AI redefines Thailand for Chinese tourists

The Tourism Authority of Thailand Beijing Office and Alipay+, the global e-wallet gateway of Ant International, recently launched a new campaign to integrate artificial intelligence across travel experiences in Thailand via AI-generated themes.

Backed by tourism data and AI analytics about cross-border traveler behaviors, the campaign has launched four travel-themed rankings for global travelers, Beautiful Sights, Delicious Eats, Exciting Activities, and Cozy Stays.

The Beautiful Sights ranking includes cultural landmarks and traditional attractions such as the Grand Palace, as well as emerging hotspots like Sathon Soi 12, an alley with cafes and restaurants.

The Exciting Activities ranking centers on authentic local lifestyle experiences, featuring recommendations such as watching Muay Thai fights and visiting rooftop bars.

Through AI travel agent Alipay+ Voyager, the tourism bureau can offer global travelers personalized experiences based on the four rankings. The campaign will roll out first for Chinese travelers through Alipay.

Data show that in the first quarter of 2026, average daily transactions on Alipay by Chinese tourists in Thailand rose by 60 percent year-on-year.

Leveraging the unique wallet payment ecosystem of Alipay+ with data and support from the tourism bureau, the campaign aims to identify trending tourist hotspots in Thailand, with AI algorithms precisely matching the preferences of travelers to deliver tailored recommendations for cultural exploration, culinary experiences, and accommodation.

Via Alipay+ Voyager, travelers can directly book ride-hailing services and air tickets within their e-wallet. A growing number of visitors are asking the AI agent about location-based recommendations such as food and activities near their hotel.

Yolrawee Sittichai, director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand Beijing Office, spoke highly of this collaboration. She stated that the launch of Thailand's AI-powered travel-themed lists marks a milestone in leveraging digital technology to advance Thailand's tourism development.

Through the AI assistant, tourists can easily access essential emergency information including the Thailand tourist police hotline 1155 (with Chinese-language support), the police emergency number 191, the ambulance hotline 1669, and the consular protection hotlines of Chinese embassies and consulates in Thailand.

Alipay+ and the Tourism Authority of Thailand also announced the launch of three strategic initiatives.

They will jointly develop the Alipay+ Voyager AI agent to deliver smarter and more personalized Thai travel services and itinerary recommendations.

They will introduce a Thailand destination benefits card that includes pre-trip travel product bookings, on-trip shopping and ride-hailing discounts.

They will also co-create high-quality travel content for Thailand as a destination, catering to the growing diversified demand of Chinese travelers.