. Thailand remains the second most visited country in Southeast Asia. Tourism money in this period reached about 32.5 billion dollars.
Chinese travelers formed the largest group with 3.7 million arrivals. Malaysia followed with 2.8 million, and India brought 1.6 million. Russia and South Korea completed the top five markets. Officials hope big holidays in Asia will now boost travel. Festivals in Korea and China both fall in late September.