Thailand
is stepping up tourism campaigns in the aftermath of the recent severe
floods to restore tourist confidence, especially during the high season.
Permanent Secretary for Tourism and Sports, Suwat
Sidhilaw, and Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT),
Suraphon Svetasreni, spoke about Thailand’s present tourism situation
and new campaigns to attract tourist arrivals.
In the first half of this year, the number of Thais traveling in the
country rose by 11.8 percent over the same period of last year.
Following the flood crisis in the second half of 2011, the number of
local tourists is likely to drop by 5 percent.
As for foreign visitors, the number for 2011 is estimated at 18.4
million, a decline from the original projection of 19.5 million. The
markets that have been most affected include Europe, America, and Asia,
especially China, Taiwan, and Vietnam.
In order to ensure a quick recovery in tourism after the floods, TAT has
invited members of the media from all over the world, in order to
provide them with updated information about the current situation. It
also plans a road show in December 2011 to visit three major cities in
China, namely Shanghai, Beijing, and Guangzhou. It is expected that
Thailand will begin to see more Chinese tourists in January and February
next year. Special promotions with airlines and tour operators have
also been offered.
A report from TAT said that a recovery campaign, called “Beautiful
Thailand,” had been launched to make it clear that Thailand’s tourist
destinations were welcoming tourists as always and the country is open
for business and visitors. The campaign involves engaging media from key
markets worldwide. According to the report, although the flooding
mainly affected provinces in the central region, it had a minor impact
on tourist attractions throughout Thailand.
Meanwhile, the ancient city of Ayutthaya, which is one of Thailand’s
major tourist destinations, is undergoing rehabilitation to ensure that
the city is ready to welcome back visitors following the flood crisis.
All transportation is operating normally and most services and
activities for tourists are available as usual. As for historical sites
damaged by floods, the Cabinet has approved a budget to restore them.
Tourist arrivals in Thailand next year are expected to reach 19.55
million, bringing in 766 billion baht in tourism income. The TAT
Governor believes that from the year-end holiday period until March
2012, the second half of the high season, the tourism sector will have
recovered. In the past, he said, the Thai tourism sector recovered
quickly when faced with similar situations. This clearly shows
travelers’ preference for and loyalty to the “brand” of Thailand.
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