Thailand’s two leading daily newspapers, *Khao Sod* and *Matichon*, have both declared: ‘If you’re visiting China for the first time, start with Sanya.’
Recently, more good news has emerged from Sanya’s ‘circle of friends’ in Southeast Asia. On 31 March, Sanya City, together with the Tourism and Travel Association of Thailand and the Thai Zhenghao Tourism Group, officially unveiled the ‘Sanya Tourism Overseas Promotion Liaison Office’, marking a new phase in tourism cooperation between China and Thailand.
This news has not only dominated domestic media but has also attracted significant attention from Thailand’s mainstream media. Two of Thailand’s leading publications—*Khao Sod* and *Matichon*—have successively published feature articles, both turning their focus to Sanya and promoting this “spur-of-the-moment” tropical island destination to the Thai public.
(🛎️.)
Khao Sod, a mainstream Thai daily newspaper, was founded on 9 April 1991 and is part of the Matichon Publishing Group. Targeting the mass market, it focuses on social, entertainment and political news, adopting a down-to-earth style. It is one of Thailand’s three best-selling newspapers, with a daily circulation of one million. It also operates Khaosod Online, which covers the whole of Thailand, and is one of the group’s youngest and highest-circulation print publications.
Matichon, an authoritative high-end daily newspaper in Thailand, was founded in 1978 by progressive writers. It specialises in in-depth political and economic reporting and commentary, targeting elites from the political, business and academic spheres, and is renowned for its objectivity, rationality and professional depth. It has been ranked among the world’s top 100 newspapers by circulation (97th) and the world’s top 500 media organisations, serving as a core read for Thailand’s opinion leaders and an important platform for Sino-Thai cooperation.
Khao Sod
“Start your first trip to China in Sanya”
“For those thinking of visiting China for the first time but unsure where to start, Sanya is now the place to go.” As Khao Sod points out, with direct flights from Bangkok taking just two hours, the visa-free arrangement between China and Thailand means tourists can simply pack their bags and go. Sanya offers everything from sunshine and sandy beaches to coconut groves; the atmosphere is as welcoming as Phuket’s, yet brimming with the novelty of Chinese culture.
🌟 Top Recommendations:
✅ Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone: Home to the 108-metre-tall Guanyin statue at sea, certified by Guinness World Records as a world-class coastal pilgrimage site.
✅ Sanya Atlantis Water World: Ranked seventh globally and the largest water park in Asia by 2026, ideal for family visitors.
✅ Sanya International Duty-Free City: A gathering of international brands in a comfortable shopping environment.
✅ Sanya’s comprehensive facilities include: Thai version of www.visitsanya.com, overseas credit card payment, and 30-second paperless customs clearance.
Matichon
“Sanya: A New Landmark for Thai Tourists”
Sanya boasts seas, beaches and a climate similar to those of Thailand, whilst blending rich Chinese culture, particularly evident in its religious landmarks. It offers a combination that is both familiar and fresh.
There is also a diverse range of tourism products: families with children can enjoy Atlantis Water World; leisure travellers can enjoy the beaches, resorts and wellness activities; those seeking cultural experiences can explore religious landmarks and rural charm; and shopping enthusiasts can indulge at Sanya International Duty-Free City.
Sanya Service Upgrades 🆙
· Multilingual information system: www.visitsanya.com (including Thai language service)
· Comprehensive coverage of overseas bank card payments
· Digital immigration clearance system to reduce processing times
· Multilingual tourist service hotline
🌊
Sanya is China’s premier international coastal tourist city
Thanks to its exceptional natural environment,
cultural heritage and modern facilities,
it has become the first port of call for Thai tourists travelling to China