Latest news with #AmazingThailandGrandTourismandSportsYear2025
Korea Herald
a day ago
- Business
- Korea Herald
Agoda Reveals First-Half 2025 Travel Insights: China, Malaysia, and South Korea Remain Top Visitors to Thailand
BANGKOK, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Digital travel platform Agoda reveals fresh insights into the Thai travel landscape for the first half of 2025. Based on booking data, China, Malaysia, and South Korea are once again the leading markets visiting Thailand, followed by Japan and Singapore. Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket continue to top the list of most-visited cities among the five leading markets. Hat Yai also emerged as one of the most visited cities, particularly among Malaysian and Singaporean travelers. Hat Yai's growing popularity is likely due to its reputation for affordability, having ranked as the cheapest destination in Thailand and among the top three in Asia for two consecutive years. These destinations offer a mix of urban adventure, coastal leisure, and rich cultural experiences that appeal to a broad spectrum of travelers. Unexpectedly, the market visiting Thailand the most isn't necessarily the one staying the longest. While China tops the list for visitor numbers, the longest average stays are led by South Korea, followed by Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, and then China. Additionally, each market shows unique preferences for where visitors stay longer, with many choosing island escapes for extended visits, such as Ko Tao for its world-class diving, Ko Pha Ngan for its mix of laid-back beach life and well-known party scenes, and inland destinations like Pathum Thani for a quieter, more local experience near Bangkok. Alongside Agoda's data, official figures from Thailand's Ministry of Tourism and Sports reveal that more than 16 million foreign tourists visited Thailand from January to June 2025, generating approximately 743.5 million baht in tourism revenue. With ongoing government initiatives such as the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025, streamlined travel procedures, and increased flight capacities, Thailand continues to assert itself as a leading destination in the region. Meanwhile, for Thai travelers heading abroad, Tokyo, Osaka, Hong Kong, Taipei, and Seoul emerged as the leading destinations for the first half of 2025. Akaporn Rodkong, Country Director at Agoda shared, "We're honored to be the platform of choice for travelers from across Asia and proud to play a role in supporting tourism in Thailand. At Agoda, we're committed to offering convenient and diverse accommodation options that help travelers explore both well-known destinations and hidden gems across the country, making their trips easier and more memorable." With over 6 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, Agoda offers endless possibilities for micro-travelers. Agoda's mobile app is the go-to platform for unbeatable deals for a quick getaway. Start planning your next micro-adventure at
The Sun
25-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Launches ‘Be My Guest' Campaign to Spotlight Thai Soft Power on Global Stage
BANGKOK, THAILAND - Media OutReach Newswire - 25 June 2025 - The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is set to launch the international Be My Guest campaign as part of the government's flagship Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025. Representing the Grand Celebration pillar of the initiative, the campaign is anchored by two core programmes – the Be My Guest Soft Power Fam Trip and Rhythm of Thailand. It aims to amplify Thailand's cultural influence, attract high-value tourism, and promote sustainable travel across emerging destinations. A key pillar of Thailand's Soft Power strategy, Be My Guest reflects the government's ambition to position the country as a premier Tourism Hub while creating economic value through cultural storytelling. The campaign merges heritage and innovation, pairing immersive Thai experiences with contemporary content creation to forge global awareness of Thai identity. 'This campaign is about more than tourism,' said Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor. 'We're inviting the world to see Thailand through the eyes of those who live it – artists, chefs, creators, and communities. Be My Guest allows our heritage to speak for itself, sparking admiration through real stories and shared moments. This is where Soft Power becomes true influence – by forging connections through culture, creativity, and authentic collaboration.' Taking place from 26 June to 1 July 2025, Be My Guest activates both strategic storytelling and experiential tourism. The Be My Guest Soft Power Fam Trip will welcome over 20 prominent international guests – celebrities, embassy-nominated guests, entrepreneurs, and influencers – to explore curated routes through three culturally rich provinces: Samut Songkhram, Sukhothai, and Chanthaburi. These routes are shaped by the Thailand in the Box concept, which offers a compact yet complete immersion into Thai food, history, craft, and lifestyle, reflecting the country's multi-dimensional identity. Simultaneously, the Rhythm of Thailand initiative will pair 10 global influencers from key markets such as the US, UK, France, China, Italy, and South Korea with 10 leading Thai creators. Each duo will embark on a mission-driven journey across 10 diverse destinations – including Sukhothai, Chanthaburi, Samut Songkhram, Phetchabun, Nan, Loei, Sakon Nakhon, Phang-nga, Surat Thani, Rayong and Chanthaburi, Phetchaburi, Nakhon Nayok and Khao Yai, and Bangkok. Their content will explore distinct Thai Soft Power themes such as Muay Thai, wellness, gastronomy, fashion, and traditional arts. This approach represents a deliberate shift from one-sided reviews to meaningful co-creation – a storytelling model rooted in cultural immersion, mutual exchange, and shared perspectives. TAT will gradually unveil each duo's journey and destination on its official Facebook page: Amazing Thailand, allowing audiences to follow along in real time and engage with the stories as they unfold. Mr. Nithee Seeprae, TAT Deputy Governor for Marketing Communications, said: 'We didn't just bring influencers to Thailand – we gave them purpose. By designing meaningful collaborations and routes rooted in local identity, we're helping them tell fresh stories that resonate across cultures. This is content creation with intent, spotlighting the charm of Thailand's lesser-known gems and redefining how the world experiences our country.' A major highlight of the campaign will be the Amazing Thailand Saneh Thai Gala Night, scheduled for 30 June 2025 at the Dusit Thani Hotel, Bangkok. As the embodiment of the Grand Invitation concept—one of the five pillars of the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025—the event will welcome distinguished guests to experience the very best of Thai culture in one unforgettable evening. The gala will feature the '5 Must Do in Thailand', offering immersive encounters with Thai cuisine (Must Taste), traditional craftsmanship (Must Try), cultural heritage (Must Seek), iconic locally made products (Must Buy), and lesser-known destinations (Must See). Serving as the campaign's grand finale, the event will be a vibrant celebration of Thailand's cultural richness in all its dimensions. With rich media content, live coverage, and extensive digital promotion, TAT expects the Be My Guest campaign to spark widespread engagement both online and offline. The campaign is designed to build trust in Thailand's tourism brand while expanding its cultural reach worldwide.
Daily Maverick
14-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Maverick
A new mural in Bo-Kaap celebrates the history of Afrikaans, and more from around the world
Moving, tragic, surprising, inspiring, terrifying, shocking... This is a selection of images from our planet, over the past three days. An inflatable art entitled 'Companion', created by US artist KAWS displayed near the Grand Palace during the KAWS: Holiday Thailand exhibition at Sanam Luang in Bangkok, Thailand, 13 May 2025. The iconic 18-metre-tall monumental art sculpture Companion is a signature artwork created by the world's renowned American artist KAWS or Brian Donnelly featuring an art sculpture character. Companion sits on the earth and holds a moon while another smaller figure, Companion, rests in its lap. The artwork symbolises the passing of knowledge, values, and care across generations, representing the past, present, and future enduring connection. The KAWS: Holiday Thailand art exhibition will run from 13 to 25 May 2025, which is part of the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025 campaign. EPA-EFE/RUNGROJ YONGRIT
Mid East Info
29-04-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
TAT promotes Thailand as a Muslim-friendly destination at Arabian Travel Market 2025 - Middle East Business News and Information
Strategic partnerships with GCC airlines and tailored offerings aim to attract 1 million visitors from the Middle East and Africa Dubai, United Arab Emirates, April 2025 : The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is highlighting Thailand's position as a premier Muslim-friendly destination at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, aligning with the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025 initiative. At the event, TAT announced new partnerships with key GCC-based airlines, including Emirates and Etihad Airways, to enhance connectivity and offer co-branded campaigns that showcase Thailand's wellness and luxury experiences. These initiatives aim to help TAT reach its 2025 target of over 1 million visitors from the Middle East and Africa (MEA). Ms Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said: 'Thailand is proud to offer an inclusive, seamless travel experience for Muslim travellers. We now have an extensive network of Halal-certified restaurants, prayer facilities at major airports and shopping centres, and luxury accommodations with private and gender-segregated amenities. We believe these features make Thailand a compelling choice for the Muslim travel market.' Tailored travel packages have been developed for families, honeymooners, and wellness seekers from the GCC region. These curated experiences focus on privacy, cultural exploration, shopping, and relaxation – designed in line with the values and expectations of Muslim travellers. Thailand welcomed over 956,000 visitors from the MEA region in 2024, a 25.6% increase from the previous year. The country remains a top destination among high-spending travellers from the Middle East who seek longer stays and personalised itineraries. As part of its broader campaign, TAT is showcasing the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025 at ATM. The nationwide celebration features year-round festivals, global sporting events, and exclusive travel privileges. Key focus areas include sports tourism, wellness, culture, gastronomy, and luxury—each offering immersive and personalised experiences that reflect Thailand's commitment to sustainable, creative, and innovative tourism. The campaign also highlights Thailand's '5 Must-Do Experiences': Must Taste, Must Try, Must Buy, Must Seek, and Must See—inviting travellers to delve deeper into the country's cultural richness beyond the typical tourist routes. Ms Kiatphaibool added: 'The Middle East is familiar with our iconic offerings, but we're excited to present new perspectives, including our Thai Craft Destinations concept and Hidden Gem Cities. These showcase authentic local craftsmanship, culture, and cuisine – helping travellers discover the true essence of Thailand.' TAT's efforts are underpinned by Thailand's sustainable tourism strategy, which follows the Bio-Circular-Green (BCG) economic model. This approach supports low-impact travel, community engagement, and cultural preservation, reinforcing Thailand's role as a leader in responsible tourism. Following ATM, a delegation of Thai representatives will conduct roadshows in Riyadh, Dammam, and Doha from 4–7 May, followed by visits to Casablanca and Amman. These initiatives aim to strengthen B2B engagement and solidify Thailand's presence in the GCC market.
Zawya
29-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
TAT promotes Thailand as a Muslim-friendly destination at Arabian Travel Market 2025
Dubai, United Arab Emirates: The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is highlighting Thailand's position as a premier Muslim-friendly destination at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, aligning with the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025 initiative. At the event, TAT announced new partnerships with key GCC-based airlines, including Emirates and Etihad Airways, to enhance connectivity and offer co-branded campaigns that showcase Thailand's wellness and luxury experiences. These initiatives aim to help TAT reach its 2025 target of over 1 million visitors from the Middle East and Africa (MEA). Ms Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said: 'Thailand is proud to offer an inclusive, seamless travel experience for Muslim travellers. We now have an extensive network of Halal-certified restaurants, prayer facilities at major airports and shopping centres, and luxury accommodations with private and gender-segregated amenities. We believe these features make Thailand a compelling choice for the Muslim travel market.' Tailored travel packages have been developed for families, honeymooners, and wellness seekers from the GCC region. These curated experiences focus on privacy, cultural exploration, shopping, and relaxation – designed in line with the values and expectations of Muslim travellers. Thailand welcomed over 956,000 visitors from the MEA region in 2024, a 25.6% increase from the previous year. The country remains a top destination among high-spending travellers from the Middle East who seek longer stays and personalised itineraries. As part of its broader campaign, TAT is showcasing the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025 at ATM. The nationwide celebration features year-round festivals, global sporting events, and exclusive travel privileges. Key focus areas include sports tourism, wellness, culture, gastronomy, and luxury—each offering immersive and personalised experiences that reflect Thailand's commitment to sustainable, creative, and innovative tourism. The campaign also highlights Thailand's '5 Must-Do Experiences': Must Taste, Must Try, Must Buy, Must Seek, and Must See—inviting travellers to delve deeper into the country's cultural richness beyond the typical tourist routes. Ms Kiatphaibool added: 'The Middle East is familiar with our iconic offerings, but we're excited to present new perspectives, including our Thai Craft Destinations concept and Hidden Gem Cities. These showcase authentic local craftsmanship, culture, and cuisine – helping travellers discover the true essence of Thailand.' TAT's efforts are underpinned by Thailand's sustainable tourism strategy, which follows the Bio-Circular-Green (BCG) economic model. This approach supports low-impact travel, community engagement, and cultural preservation, reinforcing Thailand's role as a leader in responsible tourism. Following ATM, a delegation of Thai representatives will conduct roadshows in Riyadh, Dammam, and Doha from 4–7 May, followed by visits to Casablanca and Amman. These initiatives aim to strengthen B2B engagement and solidify Thailand's presence in the GCC market.
