Thailand's Minister of Tourism and Sports, Mr. Suriya Tienthong, led the Amazing Thailand Press Conference 2024 at the World Travel Market (WTM) in London, UK. The event aimed to set the stage for an impactful 2025 under the theme Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025, aligned with the concept of IGNITE Thailand's Tourism. This initiative focuses on enhancing travel facilitation, promoting "Hidden Gem Cities," and showcasing Thai culture through the "5 Must Do in Thailand" experiences. The ultimate goal is to generate a record-breaking tourism revenue of 3.4 trillion baht while reinforcing Thailand’s commitment to sustainable tourism.

Mr. Suriya expressed that 2025 would mark a historic year for Thai tourism. With the government's announcement of Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025, the focus is on inviting visitors from around the world to Thailand, aiming for a target of 39 million international arrivals. The year-long celebration promises top events and benefits for tourists, highlighting the distinctive value of Thai tourism and ensuring unforgettable experiences.

During the press conference, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports outlined Thailand’s tourism landscape, products, and services to UK-based tour operators and media. The Ministry aims to drive tourism revenue to a peak of 3.4 trillion baht through four main strategic priorities:

   1.Global Tourism Leadership: The Thai government will emphasize travel facilitation through improved visa policies and seamless travel connectivity across the region, particularly through the "6 Countries, 1 Destination" policy.

   2.Destination Promotion and Cultural Experiences: Special attention will be given to “Hidden Gem Cities” such as Nan, Phrae, and Sakon Nakhon. Tourists will encounter a blend of cultural heritage and local craftsmanship, promoting “soft power” through local traditions, arts, and crafts. This effort will be further enriched by the "5 Must Do in Thailand" activities: Must Taste, Must Try, Must Buy, Must See, and Must Seek, to create a holistic Thai travel experience.

   3.Positioning Thailand as an Events and Entertainment Hub: Through globally recognized events, Thailand aims to strengthen its appeal as a destination for world-class celebrations, including the Amazing Thailand Countdown 2025, MotoGP races in February and March, and the iconic Songkran Festival in April. These events are expected to drive tourism throughout the year, boosting the national economy and attracting global visitors to experience Thai culture firsthand.

   4.Private Sector Collaboration and Investment: Emphasizing private sector involvement and new investment opportunities, Thailand is on track to establish itself as a tourism hub for the region and a global destination.

Additionally, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) presented the Responsible Thailand Awards 2024, recognizing efforts to promote sustainable tourism aligned with the 17 Sustainable Tourism Goals (STGs). With 162 applicants, awards were given across five categories:

   - Responsible Animal Welfare: Elephant Hills, Surat Thani

   - Responsible Conservation: Baan Bangrong Community Tourism, Phuket

   - Responsible Community Tourism: Khao Lak Merlin Resort, Phang Nga

   - Responsible Accommodation: Anurak Community Lodge, Phang Nga

   - Responsible Local Guide: Ms. Wipaporn Ord, All Points East

The awards underscore Thailand's commitment to sustainable tourism and the preservation of its cultural and natural heritage. The TAT also unveiled the new Green Side Story campaign, promoting sustainable tourism for 2025, showcased internationally at WTM 2024.

 

 

Source: TAT News