Thailand tourism showcases ‘Meaningful Relationship’ marketing concept

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is using the WTM 2023 as a platform to launch its new ‘Meaningful Relationship’ marketing concept to a worldwide tourism industry audience.

The Amazing Thailand Press Conference was helmed by Minister of Tourism and Sports, H.E. Ms. Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, and TAT Governor, Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, as well as TAT executives.

Ms. Thapanee said:“ The new ‘Meaningful Relationship’ concept is designed to encourage travellers to engage in a meaningful connection with Thailand.”

“When travellers form a relationship with the people they meet and the place they visit, they will have an opportunity of creating lifelong friends”

The concept will be incorporated into TAT’s ongoing promotion of Thailand as a sustainable and responsible tourism destination.

TAT has developed and implemented its own Sustainable Tourism Goals (STGs) in line with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by the United Nations Development Programme.

TAT’s STGs encompass the entire tourism industry in a Sustainable Tourism Acceleration Rating (STAR) system.

Businesses that comply with goals attain a corresponding number of stars.

Currently, there are 251 businesses with STAR certifications in Thailand.

TAT also held the annual Responsible Thailand Awards.

They recognise sustainable Thailand tourism in six categories such as Animal Welfare, Nature, Community-based Tourism and Hotel, Eco Lodge/Eco Hotels.

This year, the winners are Mahouts Elephant Foundation, New Heaven Reef Conservation Programme, Kao Thep Pitak Community Restaurant, Devasom Khao Lak Resort, Elephant Hills, and Pattaya Elephant Sanctuary.

TAT’s partner, the Thai Ecotourism and Adventure Travel Association (TEATA) in collaboration with Tourlink, has developed seven carbon-neutral travel routes for travellers to explore Thailand. while helping reduce the impact on the environment.

Featured destinations include Bangkok, Ratchaburi, Phangnga, Trat, Phetchaburi, and the three Isan provinces of Udon Thani, Nong Khai, and Loei.

For the UK market, TAT will place focus on potential segments with higher spending, a tendency to stay longer, and those wanting to explore local areas.

These segments include luxury, wellness and responsible travel.

From 1 January – 31 October 2023, Thailand recorded over 21.6 million arrivals and generated over THB927 billion.

The top five markets are Malaysia, China, South Korea, India and Russia.

The UK market contributed 617,017 tourists.