Thailand’s tourism-revival strategy is to target BIG spenders seeking privacy and social distancing, NOT large numbers of visitors in the post-pandemic era.
THAILAND REJECTS MASS TOURISM IN NEW REVIVAL STRATEGY
The government's tourism-revival strategy is to target big spenders seeking privacy and social distancing in the Covid-19 era, rather than try to attract a large number of visitors, according to Tourism Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn.
The pandemic provides an opportunity to reset the sector, which had become reliant on Chinese groups and backpackers, he said in an interview.
"Once the country’s borders are reopened and so-called travel bubbles are agreed upon, marketing efforts will be geared toward wealthier individuals who want holidays with minimal risks" he said.
The government will initially allow a small number of arrivals, such as some business executives and health tourists. It is also working with the travel industry to identify and invite individuals in target demographics, which will probably include previous visitors to luxury resorts in the islands of Phuket, Samui, Phangan and Phi Phi, the minister said.
Phuket is “a prototype” because it has all the needed facilities.
People may be required to pass Covid-19 screenings before traveling and upon arriving, choose a single resort island and remain for a minimum period of time.
AN OPPORTUNITY TO 'RESET' THE ENTIRE TOURISM SYSTEM
The “high-end visitors” will be able to travel freely while they’re on the island and be allowed to leave for home or other destinations in Thailand once the minimum 14 days have passed. The country plans to court such visitors, possibly during the winter months of November-February when European and American travelers seek out warmer climates, Mr Phiphat said.
“One person can easily spend as much as five by staying at the finest hotels,” he said, adding that full and free travel should become a “thing of the past.”
The goal is for Thailand to have 10 million foreign arrivals this year -- one-quarter of the 2019 tally -- Phiphat said. Total tourism revenue is forecast at 1.23 trillion baht (US$39.6 billion) this year, down 59% from last year.
Thailand’s borders are currently locked to all but essential travel through June 30. Most restrictions on domestic travel were lifted this month.
Mr Phiphat said Thailand sees the crisis as an opportunity to address problems that existed before the pandemic, including over-crowding at some beaches and temples and environmental destruction.
In the quiet months without foreign travelers, sea turtles have returned to lay eggs on Thai beaches, pink dolphins have been seen frolicking with fishermen and manatees swam to shore to snack on sea grass, Phiphat said.
“If we don’t use this chance to create the most benefit for the industry, Thailand will lose out,” he said. “This is an opportunity to reset the entire tourism system.”
SOURCE: Bloomberg
Bangkok
Thailand
Email: support@menzzoo.com
Phone: +66 (0) 828116642