Tourism is a major industry in Thailand, contributing around 6.7% to GDP. Thailand's tropical climate and beaches, cultural sites like temples and palaces, and cities like Bangkok and Phuket attract over 11.5 million international tourists annually. However, events like the 2004 tsunami, bird flu outbreaks, and 2011 floods have caused temporary declines. While tourism drives economic growth and development, efforts are made to promote responsible tourism that respects local communities and minimizes environmental impacts.