PHUKET, Thailand – Phuket is off to a strong start in 2025, attracting over 3.8 million Thai and international tourists in the first quarter alone, generating an impressive 149 billion baht in tourism revenue, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Phuket Office. The surge reflects a promising year for the island’s tourism sector, with steady growth in both arrivals and spending.
To further boost tourism and local businesses, TAT Phuket collaborated with Phuket City Municipality to host the second annual “Sip&Chill: Zoociety” event from April 18–20, 2025, at Saphan Hin King Rama X Public Park. The event features over 50 trendy cafes and lifestyle activities tailored to young travelers and families, blending leisure with local culture during the relaxed “Green Season.”
Ms. Siriwan Siharat, Director of TAT Phuket, stated that the Sip&Chill festival follows the theme “Zoociety Style”, encouraging guests to dress like zookeepers and engage with creative travel experiences. The event incorporates TAT’s “5 Must Do in Thailand” concept:
MUST TASTE: Savor signature dishes and drinks from popular Phuket cafes
MUST TRY: Join fun workshops, crafts, and outdoor activities
MUST BUY: Shop for local products and exclusive souvenirs
MUST SEE: Enjoy the lifestyle and vibe of local Phuket communities
MUST GO: Visit must-see attractions at promotional prices
Last year’s event drew over 5,000 visitors daily and generated 1.7 million baht in sales. This year, organizers expect over 7,000 visitors per day, projecting at least 2 million baht in total sales over three days.
On the broader tourism outlook, Ms. Siriwan noted that Phuket saw significant growth compared to 2024. In Q1 2025 (January to March), domestic tourists reached over 1.01 million, a 10% increase, while international arrivals hit 2.8 million, up 5.77%. Tourism revenue grew by 8%, totaling 149 billion baht — 11 billion from Thai tourists and 138 billion from foreign tourists. The top five international markets were Russia, China, India, the United Kingdom, and Germany.
