Thailand Travel Mart 2017 ends successful two-year run in Chiang Mai, moves to Pattaya in 2018

Chiang Mai, 16 June, 2017 – Thailand’s main travel trade show, the Thailand Travel Mart Plus Amazing Gateway to the Greater Mekong Sub-region (TTM+) has ended a successful two-year run in the Northern capital of Chiang Mai, and will move to the resort city of Pattaya in 2018.

The event has given extensive exposure to the rich culture, cuisine and heritage of the Northern Thailand and highlighted its overland cross-border proximity to the emerging Mekong region destinations of Lao PDR and Myanmar.

The theme “Delivering Unique Experiences” was designed to be in line with the overall tourism marketing slogan. All the pre and post-tours were specially selected to include the spectacular range of Royal Projects, Northern Thai museums, restaurants, community-based products and heritage sites in line with that theme.

The event was attended by 423 buyers from 56 countries. Although the main markets of China, India, Russia, Europe and the UK dominated the list, the focus on buyers from the eastern European countries, Latin America and South Africa. Moreover, first-time buyers comprised 47.8% of the total.

This year, the show was attended by 362 sellers from Thailand and the neighbouring Mekong countries, the vast majority of whom were small & medium sized hotels and boutique resorts emerging by the dozens all over the country. Giving exposure to these SMEs, most of whom cannot afford to attend the large global travel trade events, is a primary objective of the TTM+. The event also fulfilled another one of its major objectives, viz., to act as a knowledge base to facilitate a better understanding some of the key issues and trends in the global market.

The first knowledge-transfer session was held on the first day, led by Minister Kobkarn on community-based tourism. She was followed by speakers talking on crisis management, culinary tourism and the digital economy. On the second day, the media were briefed on thematic joint press conference ‘CLMVT: Moving towards Shared Prosperity’, especially the growing potential for overland tourism by representative from five countries including Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Vietnam, and Thailand as many new cross-border checkpoints make it easier for cars and vehicles to criss-cross the region.

On the third day, around 600 participants from travel & tourism training institutes and entrepreneurs in Chiang Mai benefitted from a day-long seminar series by TAT executives and some of Thailand’s leading private sector executives on market trends. One of the key highlights of the event was a showcase of indigenous products reflecting the best of Northern Thai culture, arts and heritage. Superbly designed and elegantly crafted, the exhibits were accompanied in several instances by the artisans offering live demonstrations of their work.

Buyers looking for new venues for MICE events also had a chance to check out the Chiang Mai Exhibition and Convention Centre, which is perfect for small and medium-sized events and trade shows. Next year, the event will be held in Pattaya, the well-known beach resort city, which is located on the Eastern Seaboard, bordering Cambodia. That will allow Thai tourism to highlight its transportation connectivity with its neighbour to the East. Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), commented, “I would like to thank all the buyers, sellers, media, the local provincial officials and tourism industry of Chiang Mai, and all Ministry and TAT staff and team members for a highly successful event.

“The two years of being held in Chiang Mai have given a major boost to travel & tourism in Chiang Mai and will help us better diversify our visitors all around the country and the neighbouring regions. I also believe this has been a great preparatory step towards hosting the prestigious ASEAN Tourism Forum, also at the same venue in January 2018.”


Contact Information
International Public Relations Division Tourism Authority of Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 2250 5500 ext. 4545-48
Fax: +66 (0) 2250 0246
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.tatnews.org
Facebook: TAT Newsroom
Twitter: TAT Newsroom
Instagram: TAT Newsroom

 

Koh-Ta-lu

Coral Plant – Koh Talu, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province

19095441_680334088818458_7558121798617403059_o19055540_680329962152204_8061563083302601111_o 19095350_680333752151825_8465033568247547219_o 19143196_680334252151775_7667598114717880011_o

Source of the Project “Coral Plant”
On August 19, 1997, HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn personally traveled to Koh Talu, Bang Saphan Noi District, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province to explore and relax. A survey team from the Navy Department 1 assessed sea coral conditions of the Koh Talu area and found that the coral remains more complete and beautiful expecially when compared to other sources in the Gulf of Thailand. During her stay, HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn assigned to Mr. Preeda Charoenpak, owner of a coconut plot on Koh Talu to report about the living conditions on this island. HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn considered ideas to develop Koh Talu and the surrounding areas in a sustainable way to benefit local people and continually maintain precious natural resources for local partners in Thailand.

Bun Luang and Phi Ta Khon Festival 2017

Bun Luang and Phi Ta Khon Festival 2017

Bun Luang and Phi Ta Khon Festival 2017

24 June 2017 – 26 June 2017 all-day
WHERE: Wat Phon Chai, Dan Sai, Loei
CONTACT: TAT Loei Office +66 (0) 4281 2812

Every year, Dan Sai district in Loei province in the Northeast of Thailand stages a colorful event known as Bun Luang or ‘Bun Pawat’ and the famous Phi Ta Khon Festival. This is a unique celebration of the province and the colourful processions and masked villagers ensure that every year, a large number of visitors come to the little village to enjoy the fun.

This year, the event will take place from 24-26 June 2017.

The most recognised feature of the Phi Ta Khon, or Ghost festival, is the colourful parade of locals who dance and strike poses while wearing huge masks creatively made from carved coconut-tree trunks, topped with wicker sticky-rice steamers that make them appear taller and more grotesque. It is thought the event has its origins in a fertility festival but these days it’s part of a two day merit-making event. It has become one of the most popular festivals of Isan alongside other events such as the rocket festival.

As well as the unique masked parade through the town, there are other activities to enjoy, including the Phi Ta Khon mask contest, a Junior Phi Ta Khon contest, a recitation of the thirteen sermons of Phra Vessandorn – about a  previous life of the Lord Buddha, and exhibition booths from public and private sectors. There is also a fun food festival and booths selling local products.

TripAdvisor rates five Thai destinations as Best in Asia for 2017-Bangkok

TripAdvisor rates five Thai destinations as Best in Asia for 2017

TripAdvisor rates five Thai destinations as Best in Asia for 2017-Bangkok
Bangkok

Bangkok, 4 April, 2017 – Five of Asia’s most loved destinations of 2017 are in Thailand, according to a poll of the top 25 taken by the popular international travel website TripAdvisor, which has recently released its Travellers’ Choice listings for the year.

The southern resort islands of Phuket, Ko Samui and Ko Tao and the cities of Bangkok and Chiang Mai were all named in the Top 25 of the Best Destinations in Asia for 2017. Phuket took 3rd place with Samui and Ko Tao coming in the 7th and 15th place, respectively. Ever-popular Bangkok was 8thon the list and Chiang Mai came 12th.

These five destinations appear regularly at the top of the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards, which are established based on the quantity and quality of travellers’ reviews and ratings on the TripAdvisor website gathered over the previous 12-month period.

Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) said, “Phuket, Ko Samui and Ko Tao offer some of Asia’s best beaches and are tropical paradises where tourists can enjoy warm water and swaying palms while looking forward to a seafood dinner. In contrast, Bangkok and Chiang Mai are Thailand’s most bustling cities with amazing shopping, culture, food and history. There are unique experiences for everyone in Thailand, and we are delighted that TripAdvisor travellers enjoy these destinations year-after-year.”

TripAdvisor rates five Thai destinations as Best in Asia for 2017_Phuket
Phuket

Phuket which is also rated 10th  for Best in the World, was praised by the TripAdvisor travellers for its “blue lagoons and salmon sunsets”, while Ko Samui in the Gulf of Thailand is unique in being a place where you explore the local culture and fishing communities. Ko Tao, also in the Gulf of Thailand, was reviewed as a paradise with “300 days of sun per year” which invites “long afternoons of lounging”.

Bangkok, which has long been one of the world’s most popular cities, was loved by TripAdvisor travellers for its “golden palaces, floating markets and majestic porcelain-laid spires.” Meanwhile, Chiang Mai was recommended for its sprawling night market, ancient city temples and fragrant botanical gardens.

TripAdvisor is the world’s largest travel site and gathers advice and reviews from millions of travellers from around the world, covering seven million hotels and types of accommodation, restaurants and attractions. The website reaches 390 million monthly visitors in 49 worldwide markets.

TripAdvisor rates five Thai destinations as Best in Asia for 2017_ChiangMai

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai

For a complete list of the best destinations in the World, Region, and Thailand as well as for the review and traveller’s photos visit: TripAdvisor 2017 Traveler’s Choice Awards


Contact Information
International Public Relations Division
Tourism Authority of Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 2250 5500 ext. 4545-48
Fax: +66 (0) 2250 0246
Website: www.tatnews.org

Thailand Travel Mart Plus 2017 seminar to strengthen Thai tourism industry competitiveness

Bangkok, 16 May, 2017 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is arranging a one-day tourism seminar, to be held concurrently with the Thailand Travel Mart Plus (TTM+) 2017 which will take place from 14-16 June in Chiang Mai. The forum, scheduled on 16 June, is being organised with the objective of strengthening the competitiveness of the Thai tourism industry.

Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, TAT Governor said, “This seminar forms part of the TAT Academy’s mission to help enhance Thai tourism personnel and market competitiveness as well as to attract a new workforce for this growing industry. Sessions are carefully planned to ensure useful learning and knowledge sharing opportunities from senior tourism officials and experienced hospitality professionals. At the end of this one-day event, we hope participants will learn new perspectives in the field of tourism and travel in the digital era within the Royal Thai Government’s Thailand 4.0 smart-economy framework.”

The seminar will take place at the same venue at the TTM+ 2017, which is at the Chiang Mai International Exhibition and Convention Centre (CMECC), from 08.00-16.30 Hrs. It is expected to attract at least 500 participants comprising three groups – tourism and hospitality personnel, academic professionals, and college and university students from Northern Thailand.

The morning sessions will include a keynote address by Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, TAT Governor, on Thailand’s Tourism 4.0, followed by a special presentation by Mr. Tirasan Sajatsapas, Advisor to Thailand’s Minister of Tourism and Sports, on Digital Marketing.

The afternoon sessions are specially arranged for each of the three groups of participants.

The tourism and hospitality personnel will have the chance to learn top tips on hospitality sales and marketing from two of Thailand’s experts in the field: Ms. Prachoom Tantiprasertsuk, Dusit International’s Vice President of Sales, and Mr. Supodcha Swetiyaram, Gassan Legacy Golf Club’s Director of Sales and Marketing.

Meanwhile, the academic professionals will get the chance to broaden their knowledge on destination marketing from Mrs. Sujitra Jongchansitto, TAT Deputy Governor for Domestic Marketing, on how Thailand successfully entices Thais to travel domestically, and from Mr. Tanes Petsuwan, TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing – Europe, Africa, Middle East and Americas, on ‘The Link’ partnership marketing project.

Wrapping up the day for both groups will be a presentation by Mr. Noppadon Pakprot, TAT Deputy Governor for Tourism Products and Business, on TAT’s latest innovative and creative tourism products for local experiences.

For college and university students, they will be able to learn about some of the many employment opportunities that are available in the field of travel and tourism. These include the cruise business by Mr. Wattana Choksuvanich, Managing Director of EAS Maritime Agencies (Thailand); hotel business by Mr. Danny K. Sukomol, Deputy Managing Director of Santhiya Resort and Spa; and the MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions) industry by Ms. Nichapa Yoswee of the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB).

In addition, participants will get the chance to learn more about marketing information and market research done by the TAT Intelligence Centre from 2002 to present. The TAT Academy will also have a booth displaying its works and projects.

Mr. Charun Ohnmee, TAT’s Advisor and the project manager commented, “This seminar is designed to provide new perspectives in tourism academic for our audiences. It will be very productive for those who are in the tourism industry.”

Content : http://www.tatnews.org/thailand-trave … industry-competitiveness/

Thailand put on spectacular welcome dinner for 2017 WTTC Global Summit delegates

Bangkok, 27 April, 2017 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) put on spectacular welcome dinner for the 2017 World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) Global Summit delegates. The reception, taking place in the evening of the Summit’s first day, was graciously presided over by H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn, Deputy Prime Minister of Thailand.

H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn (centre) joins a group photo with VVIPs attending the welcome dinner

H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn said, “This is the first time the WTTC Global Summit has been held in Southeast Asia and we are honoured that Bangkok was chosen as the host city, which welcomes millions of visitors from around the world every year.”

H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn delivered welcome remarks

He added, “Some of the tourism industry’s best-known experts are here tonight, as well as influential world leaders and media players. So whether you are old friends or attending this event for the first time, it is the perfect place to network, share ideas and work together to drive the tourism industry forward into a sustainable future that benefits everyone.”

H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn (4th from right) joins a group photo with senior Thai tourism
officials and executives, as well as speakers of the Summit

The welcome gala showcased some of the Unique Local Thai Experiences. Delegates were treated to some of the best loved Thai dishes and snacks, such as, Phad Thai and Khanom Buang (Thai-style crepes) at the cocktail reception, and a delicious Thai fusion dinner. The evening was filled with a number of cultural performances: the Chai Tri Loka by Nataya Burapha Club; the Muay Thai Live boxing show; and the Ministry of Culture’s Bangkok show, and live music by Bangkok Symphony Orchestra. The event concluded with guests invited to join “Ram Wong” Thai folk dance.

The 2017 WTTC Global Summit, taking place in Bangkok on 26-27 April, is attended by more than 800 delegates in the travel and tourism industry from around the world. TAT is also organising specially arranged tours for delegates and their spouses to showcase the local Thai ways of life. The Rustic Thailand and Bangkok Medley Tours take place today and tomorrow.

Contact Information
International Public Relations Division
Tourism Authority of Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 2250 5500 ext. 4545-48
Fax: +66 (0) 2250 0246

Content : http://www.tatnews.org/thailand-put-s … -global-summit-delegates/

thailand-on-track-to-meet-all-tourism-targets-600x300

Thailand on track to meet visitor targets thanks to quality tourism growth

Bangkok, 28 November, 2016 – Thailand’s tourism industry is set to exceed the 2.4 trillion Baht (US$68.57 billion) target set for 2016 thanks to the drive to boost visitor numbers with visa fee waivers and a raft of measures to assure tourists that they will enjoy high quality experiences in the kingdom.

thailand-on-track-to-meet-all-tourism-targets-600x300
H.E. Mrs. Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul (middle), Minister of Tourism and Sports shared the press conference to announce that Thailand is on track to meet visitor targets thanks to quality tourism growth

H.E. Mrs. Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul, Minister of Tourism and Sports said, “Over the past years, we have seen a strong growth in tourism revenue and this is not just because numbers are up: tourists are also spending more money, particularly high-end visitors. High quality tourists visit Thailand knowing that they can find affordable luxury experiences and high-end products and activities that can’t be enjoyed elsewhere.”

Tourist arrivals from January to October 2016, totalled 28.72 million tourists who have so far spent 1.43 trillion Baht (US$40.8 billion), representing a year-on-year increase of 10.38 per cent and 14 per cent, respectively. China remains the number one market with spending of over 391.5 billion Baht (US$11.2 billion). Malaysia made up the second largest market for spending with 74.8 billion Baht (US$2.14 billion), and Russia was in third place with tourists spending almost 64.33 billion baht (US$1.80 billion).

Mrs. Kobkarn said, “With Thailand now in its traditional high season, we are working to boost numbers of visitors for the last quarter of the year, from traditionally 8.8 million to 9.1 million visitors, or a four per cent growth. But we are hoping for a higher growth in revenue, at six per cent, from almost 455 billion to 483.7 billion Baht (US$13 billion to US$13.8 billion). With this goal, various initiatives have been put in place to encourage tourists to visit and spend.”

These initiatives have included the waiver of tourist visa fees for visitors from 19 countries from 1 December, 2016, to 28 February, 2017, and the price of visas issued on arrival will be halved. To encourage health and medical tourism, long-stay visas for foreigners over 50 years of age will be extended from one to 10 years.

To encourage more domestic travel, a long New Year holiday of four days including 31 December, 2016, and 1 to 3 January, 2017, has been confirmed. As well as special New Year Countdowns across the kingdom on 31 December, there are a range of sporting events planned including the Bangkok and Chiang Mai Marathons.

In addition, there will be a range of new events and activities to boost travel. These include the Thailand Yacht Show 2016, from 15-18 December in Phuket, the “70 Routes in His Majesty’s Footsteps” campaign that encourages domestic travel in areas boosted by the work of the late King, and the “First Step towards the Great Nine”, which aims to open up Royal Projects and Royal Initiatives, so that international tourists can visit and learn about the late King’s work.

Meanwhile, the Thailand Friendly Design Expo 2016 to be held in Bangkok from 30 November – 3 December will introduce eight routes for ‘Universal Access for All’ in each of the country’s eight major regions specifically designed to cater to the needs of travellers with special needs.

Contact Information #International Public Relations Division, Tourism Authority of Thailand

Ayutthaya the historical heart of Thailand

With its shapely chedis and picturesque pagodas, the ancient city of Ayutthaya has always been a big draw for tourists seeking a taste of the Orient. But Ayutthaya offers more than scenic views and a rich history. To the Thai people, the city is the spiritual heart of their nation and home to the kingdom’s greatest treasures. The sumptuous styles of art and architecture, which were nurtured in Ayutthaya, can be seen in the temples, murals, and buildings all over Thailand while the city’s cultural influence and traditions of diplomacy live on to this day. So by spending time in Ayutthaya, visitors can make a real connection with the past and enjoy a better understanding of Thainess.

Capital of the Ayutthaya Empire, the city was founded in 1350 and was the second major capital of Siam (after Sukhothai). During its most glorious period, from the 14th to the 18th centuries, it was considered one of the largest and most beautiful cities in the world with glinting gilded temples and bustling waterways. The city was a center of diplomacy and commerce and attracted traders from both Asia and Europe seeking luxury goods and Thai rice, which is valued worldwide for its fragrant quality even today.

Ayutthaya flourished thanks to its strategic position on an island surrounded by three rivers that connected it to the Gulf of Thailand. This made it accessible to peoples; such as the Portuguese, who first traveled to the city in the 1500s as members of the first official embassy from state-builder Afonso de Albuquerque, to King Ramathibodi II. Within five years, the two nations had a trade treaty in place. Later, other nations; such, as the Dutch were given permission to trade with Ayutthaya, and Siamese ambassadors were sent as far afield as France, Japan, China, and the Mughal city of Delhi.

To this day, Ayutthaya remains one of the first places beyond Bangkok visited by tourists seeking a taste of Thai culture. As it’s just a short distance from Bangkok, it’s the perfect venue for a day of sightseeing and people often spend a few hours looking around the many temples and monuments before enjoying some of the famous local food and heading back to Bangkok.

But Ayutthaya isn’t just important to Thailand and her people; it is regarded as a vital piece of world culture, too. This is why, in 1991, it was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

So, if you want to see some of this heritage for yourself, here are some of the most famous sights:

 

Wat Prasri Sanphet

Wat Phra Sri Sanphet
Perhaps the biggest and grandest of Ayutthaya’s temples, and certainly the most important in antiquity is Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, which used to be within the grounds of the Royal Palace and so was only used by members of the Royal Family. It suffered a great deal of damage after the fall of Ayutthaya in 1767, but its beauty was so legendary that it served as the model for the glorious Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok.

Wat Mahathat, the elegantly caved Buddha head 

Wat Maha That
Of course, many tourists come to Ayutthaya with one aim, to get a photo of what has become the city’s most famous Buddha image, thanks to its appearance on a million travel blogs and posters. This is the elegantly caved Buddha head, which has become a living part of the landscape, thanks to the roots and branches of a Bhodi tree that have embraced it. But it’s well worth taking a longer look around Wat Maha That, as it is one of the city’s most important temples and the oldest, being started around 1374. Look carefully and you’ll find the remains of centuries-old murals.

ayutthaya-3-wat-chaiwatthanaram-3-500x300

Wat Chaiwatthanaram

 

Wat Chaiwatthanaram

This is one of the best-known temples in the Ayutthaya Historical Park and was one of the Royal temples where Ayutthaya’s kings carried out ceremonies. Large and imposing, the temple is in the Khmer style and the central prang is 35 meters high and represents the mythical Mount Meru. If you look carefully in the corner galleries, there are still traces of the original carved ceiling pieces.

 

ayutthaya-1-wat-yai-chai-mongkhon-2-500x300          The reclining Buddha image at Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon

Wat Yai Chai Mongkon
One of the most popular and best preserved of Ayutthaya’s temples is Wat Yai Chai Mongkon in the southeast of the historical city. You can climb the steep steps to the base of the temple’s 62-meter chedi for outstanding views over the city. There are rows of famous Buddha images in the Sukhothai style at the foot of the chedi, which was built around 1357 by King U-Thong. Wat Yai Chai Mongkon is an important site in Thai Buddhism as this was the monastery of monks who had traveled to Ceylon to study, and the head of this sect was made the Supreme Patriarch. Don’t forget to explore the temple grounds, as there’s a lovely reclining Buddha image here.

 

ayutthaya-4-chedi-phukhao-thong-2-500x300                  The monument of King Naresuan the Great

King Naresuan the Great Memorial
King Naresuan the Great (1555 –1605) was one of Thailand’s best-loved monarchs, as he helped to free Ayutthaya from the Burmese, who held it as a vassal state. The huge reverence in which he is held can be seen in the monument dedicated to him at Ayutthaya. A statue shows him astride a horse riding on a decorated base showing achievements from his life, including an impressive image of the king wrestling a crocodile. The monument is next to Chedi Phukhao Thong, an impressive 50-meter structure you can climb to enjoy the views. It was built by the Burmese to mark their victory in 1569. If you are wondering why the monument, indeed much of Ayutthaya is decorated with so many model roosters, it’s because they represent a legend in which Naresuan, when held captive in Burma, bet his freedom with a Burmese Prince on a cockfight. Thai visitors leave the model roosters as offerings at temples all over Ayutthaya.

            
ayutthaya-5-wat-lokkayasutharam-1-500x300     The famous reclining Buddha image at Wat Lokkayasutharam

But all the temples have something worth stopping by for. One of the best restored Ayutthaya’s temples is Wat Thammikarat, which has lovely sculptures of ancient lions and nagas as well as a reconstruction of the huge Buddha head that was found there. And if you appreciate oversized statues, you also need to visit Wat Phanan Choeng, which predates even the founding of the city itself. The temple houses a huge seated Buddha, said to date from 1334, though it has been restored several times. It is nearly 20 meters tall and known as Luangpho Tho. It is seen as important to sailors and was visited by the famous Chinese Admiral, Zheng He in 1407 on one of his voyages of exploration.

There are so many temples and ruins of ancient sculptures all over Ayutthaya that it would take several days to see them all. But you can avoid being templed-out by taking breaks and enjoying some of the other treats on offer. There are always friendly vendors around selling hearty bowls of noodles, cool drinks, or refreshing fruit, while riverside restaurants offer tempting spots to have lunch. But however you choose to see this ancient city, you’ll come away with a better understanding of what makes the Thai people so proud of their heritage.

Getting there
• By Train: The cheapest way of getting to Ayutthaya is by train from Bangkok’s Hualamphong Railway Station. There are regular trains and the trip takes about two hours.
• By Minibus: Minibusses leave for Ayutthaya from Bangkok’s Victory Monument area every half hour or so. The operators are based around the Century Plaza cinema complex.
• By Car: Take Highway No.1 (Phahon Yothin) and go via Pratu Nam Phra In. This takes you to Highway No.32, then, turn left onto Highway No.309 to Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya.

Getting about
Going on foot is not really practical unless you really only want to see the central temples. But many places rent out bicycles and as the landscape is relatively flat, it’s not hard to cycle around. Remember to put on sunscreen and a hat there. Another option is to rent a tuk-tuk or minivan for a few hours, as some of the temples are further afield and a bit far to reach by bike.

Front row: H.E. Mrs. Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul (middle), Minister of Tourism and Sports; Mr. Kalin Sarasin (left), Chairman of the Board of TAT; and Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn (right), TAT Governor; as well as members of the Board of TAT at the Thailand pavilion

Thailand introduced Unique Local Experiences to the world at WTM 2016

Front row: H.E. Mrs. Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul (middle), Minister of Tourism and Sports; Mr. Kalin Sarasin (left), Chairman of the Board of TAT; and Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn (right), TAT Governor; as well as members of the Board of TAT at the Thailand pavilion

Her Royal Highness Princess Ubolratana (Right) H.E. Mrs. Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul, Minister of Tourism and Sports Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, TAT Governor Mr. Tanes Petsuwan, TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing (Europe, Africa, Middle East and Americas) Mr. Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya, TAT Deputy Governor for Marketing Communications (Left) Mrs. Srisuda Wanapinyosak, TAT Deputy for International Marketing Asia and South Pacific Mr. Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, TAT Executive Director of the Office of the Governor Mrs. Pataraporn Sithivanich, TAT Executive Director for Europe, Africa and Middle East Region Mr. Teerasil Tapen, Director of TAT London Office

London, 7 November 2016 – Designed to fit in with the “Year of Sustainable Tourism Development” proclaimed by the UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) for 2017, the “Unique Thai Local Experiences” campaign is being extensively publicized by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)  at the World Travel Market 2016, one of the world’s largest travel trade shows being held from 7 to 9 November, 2016, in London.

Thailand introduced Unique Local Experiences to the world at WTM 2016
Her Royal Highness Princess Ubolratana at the Thailand Pavillion

The Thailand’s participation at the WTM 2016 was graciously presided over by Her Royal Highness Princess Ubolratana who took time to visit the Thailand Pavilion and see the many exhibits, as well as presented the Thailand Green Excellence Awards.

TAT has been participating in the WTM since its inception in 1980. This year, the Thai contingent includes 48 exhibitors including high-quality hotels, health and wellness facilities, as well as world-class food and beverage outlets, which are embedded with giving a touch of Thainess and local experiences to their guests.

Thailand introduced Unique Local Experiences to the world at WTM 2016
Front row: H.E. Mrs. Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul (middle), Minister of Tourism and Sports; Mr. Kalin Sarasin (left), Chairman of the Board of TAT; and Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn (right), TAT Governor; as well as members of the Board of TAT at the Thailand pavilion

This year at the Thailand Pavilion, Thai sellers and TAT staff are welcoming visitors by offering a touch of Thai Local Experiences in various interesting activities. At the demonstration under the story of ‘Thai Rice, Thai Life’, visitors can learn about the local life of Thai farmers through virtual reality like they are actually travelling in Thailand and sample rice tea and a snack while trying a hand rice milk scrub. Also, they can join in a Thai pronunciation challenge in a ‘Pa-Sa-Thai’ (Thai language) machine to see how best they can pronounce like the locals and win and take some souvenirs.

Thailand introduced Unique Local Experiences to the world at WTM 2016
H.E. Mrs. Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul, Minister of Tourism and Sports

At the Thailand Networking Lunch session, H.E. Mrs. Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul, Minister of Tourism and Sports said, “We are here at WTM 2016; this means life goes on in Thailand with the strong intention to follow in the King’s Footsteps. Now it is Thailand’s sharing period. We would like to thank our friends from all over the world for standing by us during this period of time. All events, festivals and sports tournaments and cultural traditions, will be going ahead as scheduled though a sense of respect and appropriateness will be maintained, as well as to ensure safety and security for tourists coming to the Kingdom.”

In recognition of His Majesty’s multifarious duties of national sports, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports has planned to turn Thailand into a sporting hub by promoting and supporting regional and international sporting events and tournaments; such as, the Air Race One flying test event, the Laguna Phuket Triathlon 2016, the Thailand Equestrian Princess’s Cup, the Jet-Ski King’s Cup, and the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta.

Moreover, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports working closely with the Ministry of Public Health, has launched a ‘Visit Thailand Enhance Your Healthy Life’ campaign for medical tourism, as well as joined hands with TAT to attend significant world medical trade events and roadshows.

Thailand introduced Unique Local Experiences to the world at WTM 2016
Discover your unique local experiences in amazing Thailand

In 2017, TAT aims to offer “Value for Experiences” to travellers coming to the Kingdom by focussing on “Unique Thai Local Experiences” to the world. In line with the Thailand 4.0 model, TAT will highlighting a value-based economy driven by innovation and looking to be a creative economy delivering creative tourism. TAT has also initiated the LINK project in which ‘L’ represents Local Experiences; ‘I’ for Innovation; ‘N’ for Networking and ‘K’ for Keeping character. This is aimed to promote the local tourism in various communities in Thailand; such as, Ban Na Ton Chan Community in Sukhothai province, Kram Sakon in Sakon Nakhon province, Ban Nam Chiao Ecotourism Community, Trat province, and Ko Klang Community, Krabi province.

Thailand introduced Unique Local Experiences to the world at WTM 2016
Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, TAT Governor

Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, TAT Governor said, “Promoting the local experience will not only benefit visitors, but also the local people as well as travel agents. We strongly believe that each local community of Thailand can deliver distinctive, genuine, unique hospitality and Thai culture with new exciting experiences to tourists. Also, this will create new and unique quality products for travel agents to offer to their customers.”

thailand-at-wtm-2016-500-4
Tuk-tuk, one of Thailand’s unique icons is on the display at the Thailand pavilion at the WTM 2016

From 1 January – 22 October, 2016, Thailand welcomed 26.4 million tourists, generating an income of 26.5 billion Pounds, up 11.82 percent and 15.59 percent, respectively. The top five tourism spending countries are China, Malaysia, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America.

At the end of 2016, TAT expects to reach 35 billion Pounds, an increase of 18 per cent based on a projection of 33 million international tourists.

thailand-at-wtm-2016-500-2
Overview of the Thailand pavilion at the WTM 2016

 

Contact Information
International Public Relations Division
Tourism Authority of Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 2250 5500 ext. 4545-48
Fax: +66 (0) 2250 0246
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.tatnews.org
Facebook: TAT Newsroom
Twitter: TAT Newsroom
Instagram: TAT Newsroom

Thailand Green Excellence Awards at World Travel Market (WTM) 2016

Thailand Green Excellence Awards at World Travel Market (WTM) 2016

                        Thailand Green Excellence Awards at World Travel Market (WTM) 2016
Her Royal Highness Princess Ubolratana and the winners of the Thailand Green Excellence Awards 2016

London, 7 November 2016 – Her Royal Highness Princess Ubolratana conferred the Thailand Green Excellence Awards on four civil society groups at the World Travel Market (WTM) 2016.

The Awards were originally launched in 2007 as a cooperative venture between the TAT London Office and responsibletravel.com, an online travel agent active in promoting green tourism. Held annually since then, the Thailand Green Excellence Awards UK are aimed at encouraging tourism that promotes the environment and contributes to social and cultural betterment.

The Awards recognise tourism business operators including hotels and travel agents within the UK and Thailand, whose products and services help conserve tourism resources and sustainable development. The four categories of awards are:  1) Nature, Marine and Heritage, 2) Community Based Tourism, 3) Animal Welfare, and 4) Outstanding Contribution Award.

The 2016 award winners as follows:

1) Nature, Marine and Heritage Award: Mai-Khao Marine Turtle Foundation

The MKMTF is dedicated to educating the Phuket and Thailand community about the plight of the sea turtles in Phuket.  It undertakes beach and reef cleaning activities, educational workshops, recycling projects, mangrove tree planting, turtle rescue/release and support of other marine conservation organisations. The Foundation is funded by partners; such as, JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa, Marriott Vacation Club International, and Anantara Hotels and Resorts.

2) Community Based Tourism Award: Andaman Discoveries

Andaman Discoveries is a social enterprise seeking to serve the needs of local communities. Through a dedicated network of supporters, volunteers, and donations, it has implemented over 120 projects in 12 villages. It promotes responsible tourism, organises excursions and creates opportunities for CBT volunteers. Along with local partners, it supports disadvantaged children in Southern Thailand, including a school for disabled children, a learning centre for children from Myanmar, etc. These actions benefit both the economy and society as well as encourages conservation, community, culture and traditions of the community.

3) Animal Welfare Award: Elephant Hills

Elephant Hills are Thailand’s first Luxury Tented Jungle Camps, combining the camp idea of African national parks with the Thai tropical forest environment. The two camps, the Elephant Camp and the floating Rainforest Camp, are both situated in Khao Sok, part of Southern Thailand’s largest stretch of primary rainforest.

Elephant Hills focus on creating and maintain the well-being of elephants and mahouts. Visitors can gain an experience with the elephants; such as, feeding, bathing and interacting with the pachyderms. Such activities help tourists and Thai tourism operators see the value of elephants as part of the tourism sector of the country.

4) Outstanding Contribution Award: Trash Hero

Trash Hero’s mission is to create sustainable, community-based projects that remove existing waste, and reduces future waste by inspiring long-term behaviour change. This is done through 1) Taking Action and Building Awareness; 2) Education; 3) Creating Sustainable Projects that bring communities together to reduce, remove and better manage their waste; and 4) Inspiration – motivating people to become Trash Heroes in their everyday lives. Trash Hero organises garbage clean-ups along beaches in creative and interesting formats, to make the activities fun for tourists, both foreigners and Thai, entrepreneurs and local people.

Contact Information
International Public Relations Division
Tourism Authority of Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 2250 5500 ext. 4545-48
Fax: +66 (0) 2250 0246
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.tatnews.org
Facebook: TAT Newsroom 
Twitter: TAT Newsroom
Instagram: TAT Newsroom