Thailand will kick off its much vaunted year-long ‘2015 Discover Thainess’ campaign this week with colourful cultural processions through the streets of Bangkok.
The street parade will showcase Thai culture and traditions with themes such as fine art, the Thai way of life, food, ‘Thai fun’ and Thai boxing.
The parade sets off from the National Stadium along a 3.5 km route to Lumpini Park and will be televised live on January 14.
"The 2015 Discover Thainess campaign will offer the chance for foreigners to appreciate the essence of ‘Thainess’ through the Thai way of life, Thai culture and Thai experiences," said Tourism and Sports Minister Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul.
"We have to showcase the differences and character of our Thai way of life, culture and traditions to attract international tourists and encourage them to visit secondary venues and community based tourism."
As part of the Thainess campaign Tourism Authority of Thailand will also promote 12 secondary cities as tourist destinations for visitors to sample authentic Thai experiences.
TAT deputy governor Sugree Sithivanich said activities will be held each month through 2015 to raise public and travel trade awareness.
