VISITOR arrivals to Chaungtha, Ngwehsaung, and Bagan are anticipated to rise during the Thadingyut holidays, said Myanmar Tourism Entrepreneurs Association Chair U Naung Naung Han.

Due to the recent flood, tourist arrival is likely to decline in Shan State's famous destinations, such as Inlay and Kalaw, despite October being peak season. However, visitor arrivals are expected to mount on beaches and religious sites.

"Local visitor arrival is expected to rise in some destinations like beaches and Bagan, which were not impacted by floods. We know that most of the hotels in Chaungtha and Ngwehsaung are already fully booked. Rooms are still available at four-star or five-star hotels where foreign visitors usually stay. Visitor arrival to Inlay, Kalaw, and other flood-battered areas in Shan State is likely to fall," he said.

Many people have prepared to go on vacation during the Thadingyut holidays, which is why some travel companies have now planned to expand the number of cars. Foreign tourist arrival has also increased during the dry season, October, compared to the monsoon season, he added. — MT/ZS