Bangkok (VNA) – Vietnam’s non-smoke sector is enjoying a boom,with a substantial increase in the number of Thai visitors buoyed by growinglow-cost flights, local media reported.

Vietnam reported foreign tourist arrivals of some 11.3 million in the firsteight months of this year, with significant gains from several Asian sourcemarkets, Bangkok Post cited Vietnam’s National Administration of Tourism.

The standout market in terms of growth is Thai travellers, up 46.3 percent inthe eight-month period. Meanwhile, the Chinese market dipped 0.9 percent.

An estimated 310,955 Thai people travelled to Vietnam during January-August,with a leap expected as airlines increase the frequency of flights and push newroutes to the country.

Chotechuang Soorangura, associate managing directorat NS Travel & Tours, said the growth of Thais travelling to Vietnam is theresult of two factors: more flights and cheap prices for tourism facilities. Besides,the travel time is short while Vietnamese cuisine is not dissimilar to Thaifood.

From Bangkok, travellers can choose from seven destinations via direct flight.The central region is gaining popularity, with such leading destinations as DaNang, Hue and Hoi An.

Social networks mean travellers are sharing their stunning pictures ofattractions online, tempting potential travellers to ask tour companies wherethe photos were taken so they can book a package themselves.

The Thai Travel Agents Association said Thai visitors booking tours to Vietnamare up 30 percent, particularly to Da Nang, Da Lat and Hanoi.

Chotechuang said the variety of prices is another strength leading to growth.Travellers preferring a more luxurious trip can spend 20,000 THB (over 650 USD)per package for an elegant stay. But there are plenty of budget options foraround 10,000 THB.

President of Bangkok Airways Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth rated Vietnam as arising star of the airline. This year, it commenced its newest route, Bangkok –Nha Trang, the third city in the country it serves.

In the last two years, various airlines are interested in entering Vietnam asthey witnessed the expansion of infrastructure, new attractions and goodservice facilities at tourist destinations./.