"By doing so, not only do the Chinese visitors benefit, the local people also benefit from it too because they need tourism revenue. So it is a win-win situation," Chattan said.
In terms of specific measures to facilitate easier access for Chinese visitors to Thailand, Chinese tourists can get a free visa-on-arrival until April 30 2020. "This scheme has been extended a few times already because we value the friendship that Thailand has with China", said Chattan.
Besides a favorable visa policy, Thailand also works closely with many travel companies, as well as airlines, to work out the best products for Chinese travelers.
And as to travel safety, which is the top concern for tourists, Thailand is one of a few countries in the world that has tourist police, which refers to a unit of police that is especially designated to help tourists; they are proficient in many languages, including Mandarin and English.
Speaking of the relation between culture and tourism, Chattan pointed out that these two sectors can't be separated.
"More and more Thai people are intrigued by Chinese culture. With more cultural exchange activities like exhibitions and performances, people become familiar with each other's culture, they feel comfortable and thus will travel more," Chattan said.
