Nyheter fra TAT Newsroom
My RSS Feed
- Amazing Thailand: Your Stories Never End
In Thailand, travelers’ journeys are never-ending stories that they want to tell the whole world, with each moment becoming a chapter, creating a memoir that inspires others.
The post Amazing Thailand: Your Stories Never End appeared first on TAT Newsroom.
Amazing Thailand: Your Stories Never End
Duration: 1.33 Minutes
Synopsis
In Thailand, travelers’ journeys are never-ending stories that they want to tell the whole world, with each moment becoming a chapter, creating a memoir that inspires others.
From the bustling energy of hidden gems in Bangkok to the tranquility of sub-cities, Thailand will leave an indelible mark on their hearts. Let them share their tales and witness as their experiences ignite a global wanderlust, turning every traveler into a storyteller.
Let your adventures turn into an endless source of inspiration for the world.
#amazingthailand
#YourStoriesNeverEnd
The post Amazing Thailand: Your Stories Never End appeared first on TAT Newsroom.
14 May 14 2024Travel Videoshttps://www.tatnews.org/?p=79210 - Thainess you can taste – Fruit tours in the orchards of Rayong
Thailand always astounds visitors with its infinite variety of cultures, landscapes and peoples, but it is its wide range of fruits that leave the sweetest of impressions. This is especially true in Rayong during June and July when the monsoon rains have restored lushness to the land, the soil is soft and loamy, and the season’s fantastic fruits hang ripening on the trees, ready to be plucked.
The post Thainess you can taste – Fruit tours in the orchards of Rayong appeared first on TAT Newsroom.
Thailand always astounds visitors with its infinite variety of cultures, landscapes and peoples, but it is its wide range of fruits that leave the sweetest of impressions. This is especially true in Rayong during June and July when the monsoon rains have restored lushness to the land, the soil is soft and loamy, and the season’s fantastic fruits hang ripening on the trees, ready to be plucked.
Visitors from temperate climates feel spoilt for choice when they enter Rayong’s orchards and discover this cornucopia to enjoy. They can feast on fruits barely known outside of Southeast Asia, (except as wildly expensive imports) and buy in bulk countless mangos, sourly sweet mangosteens, colourful, soft-haired rambutan and massive jackfruits and durian that hang improbably from the trees like fruity cannonballs. There are fruits of every possible creed, colour and taste to enjoy which is why the orchards offer a refreshing new diversion for tourists seeking a literal taste of tropical Thailand.
So if you’ve got a sweet tooth, feel like a day in the country, or simply want to sample the delights of these Eastern Gardens of Eden, you should take one of Rayong’s orchard tours. There are a range of orchards to enjoy in the Eastern Seaboard and now is the best time to go. The heat of summer has gone and the land is fertile, fragrant and fruitful.
The real pleasure of these orchard tours, especially for city-slickers is getting away from the urban sprawl and heading into the little-known hills of Rayong. These seem a long way from the flat rice plains you see in much of Thailand. Rayong boasts impressive highlands, resplendently green, scented and cooled by breezes from the Gulf of Thailand. Most tours take you to the orchards in open-sided trams and if you’re there early enough, you’ll see the morning mists gently resting on the hills evoking a tropical Tuscany.
The trams make regular stops among the groves so you can jump out, explore and, more importantly eat. And if some of the fruits are not quite in season, there are ripe examples put aside for visitors to dive in and enjoy as much rambutan, mangosteen and pungent durian as their bellies (or nostrils) can handle. And you’ll probably eat a whole lot more than you planned. There’s something sublimely primaeval about eating fruit that has been freshly plucked from the surrounding trees.
One of the most impressive sights is the durian, which appear too large, heavy and unwieldy for the trees they grow upon. They seem more like medieval weaponry than a fruit, yet the sweet flesh this “King of Fruit” yields is sought after by connoisseurs all over Southeast Asia. Durian’s famous scent takes some getting used to, “Like eating raspberry blancmange in the lavatory” British writer Anthony Burgess said, but here among the trees, it seems like a rich, heaven sent (if not heavenly-scented) pudding, to be savoured.
After time among the trees, you can enjoy a buffet of their bounty. The trams drop visitors at shady salas where they can gorge themselves on the offerings they’ve just seen growing on the trees. Lips become sticky with the dribbling juice of sweet long kong, pineapple and mangosteen, followed by Thailand’s favourite dessert, mango and coconut-infused glutinous rice. If you’re seeking something more savoury, try the freshly made papaya salad. If you like it more spicy request an extra chilli or three, or you’ll get the less fiery, but equally tasty, tourist-friendly version.
These buffets are the highlights of Rayong’s orchard tours. All that remains if you to pick up some of these fruits at bargain prices to take home to your friends back home to sample. But like many things in life, (Belgian beer, German sausage, and Chinese dim sum, for example) Thai tropical fruits are best enjoyed at their source of origin, the atmosphere enhancing their delights. So arrange an orchard tour soon, for a refreshingly new way to spend part of your holiday in Thailand.
Photos of Suan Lamai
Information
There are several orchard tours in Rayong. Among the most famous are:Suphattra Land
70 Mu 10 Nong Lalok Subdistrict, Ban Khai District , Rayong
Open: 08.00 – 17.00 Hrs.
Tel: +66 (0) 38 892 048, +66 (0) 81 588 1519 / 88 528 7967
www.suphattraland.com / https://www.facebook.com/suphattralandSuan Lamai
Higway 344 Ban Bueng- Klaeng, Pa Yup Nai Subdistrict, Wang Chan district, Rayong
Open: 08.00-17.00 Hrs.
Tel: +66 (0) 98 737 4983
https://www.facebook.com/Suanlamai/Suan CharoenSap
3161 Wang Wa Subdistrict, Klaeng District, Rayong
Open: 08.00 – 17.00 Hrs
Tel: +66 (0) 82 281 4282
https://www.facebook.com/SuanCharoenSapSuan Khunyay
76 หมู่ 7 Cham Kho Subdistrict, Khao Chamao District, Rayong
Open: 08.00 – 17.00 Hrs.
Tel: +66 (0) 61 596 6526
https://www.facebook.com/durian.khunyaySuan Lung Tongbai
96/1 Mu 11 Taphong Subdistrict, Mueang District, Rayong
Open: 08.00 – 17.00 Hrs.
Tel: +66 (0) 91 697 0047
https://www.facebook.com/suanlungtongbai/*This article has been updated from the original version published in June 2025.
The post Thainess you can taste – Fruit tours in the orchards of Rayong appeared first on TAT Newsroom.
11 May 11 2024Travel Featureshttp://www.tatnews.org/?p=27166 - TAT and WebBeds unveil creative Bangkok destination videos
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has partnered with WebBeds, a global marketplace for the travel trade, to create a series of attractive and inspiring destination marketing videos that highlight what’s new in Bangkok and stimulate inbound travel to Thailand.
The post TAT and WebBeds unveil creative Bangkok destination videos appeared first on TAT Newsroom.
Bangkok, 10 May 2024 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has partnered with WebBeds, a global marketplace for the travel trade, to create a series of attractive and inspiring destination marketing videos that highlight what’s new in Bangkok and stimulate inbound travel to Thailand.
Mr. Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya, TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing – Asia and the South Pacific, said “This collaboration with WebBeds is in alignment with the TAT’s meaningful partnership project with strategic partners in the short-haul market. The project is aimed to encourage more travel and stimulate more bookings among key source markets in Asia and the South Pacific.”
The result of this strategic collaboration between TAT and WebBeds is a new series of 10 dazzling destination videos that showcase a diverse selection of activities and experiences in Bangkok, including what’s new and exciting in the Thai capital.
The aim is to encourage visitors to rediscover Thailand and fall in love with this captivating country all over again. These uplifting videos follow eight distinct themes: Eat, Nourish, Play, See, Shop, Explore, Relive and Indulge.
Eat features the best places to savour Thailand’s world-famous cuisine, from street food to fine dining, while Nourish focuses on organic wellness, spa treatments, singing bowl therapies and yoga classes. Play highlights traditional cultural activities such as Muay Thai boxing and local handicrafts, as well as Bangkok’s intriguing bars and clubs, and See showcases the city’s most eye-catching sights that are sure to illuminate Instragram!
Shop is dedicated to Bangkok’s amazing array of retail options, from iconic brands to mesmerising malls and markets, Explore uncovers the city’s rich cultural heritage, including its immersive museums, Relive reminds international travellers of their favourite attractions and activities, such as Chatuchak Market, and finally, Indulge focuses on newly opened five-stay hotels and a fine dining cruise along the Chao Phraya River.
These videos were aired for the first time at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, which was held from 6-9 May 2024, and can also be viewed on WebBeds’ “Bangkok Unboxed” YouTube playlist (https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLiIjfHZBFFz88x_ztA-C2Fc8arcfgNko8&si=CnYigS7QBnjFOi6B).
Mr. Chattan said “We are appreciative of WebBeds’ continued support and steadfast commitment to stimulating the travel industry, not only in Thailand but all around the world. In recent years, the planet has faced a series of challenges that have impacted the ability of destinations to attract tourists. Throughout these times, WebBeds – one of our key wholesale partners – has been ever-present, supporting the TAT with market analysis and creative efforts to drive demand. This video marketing campaign is the latest example of this highly beneficial partnership.”
Mr. Daryl Lee, CEO, Webbeds, said “We are delighted to be working with the TAT once again to provide a boost to Thailand’s tourism sector. With our ability to monitor global booking data, WebBeds is in a unique position to identify trends even before they occur. Due to our long-standing relationship, we were able to advise Thailand’s tourism authorities of potential opportunities and take proactive steps to capitalise on them. These marketing videos are the result of this collaboration, and we are very happy to work side-by-side with the TAT to ensure the continued strength of tourism in Thailand. We are always stronger when we work together.
WebBeds and the TAT have enjoyed a long-standing relationship. Last year, the two partners came together to stage the IMPACT Summit, a high-level event in Bangkok which was attended by more than 900 travel and hospitality professionals, either in person or via a live stream.
WebBeds’ destination videos will now support the TAT in its effort to achieve its full-year target of 35 million visitors in 2024, while positioning the kingdom’s tourism industry for a prosperous future.
The post TAT and WebBeds unveil creative Bangkok destination videos appeared first on TAT Newsroom.
10 May 10 2024Press Releaseshttps://www.tatnews.org/?p=79197 - Their Majesties the King and Queen to Preside Over The Royal Ploughing Ceremony 2024
Their Majesties King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Queen Suthida have graciously consented to preside over the Royal Ploughing Ceremony on Friday, 10 May 2024 at Phra Meru Grounds (Sanam Luang) in Bangkok. The Ceremony will commence at 08.00 Hrs.
The post Their Majesties the King and Queen to Preside Over The Royal Ploughing Ceremony 2024 appeared first on TAT Newsroom.
Bangkok, 9 May 2024 – Their Majesties King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Queen Suthida have graciously consented to preside over the Royal Ploughing Ceremony on Friday, 10 May 2024 at Phra Meru Grounds (Sanam Luang) in Bangkok. The Ceremony will commence at 08.00 Hrs.
Their Majesties the King and Queen will be accompanied by members of the royal family. Ambassadors and representatives of the diplomatic corps from over 80 foreign embassies and consulates as well as international organisations in Thailand, along with many distinguished guests, will also be present.
This year, Mr. Prayoon Insakul, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, has been appointed as Phraya Raek Na (Lord of the Royal Ploughing Ceremony). Officials from agriculture-related agencies have been selected for the roles of Celestial Maidens.
Cultivating and Royal Ploughing Ceremony
Phra Ratchaphithi Phuetchamongkhon Charot Phra Nangkhan Raek Na Khwan (the Cultivating and Ploughing Ceremony) consists of two ceremonies, which are Phra Ratchaphithi Phuetchamongkhon or the Cultivating Ceremony and Phra Ratchaphithi Charot Phra Nangkhan Raek Na Khwan or the Ploughing Ceremony.
The Cultivating Ceremony, which is a Buddhist ceremony, was initiated during the reign of King Rama IV of the Great of the Royal House of Chakri. The Ploughing Ceremony is an ancient Brahmanic tradition that can be traced back to the Sukhothai Period (more than 700 years ago).
The two Royal Ceremonies are related to each other. They are aimed at bringing propitiousness to the nation’s crops, boosting farmers’ morale, as well as heralding the start of rice-growing season. In addition, these ceremonies provide foreigners with an opportunity to appreciate Thailand’s fine culture and traditions. These annual events had been observed until 1936.
The Cultivating Ceremony and the Ploughing Ceremony were revived in 1947 and 1960, respectively. And have been held together since then. His Majesty the King regularly performs the function every year.
During the period after the revival of the Ploughing Ceremony, the Director Genera of the Rice Department served as Phraya Raek Na or the Lord of Ploughing. The four Celestial Maidens would carry silver and golden baskets containing rice seeds for scattering during the Ploughing Ceremony. Currently, Phraya Raek Na has become the role of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, while the Celestial Maidens have been chosen from single females of the Ministry.
Cultivating Ceremony
This year, the Cultivating Ceremony will be held during the afternoon of 9 May at the Temple of the Emerald Buddha inside the Grand Palace. The Ceremony is presided over by His Majesty the King. He performs religious rituals and prays for the abundance on the Cultivating Ceremony, which seeks to bring propitiousness to the crops. At this Ceremony, His Majesty the King confers the Nine-Gemmea Rings and the Royal Good to Phraya Raek Na and anoints the Celestial Maidens’ foreheads.
Subsequently, Phraya Raek Na and the Celestial Maidens leave of the back of the ceremonial pavilion at Sanam Luang where the ceremonial oxen are staying. Phraya Raek Na will anoint the heads of the ceremonial oxen, whish his hands in a bowl and feed water to them. After that, Phraya Raek Na and the Celestial Maidens will spend time with the oxen in preparation for the Ploughing Ceremony, which will be held in the next morning.
Ploughing Ceremony
The Ploughing Ceremony will be held in the morning of 10 May at Phra Meru Grounds (Sanam Luang) in front of the Grand Palace.
At the beginning of the Ceremony, Phraya Raek Na will perform a rite to predict the amount of rainfall during the coming season by selecting one of the three pieces of cloth that are in different lengths; name 4 khuep, 5 khuep and 6 khuep (khuep is a Thai unit of linear measurement from the tip of the thumb to the tip of the middle finger when the hand is fully spread out).
Depending on the selection, the predications are as follows:
The shortest one (4 khuep) is chosen: it denotes that there will be abundant rainfall, paddy in the upland areas will be plentiful, but paddy in the lowland areas many suffer from damage.
The medium one (5 khuep) is picked: there will be an average amount of rainfall, rice will be abundant, fruits and meat will be bountiful.
The longest one (6 khuep) is selected: it means that there will be little rainfall, paddy in the lowland areas will be plentiful, but paddy in the upland areas may suffer from some damage.The selected piece of cloth is to be worn by Phraya Raek Na.
At the auspicious time, after the arrival of His Majesty the King, Phraya Raek Na together with this entourage leave the ceremonial pavilion in procession to start the Ploughing Ceremony. After paying respect to His Majesty the King, he proceeds to the Ploughing area.
Nest two ceremonial oxen are yoked to plough handle. Phraya Raek Na then takes the handle of the plough and begins to plough three concentric furrows and three crosswise furrows, and at the same time, scatters the rice seeds from the basket carried by the Celestial Maidens. After that, the ploughs three more rounds to cover the seeds. When the ploughing is over, the oxen are unyoked and are presented with seven different types of food and drink: rice seeds, maize, sesame seeds, mung beans, hay, water and rice liquor.
Depending on what the oxen have eaten, the prediction area as follows;
Rice seeds or maize: cereals and fruits will be bountiful.
Mung beans or sesame seeds: fruits and food will be plentiful.
Water or hay: there will be average rainfall. Cereals, fruits, food and meat will be abundant.
Rice liquor: convenient, transportation prosperity and flourishing of foreign trade and economy.After the ceremony is over, attendees who gather to witness the event will rapidly crowd onto the field and pick up the sacred rice seeds to take home and mix them with their own rice seeds for auspiciousness or to keep as a lucky charm.
Farmer’s Day
In 1966, the Royal Ploughing Ceremony was designated as the Farmer’s Day. The purpose is to create awareness among farmers of the importance of agriculture and provide them with an opportunity to join the ceremony to bring auspiciousness to their occupation.
All photos courtesy of the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives
(file photo of The Royal Ploughing Ceremony 2023)
The post Their Majesties the King and Queen to Preside Over The Royal Ploughing Ceremony 2024 appeared first on TAT Newsroom.
9 May 09 2024Press Releaseshttps://www.tatnews.org/?p=79176 - Thailand extends visa exemption for Indian and Taiwanese tourists for another six months
Thailand has extended a temporary visa exemption for tourists from India and Taiwan for another six months to boost tourism. The extended period is from 11 May until 11 November 2024.
The post Thailand extends visa exemption for Indian and Taiwanese tourists for another six months appeared first on TAT Newsroom.
Bangkok, 8 May 2024 – Thailand has extended a temporary visa exemption for tourists from India and Taiwan for another six months to boost tourism. The extended period is from 11 May until 11 November 2024.
This follows the initial phase of visa exemption, which began on 10 November 2023 and is set to expire on 10 May 2024.
Over the next six months, Indian and Taiwanese citizens will be granted a temporary visa exemption for a 30-day stay on tourism purpose in Thailand.
The post Thailand extends visa exemption for Indian and Taiwanese tourists for another six months appeared first on TAT Newsroom.
8 May 08 2024Visitor Informationhttps://www.tatnews.org/?p=79189 - Tourism Authority of Thailand and dnata Travel Group sign strategic partnership agreement
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and dnata Travel Group, a global leader in travel services, have signed a Strategic Partnership Agreement with the aim of enhancing tourism to Thailand.
The post Tourism Authority of Thailand and dnata Travel Group sign strategic partnership agreement appeared first on TAT Newsroom.
Dubai, 7 May 2024 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and dnata Travel Group, a global leader in travel services, have signed a Strategic Partnership Agreement with the aim of enhancing tourism to Thailand.
The agreement was signed by Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, and Mr. John Bevan, CEO of the dnata Travel Group at a ceremony held on 6 May 2024 at the Thailand Pavilion during the Arabian Travel Market 2024 in Dubai, UAE.
Also present were Mr. Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing – Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Mr. Nithee Seeprae, TAT Deputy Governor for Marketing Communications, and Mr. Rashid Al Awadhi, Senior Vice President – Middle East and India at the dnata Travel Group, along with other officials from both organisations.
Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said “Through this agreement with the dnata Travel Group, our goal is to collectively implement the most effective strategies and practices to expand Thailand’s marketing presence and establish it as a ‘Quality Leisure Destination.’ This initiative emphasizes enhancing Thailand’s reputation as a unique leisure destination that offers unparalleled quality and value.
“We aim to achieve a balance between tourism growth and its social and environmental implications by crafting ‘value-added experiences’ and ensuring harmony between revenue generation, community engagement, and environmental conservation.”
The partnership seeks to leverage dnata’s extensive global network, particularly in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, to drive increased tourist arrivals from the Middle East to Thailand. By focusing on key niche markets and promoting quality leisure destinations within the kingdom, both TAT and dnata aim to enhance Thailand’s appeal and attract discerning travellers.
Under the Strategic Partnership Agreement, TAT and dnata will collaborate on a series of joint promotions tailored to elevate Thailand’s tourism profile across the GCC countries, including the UAE, Oman, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia. These promotions will target niche tourism segments such as sports, luxury, honeymoon, and wellness, offering tailored experiences to travellers seeking unique and memorable vacations.
Mr. John Bevan, CEO, dnata Travel Group, said “The focus on high-value niche markets aligns with dnata’s strategy to attract visitors who seek premium experiences and are willing to invest in unique products and services. I believe that the partnership between TAT and dnata Travel Group marks a significant milestone in the efforts to enhance tourism to Thailand and underscores the commitment of both organizations to deliver exceptional travel experiences to visitors from the Middle East and beyond.”
The post Tourism Authority of Thailand and dnata Travel Group sign strategic partnership agreement appeared first on TAT Newsroom.
7 May 07 2024Press Releaseshttps://www.tatnews.org/?p=79193 - Amazing Thailand Launches “Your Stories Never End” Campaign at Arabian Travel Market 2024
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has launched the latest communication concept, "Amazing Thailand: Your Stories Never End," at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM), where the Thai pavilion presents a contingent of 64 Thai exhibitors at Dubai World Trade Center, United Arab Emirates, from 6-9 May 2024.
The post Amazing Thailand Launches “Your Stories Never End” Campaign at Arabian Travel Market 2024 appeared first on TAT Newsroom.
Dubai, 7 May 2024 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has launched the latest communication concept, “Amazing Thailand: Your Stories Never End,” at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM), where the Thai pavilion presents a contingent of 64 Thai exhibitors at Dubai World Trade Center, United Arab Emirates, from 6-9 May 2024.
Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said, “This is Thailand’s 24th year of participation in the Arabian Travel Market. This year also marks the first time that TAT and the Phuket Tourist Association have strengthened cooperation in presenting exhibitors from Phuket in a dedicated zone under the umbrella of the Thai pavilion.”
The Thai contingent includes 36 exhibitors from Phuket, 22 from Bangkok, three from Krabi, two from Chon Buri (Pattaya) and one from Surat Thani (Ko Samui). These constitute 40 hotels, 11 destination management companies, three wellness and medical service institutes, eight attractions and theme parks, and the Thailand Privilege Card.
At the Thai pavilion, Phuket exhibitors are presented in a dedicated zone with 26 tables, while the rest occupy 36 other tables in the main zone and the Thailand Privilege Card exhibits in a private area. The main entrance boasts a demonstration area of distinctive Thai soft power and a Thai tourism information counter with English and Arabic speaking officers.
Mr. Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing – Europe, Africa, the Middle East, said “Thailand’s presence this year has been strengthened with a very good mix of exhibitors that cater to different customer bases of the Middle East market, especially the established family market and the growing shopping and luxury segments. The strong presence of Phuket underpins its commitment to boost the destinations’ profile as a destination for visitors from the Middle East.”
During the ATM 2024, TAT has scheduled a signing of a strategic partnership agreement with dnata Travel. It has also planned meet-and-greet sessions with Emirates Airlines, WEGO and Qatar Airways, as well as interviews with local media.
TAT also leverages its participation at ATM 2024 with the launch of the new communication concept, Amazing Thailand: Your Stories Never End, held on 6 May for tour operators, airlines, local media and influencers.
Mr. Nithee Seeprae, TAT Deputy Governor for Marketing Communications, said “This concept encapsulates our commitment to creating unforgettable experiences for every traveller who visits our beloved kingdom. We aim to instil lasting memories and meaningful journeys that will inspire visitors to become storytellers, sharing their own unique tales of Thailand with others around the world.”
To encourage travellers to create never-ending stories in Thailand, TAT will continue to promote the kingdom’s 5F soft-power foundations – Food, Film, Festival, Fight and Fashion – to add value to tourism products and services as well as offer meaningful experiences to travellers.
Some of the highlight experiences travellers can enjoy while in Thailand include wellness, hidden-gem cities, and world-class events.
In 2023, Thailand welcomed 28 million visitors, generating a revenue of 1.2 trillion Baht. Of these, 651,049 visitors from the Middle East, a 28% increase compared to the pre-COVID year of 2019.
For 2024, TAT has set a target of generating 3 trillion Baht, with 1.92 trillion Baht coming from international tourism and 1.08 trillion Baht from domestic tourism. These include over 1.11 million travellers from the Middle East and more than 106 billion Baht revenue.
Photo Gallery 1: The Thai pavilion was officially opened by Ms. Thapanee together with Miss Nipa Nirannoot, Consul-General of Thailand to Dubai and the Northern Emirates. Also present at the event were executives and representatives from the Team Thailand in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, the TAT, tourism associations and the Thailand Privilege Card.
Photo Gallery 2: “Your Stories Never End” Media Launch 2024
Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool 
Mr. Nithee Seeprae (centre) The post Amazing Thailand Launches “Your Stories Never End” Campaign at Arabian Travel Market 2024 appeared first on TAT Newsroom.
7 May 07 2024Press Releaseshttps://www.tatnews.org/?p=79154 - TAT and UnionPay International Sign Letter of Intent
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and UnionPay International (UPI), a global leading card scheme, have signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) to enhance cooperation in the promotion of Thailand’s quality tourism experiences for Chinese visitors and UnionPay cardholders.
The post TAT and UnionPay International Sign Letter of Intent appeared first on TAT Newsroom.
Bangkok, 30 April 2024 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and UnionPay International (UPI), a global leading card scheme, have signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) to enhance cooperation in the promotion of Thailand’s quality tourism experiences for Chinese visitors and UnionPay cardholders.
The LOI was signed between Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, and Mr. Wang Lixin, UnionPay International, in the presence of Ms. Chang Yumeng, Counsellor for Cultural Affairs of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China to Thailand. Executives of both parties also attended the signing ceremony at the TAT Head Office in Bangkok.
Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said “This TAT-UnionPay International agreement supports the Thai government’s tourism policy to forge long-term strategic partnerships with leading players in key tourist markets. China is one of Thailand’s largest markets. Following the visa-free policy for Chinese tourists, further enhancement of cooperation with Chinese counterparts will help facilitate travel as well as develop and promote quality tourism experiences in Thailand for Chinese visitors.
“This latest agreement also aligns with the TAT’s Partnership 360 strategy,” Ms. Thapanee added. “Specifically for the Chinese market, studies have indicated that Chinese tourists have high purchasing power and that they prefer Thailand as a travel destination. And so buoyed by the 30-day visa-free stay, the partnership with UnionPay International would result in several initiatives to stimulate Chinese tourists to visit Thailand and spend more on Thai tourism products and services.”
The TAT-UnionPay International LOI has a validity of two years. TAT and UnionPay International will cooperate with cooperation ranging from co-fund joint marketing initiatives and joint promotions and press releases to data sharing and high-end customers.
The agreement is expected to help inspire Chinese tourists and UnionPay cardholders to visit Thailand while enabling a deeper understanding of their consumption and spending behaviour.
Specific marketing and outreach efforts towards UnionPay’s higher-tiered client base, including Platinum or Diamond cardholders and above or clients with high income, will be introduced to encourage travel to Thailand and stimulate higher spending.
Mr. Wang Lixin, UnionPay International, said “UnionPay is one of China’s leading payment brands, whereas China is a pioneer in cashless transactions, and UnionPay cards are accepted in more than 180 countries and regions with nearly 67 million merchants outside China’s mainland. This cooperation will leverage UnionPay’s network to present Thailand’s quality tourism offerings in the Chinese market while stimulating UnionPay cardholders to spend more for special privileges.”
Statistics showed that 2,152,167 Chinese tourists visited Thailand from 1 January to 21 April 2024, making it the largest tourist market.
China and Thailand waive visa requirements for citizens of both countries from 1 March 2024. Holders of valid Thai ordinary passports and valid Chinese passports for public affairs and ordinary passports are exempted from visa requirements for entering, exiting, or transiting the other country’s territory for a 30-day stay. Cumulative stays must not exceed 90 days in any 180-day period.
This is except for those with the purposes of residing or engaging in employment, study, media activities or other activities that require prior approval from competent authorities of the other country.
The post TAT and UnionPay International Sign Letter of Intent appeared first on TAT Newsroom.
30 April 30 2024Press Releaseshttps://www.tatnews.org/?p=79149 - May 2024’s Festivals and Events in Thailand
The month of May 2024 boasts an exciting lineup of local cultural celebrations of Visakha Bucha Day and Bun Bung Fai Rocket Festival, as well as many other exciting events and festivals.
The post May 2024’s Festivals and Events in Thailand appeared first on TAT Newsroom.
The month of May 2024 boasts an exciting lineup of local cultural celebrations of Visakha Bucha Day and Bun Bung Fai Rocket Festival, as well as many other exciting events and festivals.
Visakha Bucha Day
22 May 2024
At temples nationwideHeld each year on the full moon of the sixth lunar month, Visakha Bucha Day celebrates the birth, enlightenment and death of Lord Buddha. On this day, Buddhists will go to the temple in worship and remembrance of the teachings and social and spiritual values of Buddha, and perform merit-making and candlelight ceremonies. This includes an evening Wien Tien candlelit procession where Buddhist devotees hold lighted candles in hand and go around a temple three times, representing one the Buddha, two his teachings, and three the monkhood.
Here are some of Thailand’s distinctive Visakha Bucha Day celebrations:
Sukhothai ‘Wien Tien Ta Khan’ Visakha Bucha Day 2024
21-22 May 2024
Wat Chang Lom, Sukhothai Historical Park
SukhothaiNakhon Phanom Visakha Bucha Day 2024
22 May 2024
Wat Phra That Phanom
Nakhon Phanom51st World’s Only Wien Tien Ceremony on Water, Phayao Lake
22-24 May 2024
Wat Tilok Aram’s Pier and Wat Tilok Aram
Phayao Lake
PhayaoKalasin Visakha Bucha Day 2024
22-26 May 2024
Phrathat Yakhu
Kamalasai District
KalasinOther events and festivals
Here is a list – sorted by event date – of cultural, entertainment, sporting and other occasions taking place around Thailand in May 2024, including the exhilarating Bun Bung Fai Rocket Festival in the Northeastern Thai provinces of Yasothon, Kalasin and Roi Et.
Spotlight Koh Tao 2024
3-5 May 2024
Ao Luek, Ko Tao
Surat ThaniMango Art Festival 2024
7-12 May 2024
River City Bangkok
BangkokYasothon Bun Bang Fai Rocket Festival
10-12 May 2024
Chaeng Sanit Road
YasothonWai Kru Nora Wat Tha Khae
15-18 May 2024
Wat Tha Khae
PhatthalungOUTDOOR FEST 2024
16-19 May 2024
11.00-20.00 Hrs.
Hall 5-6, Queen Sirikit National Convention Center
BangkokKrabi Wellness Festival 2024
17-18 May 2024
Sport Complex, Thailand National Sports University, Krabi Campus
KrabiOCEANMAN Krabi 2024
17-19 May 2024
Varana Hotel Krabi
KrabiKalasin Bun Bung Fai Talai Lan Festival
18-19 May 2024
Kutwa Municipality, Kuchinarai District
KalasinSamui Regatta 2024
25 May – 1 June 2024
Chaweng Beach, Ko Samui
Surat ThaniSupersports 10 Mile Run Series 2024 Thailand
26 May 2024
centralwOrld
BangkokRoi Et Bun Bung Fai Festival
29 May – 2 June 2024
Suwannaphum District
Roi EtThe post May 2024’s Festivals and Events in Thailand appeared first on TAT Newsroom.
26 April 26 2024Events & Festivalshttps://www.tatnews.org/?p=79140 - CF-Hotels Initiative Reiterates TAT’s Push Towards Sustainable Tourism
Bangkok, 25 April 2024 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) invites hotel operators and tourists to be a part of its ‘CF-Hotels’ initiative to help reduce the impacts of climate change. The www.cf-hotels.com online platform has been created to enable hotel and lodging operators to create a database of environmental inventory (energy, water, waste …
The post CF-Hotels Initiative Reiterates TAT’s Push Towards Sustainable Tourism appeared first on TAT Newsroom.
Bangkok, 25 April 2024 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) invites hotel operators and tourists to be a part of its ‘CF-Hotels’ initiative to help reduce the impacts of climate change.
The www.cf-hotels.com online platform has been created to enable hotel and lodging operators to create a database of environmental inventory (energy, water, waste and greenhouse gases) and calculate the carbon footprint of their operations.
This will reflect the impact of the hotel operations on the environment and can indicate how successful the business is in sustainable management. The data can also be analysed to find ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, allowing hotels to make informed business management decisions to increase revenue and reduce expenses from energy consumption.
Hotels can also present the database as part of the submissions for a STAR (Sustainable Tourism Acceleration Rating) certification and the Thailand Tourism Awards.
The www.cf-hotels.com online platform currently has a network of 160 hotels across Thailand.
Tourists to can be a part of this effort to help prevent climate change by choosing to stay in any of these hotels where possible.
TAT developed the CF-Hotels online platform in cooperation with the Research Unit for Energy Economic and Ecological Management, Science and Technology Research Institute, Chiang Mai University. The project is carried out under the guidelines of the Thailand Greenhouse Gas Management Organisation.
The CF-Hotels initiative forms part of the TAT’s push towards more sustainable tourism and Net Zero Tourism.
The post CF-Hotels Initiative Reiterates TAT’s Push Towards Sustainable Tourism appeared first on TAT Newsroom.
25 April 25 2024Press Releaseshttps://www.tatnews.org/?p=79136
