Koh Samui Tourism Bounces Back to 2019 Pre-Pandemic High

Koh Samui, globally famed for its pristine beaches, luxurious resorts, and Full Moon parties, is experiencing a tourism rebound. Governor Wichawut Jinto of Surat Thani revealed this Thursday that tourist numbers have increased, drawing comparisons to the days before the COVID-19 pandemic.

Figures from July shed light on this resurgence: Koh Samui Airport witnessed 2,268 flights. This translates to a steady average of 74 daily flights, ferrying an impressive 141,454 travelers eager to experience the island’s charm. Such numbers secured Koh Samui’s spot as Thailand’s third busiest regional airport for the month, surpassed only by Phuket and Chiang Mai airports, which recorded 7,264 and 4,448 flights, respectively.

This data doesn’t stop at Koh Samui. Surat Thani’s airport, an alternative gateway for some travelers, accounted for an additional 754 flights, accommodating 114,404 passengers in the same month. Surat Thani and Koh Samui airports manage over 3,000 flights and a quarter-million passengers monthly.

“The numbers are heartening,” Governor Wichawut remarked. “It’s as though we’re returning to the pre-Covid era, seeing Surat Thani’s tourism thrive again.” Yet, he stressed that there’s still much more potential to be unlocked. While these figures are impressive, he believes there’s room to grow, suggesting an increase in daily flights to Koh Samui to 100. It’s an ambition fueled by the fact that the island attracted 171,834 visitors as of August.

Apart from the scenic beauty of Koh Samui, the province boasts another advantage – dual airports. Travelers have the flexibility to land either at Koh Samui or Surat Thani. Visitors are treated to various attractions, both on land and at sea. From affordable accommodations to a tempting variety of seafood and the warm smiles of its locals, Surat Thani promises a memorable stay.

SOURCE: Bangkok Post

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