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Thailand, a country traditionally frequented by gap-year students and those seeking culture, history, fantastic scenery and easy living on a budget, is beginning to see a change in its clientele.

Recent figures, released by the Ministry of Sports and Tourism, show that the number of high-end tourists in the country is on the rise.

The Thai economy was boosted by Bt150 billion from tourism in the last six months and this signals a large shift in the amount of money that visitors are spending in the country.

'During January to March, inbound foreign tourism grew 4.57% compared with the same period last year, generating income 11% more than last year,' sports and tourism minister Dr Suvit Yodmanee told the ETNA news agency.

One of the main reasons behind the success story of the past six months was the 80th birthday of His Majesty the King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

Tourists from around the world flocked to see the celebrations unfold and extra services were organised so that foreign visitors could take part.

Dr Yodmanee revealed that his ministry plans to continue promoting Thailand as a high-end destination.

'High-end tourists are quality tourists,' he said. 'The ministry will not focus on quantity but on the quality of visitors.'

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