Analysis of social media sentiment regarding the visa exemption for Thai tourists traveling to China has created a new phenomenon of overwhelming interest on social media. The latest data from March 1 to October 22, 2023, shows engagement levels exceeding 12 times compared to 2022, reflecting the immense interest of Thai people in traveling to China.

Zanroo, a social data expert, analyzed social media sentiment using Social Listening tools regarding the free visa to China. The data from the start of the free visa period on March 1 to October 22, 2023, indicates that Thai people showed interest in traveling to China 1,844,877,753 times, with TikTok leading as the platform with the highest engagement, totaling over 1,549,697,313 interactions. This demonstrates the power of short video content in effectively reaching audiences, followed by YouTube with 221,385,330 engagements and Facebook with approximately 42,432,188 engagements. Other platforms like X (Twitter) had 18,448,778 engagements, and Instagram had 12,914,144 engagements, reflecting that video content is the most popular medium for presenting travel information. The most popular content includes recommendations for local Chinese cuisine, showcasing the grandeur of cities, such as streets and skyscrapers, and experiencing Chinese culture, such as wearing traditional attire.

Thai tourists who have previously visited China praised the value, beauty of tourist attractions, delicious food, and convenience from the free visa policy, leading to word-of-mouth recommendations encouraging others to travel to China. It was found that over 29,693 travel-related video contents from Thai influencers about China have been posted on social media, with the most popular content being:

1. A post about eating stinky tofu in Chongqing – TikTok user received 15,225,210 engagements.

2. A post about visiting the Zootopia land at Disneyland in Shanghai – TikTok user received 8,739,886 engagements.

3. A post showcasing the stunning nature of the Four Sisters Mountain in Chengdu received 1,747,141 engagements.

Factors Supporting Travel to China

From tracking social trends, Zanroo found that interest in traveling to China was further boosted by the trending #BoycottKorea on X (Twitter) during June 2023, leading to increased sharing and encouragement to travel to China. Social media sentiment indicates that Thai tourists view China as an attractive destination due to the affordability, diversity of attractions, and convenience from the free visa policy.

Examples of social media sentiment:

"Traveling to China is better now that there’s a free visa. Shanghai is just as beautiful, shopping is complete, and the food is delicious, all at a lower budget," - TikTok user.

"Try visiting Beijing; it’s cheaper than going to Korea. The food is delicious, accommodations are good, and there are many attractions to choose from. The Great Wall is stunning and perfect for photos," - Facebook user.

TOP 5 Popular Destinations for Thais: Shanghai - The Metropolis of Modernity

Ranked first with over 205 million engagements, this city perfectly blends modernity with traditional culture. Popular content includes visits to Disneyland, especially the must-see Zootopia land, historical dating booths in parks, and the city’s impressive skyscrapers.

Beijing - The Capital of History

Received 176 million engagements, this city reflects the grandeur of Chinese history. Notable content includes conquering the Great Wall, experiencing the majesty of Tiananmen Square, and visiting the Summer Palace, which is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

Chongqing - The City of Mountains and Spicy Hot Pot

With 117 million engagements, this city is known for its skyscraper architecture and advanced infrastructure, as well as its local cuisine. Thai tourists are particularly interested in Chongqing’s food, such as stinky tofu and the famous spicy hot pot.

Guangzhou - The Center of Trade and Culture

Received 77 million engagements, with attractions like the Zhujiang New Town showcasing stunning architecture, theaters, libraries, and the spectacular Canton Tower, along with large shopping areas and pedestrian streets filled with shops.

Chengdu - The City of Pandas

Received 76 million engagements, with the most popular attraction being the largest panda research center in Chengdu, where visitors can meet playful pandas, including the famous Hua Hua, who is smaller than average and has earned the nickname "Little Princess" due to her cuteness.

Data from Zanroo reflects that Thai tourists have diverse interests, including historical, cultural, and nature tourism, and appreciate the convenience of modern transportation, such as using electric trains instead of gasoline vehicles, as well as a fully cashless society that allows for 100% scanning payments. Some recommend registering for Chinese payment apps in advance, as using Thai apps may encounter issues with scanning payments at times. Additionally, a survey of Thai travelers to China by Zanroo Social Listening found that 84% of Thai tourists use low-cost airlines, primarily Thai AirAsia, while 16% use full-service airlines, mainly Thai Airways.

With engagement levels reaching nearly 2 billion and data showing that Thai tourists frequently return to China with 29 million engagements, Zanroo predicts that travel to China will continue to grow, especially with supportive factors such as the free visa policy and social trends that stimulate interest, along with the diverse attractions that meet the needs of Thai tourists comprehensively.