Thailand reaches out to Tier-II cities through its roadshows

After accounting a substantial rise in tourist arrivals from metro cities in India, the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Mumbai recently conducted its annual ‘Amazing Thailand’ roadshow in two cities in India – Ahmedabad and Pune – that are emerging markets for Thailand. Last year, they had chosen Indore and Chennai for the annual event. The objective of the roadshow was to introduce the agents to the emerging destinations and experiences that Thailand has to offer.

India currently holds the sixth position in the ranking of primary source markets for Thailand. Arrivals from India soared by 14 per cent to 1.46 million and the tourism board recorded a notable increase in visitors from Maharashtra (51%) and Gujarat (14%) during 2017. To further enhance the favorable developments, the road show witnessed the presence of 34 sellers, four delegates and also the Deputy Governor for Planning from Thailand along with airline and hospitality partners. An intense B2B session followed by a destination presentation on new routes, emerging locations and experiential activities was arranged to educate the travel agents on different shades of Thailand.

Kulpramote Wannalert, Director of ASEAN, South Asia and South Pacific Division, quoted “The travel and tourism sector in India is growing at an exponential pace and outbound travel is definitely on the rise. The factors affecting the growth are easy connectivity, affordable airfare and increase in disposable income and flexible visa policies of several South East Asian countries. Making the most of the scenario, we are organizing roadshows in Ahmadabad and Pune to strengthen reach and ensure the continuous increase in arrivals”

Cholada Siddhivarn, Director, Tourism Authority of Thailand, Mumbai, said “India is one of our key markets. The new-age travelers are seeking adventurous and experiential modes of vacationing and Thailand as a destination can cater different arrays of activities and experiences to choose from. Hence, we are emphasizing on reaching out to the millenials and families in key metro and emerging cities through strategic communication and associations to promote segments such as luxury, family, wellness, culture and weddings. TAT is also focusing on emerging destinations in Central, East and North of Thailand which are less explored by Indian travelers.”