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- TAT and Klook sign Letter of Intent of Strategic Partnership
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and Klook, Asia’s leading platform for experiences and travel services, signed a Letter of Intent of Strategic Partnership to enhance collaborations on the development and promotion of quality tourism experiences in Thailand.
The post TAT and Klook sign Letter of Intent of Strategic Partnership appeared first on TAT Newsroom.
Bangkok, 18 April 2024 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and Klook, Asia’s leading platform for experiences and travel services, signed a Letter of Intent of Strategic Partnership to enhance collaborations on the development and promotion of quality tourism experiences in Thailand.
TAT Governor, Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, said “The time could not have been better for TAT and Klook to support each other in promoting Thailand as a top tourist destination. We have set our goals to collaborate and create comprehensive joint marketing with Klook to promote quality tourism experiences in the kingdom for the ASEAN, South Asia, and South Pacific Market. Our country is well-recognised as a friendly destination with rich tourism resources that can definitely serve the needs and demands of these markets.”
“We are excited to team up with TAT to enrich tourism in Thailand with a diverse range of meaningful and exclusive experiences that best reflect the destination, from iconic activities to hidden gems,” said Eric Gnock Fah, COO & Co-Founder, Klook. “At the same time, we want to help boost income to local communities and strengthen Thailand’s sustainability profile, stimulating economic growth across the wider industry.”
Under the agreement, TAT and Klook have agreed to enhance collaborations on increasing awareness and raising travel demand to Thailand, leveraging Thai soft power to promote meaningful travel experiences in key and secondary cities, strengthening efforts on the promotion of sustainable and community tourism, and adopting digital transformation to help drive Thai tourism industry.
Creating a New World of Five Must-Do Experiences in Thailand
According to Klook’s Travel Pulse survey, the majority of travellers are becoming more intentional in prioritizing experiences as the focal point of their trip. In fact, travellers today are seeking exciting and different ways to experience destinations across local cuisine, rich culture, iconic sights and attractions, and mega-events.In Thailand, Klook currently offers close to 1,700 experiences and more than 10,000 packages and this number is set to increase by 20% this year. This will include curated experiences in line with Thailand’s five must-do’s, for example; tickets to exhilarating Muay Thai matches in Bangkok and Siam Songkran Music Festival 2024 for those looking to soak in the festive spirit of Songkran and local culture. More recently, Klook launched an exclusive experience featuring local Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant Jeh-O and iconic Chao Phraya cruise to allow travellers to savour the famous ‘Jeh-O Mama Tomyum’ while cruising along the Chao Phraya River and taking in the backdrop of the city’s skyline.
Furthermore, the collaboration will enable Klook and TAT to work closely together to forge partnerships with Thailand’s major ticketed festivals to offer an integrated booking experience that transcends traditional event ticketing. This extends to seamless bookings for an extensive range of in-destination services across accommodation, curated experiences and local attractions to ensure travellers have access to a comprehensive itinerary at their fingertips. Collaborating closely with TAT, Klook is committed to showcasing the best of Thailand’s cultural tapestry and hospitality to a global audience. By leveraging technology and local expertise, Klook is poised to diversify and elevate the global traveller experience in Thailand with major festivals.
Empowering Local Communities Through Digitalization
Klook has been working with TAT to spotlight hidden gems and lesser-known authentic Thai experiences by empowering small-medium operators with the tools to digitize their business and expand their reach to Klook’s global user base.Among the new experiences that Klook will be offering in 2024 in Thailand, about 80% will be supplied by local small and medium-sized operators with the goal of uplifting local communities, distributing income and promoting more sustainable travel.
One local community key to Thailand’s tourism ecosystem are elephant sanctuaries, and Klook has been investing in improving elephant welfare camps, educating travellers to make informed decisions when booking activities and ensuring that they are not supporting poor animal welfare practices. The partnership will see Klook close to double the number of sustainable and responsible tour operators that not only celebrates local culture but empowers local communities to benefit from tourism through new partnerships and product offerings.
Positioning Thailand as a top destination for quality tourist
As a top tourist destination, Thailand has sustained tourism recovery with a 44% growth in foreign tourist arrivals over the past year and is set to welcome even more tourists this year. In parallel, Klook expects to double the number of bookings for tourism packages in Thailand last year to at least 2 million this year.Klook’s latest Travel Pulse survey reveals that travellers are looking to increase their overall travel budgets in 2024 by up to 50%, with 3 in 5 willing to allocate half of their travel budgets on experiences. With travellers chasing unique events, Klook observes that more than 40% are keen to visit a destination for specific events including splurging on once-in-a-lifetime events like the Olympics, music festivals and concerts, and cultural celebrations like Songkran.
Looking ahead, TAT and Klook will continue to position Thailand as a choice destination for quality tourists with elevated spending power and who are keen to experience Thailand authentically, meaningfully and responsibly.
About TAT
Tourism Authority of Thailand is Thailand national tourism board with an objective to promote Thailand’s tourism industry through marketing and communication to expand high-value market base, along with restoring confidence in travel to Thailand and delivering high quality tourism experiences.About Klook
Klook is Asia’s leading platform for experiences and travel services. We curate quality experiences ranging from attractions and tours to local transport and experiential stays, in over 2,700 destinations globally. Founded in 2014, we are here to inspire and enable more moments of joy for travelers anytime, anywhere.
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18 April 18 2024Press Releaseshttps://www.tatnews.org/?p=79121 - Thailand Suspends Filing of TM6 Immigration Form for Land and Sea Arrivals
The Thai Government has suspended the requirement to fill out the ‘To Mo 6’ (TM6) immigration form for foreign travellers entering and exiting Thailand at 16 land and sea checkpoints from 15 April to 15 October.
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Bangkok, 14 April 2024 – The Thai Government has suspended the requirement to fill out the ‘To Mo 6’ (TM6) immigration form for foreign travellers entering and exiting Thailand at 16 land and sea checkpoints from 15 April to 15 October.
The TM6 form is the arrival/departure card, which foreigners are required fill out with their passport information and other personal and travel information when entering or leaving Thailand. The form was permanently cancelled for foreign travellers arriving by air since July 2022.
The six-month suspension of the TM6 form is aimed to ease immigration procedures and alleviate congestion at eight checkpoints each for entry by land and sea.
Land checkpoints:
- Aranyaprathet Immigration Checkpoint, Sa Kaeo
- Mukdahan Immigration Checkpoint, Mukdahan (Only on the permitted overland transportation route from the border to the checkpoint)
- Nong Khai Immigration Checkpoint, Nong Khai (Only on the permitted overland transportation route from the border to the checkpoint and the permitted rail transportation route from the border to Nong Khai Railway Station)
- Chieng Saen Immigration Checkpoint, Chiang Rai (Only on the permitted overland transportation route from the border to the checkpoint)
- Padang Besar Immigration Checkpoint, Songkhla
- Sadao Immigration Checkpoint, Songkhla (The existing temporary suspension of TM6 form, which will end on 30 April, will be extended until 15 October)
- Su-ngai Kolok Immigration Checkpoint, Narathiwat
- Betong Immigration Checkpoint, Yala
Checkpoints for arrivals by cruise ships and yachts:
- Pattaya Immigration Checkpoint, Chon Buri
- Si Racha Immigration Checkpoint, Chon Buri
- Si Chang Immigration Checkpoint, Chon Buri
- Map Ta Phut Immigration Checkpoint, Rayong
- Phuket Immigration Checkpoint, Phuket
- Krabi Immigration Checkpoint, Krabi
- Surat Thani Immigration Checkpoint, Surat Thani
- Samui Immigration Checkpoint, Surat Thani (Only at allowed mooring location on Na Thon Bay)
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14 April 14 2024Visitor Informationhttps://www.tatnews.org/?p=79108 - Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024 Unveiled with Epic Spectacle
The “Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024” opened today with an epic cultural spectacle, bringing the glory of Thai traditions and cultures as well as historical significance from all regions of the country to Bangkok within one evening in a one-kilometre stretch of 20 grand processions and over 1,000 performers showcasing the pride of the nation.
The post Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024 Unveiled with Epic Spectacle appeared first on TAT Newsroom.
Bangkok, 11 April 2024 – The “Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024” opened today with an epic cultural spectacle, bringing the glory of Thai traditions and cultures as well as historical significance from all regions of the country to Bangkok within one evening in a one-kilometre stretch of 20 grand processions and over 1,000 performers showcasing the pride of the nation.
Tourism and Sports Minister, Ms. Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, said “This extravagant parade is a rare spectacle in the heart of Bangkok. It celebrates the time-honoured traditions of ‘Songkran in Thailand, the traditional Thai New Year festival’ that is listed as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Everyone is welcome to be a part of celebrating the traditional beliefs and local traditions that set Songkran in Thailand apart from all other countries.”
Heading the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024 parade was the Procession of the Golden Buddha image, and the Maha Songkran Procession with exquisite float carrying the Nang Songkran goddess of 2024 – Mahodhara Devi, presented by Miss Antonia Porsild, Miss Universe 2023 first runner-up.
The second section of the parade was the vibrant Songkran processions, showcasing grand festivities from 16 provinces:
- Chiang Mai, Khon Kaen, Chon Buri, Samut Prakan, and Nakhon Si Thammarat, whose unique traditions Thailand is preparing to enlist as ‘Intellectual Property Festivals.’
- Chiang Rai, Nong Khai, Phitsanulok, Songkhla, and Buri Ram, where Songkran festivities are recognised as distinctive.
- Ayutthaya, Nakhon Phanom, Lampang, Loei, Sukhothai and Phuket where Songkran traditions are to be further promoted.
The last section of the parade comprised the procession of soft powers – games, festivals, and films and series, the KOL procession, and the LGBTQ procession.
The opening parade on 11 April started from the Phan Fa Lilat Bridge, marching along Ratchadamnoen Klang Avenue and in circle around Sanam Luang. The march covered about 2.5 kilometres.
Another parade is scheduled on 12 April, starting at 17.30 Hrs. and will march in circle around Sanam Luang only.
Throughout five days, Sanam Luang will be the main location for the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024.
Cultural and musical performances as well as contemporary and orchestra performances will be taking place at the main stage.
Songkran traditions and festivities unique to the Northern, Northeastern, Eastern, Central and Southern regions of Thailand will be on display at a dedicated zone. In relation to this are activities and showcases as well as DIY workshops of local arts and handicrafts from the five regions.
There will also be displays and activities related to Thai soft power including Muay Thai Maha Songkran and Thai summer dishes.
Amazing splash activities will be at the water zone with musical dancing fountain, water tunnel, gigantic wading pool, and water station.
Other activities include a drone show and a fair selling local products from across the country.
On 13 April, the traditional Thai New Year, there will be a merit-making ceremony and other activities promoting Thai traditions, including the Song Nam Phra ritual of purifying a Buddha image with scented water as a way of paying respect to the Lord Buddha and bringing good fortune to the person and the Rot Nam Dam Hua ritual – where young people prepare scented water with which to wash their parents’ or elders’ hands to ask for blessing.
Recognising the importance of organising an environmentally sustainable event, TAT, in partnership with PTT Global Chemical, organises a GCYOU Turn activity for plastic waste management. Visitors are encouraged to discard waste plastic bottles at any of the 20 ‘YOU Turn Drop Points’ for a souvenir or join in DIY upcycling activities such as turning plastic bottle caps into a keychain and bottle opener or buy upcycling products such as floral printed shirts made of plastic waste.
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11 April 11 2024Press Releaseshttps://www.tatnews.org/?p=79088 - ‘ASEAN + India Shoppers in Thailand’ activity to boost Thai economy with soft power
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and partners announced the 'ASEAN + India Shoppers in Thailand' activity, inviting ASEAN and Indian tourists to vote for their favourite Thai soft-power element and get a shopping voucher. The activity will run from 29 April to 15 June 2024.
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Bangkok, 10 April 2024 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and partners announced the ‘ASEAN + India Shoppers in Thailand’ activity, inviting ASEAN and Indian tourists to vote for their favourite Thai soft-power element and get a shopping voucher. The activity will run from 29 April to 15 June 2024.
TAT Governor, Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, said “The project underscores the government’s policy to establish Thailand as a tourism hub, while promoting ASEAN as a single tourism destination. It also supports the government’s soft power promotion policy to raise awareness and boost sales for Thai products.”
The activity is part of a broader effort to enhance Thailand’s appeal to short-haul travellers. It will showcase Thailand’s soft power through participating stores where tourists can shop for Thai aromatics, tasty treats, fashion clothes and accessories designed and made locally here.
“We have designed the online quiz and the gift voucher redemption process to be easy and inclusive for ASEAN and Indian tourists, and we hope that they will take this opportunity to support Thai brands and products while exploring the influences of Thai soft power in tourism,” Ms. Thapanee said.
Passport holders of Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Vietnam, and India can simply log on to the website aseanindiashoppers.com to vote for Thailand’s rich cultural resources according to the 5Fs: food, film, fashion, fight, and festivals. The website will be activated on 29 April 2024.
As a token of appreciation, participants will be given gift vouchers and special privileges, worth 500 Baht to 3,000 Baht each, that can be used to purchase Thai fashion and lifestyle brands as well as authentic Thai products at participating stores of King Power Corporation, King Power Click (FIRSTER), Multiply by Eight (X8), Central Group, Tops Market, Big C Supercenter, Good Goods, and Erb.
The gift vouchers and special privileges can be used at the participating stores in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Chon Buri, Udon Thani, Ubon Ratchathani, Songkhla, and Nakhon Ratchasima.
The project is expected to attract 5,000 participants, helping to generate about 131 million Baht in tourism revenue.
The ‘ASEAN + India Shoppers in Thailand’ activity aims to promote short-haul tourism and stimulate travel and spending by tourists from ASEAN and India who see Thailand as a weekend destination and a popular shopping destination.
Given the geographical proximity of these countries, it takes no more than two hours to travel from the neighbouring countries to Thailand and about four hours from India. In addition, ASEAN tourists are not required to obtain a visa when entering Thailand, while Indian tourists can take advantage of the current temporary 30-day visa-free entry.
Convenient access and stimulus visa policy are among key factors contributing to 75 per cent of ASEAN tourists being repeated visitors and India being the fastest growing source market.
Thailand expects the number of visitor arrivals from ASEAN to bypass 10 million this year, while the number of Indian tourists is forecasted to reach 1.7 million. This constitutes 35 per cent of this year’s target of 35 million arrivals.
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10 April 10 2024Press Releaseshttps://www.tatnews.org/?p=79081 - Tourism Authority of Thailand invites travellers to experience the wonders of Songkran
Beginning this week, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), is launching a campaign that aims to introduce the Thai New Year festival of Songkran to BBC audiences across the globe. Songkran has recently been nominated for UNESCO ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage’ status and will be celebrated ‘more extravagantly than ever’ throughout Thailand in April this year.
The post Tourism Authority of Thailand invites travellers to experience the wonders of Songkran appeared first on TAT Newsroom.
Bangkok, 10 April 2024 – Beginning this week, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), is launching a campaign that aims to introduce the Thai New Year festival of Songkran to BBC audiences across the globe. Songkran has recently been nominated for UNESCO ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage’ status and will be celebrated ‘more extravagantly than ever’ throughout Thailand in April this year.
A unique 30-second animated advertisement, produced by BBC Storyworks Commercial Productions in Singapore, will run from 10 April to 15 June 2024.
Creatively, it focuses on the wider social and cultural significance of Songkran. The creative features a bespoke animated character as the central storyteller – an international traveller who appeals to both the young and the young at heart. Viewers will follow his journey through Thailand as he is immersed in a variety of distinctly Thai experiences.
The rich visuals in the colourful clip also showcase Thai culture, people, food, nature, sights and scenery.
The advertising campaign will run on the newly launched BBC app and BBC.com site as well as on the BBC News channel.
John Williams, Vice President, Advertising Sales, Singapore & SEA, BBC Studios Global Media & Streaming, said “BBC News’ TV and digital platforms are well-placed for reaching and engaging with travel-interested audiences, as BBC News is the number 1 news title to reach global travellers, as well as Thailand-bound travellers. This fun, innovative animation is also a great way to bring returning travellers to Thailand as it shows an abundant number of reasons they would want to visit again. The joyful tone and shareability have a youthful appeal that will sit well in the newly designed online spaces the BBC is bringing its audiences.”
Mr. Nithee Seeprae, TAT Deputy Governor for Marketing Communications, said “We are delighted to be working with the BBC again on this exciting campaign. Reaching their extensive and important international audiences and utilising their expertise is vital for us in promoting Thailand to visitors. We believe that at Songkran ‘memories last forever’ and it will be repeatedly told. This well-crafted campaign illustrates that perfectly for those not yet aware of the festival or with a limited knowledge of it.”
Notes to editors
Link to watch the full animation (which will be available from Wednesday, 10 April 2024): https://youtu.be/erWC2pOC24w?si=eLCcTrm4rsxjG7Zu
Please credit BBC Storyworks for any use.BBC Storyworks is the award-winning content studio from BBC Studios.
Building on the BBC’s century-long pedigree as the world’s most trusted storytellers, they work with brands to create beautifully crafted stories that move and inspire curious minds, across platforms and across the globe. With teams around the world, they work directly with brands, with agencies, and with associations and industry bodies to tell their stories to the BBC’s huge and influential global audience, on BBC.com, BBC News (TV), and across social channels.
BBC audience insights:
- 74% of the BBC News audience has started planning vacation abroad in the next 12 months, 27% more likely than the average audience. Reasons for international vacation among the BBC audience who intend to travel to Thailand – 70% want to do so to experience a new place/culture*.
- BBC News audience are 43% more likely to spend high amount on international vacation, more than they usually spend.
- BBC News audience are 53% more likely to consider vacations extremely important.
- BBC News is the #1 news/factual media title to reach global travellers as well as among Thailand-bound travellers*.
Source: GWI Travel, Q3’23, Global ex. UK; *GWI Travel, Q3’23, travel intenders to Thailand, Global ex. UK
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10 April 10 2024Press Releaseshttps://www.tatnews.org/?p=79078 - Upcoming MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2025 to include Chon Buri
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is delighted to announce that the upcoming MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2025 will expand its reach to cover Chon Buri, a seaside province located some 80 kilometres from Bangkok.
The post Upcoming MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2025 to include Chon Buri appeared first on TAT Newsroom.
Bangkok, 4 April 2024 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is delighted to announce that the upcoming MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2025 will expand its reach to cover Chon Buri, a seaside province located some 80 kilometres from Bangkok.
TAT Governor, Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, said “The Guide’s coverage expansion to Chonburi is convinced to yield benefits to both the province itself and the country. Among them are increasing the market value of local gastronomy, generating income for local communities, and stimulating national economic growth.”
Chon Buri is a vibrant coastal province popular among not only Bangkokians who seek the nearest escape from hectic work schedules, but also domestic and foreign visitors who travel from far and wide.
The tourist attractions in Chon Buri can serve many types of visitors. Besides local traditions, regional specialities, and fresh seafood, Chon Buri is a beach lover’s paradise, with well-known destinations including Bang Saen, Pattaya, and Ko Lan.
Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guides, said “Chon Buri has enough to keep travellers occupied during their stays – from beautiful beaches, peaceful temples, local cultural performances, varied festival activities to diverse eateries, stalls, and even a fascinating night life.
“The fresh seafood, unique local delicacies, and beachfront dining experiences are also great features. All these shape Chon Buri into a lively tourist destination. Our inspection team can’t wait to explore its gastronomic scene!”
The MICHELIN Guide Thailand has played a crucial role in promoting Thai food to the world in a way that affirms the country as a top gastro-tourism destination.
This substantially supports the government’s national soft-power strategy focusing on the 5Fs of Food, Fashion, Film, Fight, and Festival, which aims to accelerate Thailand’s global competitiveness in terms of tourism.
“Rich and diverse cuisine, or “Food”, is one of the soft-power foundations attracting tourists from all over the world to Thailand,” Ms. Thapanee said. “As an influential gastronomic reference to food enthusiasts worldwide, The MICHELIN Guide showcases Thailand’s dynamic and captivating culinary landscape that adds more meaningful value to the country’s tourism industry.”
The MICHELIN Guide in Thailand 2025 is scheduled to be released at the end of 2024.
In this eighth edition, Chon Buri becomes the latest destination, joining Bangkok (since 2018); Bangkok’s surrounding provinces, Phuket and Phang-Nga (since 2019); Chiang Mai (since 2020); Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya (since 2022); Isan (since 2023); Ko Samui and Surat Thani (since 2024).
Bangkok’s surrounding provinces consist of Nakhon Pathom, Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani, Samut Prakan and Samut Sakhon.
Isan is represented by four distinctive provinces of Khon Kaen, Nakhon Ratchasima, Ubon Ratchathani and Udon Thani.
To learn more about The MICHELIN Guide, please visit guide.michelin.com/th/en, or follow updates regarding the 2025 MICHELIN Guide Thailand on Facebook: facebook.com/MichelinGuideThailand.
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4 April 04 2024Press Releaseshttps://www.tatnews.org/?p=79070 - PM Srettha Thavisin outlines vision to ‘Ignite Tourism Thailand’
Prime Minister and Finance Minister, H.E. Mr. Srettha Thavisin, outlined his vision to ‘Ignite Tourism Thailand’ in 2025 with a multifaceted approach to establish the country as a tourism hub.
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Bangkok, 3 April 2024 – Prime Minister and Finance Minister, H.E. Mr. Srettha Thavisin, outlined his vision to ‘Ignite Tourism Thailand’ in 2025 with a multifaceted approach to establish the country as a tourism hub.
Prime Minister Srettha reiterated the government’s commitment to boosting Thailand as a tourism hub to drive the economy and bring prosperity to the country. “The goal is to establish Thailand as a leading destination for tourists from around the world.”
He stated that the government’s target of 3.5 trillion Baht in tourism revenue this year, with an aim to earn much more in the coming years, would be achieved through five strategies.
Conceptualised at the “Ignite Thailand’s Tourism Workshop” held in Bangkok on 15 March 2024 with participation from public and private agencies, the strategies include elevating the tourist experience, promoting must-do activities, raising awareness of hidden-gem destinations, developing intra-regional travel linkage with neighbouring countries, and hosting more world-class events.
Tourism and Sports Minister, Ms. Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol said the five strategies aligned with the government’s policy to make Thailand a global aviation hub, handling more than 150 million air travellers annually by 2030.
“In 2025, Thailand’s tourism is set to experience growth on an unprecedented scale. The new ‘Up Level, Add Story, Create Value’ concept will enhance every step of the tourist journey across all touchpoints,” Minister Sudawan said.
Outlines for the five strategies include:
1: Elevating tourist experience
Steps will be taken to promote Thailand’s tourism information and promotion to allow tourists to plan an informed trip to the country.
Existing measures will be strictly enforced to ensure tourist safety and convenience, including accessible ‘Tourism for All’, one-stop Tourist Police Hotline 1155, and universal coverage for emergency patients.
Travel facilitation will be further enhanced in the next three months. This includes improving queue management in airports, raising hotel standards, extending visa-free entry to more countries, enhancing tourist safety and security measures, and ensuring good maintenance and hygiene in public restrooms.
In the next six months, the government plans to push for the amendment of related tourism laws, including hotel regulations, alcohol restrictions, import duties on mega-event equipment, and VAT refund requirements.
2: Five must-do activities
Must Beat (Muay Thai) highlights four unique styles of ancient Thai boxing and presents the sport as a form of cardio exercise.
Must Eat (Thai food) promotes Thai kitchen to the world with 77 local dishes and 77 local desserts.
Must Seek (Thai culture) tells the story of a faith-based journey, cultural superstitions, and folklore culture.
Must Buy (Thai fabric) partners with world-renowned designers to turn Thai fabrics into fashion items.
Must See (Thai shows) showcases impressive traditional and contemporary performances.
3: Travel linkage between major and hidden-gem destinations
Promotion of travel linkage between well-established cities and hidden gems in lesser-known destinations is set to better balance the distribution of tourist arrivals and tourism income between urban and rural areas.
Recommended routes include Lanna Culture (Chiang Mai – Lamphun – Lampang), UNESCO Heritage Trail (Sukhothai – Kamphaeng Phet – Nakhon Ratchasima), NAGA Legacy (Nakhon Phanom – Sakon Nakhon – Bueng Kan), Paradise Islands (Trang – Satun), and The Wonder of Deep South (Pattani – Yala – Narathiwat).
4: Hub of ASEAN
Plans include promoting intra-region travel and helping to enhance the development and promotion of ASEAN as a single tourism destination, introducing the ASEAN Pass in partnership with airlines, and raising awareness of cross-border QR payment.
5: World-Class Event Hub
Incentives will be launched to attract major festivals, concerts, and events to Thailand, thus establishing the country as a centre of world-class events.
Upcoming world-class events include Summer Sonic Bangkok 2024, KAWS Arts, Moto GP, and Volleyball World Championship.
Minister Sudawan said, “These five strategies are planned to ignite Thailand to a tourism hub status to attract more tourists to the country and spending more time and budget, further boosting Thailand as the number one tourist destination.”
From 1 January to 1 April 2024, Thailand recorded 9.4 million visitor arrivals, representing a 42 per cent increase over the same period in 2023.
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3 April 03 2024Press Releaseshttps://www.tatnews.org/?p=79061 - TAT launches ‘Air-mazing Thailand: The Amazing Airline fam trip’
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has taken steps to show support for the government’s vision to elevate Thailand as a key aviation hub in the Asia-Pacific region with the launch of the ‘Air-mazing Thailand: The Amazing Airline FAM trip’ project.
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Bangkok, 2 April 2024 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has taken steps to show support for the government’s vision to elevate Thailand as a key aviation hub in the Asia-Pacific region with the launch of the ‘Air-mazing Thailand: The Amazing Airline FAM trip’ project.
Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said “Thailand’s thriving tourism industry relies heavily on convenient air access to tourist destinations across the country. The fam trip reflects our mission to promote tourism growth and aligns with our Partnership 360 strategy. Through cooperation with aviation authorities and airlines, we hope to increase flight capacity to reach our target of 35 million international visitors and 1.92 trillion Baht in revenue this year.”
Organised in partnership with local and international aviation bodies, the dynamic programme from 2-5 April comprises today’s Air-mazing Thailand Reception and Presentation in Bangkok, an airport inspection, and the Air-mazing Thailand Workshop and Networking event.
At the Air-mazing Reception and Presentation, officials and figures from the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand, Airports of Thailand, U-Tapao Rayong-Pattaya International Airport, the Department of Airport, Tourist Police, and the International Air Transportation Association highlighted the country’s extensive network of airports and investments in aviation infrastructure, technology, and security measures as well as convenient accessibility to representatives from 22 airlines.
Following the reception, airline representatives will be given a tour of Suvarnabhumi Airport’s Midfield Satellite Building, known as SAT-1, before embarking on two separate routes for an inspection of regional gateways.
Each route showcases how Suvarnabhumi Airport is a key hub for domestic and international travel, connecting cities and regions across the country. Route 1 highlights U-Tapao Rayong-Pattaya International Airport and Chiang Mai Airport, while route 2 presents Krabi and Surat Thani Airports for route 2. The itineraries also include visits to local attractions.
The FAM trip will conclude with the Air-mazing Thailand Workshop and Networking in Bangkok.
The project underscores TAT’s commitment to stimulate more travel to major cities and secondary destinations with proactive marketing and promotion in the long-haul markets.
“TAT has been working with airlines to promote local and international air travel to Thai destinations. We also leverage the government’s various initiatives to streamline aviation processes and visa regulations to facilitate travel and tourism, fostering strong demand for air travel to Thailand,” Mr. Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing – Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas, concluded.
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2 April 02 2024Press Releaseshttps://www.tatnews.org/?p=78801 - Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024 officially launched
The Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024 was officially launched at the 42nd Thailand Tourism Festival in Bangkok, promising a grand celebration of the traditional Thai New Year, a UNESCO-listed Intangible Cultural Heritage. The festival is scheduled from 11-15 April in Bangkok.
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Bangkok, 2 April 2024 – The Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024 was officially launched at the 42nd Thailand Tourism Festival in Bangkok, promising a grand celebration of the traditional Thai New Year, a UNESCO-listed Intangible Cultural Heritage. The festival is scheduled from 11-15 April in Bangkok.
Tourism and Sports Minister, Ms. Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, said “The Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024 marks the global recognition of the vibrant celebration of Thai New Year. The five-day spectacle is a part of the government’s soft power promotion policy to boost the country’s cultural significance on the global stage.”
The opening ceremony offered a prelude into the epic spectacle as preparations begin for the five-day event, which has been planned by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) under the Ministry of Tourism and Sports in celebration of UNESCO’s inscription of ‘Songkran in Thailand, Traditional Thai New Year Festival’ on the prestigious Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity List.
The vibrant parade of distinctive Songkran processions from five regions, including a stunning procession of the Nang Songkran goddess of 2024, exhibited only a part of the epic parade of 20 processions planned for 11 April.
The 11 April parade will march along the Ratchadamnoen Klang Avenue, starting from the Phan Fa Lilat Bridge and concluding at Sanam Luang, and will remain there until 15 April.
Heading the stretch of 20 exquisite processions will be the procession of Buddha image, followed by the procession of Mahodhara Devi – the Nang Songkran goddess of 2024, the processions of distinctive Songkran traditions of 16 provinces along with cultural performances from over 1,000 performers, the processions of unique Songkran traditions of five other provinces, and the processions of Thai soft power.
Songkran in Thailand is celebrated nationwide as a three-day Thai New Year holiday from 13-15 April. Songkran is on 13 April, which is also National Elderly Day. April 14 and April 15 were declared later as National Family Day and Thai New Year Day, respectively.
The five-day festival features a packed schedule of events to offer tourists a delightful glimpse into the nationwide celebrations of Songkran and for Thais to be proud of the nation’s cultural heritage.
Minister Attached to the Prime Minister’s Office, Mrs. Puangpet Chunlaiad, said “Songkran for Thais is a time for people who have moved to other cities or towns to travel back home for family reunions, pay respects to the elders and ask for blessings, as well as visiting temples for merit-making activities. People are advised always to be careful when travelling during this celebratory time.”
The Ministry of Culture is inviting everyone to participate in Songkran festivities in Bangkok and five other unique locations, namely Chiang Mai, Khon Kaen, Samut Prakan, Chon Buri, and Phuket, to celebrate the UNESCO ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage’ status of Songkran in Thailand.
“Thais are also encouraged to visit temples to make offerings and to pray for good luck in provinces with the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Sukhothai, Kamphaeng Phet, Ayutthaya, Udon Thani, and Phetchabun, as well as exploring local experiences at the 10 model tourism communities of 2023,” Culture Minister, Mr. Sermsak Pongpanit, said.
The 10 model tourism communities announced by the Ministry of Culture are located in Kanchanaburi, Chumphon, Chiang Saen, Phrae, Yasothon, Ranong, Ratchaburi, Lamphun, Samut Sakhon, and Udon Thani.
TAT is also using the opening ceremony as a centre stage to launch 72 faith-based tourism routes in different locations across five regions.
Some of the routes include the journey to pay homage to Buddha relics, the trip in the footprints of high-revered monks, and the travel itinerary to visit famous temples. Each route comprises tourism communities, local attractions, temples and monasteries, and distinctive culinary experiences.
The “Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024” as well as Songkran festivities across the country during 12-16 April are expected to inspire more travel and tourism activities, resulting in 24.42 billion Bath in overall tourism revenue.
This constitutes 8.76 billion Baht from international tourism and 15.66 billion Baht from domestic tourism with, 510,000 visitor arrivals and 4.29 million domestic trips.
Songkran celebrations in Bangkok are expected to generate 3.69 billion Baht in revenue and attract 653,590 domestic trips.
The post Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024 officially launched appeared first on TAT Newsroom.
2 April 02 2024Press Releaseshttps://www.tatnews.org/?p=78763 - 3 Bangkok restaurants in the Top 10 on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2024
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is pleased to report that eight restaurants in Bangkok have been recognised on the prestigious Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2024, including three in the Top 10.
The post 3 Bangkok restaurants in the Top 10 on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2024 appeared first on TAT Newsroom.
Bangkok, 29 March 2024 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is pleased to report that eight restaurants in Bangkok have been recognised on the prestigious Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2024, including three in the Top 10.
The list of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2024, sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna, was announced at a live awards ceremony in Seoul on Tuesday, 26 March.
This 12th edition of the ranking features restaurants from 19 different cities across Asia. The three restaurants in Bangkok in the Top 10 are Gaggan Anand at No. 3, moving up from last year at No. 5, Nusara at No.6 from last year at No. 3, and Sühring at No.7 from last year at No. 22.
On Gaggan Anand, the list said “The legendary Indian chef-restaurateur Gaggan Anand opened his eponymous restaurant in 2020 after closing his previous project, Gaggan. This new, more intimate space takes diners into what Gaggan calls ‘food opera’. The theatrical cooking feeds into a multi-sensory journey of touch, sound, lights, smell, taste and the sixth element of surprise. Expect Indian spices and herbs in reinterpretations of traditional dishes that should be eaten with your hands. There’s little doubt that the eatery named The Best Restaurant in Thailand 2024 will provide a memorable dining experience.”
On Nusara, “Opened in 2020 by chef Thitid ‘Ton’ Tassanakajohn alongside his brother Chaisiri ‘Tam’ Tassanakajohn, Nusara honours the memory of their beloved grandmother, after whom the restaurant is named. Passionate about highlighting his country’s ingredients, the team blends history with innovation, resulting in a singular modern Thai cuisine. Prepare to try unique dishes such as the hyper-colourful blue swimming crab curry, the smoked chicken green curry or the delicate beef dumplings. It is not only about great food at Nusara, but also excellent service thus it received the Gin Mare Art of Hospitality Award 2024.”
On Sühring, “With nearly eight years under its belt, fine dining fixture Sühring continues to impress all-comes with its elegant, modern take on German cuisine. The tasting menu created by twin brothers Mathias and Thomas Sühring takes you on a Central European journey through the duo’s childhood memories. Expect pickling, fermentation and curing as part of a perfectly plated, consistently elevated and smartly sourced experience.”
The five other restaurants that made it to this year’s list are Sorn at No. 11 from last year at No. 9, Le Du at No. 12 from last year No. 1, Potong at No. 17 from last year at No. 35, Samrub Samrub Thai re-entered at No. 29, and Baan Tepa moved up to No. 42 from last year at 46.
More information at Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2024.
All photos courtesy of www.theworlds50best.com
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29 March 29 2024Awards for Thailandhttps://www.tatnews.org/?p=78751
