PATTAYA, Thailand – While Vietnam recently announced a visa-free scheme for citizens of 12 countries to boost tourism, Thailand’s position as one of the world’s top travel destinations remains strong thanks to its already abundant attractions and infrastructure.
The Vietnamese government will allow nationals from Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Switzerland to enter Vietnam without a visa for tourism purposes, effective from August 15, 2025, to August 14, 2028. Vietnam’s National Statistics Office reports that 12.23 million international tourists visited the country from January to July 2025, a 22.5% increase from the same period last year.
Thailand, however, continues to draw millions of visitors every year without the need for additional visa incentives. The country offers a wide array of attractions, including pristine beaches, bustling nightlife, historic temples, cultural festivals, and world-renowned cuisine. Popular destinations such as Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Krabi remain highly sought after by both leisure tourists and long-term visitors.
Experts say Thailand’s diverse offerings, combined with a well-developed tourism infrastructure and strong reputation for hospitality, make it highly competitive in the Southeast Asian tourism market. From luxury resorts to budget-friendly accommodations, from urban experiences to eco-tourism in rural areas, Thailand already provides a full spectrum of options to satisfy travelers’ needs.
“Thailand doesn’t need to mimic other countries’ visa policies to attract tourists,” said a Bangkok-based tourism analyst. “Our natural beauty, culture, and convenience are already major selling points that continue to draw international travelers year after year.”
With ongoing improvements to transport, airport connectivity, and public services, Thailand is poised to maintain its lead as one of the region’s most popular destinations, even as neighboring countries adopt new measures to stimulate tourism. Even though some problems still bug tourists—such as taxi scams, double pricing, and road safety—authorities have not turned a blind eye, recognizing these as top complaints and acknowledging that addressing them could further boost Thailand’s tourism appeal.
