Back on its feet: The Land of Smiles

Back on its feet is the Land of Smiles after a few austerity measures and marketing strategies that enabled the country to regain almost 70 percent of its booming economy. Projects such as Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) that provide incentives to businesses inclined towards the tourism sector and more investments coming to Thailand in the next years should help the country in developing a stronger status in the region.

In line with the aim of rekindling the tourism industry, Thai Airways (THAI) International together with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) led by governor Suraphon Svetasreni and madam Porntip Makornpan welcomed delegates for the “Thailand Today” Mega Familiarization trip. Over 500 people composed of journalists and travel agents flew to the Land of Smiles for this monumental event that showcased the best tourism spots and local products. Starting with a “Thailand Today” reception at the Centara Grand and Bangkok Convention Center, the festive trip was led by Thailand’s Tourism and Sports minister His Excellency Chumpol Silpa-aracha. THAI president Piyasvati Amranand also cordially welcomed guests and delegates from other countries with a program featuring Thailand’s songs by their top-notch artists. Indeed, it was proven that everything was still ‘smooth as silk’ in Thailand as the very hospitable people of Thailand warmly received the delegates starting with a tour in Chiang Mai where they visited the Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep and San Kamphaeng Handicraft Village, the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, the Mae Sa Elephant Camp and Tiger Kingdom. Known for its diverse wildlife, Thailand continues to draw in visitors who are up for a close encounter with domesticated species of tigers and elephants. A trip to Chiang Rai’s Wiang Pa Pao Hot Springs and the all-white temple Wat Rong Khun where the delegates met the white temple artist Chaloemchai Khosiphiphat gave them a deeper insight into the beautiful culture of Thailand. Before leaving for Bangkok, the delegates went to Doi Tung to visit the Mae Fah Lang Botanical Gardens as well as the Mae Sai which is the northern most point of Thailand near the border of Myanmar followed by a visually captivating tour at the golden triangle viewpoint and the Opium Museum.

Undeniably, the trip to Thailand was more than expected: it opened up a new perspective on Thailand. It still is one of the best tourist destinations in Asia with its exquisite sights, scrumptious cuisine and jovial people, Thailand will surely welcome more tourists in the coming days. Cheers! To know more about the wonders of Thailand, contact Thai Airways at 812-4812 or email [email protected] or call the Tourism Authority of Thailand at 911-1660. you may also visit www.thaiembassymnl.ph.