Thailand has launched a new campaign aiming to capture a large slice of the growing digital nomad traveler market. The ‘LOCO(AL) Working Space’ campaign invites remote workers to stay and immerse in authentic Thai communities while staying connected. The campaign is supported by the Tourism Authority of Thailand, which says the initiative transforms traditional work environments by offering unique ‘SPACE TONES’ for seamless and mindful remote working. The campaign showcases Chiang Mai, one of Southeast Asia’s top digital nomad destinations, Phuket and Bangkok. The curated environments will foster productivity, inspiration, and well-being, it says. Chiang Mai: Valley Space In Chiang Mai, remote workers get a harmonious blend of tradition and modern amenities. Beyond the city’s vibrant co-working spaces and artisan markets, remote workers can explore peaceful mountain communities such as: Mae Klang Luang: a serene village nestled in the Doi Inthanon National Park, it offers a peaceful retreat where visitors can immerse themselves in the simplicity of rural Thai life. The Karen tribe village is famous for its lush rice fields and vibrant flower gardens. Mae Mae: is known for its peaceful vibe and lush green hills, immersive eco-tourism experiences and local traditions Mae Sa Noi: is noted for its serene waterfalls and forest trails, as well as local elephant experiences. Visitors can see elephants bathing in the Mae Sa Noi stream. Chiang Mai co-working spaces like Alt ChiangMai and Alt PingRiver provide fully furnished accommodations and shared amenities. Bangkok: Classic Space Trok Dilokchan is a cultural alleyway that blends heritage and contemporary lifestyles. Here, digital nomads in Bangkok can explore century-old architecture, enjoy coffee in restored shophouses, and discover co-working spaces filled with character. Phuket: Island Space For digital nomads who crave beach views and a laid-back island vibe. Ko Lon: Ko Lon has a relaxed beach vibe with friendly locals, and stunning coral reefs, and fresh seafood. Ko Lon offers the perfect balance of productive work and a relaxed island escape. Ko Naka Yai: just a 15-minute boat ride off the east coast from Phuket, it is known for its secluded location. The island’s tiny size has no crowds or traffic to slow you down. In Phuket Old Town, colonial architecture meets trendy cafés and art-filled streets, providing remote workers with a colorful, creative space to be based. The campaign is anchored in the ‘5 Must Do in Thailand’ experience pillars, encouraging digital nomads to not only work remotely but to live locally. From tasting regional dishes and trying age-old crafts to buying community-made goods, exploring nature, and seeking inner peace.

  With “reef-safe” sunscreen claims still largely unregulated, a new certification is helping to set an industry standard: Reef Protection Factor (RPF), developed by the University of Derby in collaboration with the global creative agency McCann.   RPF is a pioneering certification designed to address the issues around chemical pollution around the world which is impacting our oceans and aiding in the decline of vital ecosystems such as tropical coral reefs. It pushes the industry forward by initially targeting one of the most preventable local stressors facing these ecosystems: harmful chemicals, for example, those used in many sunscreens. With more than 80% of brands still contributing to coral damage, combined with no regulation around the 'reef-safe' claims - RPF helps consumers identify products that are truly safe for our delicate marine ecosystems.   Driving industry change Awareness of RPF and education about harmful sunscreens is now going global through strategic partnerships in key marine regions.   “We believe Reef Protection Factor is a game-changer,” said Jon Elsom, Group Executive Creative Director at McCann. “We’ve been blown away by the positive reception of RPF, and Coral Care™, by all of our incredible global partners. Everyone we’ve spoken to has come on board immediately, from tourist boards to eco organisations to hotel chains. It’s not often you get to work on something that can genuinely change the world.”   Activities include a flagship partnership with Amazing Thailand, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), in support of its Grand Tourism & Sports Year 2025. The collaboration kicked off with an ‘Amnesty Boat’ event on Railay Beach, Krabi in southern Thailand where beachgoers were invited to exchange their sunscreens for reef-safe Coral Care™ - another breakthrough innovation developed by Stream2Sea in partnership with McCann, tested by the University of Derby.   Commenting on the success of the sunscreen swap, Ms. Worapa Angkhasirisap, Director of TAT UK & Ireland said: "Coral Care and TAT share the same vision, to protect Thailand's natural beauty. We actively encourage responsible tourism and advocating reef-safe sunscreen promotes more sustainable travel practices. Travellers using RPF-certified sunscreen is a simple yet effective way to minimise environmental impact and preserve the beauty of Thailand's underwater world - it's an amazing new product!"   Thailand's commitment to raising awareness of sustainable travel continues this month with the Amazing Krabi Green Guide Fest 2025 on Hat Noppharat Thara beach. The 4 day event, 15-18 May, showcases local green businesses, food, art and learning with a fun festival vibe.   The World’s First “Reef-Nourishing” Sunscreen Coral Care™ is the first sunscreen not only formulated to avoid harming coral, but to actively nourish it. Developed by Stream2Sea in collaboration with McCann, it’s also the first product to receive the RPF certification, marking a significant leap forward in ocean-friendly skincare.   “Partnering with McCann and the University of Derby has allowed us to push the boundaries of what’s possible. Our innovative Coral Care™ product is a powerful validation of our commitment to protecting marine ecosystems, and we hope it inspires the rest of the industry to follow suit," said Autumn Blum, Founder & Cosmetic Chemist at Stream2Sea.   Best Places to Snorkel & Dive in Thailand Thailand is home to some of the best diving and snorkelling sites in Asia including 14 national parks with coastal areas and reefs of which 9 you can snorkel and dive in. Whatever your level of experience, there are plenty of options if you’re looking for underwater adventures on your next holiday.  

• Most tourists travel through Chumphon enroute to Ko Tao, Ko Pha Ngan and Ko Samui. But those who make a stop here are rewarded with colourful corals and diverse marine life including pink dolphins in Mu Ko Chumphon National Park.
• The Ko Chang archipelago on the east coast has calm and relatively shallow waters so a great option for novice divers. It’s also home to one of Thailand’s biggest wrecks - the Royal Thai Navy ship HTMS Chang - creating an artificial reef.
• Ko Tao is one of the top locations in Thailand for both diving and snorkelling and the best place in Asia to get PADI certified. For experienced divers, Chumphon Pinnacle is a fabulous spot with frequent whale shark sightings.
• The Similan Islands are a group of nine stunning islands which are part of the protected Mu Ko Surin National Park. The islands of Ko Bon and Ko Tachai are now also included within the boundaries of the National Park.
• With a number of dive schools in Ao Nang and proximity to the Phi Phi Islands and Ko Lanta, Krabi is another good choice for divers. It is 25 years since ‘The Beach’ movie put Maya Bay on the map and it is still one of the most scenic places for snorkelling. After the bay closed to let the reef rest and repair, marine life like blacktip reef sharks have been spotted again.

  For more information about Reef Protection Factor and Coral Care™, visit https://rpf.world.

 

Thailand Launches Year-Long Tourism and Sports Celebration Targeting 40 Million Visitors and 3 Trillion Baht in Revenue

  Thailand has officially launched the ‘Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025’, a grand initiative celebrating the nation’s cultural heritage, diverse tourism experiences, and world-class sporting events. The campaign will feature year-round tourism festivals, high-profile sporting tournaments, and exclusive travel privileges, reinforcing Thailand’s position as a global leader in tourism and sports.   With an ambitious goal, Thailand aims to attract 39 million international visitors globally and generate 3.5 trillion Baht in tourism revenue by the end of 2025. In the UK and Ireland, the target is to welcome 1,076,000 and 90,000 arrivals respectively, generating 99,115 Million Baht revenue.   Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Governor Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool said: “Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025 will be a landmark year, offering truly exceptional experiences for travellers. TAT is committed to igniting Thailand’s tourism industry to its full potential through the 5 Grand concept, driven by strong collaboration between the public and private sectors.”   This initiative will promote year-round tourism and highlight Hidden Gem Cities as well as the 5 Must-Do in Thailand—a curated selection of must-taste food, must-try Muay Thai and massage, must-buy local products, must-seek experiences, and must-see festivals. These elements will ensure that every visitor enjoys an unforgettable journey through Thailand’s rich cultural and sporting landscapes.   TAT has created a range of Grand Collaborations for 2025, exciting partnerships and campaigns that span culture, sport, nature, food, film and more to inspire and welcome all travellers. The highly anticipated third series of White Lotus aired on 17th February and, this summer, Krabi and its stunning national parks are the backdrop to movie release Jurassic World Rebirth.   Some of the biggest highlights of 2025 will be Thailand’s role as host of elite sports such as the 33rd SEA Games from 9–20 December, the FIVB Women’s Volleyball World Championship 2025 from 22 August – 7 September and the Jet Ski World Series 2025 (17–21 December, Chon Buri). 2025 also marks the sixth year Thailand has hosted MotoGP PT Grand Prix of Thailand.   There are exciting sporting partnerships taking place in the UK too including an ongoing relationship with Leicester City FC and a new sponsorship deal with Oxford FC.   Harj Hir, Head of Partnerships at Leicester City, said: "Thailand holds a special place in the hearts of everyone at Leicester City, so we’re proud to be celebrating our partnership with the Tourism Authority of Thailand through the Amazing Thailand campaign. It’s a chance for us to share Thailand’s incredible culture, warmth and hospitality with our fans, and we look forward to creating more unforgettable moments together."   Adam Benson, Chief Commercial & Marketing Officer at Oxford United, said: “This is an exciting partnership, and we are delighted to build on our existing relationship with the Tourism Authority of Thailand. The kingdom is increasingly staging international sports and leisure events that draw participants from around the world. We look forward to working with TAT to help promote Thailand as a potential destination for tourists and sports enthusiasts alike."   Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, added: “These collaborations are a cornerstone of TAT's Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025, a year we envision to be filled with grand opportunities to showcase Thailand as an exciting holiday destination. We will bring the spirit of Thailand to club fans, inspiring them to explore our country's unmatched culture, hospitality, food, beaches and adventure.”   In 2025, Thailand is set to offer an unparalleled choice of travel and sporting experiences during the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year. The world is invited to discover the magic of Thailand and be part of this historic celebration.   The 5 Grand Concept includes:   Grand Festivity – A year-long celebration featuring traditional festivals like Songkran, World Wai Kru Muay Thai to modern events such as Wonderfruit, MotoGP and Amazing Thailand Marathon Bangkok.   Grand Moment – A collection of exclusive travel experiences designed to create once-in-a-lifetime moments unique to Thailand such as the pink sea of mist at Doi Inthanon, the natural jacuzzi at Pha Sok Waterfall, the mystical mangroves of Trat, the alien rock formations of Kanchanaburi, and bioluminescent plankton in Chumphon.   Grand Privilege – TAT is rolling out premium travel benefits offering exclusive promotions throughout the year in partnership with supplier and operator partners including Amazing Romance Month for couples and LGBTQ+ travellers in February, Amazing Thailand Grand Sale in June and Amazing Summer Family for multigeneration travellers in August.   Grand Invitation – Thailand will host global icons, sports legends, and influential figures at high-profile events such as the Amazing Thailand Saneh Thai Gala Night further promoting Thailand as a premier destination.   Grand Celebration – Thailand will celebrate key milestones in its tourism industry, including the 170th anniversary of Thailand-United Kingdom diplomatic relations, 50^th Years of Thai-Irish Diplomatic Relations, and the 15th Thailand Tourism Awards, honouring excellence in the sector. These events mark a new era for Thailand’s tourism, reinforcing its commitment to global collaboration and sustainable growth.   Visit www.fanclubthailand.co.uk for more destination information and follow @fanclubthailand on Instagram.

  Kittipong Prapattong from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) provided an overview of the country's evolving tourism strategy. The government is working on implementing a modest tourism tax to fund infrastructure, safety, and sustainability efforts. Thailand is also extending visa durations for digital nomads, allowing stays of up to 180 days to encourage local spending. Looking ahead to 2025, Thailand is preparing a grand tourism campaign aimed at revitalizing the sector and reaching pre-pandemic visitor numbers. With a focus on sustainable growth and community-driven tourism, Thailand is set to make a major comeback.  

 

At WTM 2024, Thailand’s Tourism and Sports Minister reveals 2025 tourism agenda with new attractions, cultural celebrations, and global collaboration to bolster the tourism sector.

  Thailand’s Minister of Tourism and Sports, Mr. Sorawong Thienthong, announced 2025 as the “Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year” at the Amazing Thailand Press Conference during the World Travel Market (WTM) 2024.   The “Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025” aims to welcome travellers from around the globe with world-class festivities and privileges. “This campaign isn’t just a celebration; it’s an invitation for all to create unforgettable travel stories in Thailand,” Mr. Sorawong remarked.   Strategic Investments to Lead Global Tourism   Thailand is making significant investments to maintain its reputation as a top destination, with a tourism target of £75.55 billion (3.4 trillion Baht) for 2025. “The tourism industry is vital to Thailand’s economy, reflecting not only in economic gains but also in the communities uplifted and the millions of lives touched across the country,” Mr. Sorawong stated.   He elaborated on Thailand's tourism direction, anchored in the ‘Ignite Thailand’ vision, emphasising that the nation’s prosperity is tied to the well-being of its people. This principle will guide every policy and initiative, ensuring that tourism positively impacts visitors, local communities, and the environment.   To support this, the government is enhancing infrastructure, easing visa processes, and fostering a seamless ASEAN travel network through the ‘Six Countries, One Destination’ policy. Recent moves, such as British Airways’ resumption of flights to Thailand, underscore the country’s commitment to accessibility and connectivity.   Promoting Unique Destinations and Cultural Experiences   The government is actively promoting hidden gem destinations like Nan, Phrae, and Sakon Nakhon to diversify travel experiences across the country. Additionally, attractions such as amusement parks, shopping centres, and entertainment venues are being expanded to cater to a broader range of travellers.   Thailand's soft power is another essential asset, with efforts focused on preserving and promoting Thai traditions, arts, and crafts. The government is promoting the 'Five-Must Do' experiences – Must Taste, Must Try, Must Buy, Must Seek, and Must See, that capture Thailand's unique charms, encompassing Thai cuisine, fashion, vibrant festivals, and beautiful scenery.   A Hub for Global Events and Entertainment   Thailand’s vision to become a hub for international events is reflected in a robust calendar of festivities, including the Amazing Thailand Countdown 2025, MotoGP events in February and March, and the iconic Songkran Festival in April. These events are anticipated to drive year-round tourism and contribute significantly to the national economy.   Invitation to the Global Community   Mr. Sorawong reiterated the importance of private sector involvement in energising Thailand’s tourism landscape and creating new investment opportunities. He extended an open invitation to investors, travel agencies, and media to participate in Thailand’s journey toward becoming a top global destination that benefits all stakeholders.

  Chiravadee Khunsub, the Executive Director for Europe at the Tourism Authority of Thailand, shares invaluable insights at the The Thailand Travel Mart Plus (TTM) 2024 in Khao Lak. Highlighting the resilience of Thailand's tourism post-COVID, Khunsub mentions surpassing 2019's statistics and emphasizing sustainable tourism's significance. She discusses initiatives like the "Amazing Thailand" project and enhancing airlift accessibility. Khunsub underscores Thailand's commitment to sustainability, aligning with UN SDGs, and fostering a holistic approach across the tourism supply chain. Her vision includes a collective consciousness towards environmental preservation, advocating for mindful consumption and eco-friendly practices, paving the path for a greener, more responsible tourism industry.  

Online travel marketplace Wego has extended its partnership with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) for a fourth straight year. Wego is one of the main online travel players in the Middle East and North Africa, as well as across Asia Pacific. It will continue to showcase Thailand attractions, culture and nature globally. Wego and TAT say their ongoing partnership has reached millions of travellers and driven high levels of interest in Thailand tourism over the past three years. "We are delighted to continue our partnership with the Tourism Authority of Thailand for the fourth consecutive campaign," said Mamoun Hmedan, Chief Business Officer at Wego. "Thailand is a beloved destination, and we are committed to showcasing it through our platform." "We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Wego for the fourth campaign," added Chaiwat Tamthai, Director of TAT’s Dubai office.

Related News Stories:  Amazing Thailand - TravelMole     Hawaii Tourism Authority re-enters Europe - TravelMole     Malta Tourism Authority - TravelMole     Las Vegas Visitors and Convention Authority - TravelMole     Egypt - TravelMole     Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) - TravelMole     Thailand to introduce tourist insurance fund - TravelMole     Welcome to Amazing Thailand Specialist Program - TravelMole     Saudi launches biggest ever tourism campaign in China     Saint Lucia - TravelMole

In a boost for tourism, the Thailand government has approved a tax cut on alcohol and for entertainment venues. Taxes on wine will be halved from 10% to 5% while the 10% tax on spirits will be scrapped. Also, the excise tax levied on entertainment venues will be halved to 5%. They are temporary measures which will last until the end of 2024. It is the latest move to boost the night time entertainment industry after opening hours were extended to 4am recently in major tourism areas. Finance Ministry Permanent Secretary Lavaron Sangsnit said additional spending by tourists will offset any cut in the tax revenues. The government said it reached the amended tourist arrivals target of 29 million in 2023. It is forecasting 34 million tourist arrivals for 2024.  

Speaking on the sidelines at World Travel Market, Siripakorn Cheawsamoot Deputy Governor for International Marketing. Europe Africa Middle East and Americas, exclusively speaks about Thailand’s focus on meaningful people-to-people connections. This underpins Thailand tourism’s ‘Meaningful Relationship’ campaign, which encompasses immersion in local communities, food and experiences. “Thailand always begins with the local people and their hospitality. That is why Thais are a very important resource,” he said. Siripakorn also shared the philosophy behind the Responsible Thailand Awards and the implementation of its own Sustainable Tourism Goals (STGs). This awards tourism businesses with a STAR rating for their ‘sustainable approach and management.’ Siripakorn said there are currently more than 250 businesses with a STAR rating.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) recently rolled out its new ‘Meaningful Relationship’ marketing concept to tourism industry delegates during World Travel Market 2023. The Amazing Thailand Press Conference was presented by TAT Governor, Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, along with fellow TAT executives. Ms. Thapanee said: “The new ‘Meaningful Relationship’ concept is designed to encourage travellers to engage in a meaningful connection with local communities and Thailand.” This encompasses nature, the Thai people and the country itself. “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. To this end, TAT has partnered with the Thai Ecotourism and Adventure Travel Association (TEATA) to promote its sustainable travel messaging to the UK market. During 2023 Ms Thapanee cited a biggert focus on Thai food and cultural activities as a way to increase people-to-people connections. 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 nearly 300 businesses with STAR certifications in Thailand. Meanwhile, TEATA, in collaboration with Tourlink, has developed seven carbon-neutral travel routes for travellers to explore Thailand. 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 a focus on luxury, wellness and responsible travel segments to boost spending and to encourage longer stays in local areas. For 2024, Thailand is targeting over 900,000 UK tourist arrivals.

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.

In a big move to boost Thailand tourism, Chinese tourists will get a visa exemption. It is a temporary measuring kicking off from 25 September 2023 to 29 February 2024. It is also valid for nationals of Kazakhstan. Chinese and Kazakhstani travellers will be given the tourist visa exemption for a stay of up to 30 days. “This stimulus visa scheme forms measures to boost the Thai economy through travel and tourism,” the Ministry of Tourism said. “Ultimately, it will help revive Thai tourism and reach the revenue target set for this year.” During the five-month tourist visa exemption period, Thailand is targeting up to 2.8 million Chinese tourists It forecasts about 130,000 from Kazakhstan. As of 10 September 2023, Thailand has so far welcomed 2.2 million Chinese visitors, the number two source market behind Malaysia. The visa exemption period starts just before the busy Golden Week holidays in China.