Thailand has proposed a tourism recovery scheme to boost flood-hit Northern Thailand. The domestic tourism promotion scheme is up for consideration by the Thai cabinet, says Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong. The ‘Travelling North Half-Half’ scheme will give subsidies of up to THB400 per trip for up to 10,000 travellers who visit the affected region. The co-payment scheme was first proposed by the Tourism Authority of Thailand. It would focus on main tourist hubs Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai, as well as smaller Northern Thailand destinations It is similar to the ‘We Travel Together’ program which Thailand implemented to fast track the Covid pandemic recovery. Sorawong who recently visited Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, said many areas have suffered major losses due to the floods. Sorawong said tourism businesses have asked for government loans, waived utility costs and tax deductions to help them recover. 

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  Chiravadee Khunsub, the Executive Director for Europe at the Tourism Authority of Thailand, shares invaluable insights at the The Thailand Travel Mart Plus (TTM) 2024 in Khao Lak. Highlighting the resilience of Thailand's tourism post-COVID, Khunsub mentions surpassing 2019's statistics and emphasizing sustainable tourism's significance. She discusses initiatives like the "Amazing Thailand" project and enhancing airlift accessibility. Khunsub underscores Thailand's commitment to sustainability, aligning with UN SDGs, and fostering a holistic approach across the tourism supply chain. Her vision includes a collective consciousness towards environmental preservation, advocating for mindful consumption and eco-friendly practices, paving the path for a greener, more responsible tourism industry.  

TAT Deputy Governor for Marketing Communications, Nithee Seeprae gave a comprehensive tourism update and projections for full year 2024 during the Thailand Travel Mart Plus 2024. This year’s event is held in the province of Phang-Nga. Nithee announced 425 buyers from all regions of the world, of which more than half are repeat attendees. “We have 430 seller registration booths for exhibitors, including 46 who won at the Thailand Tourism Awards 2023.” Of these, 360 are hotels and resorts, with 34 tour operators. TAT forecasts the event will generate over THB3 billion in future tourism related revenue. For attendees including the media, there are four routes around the Phang-Nga region offered, including Khao Lak and Phang-Nga Bay. In a recap of the last year, Thailand welcomed over 28 million international arrivals, which generated revenue of THB1.2 trillion in spending, and the top source markets were Malaysia, China, South Korea, India, and Russia. Up to the end of May 2024, Thailand has welcomed over 14 million international arrivals. The same markets are the in the top five but with China leapfrogging Malaysia this year. “We hope to see a total tourism revenue of THB3 trillion with THB1.92 trillion from 35 million international arrivals this year,” Nithee said. This year, TAT will continue to focus on delivering meaningful travel experiences via the latest communication campaign, Amazing Thailand: Your Stories Never End. “We don't want to simply offer trips, but we want to craft travel experiences that will ignite your wanderlust.” During the presentation the Air-mazing Thailand ad was screened. Some of the concepts being promoted include culinary travel showcasing authentic local specialities, wellness retreats, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai Nature and Culture, and sports and soft adventures. “TAT has realised that sustainability plays a crucial role in this and is making Thailand a high-value, sustainable destination that offers meaningful experiences to tourists,” he added. “We have developed initiatives that promote responsible travel practices with the Thailand Tourism Awards, which elevate the positive image of Thailand as a tourism destination that is clean, convenient, and environmentally friendly.” The presentation also highlighted some of the sustainable Thai attractions like Wareerak Hot Spring and Wellness in Krabi and Mekin Farm in Khon Kaen. Upcoming big events in Thailand this year include Summer Sonic Bangkok 2024, in August, The OR Thailand Grand Prix (Moto GP), Buriram, in October and the Loi Krathong Festival 2024 in November. In conclusion, Nithi said: “The connections made, partnerships formed, and ideas exchanged here will propel our industry forward.”

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Online travel marketplace Wego has extended its partnership with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) for a fourth straight year. Wego is one of the main online travel players in the Middle East and North Africa, as well as across Asia Pacific. It will continue to showcase Thailand attractions, culture and nature globally. Wego and TAT say their ongoing partnership has reached millions of travellers and driven high levels of interest in Thailand tourism over the past three years. "We are delighted to continue our partnership with the Tourism Authority of Thailand for the fourth consecutive campaign," said Mamoun Hmedan, Chief Business Officer at Wego. "Thailand is a beloved destination, and we are committed to showcasing it through our platform." "We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Wego for the fourth campaign," added Chaiwat Tamthai, Director of TAT’s Dubai office.

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Sawasdee ka, !

Welcome to your March update from the Tourism Authority of Thailand.

 

In a boost for tourism, the Thailand government has approved a tax cut on alcohol and for entertainment venues. Taxes on wine will be halved from 10% to 5% while the 10% tax on spirits will be scrapped. Also, the excise tax levied on entertainment venues will be halved to 5%. They are temporary measures which will last until the end of 2024. It is the latest move to boost the night time entertainment industry after opening hours were extended to 4am recently in major tourism areas. Finance Ministry Permanent Secretary Lavaron Sangsnit said additional spending by tourists will offset any cut in the tax revenues. The government said it reached the amended tourist arrivals target of 29 million in 2023. It is forecasting 34 million tourist arrivals for 2024.  

Speaking on the sidelines at World Travel Market, Siripakorn Cheawsamoot Deputy Governor for International Marketing. Europe Africa Middle East and Americas, exclusively speaks about Thailand’s focus on meaningful people-to-people connections. This underpins Thailand tourism’s ‘Meaningful Relationship’ campaign, which encompasses immersion in local communities, food and experiences. “Thailand always begins with the local people and their hospitality. That is why Thais are a very important resource,” he said. Siripakorn also shared the philosophy behind the Responsible Thailand Awards and the implementation of its own Sustainable Tourism Goals (STGs). This awards tourism businesses with a STAR rating for their ‘sustainable approach and management.’ Siripakorn said there are currently more than 250 businesses with a STAR rating.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) recently rolled out its new ‘Meaningful Relationship’ marketing concept to tourism industry delegates during World Travel Market 2023. The Amazing Thailand Press Conference was presented by TAT Governor, Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, along with fellow TAT executives. Ms. Thapanee said: “The new ‘Meaningful Relationship’ concept is designed to encourage travellers to engage in a meaningful connection with local communities and Thailand.” This encompasses nature, the Thai people and the country itself. “When travellers form a relationship with the people they meet and the place they visit, they will have an opportunity of creating lifelong friends” The concept will be incorporated into TAT’s ongoing promotion of Thailand as a sustainable and responsible tourism destination. To this end, TAT has partnered with the Thai Ecotourism and Adventure Travel Association (TEATA) to promote its sustainable travel messaging to the UK market. During 2023 Ms Thapanee cited a biggert focus on Thai food and cultural activities as a way to increase people-to-people connections. TAT has developed and implemented its own Sustainable Tourism Goals (STGs) in line with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by the United Nations Development Programme. TAT’s STGs encompass the entire tourism industry in a Sustainable Tourism Acceleration Rating (STAR) system. Businesses that comply with goals attain a corresponding number of stars. Currently, there nearly 300 businesses with STAR certifications in Thailand. Meanwhile, TEATA, in collaboration with Tourlink, has developed seven carbon-neutral travel routes for travellers to explore Thailand. Featured destinations include Bangkok, Ratchaburi, Phangnga, Trat, Phetchaburi, and the three Isan provinces of Udon Thani, Nong Khai, and Loei. For the UK market, TAT will place a focus on luxury, wellness and responsible travel segments to boost spending and to encourage longer stays in local areas. For 2024, Thailand is targeting over 900,000 UK tourist arrivals.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is using the WTM 2023 as a platform to launch its new ‘Meaningful Relationship’ marketing concept to a worldwide tourism industry audience. The Amazing Thailand Press Conference was helmed by Minister of Tourism and Sports, H.E. Ms. Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, and TAT Governor, Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, as well as TAT executives. Ms. Thapanee said:“ The new ‘Meaningful Relationship’ concept is designed to encourage travellers to engage in a meaningful connection with Thailand.” “When travellers form a relationship with the people they meet and the place they visit, they will have an opportunity of creating lifelong friends” The concept will be incorporated into TAT’s ongoing promotion of Thailand as a sustainable and responsible tourism destination. TAT has developed and implemented its own Sustainable Tourism Goals (STGs) in line with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by the United Nations Development Programme. TAT’s STGs encompass the entire tourism industry in a Sustainable Tourism Acceleration Rating (STAR) system. Businesses that comply with goals attain a corresponding number of stars. Currently, there are 251 businesses with STAR certifications in Thailand. TAT also held the annual Responsible Thailand Awards. They recognise sustainable Thailand tourism in six categories such as Animal Welfare, Nature, Community-based Tourism and Hotel, Eco Lodge/Eco Hotels. This year, the winners are Mahouts Elephant Foundation, New Heaven Reef Conservation Programme, Kao Thep Pitak Community Restaurant, Devasom Khao Lak Resort, Elephant Hills, and Pattaya Elephant Sanctuary. TAT’s partner, the Thai Ecotourism and Adventure Travel Association (TEATA) in collaboration with Tourlink, has developed seven carbon-neutral travel routes for travellers to explore Thailand. while helping reduce the impact on the environment. Featured destinations include Bangkok, Ratchaburi, Phangnga, Trat, Phetchaburi, and the three Isan provinces of Udon Thani, Nong Khai, and Loei. For the UK market, TAT will place focus on potential segments with higher spending, a tendency to stay longer, and those wanting to explore local areas. These segments include luxury, wellness and responsible travel. From 1 January - 31 October 2023, Thailand recorded over 21.6 million arrivals and generated over THB927 billion. The top five markets are Malaysia, China, South Korea, India and Russia. The UK market contributed 617,017 tourists.

In a big move to boost Thailand tourism, Chinese tourists will get a visa exemption. It is a temporary measuring kicking off from 25 September 2023 to 29 February 2024. It is also valid for nationals of Kazakhstan. Chinese and Kazakhstani travellers will be given the tourist visa exemption for a stay of up to 30 days. “This stimulus visa scheme forms measures to boost the Thai economy through travel and tourism,” the Ministry of Tourism said. “Ultimately, it will help revive Thai tourism and reach the revenue target set for this year.” During the five-month tourist visa exemption period, Thailand is targeting up to 2.8 million Chinese tourists It forecasts about 130,000 from Kazakhstan. As of 10 September 2023, Thailand has so far welcomed 2.2 million Chinese visitors, the number two source market behind Malaysia. The visa exemption period starts just before the busy Golden Week holidays in China.

  Tourism Thailand is bringing 24 Thai suppliers to meet UK travel agents in May   The Amazing Thailand Roadshow will return this year, for the first time in three years, visiting Manchester (16th May) and Glasgow (18th May) for two fun and informative evenings.   The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) invites frontline agents to be transported to the Land of Smiles as they taste delicious food and drink and meet with a selection of Thai suppliers.   24 suppliers are joining the roadshow from Thailand and between them represent a range of hotels across the Kingdom. From the capital city of Bangkok to the popular islands of Phuket and Koh Samui as well as unsung destinations such as Khao Sok National Park and the island of Koh Samet. The table top sessions allow agents to discover new products and establish new business connections.   Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) UK office, Sadudee Sangnil, said: "This is TAT's first UK roadshow since lockdown. The UK market remains key to Thailand's tourism recovery and since Thailand opened its borders, with no travel restrictions, we have seen a sharp return in traveller numbers to 85% of pre-pandemic (2019) levels. We are thrilled 24 suppliers are joining us from Thailand to build business opportunities and we have ensured a range of suppliers, from established brands to brand new openings, to provide variety for agents."   One lucky agent, at each event, will win a holiday to Thailand for two including flights with Etihad and accommodation.   "We're excited to be partnering with and promoting Etihad Airways on this roadshow who have increased their capacity, doubling their flights to Thailand since 26th March 2023" added Sangnil. Etihad now flys twice daily from Abu Dhabi to Bangkok with connections from London and Manchester.   In Manchester, a panel discussion will take place ahead of the evening event, where key tour operator partners including representatives from dnata and Travel Counsellors, will brief the Thai exhibitors on the current market situation in the UK.

   

Happy Songkran Thai New Year

 

Happy Songkran Thai New Year! Traditional Thai new year is a time in which family is honored and seniors are deeply respected. Celebrations span across Thailand and beyond between April 13-15. You can also get a taste of this enchanting festival in the U.S., from Minnesota's Songkran Festival (May 27 & 28), Houston Asian Culture Festival (May 20 & 21), to Thai Festival Chicago (June 10 & 11).

 

Celebrate Songkran in the U.S. →

    Thailand's Festivals & Events in April 2023   April brings lots of exciting events and festivals to Thailand. In addition to its 3-day celebratory events for Songkran Thai New Year, experience many other cultural and religious festivals throughout the month including: 3rd Muang Boran Light Fest 2023, Van Gogh Alive, Isan Creative Festival 2023, Phuket Bike Week 2023, and more.   Discover April in Thailand →       'Rolling Loud' Hip-Hop Music Festival in Pattaya   The world's top hip-hop music festival will stage its premier concert in Asia at Pattaya's Legend Siam, April 13-15. Headliners for the 3-day festival include Travis Scott, Cardi B, and Chris Brown, along with performances by rap stars Rick Ross, Waka Flocka Flame, and Soulja Boy.   View the Lineup & Buy Tickets →       241st Anniversary of Bangkok's Krung Rattanakosin   The ministry of culture has announced a series of celebratory events to commemorate the 241st Anniversary of Bangkok's Krung Rattanakosin - founder of the Rattanakosin Kingdom and the first monarch of the Chakri Dynasty. The opening ceremony will take place at the National Museum Bangkok and the National Theatre on April 21. Celebrations will continue through April 25, featuring cultural performances, a night museum, a retro-style food market, and a fair selling cultural products from Thailand's 76 provinces and from Bangkok's 50 districts.   Learn More About the Anniversary →       Visiting Thailand with Kids: A Family-Friendly Guide   The summer travel season is right around the corner. Whether you're looking to relax, learn more about Thai culture, climb a mountain, explore a cave, fly through the sky on a zipline, or meet some new elephant friends, Thailand truly has something to enthrall everyone in the family. From intricate Buddhist temples that offer a lesson in architecture and history to breathtaking national parks and beaches, Thailand's unique alchemy is one-of-a-kind.   Thailand's Family-Friendly Guide →     Traveling Solo in Thailand   From choosing your own itinerary (and changing it on a whim) to not having to worry about the responsibilities of pleasing a group, solo traveling has lots of perks. TAT compiled a guide to traveling alone in Thailand - including safety tips, destinations to explore, and excursions fit for singles.   Check Out the Travel Guide →