OUTBOUND TOURISM from Thailand to India
A Study commissioned by the Embassy of India, Bangkok on “Outbound Tourism from Thailand to India”
© Embassy of India, Bangkok No part of this study can be reproduced in any form or by any means, without prior permission of the Embassy of India, Bangkok.
Contents List of Charts and Tables ................................................................................................................ 4 List of Abbreviations ...................................................................................................................... 5 Executive Summary ........................................................................................................................ 6 1
Tourism in Thailand-Industry Overview ................................................................................ 7
2
Outbound Tourism in Thailand ............................................................................................... 9
3
2.1
Thailand Tourist Behavior ............................................................................................... 9
2.2
Key Trends and Development ........................................................................................ 18
Thailand and India-A Traveling History............................................................................... 24 3.1
Indian Tourists in Thailand ............................................................................................ 24
3.2
Thai Travelers in India ................................................................................................... 27
3.2.1
Traveler Segments .................................................................................................. 27
3.2.2
Traveler Behaviors .................................................................................................. 30
4
Strategy for Thai Outbound Tourism Market ....................................................................... 32
5
Appendix ............................................................................................................................... 37
6
5.1
Top 10 Arrivals to Thailand by Nationality ................................................................... 37
5.2
Thailand National Tourism Development Plan .............................................................. 38
5.3
Outbound Tourism Statistics 2013 ................................................................................. 38
5.4
Outbound Tourism-Non Package Tour-2013 ................................................................. 40
5.5
Outbound Tourism-Package Tour-2013 ........................................................................ 42
5.6
Tour Agents offering Tour Program to India in Bangkok ............................................. 43
5.7
Government Tourism Departments and Associations in Thailand ................................ 51
5.8
Tour Programs to India .................................................................................................. 53
5.9
Interview Transcript with Tour Agent ........................................................................... 59
5.10
Holidays in Thailand .................................................................................................. 61
5.11
Demographic Forecast ................................................................................................ 62
5.12
Key Macro Economic Indicators and Forecast ........................................................... 63
5.13
Regional Experiences to Attract Thai Tourists........................................................... 64
References ............................................................................................................................. 66
3
List of Charts and Tables Chart 1 Number of Departures 2009-2013 ................................................................................... 10 Chart 2 Propensity for International Leisure Travel and Average Number of Trips per Outbound Household by Household Income (US$) ...................................................................................... 11 Chart 3 Expenditure and International Outbound Travel Trips .................................................... 13 Chart 4 Average Expenditure of Inbound Arrivals and Outbound Travelers ............................... 13 Chart 5 Percentage of Outbound Tourism by Purpose of Visit, 2013 .......................................... 14 Chart 6 Months of Traveling......................................................................................................... 15 Chart 7 Thailand's Outbound Tourism 2013-2018 ....................................................................... 18 Chart 8 Number of Indian Arrivals to Thailand 2006-2018 ......................................................... 23 Chart 9 Top 15 Outbound Tourism from Thailand 2013 ............................................................ 276
Table 1 Outbound Trip Concentration among the Higher Household Income Brackets .............. 10 Table 2 Number of Departures by Destination 2009-2013 ........................................................... 12 Table 3 Tourism Expenditure By Outgoing Thai Travelers - 2013 .............................................. 14 Table 4 Package Tour 2009-2013 ................................................................................................. 16 Table 5 Non-Package Tour 2009 2013 ......................................................................................... 17 Table 6 Thailand's Outbound Tourism, Top 10 Destinations by Departure 2013-2018............... 19 Table 7 Key Airport Infrastructure Projects in Thailand .............................................................. 20 Table 8 Airline Service between Bangkok and India ................................................................. 264 Table 9 History of Visitors from Thailand into India ................................................................. 309 Table 10 Tour Programs from Bangkok to India ........................................................................ 319
4
List of Abbreviations AEC
ASEAN Economic Community
BMI
Business Monitor International
GDP
Gross domestic product
SMEs
Small and Medium Enterprises
TAT
Tourism Authority of Thailand
U.A.E
United Arab Emirates
UNFPA
United Nations Population Fund
UNWTO
World Tourism Organization
WTTC
World Travel and Tourism Council
5
Executive Summary Tourism in Thailand has played a significant role in the Thai economy by generating a considerable amount of revenue. The vigorous expansion of tourism in Thailand has fueled the growth of various industries, such as hotels, restaurants, logistics including tour agencies and retails. The outbound tourism is the one part of the tourism industry. Recently, outbound tourism has been stimulated by the rapid rising income level of middle class Thais. This rise in disposable income in Thailand has led Thais to search for tourism destinations abroad. Regional trips to Malaysia, Singapore, China, India and Japan are popular among Thai tourists. India and Thailand have been culturally linked for centuries and India has had a deep influence on Thai culture. There are a substantial number of words in Thai that are borrowed from Sanskrit. Buddhism, the major religion of Thailand, itself originates from India. Thus, travelling to India is perceived as the one destination to explore culture, spirituality and business. For this reason, discovering the latest market trends and uncovering sources of future market growth for the Tourism Flows Outbound industry in Thailand, with a special focus on Thai outbound tourists to India, are deemed essential to deepen economic relations between the two countries. Objectives of the Survey
To provide a better understanding of the Tourism Flows Outbound industry in Thailand To determine target customers and to identify the characteristic of Thai outbound tourists, especially to India To investigate the motivation and behavior of Thai outbound tourists, especially to India To find out the latest market trends of the Tourism Flows Outbound industry in Thailand To indentify key players in the Tourism Flows Outbound industry in Thailand To propose appropriate strategies for promoting the Tourism Flows Outbound industry in Thailand
The Tourism Flows Outbound in Thailand market research report includes:
Historic volumes and values Five year forecasts of market trends and market growth Detailed market segmentation Strategy for Thailand Outbound Tourism Market
SEA-LAC proposes the Indian Government to launch a special marketing campaign targeting young Thai groups at age between 19 and 35. SEA-LAC estimates the budget for such a campaign ranges between US$ 180,000-200,000 per year. 6
1 Tourism in Thailand-Industry Overview Tourism contributes significantly to the Thai economy. The industry has a larger contribution to Thailand's economy (typically about 6% of GDP) than that of any other Asian nations. The tourism industry came to the fore when Thailand was changing from a resource-based to a laborbased economy, an adjustment which was well suited for tourism development. Throughout the past decade, the tourism sector in Thailand has consistently suffered internal and external crises, including the adverse global economy, worldwide terrorism, endemic diseases, natural disasters and political instability, among others. However, time and time again, the situation quickly returned to normal within two to three months. The number of tourists grows by 7% on average every year, and annual revenue rises around 10%. In 2013, despite the national political turmoil and global economic challenges tourist arrivals to Thailand reached 26.5 million, up 19.6% from that of the previous year. With this growth in international tourist arrivals, Thailand moved up two positions in the ranking by international receipts to 7th, while it entered the top 10 by arrivals in 10th position, according to the report by the World Tourism Organization in 2014. On June 1, 2013, Time magazine reported that Bangkok was identified as the most visited city in the world by the 2013 Global Destination Cities Index, while Suvarnabhumi Airport was the world's most geo-tagged location on Instagram in 2013. International Tourists Arrivals Rank 1 France 2 United States 3 Spain 4 China 5 Italy 6 Turkey 7 Germany 8 United Kingdom 9 Russian Federation 10 Thailand
Million 2010 2013 77.65 83.01 60.00 69.76 52.67 60.66 55.66 55.68 43.62 47.7 31.36 37.79 26.87 31.54 28.29 31.16 20.26 28.35 15.93 26.57
International Tourism Receipts US$ Rank 1 United States 2 Spain 3 France 4 China 5 Macao (China) 6 Italy 7 Thailand 8 Germany 9 United Kingdom 10 Hong Kong (China)
2010 103.46 52.52 47.01 45.81 27.80 38.80 20.10 34.70 32.40 22.20
2013 139.57 60.43 56.10 51.66 51.61 43.91 42.08 41.21 40.60 38.94
Source: UNWTO, 2014
7
The vigorous expansion of tourism in Thailand has fueled the growth of various industries, such as hotels, restaurants, logistics including tour agencies and retails. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council (WWTC), the total contribution of Travel and Tourism to GDP in Thailand was US$ 75.6 billion (20.2% of GDP) in 2013 and is forecasted to rise by 6.4% pa to US$ 139 billion (22.7% of GDP) in 2024. This rise shows travel and tourism is growing faster than other significant sectors, such as financial and business services, transport and manufacturing. In addition to its unique natural and cultural sites, medical tourism is a large and growing sector within Thailand‘s extensive tourism and healthcare industries. Nearly 3 million medical tourists from countries around the world came to Thailand for medical treatment in 2013, with these numbers poised to show continued growth through 2014 and beyond. The Thai government continues to pursue its investment promotion policy and support to boost the tourism market through different measures, including regulatory and legal amendments in favor of business investment and tourists‘ travel, getting the industry ready for the implementation of the ASEAN Economic Community in 2015. Other crucial public policyrelated measures include liquidity facilities for operators, favorable tax relaxation schemes for operators, tourism market promotion campaigns, tourism stimulation package and national image-restoration plans (see Appendix 5.2). Thailand Tourism SWOT Analysis
Strengths
Weakness
The market is very well established, with a long history as a popular tourist destination in the Asia Pacific region, particularly for beach holidays.
The country is extremely attractive to potential medical tourists and international patients
Recent domestic political tensions have been largely limited to city centre locations, meaning tourism in the rest of the country, including in the luxury beach resort areas, is mostly unaffected.
The growing economic strength of neighboring countries is providing a boost to inbound arrivals, particularly from China and India, broadening the country‘s range of source markets
Protections plans need to be implemented to safeguard environmental and 8
cultural heritage sites, with many eco-tourism sites at risk of exploitation and degradation.
Underdeveloped transport and accommodation infrastructure could limit expansion of tourism to remote rural regions
At risk of losing out on low budget holidays as the market develops in neighboring Vietnam and increasingly Myanmar
Strong support from the government means a wide programme of investment in the tourism industry, both in terms of accommodation and transport infrastructure, is under way
Major airports and international rail network links are being improved and expanded, providing stronger regional and global travel links.
Thailand has been receiving increased competition ever since Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam opened up to international tourism in the 1980s and 1990s. Destinations like Angkor Wat, Luang Prabang and Halong Bay now contest Thailand's former monopoly in the Indochina region.
Islamist unrest in the south could spread to Bangkok and other tourist destinations, deterring potential visitors. Political unrest is also a recurring concern.
Environmental disasters, such as the 2005 tsunami and major flooding in 2011, could damage infrastructure and deter visitors
Continuing border disputes with Cambodia could cause regional tensions
Opportunities
Threats
Source: Business Monitor International, 2014
2 Outbound Tourism in Thailand 2.1 Thailand Tourist Behavior The outbound tourism is part of the tourism industry that shows the number of outflows of expenditure. Traditionally, Japan is the only Asian country with the large number of outbound tourists. However, today with the growth of economies in the region, Asia and the Pacific has consolidated its position not only as one of the major tourism destination regions, but also as an increasingly important outbound market. Asia accounts for 14 of the world´s top 50 source markets in terms of international expenditure. 9
In 2012, five key South-East Asian outbound markets: Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam, accounted for US$ 49 billion in international tourism expenditure, almost doubling up from US$ 25 billion in 2006. The increasing size of the prospering middle class in South-East Asia is a crucial factor behind the growth in travel out of Asian markets. The number of international tourist arrivals generated by source markets in Asia and the Pacific is expected to more than double from 205 million in 2010 to 541 million in 2030. With this soar in the number of Asians traveling abroad, Asia‘s outbound tourism growth rates and travel potential far exceed that for other economic blocks, such as Europe or Americas In Thailand, the number of Thai outbound tourists has grown rapidly in every year. The rise in disposable income has led Thais to search for tourism destinations abroad. Thailand‘s economy has experienced strong growth in recent years. The GDP at current prices shows that from 1980 to 2013 the Thai economy has expanded nearly eleven-fold when measured in dollars. Consumer price fell to 2.2 from 3.2 while unemployment remained steady below 1% in the last five years. The improved economy has encouraged more Thais going abroad and spending more money on overseas trips. According the statistics provided by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the number of departures from Thailand was up by a solid 33.3% in 2013, an increase of 1.5 million in 2012 to a total of almost 6 million (see Chart 1). The soaring number of departures has marked the fifth consecutive year of robust growth in tourism flows outbound in Thailand.
Chart 1 Number of Departures 2009-2013
10
7,000,000 5,406,594
6,000,000 5,000,000
5,731,887
5,969,913
5,348,264
4,542,343
4,000,000 3,000,000 2,000,000 1,000,000 0 2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
Source: TAT 2014
Approximately 88% of international outbound leisure travel trips are accounted for by households earning above US$ 10,000 per annum. This income range accounts for about 40% of all households in Thailand. Table 1 shows how outbound trips are dispersed across households by using a concentration ratio which is simply the percentage of outbound trips taken by a specific household income range divided by the percentage of total households in that income rage. For example, if 10% of all outbound trips are accounted for by 10% of households in a particular income rage, then the concentration ratio is ‗1‘, suggesting an even distribution of outbound trips among households within the income rage. Thus, as seen in Table 1, households with income over US$ 10,000 in Thailand have a propensity for outbound travel two times higher than the population at large. Table 1 Outbound Trip Concentration among the Higher Household Income Brackets
Country
HH Income Range (US$ Thousands) 15
OB Trips of Range as % of total trips = A 95.1
HH in range as % of total HHs =B 91.7
Hong Kong
20
90.6
85.5
1.1
Singapore
30
86.1
77.4
1.1
Japan
45
85.5
85.6
1.2
Malaysia
15
87.0
62.0
1.4
Vietnam
5
80.5
37.5
2.1
Philippines
10
72.7
33.7
2.2
Taiwan
Concentration Ratio (=A/B) 1.0
11
Thailand
10
88.5
39.9
2.2
Indonesia
10
97.3
33.6
2.9
China
10
92.8
26.4
3.5
India
10
96.3
8.9
10.8
Source: MasterCard Insights, 2014 Chart 2 Propensity for International Leisure Travel and Average Number of Trips per Outbound Household by Household Income (US$)
3
100% 81%
2.5 68%
70%
2.4
58%
87%
2.4
2.3 2.0
1.5
42%
2.0
70% 60% 50% 40%
1.9
33%
1
90% 80%
70%
2
30% 15%
16%
1.2
0.5 0
85%
0.4
0.4
< 5k
5-10k
1.6
20% 10%
0.9
0% 10-15k 15-20k 20-25k 25-30k 30-35k 35-45k 45-70k 70-130k >130k Average No. of Trips per Outbound HH
Propensity to Travel
Source: MasterCard Insights, 2014
The highest number of international trips by Thai travelers is in East Asia, consequently followed by Europe, Middle East, Oceania, South Asia, Americas, and Africa (see Table 2). Regional trips to Malaysia, Singapore, China, Hong Kong, South Korea and Japan, are the most popular among Thai tourists. Recently, various countries in East Asia have been heavily promoting their countries' tourism for economic improvement. South Korea, Malaysia and Singapore, for example, have been trying to ramp up the number of tourists from Thailand. The 'Visit Malaysia' campaign has clearly been adjusted to target Thai tourists this year, with Malaysia's Tourism Promotion Agency increasing its budget by 50% for Thai travel firms conducting public relations campaigns for tourists to visit Malaysia. Sales promotion schemes, such as free hotel room upgrade and shopping and restaurant vouchers, have been also 12
implemented in an effort to draw in at least 1.5 million Thai visitors to Malaysia this year, up from the 1.2 million in 2013. The Korea Tourism Organization is also running a similar campaign to attract Thai tourists by issuing discount coupons and voucher (see Annex 5.13). While Malaysia and South Korea focuses on the group of tourists who travel on their own without purchasing tour packages, Singapore has placed more emphasis on the Meetings, incentives, conferencing, exhibitions (MICE) market than regular tourists. Table 2 Number of Departures by Destination 2009-2013
Destination
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
3,809,832
4,368,779
4,392,862
4,674,719
4,931,019
362,005
476,123
498,433
520,080
522,229
Americas
36,409
52,453
54,097
56,428
53,200
South Asia
88,486
112,353
112,280
115,832
118,149
Oceania
108,059
125,644
131,701
135,483
127,911
Middle East
125,061
194,648
200,540
210,553
208,405
Africa
5,241
8,127
7,335
8,390
9,000
Total
4,535,093
5,338,127
5,397,248
5,721,485
5,969,913
East Asia Europe
Source: Tourism Authority of Thailand-TAT, 2014
13
Most international outbound travel trips made by Thai tourists are one-week long and to a single destination (see Appendix 5.3). In 2013, the expenditure by outgoing Thai travelers grew 7.4%, “Now we have big Thai tourist groups coming to Malaysia. They are good shoppers – they can spend…”, Tour guide Kamaraj Balarishnan, Malaysian compared to that in the previous year, to reach US$ 4,764 million. Growth in expenditure on accommodation, food and drink, local transport, entertainment, shopping and other services and goods, almost doubled the growth in outbound departures (4.3%), reflecting the willing of Thai travelers to spend while traveling overseas (see Chart 3). On average, Thai outbound tourists spend more money than international tourists arriving in Thailand. In 2013, while international tourists spent approximately US$ 150 per day in Thailand, Thai travelers paid almost US$ 160 for their daily expenses while traveling abroad (see Chart 4).
Chart 4 Expenditure and International Outbound Travel Trips
Chart 4 Average Expenditure of Inbound Arrivals and Outbound Travelers
7.0
6,000
6.0
5,000
5.0
4,000
4.0 3,000
180 160 140 120 100 80
3.0 2,000
60
1.0
1,000
40
0.0
0
2.0
20 2009
2010
2011
Outbound depaturers (Mil.)
2012
2013
Expenditure (Mil.US$)
0 2009
2010
Inbound Arrivals
2011
2012
2013
Outbound Travellers
Source: TAT, 2014
Although approximately 85% of international traveling expenditures take place in the AsiaPacific region, the highest traveling expenditure per had per day is found among those Thais
14
traveling to Europe. Thai travelers spend a large amount on accommodation, followed by shopping and food and beverage (see Table 3).
Table 3 Tourism Expenditure By Outgoing Thai Travelers - 2013
Country of
No. of Departures
Length of Stay
Per Capital Spending
Tourism Expenditure
No.
+/- (%)
(Days)
+/-
US$/Day
+/- (%)
Mil. US$
+/- (%)
Grand Total
5,969,913
4.34
5.00
-0.14
159.61
5.82
4,764.42
7.41
East Asia
4,931,019
5.48
4.44
-0.11
152.20
5.61
3,332.32
8.71
522,229
0.41
7.94
-0.18
199.91
7.24
828.92
5.30
53,200
-5.72
9.89
0.22
183.40
7.60
96.50
3.76
South Asia
118,149
2.00
6.25
0.11
131.39
2.26
97.03
6.18
Oceania
127,911
-5.59
9.12
0.21
174.72
7.81
203.82
4.19
Middle East
208,405
-1.02
6.51
-0.26
145.00
5.75
196.72
0.65
9,000
7.27
7.26
0.40
139.60
5.03
9.12
19.22
Destination
Europe Americas
Africa
Note : Exchange Rate 1 US$ = 30.73 Baht
Source: TAT, 2014
The large number of Thai tourists travels for holidays, recreation and other forms of leisure (60.9%). Spending time with family and friends was cited as the most popular (38 %) reason for a holiday. Traveling for business and professional purposes accounts 28.3% and another 27.4% travel for other reasons, such as religious reasons and pilgrimages, visiting friends and relatives (VCR), health treatment (see Chart 5). Thais mostly travel during April – June (32.0%), during October – December (28.5%), during January – March (26.5%) and during July – September (13.0%) (see Chart 6). April is New Year holiday and June is school break in Thailand. The average number of times per annual for traveling overseas among Thai travelers was 2.1 times in 2013. Chart 5 Percentage of Outbound Tourism by Purpose of Visit, 2013
15
60.9
Leisure, Holidays 28.3
Business, Professional
27.4
VFR, Religion, Health 0
Source: TAT, 2014
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
Note: Multiple Choices
Chart 6 Months of Traveling
13.0% 32.0%
April-June October-December
26.5%
January-March July-September 28.5%
Source: TAT, 2014
In addition to economic factors, outbound tourism in Thailand has also been boosted by developments at the technological and supply-side levels. This includes a boom in air travel, driven largely by the emergence of expansion of low-cost carriers, and the growing access to the internet. Thai Airways, the national flag carrier, is currently offering flights from Bangkok to 61 destinations of 34 countries in five continents (see Figure 1). Affordable tickets from Thai AirAsia also encourage Thai travelers to go more often. Thai AirAsia now covers 46 international locales spanning 19 countries in the Asia-Pacific region. According to a survey conducted by the hotel.com website, 85% of Thai tourists admitted that they used their smartphones while travelling. This was followed by 78 percent among South 16
Korean tourists, 69% among Japanese tourists, 67% among Chinese tourists, and 60% by Singapore tourists. Thai tourists regard smartphones as the Number One must have item while travelling, followed by passports and insurance coverage and sunglasses. Approximately 40% of business travelers and 25% of leisure travelers are now routinely using mobile devices for travelrelated arrangements and bookings.
Figure 1 International Flights offered by Thai Airways International Public Company Limited
Source: Thai Airways International Public Company Limited, 2014
Thais are seasoned travelers and prefer to plan itineraries prior to travel. Depending on the distance of the destination, it can take up to 3 months for Thai travelers to plan their trips, particularly trips to Europe. In the past five years (2009-2013), non-package trips were more common among Thai travelers than package tours. However, the growth in package trips was faster than that in non-package tour over the period of five years, indicating the change in traveling behaviors among Thai travelers (see Table 4 & 5). 17
Table 4 Package Tour 2009-2013
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
569,794
934,962
954,990
1,051,044
1,262,535
-22.71
64.09
2.14
10.06
20.12
3.81
4.02
4.02
4.26
4.23
-0.40
0.21
0.00
0.24
-0.03
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
No. of Depatures
3,965,299
4,403,165
4,442,258
4,670,441
4,707,378
- % change y-o-y
25.06
11.04
0.89
5.14
0.79
5.15
5.28
5.24
5.34
5.21
-0.73
0.13
-0.04
0.10
-0.13
No. of Departures - % change y-o-y Length of Stay - % change y-o-y Source: TAT 2014
Table 5 Non-Package Tour 2009 2013
Length of Stay - % change y-o-y Source: TAT 2014
Traveler characteristics vary between package and non-package travelers. Often, those Thais traveling on non-package tours take longer trips. For example, the figure in 2013 shows while package travelers spent 4.2 nights on their trips, Thai tourists on non-package tours stayed 5.2 nights on average. Non-package travelers like to travel alone or with business associates/colleagues. Package travelers prefer to purchase their package tours from travel agents and tour operators or holiday companies. This is particularly common among the age group of 45 and older and among the repeated travelers as they perceive accessibility and security offered by travel agents during the trips are important. Most of package tours include flights and accommodations.
2.2 Key Trends and Development Healthy growth in the number of outbound travelers from Thailand
18
The Thai market will continue experience a huge boom in outbound tourism in 2014 and beyond. The ease of travel within the region, coupled with a rising middle class and the implementation of Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s policies that promote cooperation and coordination in cross-border tourism, will boost a demand for travel among the Thai population. GDP is expected to increase from US$ 391 billion in 2013 to US 586.5 billion in 2018, reflecting growth of over 4% a year. It also expects increases in private financial consumption of around 4% a year, while unemployment is expected to remain steady, at an impressively low 6%. Falling consumer prices and rising exports will encourage Thai travelers spending more while traveling overseas. Overall, international outbound travel trips by Thai residents are estimated at 6.4 million in 2014, and are forecasted to grow by an average of 7.1% per year to reach 8.4 million trips by 2018 (see Chart 7). Chart 7 Thailand's Outbound Tourism 2013-2018
8,430,233
9,000,000 8,000,000 7,000,000
6,402,135
6,852,845
2014f
2015f
7,342,138
7,900,875
2016f
2017f
5,969,913
6,000,000 5,000,000 4,000,000 3,000,000 2,000,000 1,000,000 0 2013
2018f
Source: BMI 2014
Asia- Pacific countries will continue to be the most popular destinations for outbound travelers, with growth of around 7% a year, to reach over 9.3 million trips in 2018, up from the 2013 figure of almost 5.2 million trips. The top 10 destinations by departure table highlights Asia Pacificâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s popularity for travel from Thailand, with 9 out of 10 countries are in the Asia Pacific region, reflecting the ease and affordability of travel from Thailand. Neighboring Malaysia will remain the most popular destination country, owning to various choices of transportation from air, land, 19
sea and rail which are all connected to Thailand. It estimates that travel to all these destinations will increase steadily as overall Thai outbound travel increases (see Table 6).
Table 6 Thailand's Outbound Tourism, Top 10 Destinations by Departure 2013-2018
2013
2014f
2015f
2016f
2017f
2018f
Malaysia
2,044,002
2,053,776
2,156,786
2,266,506
2,395,836
2,524,996
Lao PDR
963,462
1,062,132
1,166,322
1,276,342
1,276,458
1,276,581
Singapore
426,582
468,142
511,892
560,002
604,792
642,052
China
329,527
409,647
497,987
598,967
712,087
809,947
Hong Kong
243,359
247,423
290,833
337,403
342,643
397,133
Japan
219,002
223,252
228,012
232,662
238,112
243,042
South Korea
172,088
192,018
211,758
231,078
273,278
311,478
Taiwan
159,139
166,419
174,349
182,979
192,529
202,169
United Kingdom
141,701
154,781
169,601
185,541
204,341
222,241
Australia
111,055
125,265
144,495
170,095
198,405
224,045
Source: TAT, 2014
Projecting toward to 2020, the higher levels of outbound travel growth will come from households earnings above US$ 15,000 (25% of households are in this category and they account for 75% of all abound travel). The primary driver for this is that the number of households earning above US$ 15,000 in Thailand is also growing much faster than the number of households earning below US$ 15,000. Increasing investment in transport and travel infrastructure facilitates outbound departures With the continuing growth in GDP (with the growth of around 4% a year), it expects to see further investment in the transport infrastructure, which would give a further boost to travel and 20
outbound tourism. Savarnabhumi International Airport, Thailandâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s main international airport is undergoing an expansion plan to extend the airport, third runway a new airline office building and more space for aircraft parking and maneuvering (see Table 7). Don Muang Airport is now upgraded and opening up new and small duty free shop for domestic and international passengers of low-cost carriers. Elsewhere, a new international terminal is being building at Phuket Airport providing links to the popular tropical islands in the vicinity directly from a range of international markets, removing the necessity to travel via Bangkok. At the same time expansion of air travel facilities will also enable Thailand to increase its short-haul connectivity to key source markets, such as China and India. As well as investing in air travel, Thailand is expanding the rail network with projects including a modernized connection between Bangkok and Chiang Mai and a new light railway system in Phuket. In addition, land and rail transportation are predicted to improve to serve with the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) in 2015. A short haul destination and traveling to neighbouring countries in particular Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Vietnam should expect to witness greater popularity in the next five years. Table 7 Key Airport Infrastructure Projects in Thailand
Project Savarnabhumi Airport expansion project, phase 2 Private Jet Terminal, Chiang Mai International Airport Phuket International Airport expansion project Koh Phangan Airport (1,100m long runway Savarnabhumi Airport expansion project, phase 3 Savarnabhumi Airport expansion project, phase 4 Secon state-run airport, Koh Samui Savarnabhumi Airport Third Runway
Value (US$ mn)
Capacity/Length
Time-frame
1,900
60mn passengers/year
2015-2017
2
8,500 square meters
n/a
182
12.5mn passengers/year
2012-2015
28
0.6mn passengers/year
2012-2014
2,000
75mn passengers/year
3,305
90mn passengers/year
2022-2023
63
n/a
n/a
410
n/a
2015-2018 21
Source: BMI, 2014
n/a = not available/applicable
The fragmentation of the outbound travel market into ever-increasing niches Historically, Thais were not great travelers. People were not adventurous. However, Thai residents have becoming more comfortable traveling abroad, for a much wider and more specific range of reasons, and with different aspirations and requirements for the travel experiences. Thai travelers in the future will be in different group sizes, or alone, and for a much wider range of reasons. Together with traveling for leisure (i.e. sight-seeing, relaxation or education), visiting friends and relatives is still critical to Thai people. Nowadays, thousands of Thai and their descents can be found in the United States, Laos, Taiwan, Malaysia, Singapore, Cambodia, Burma, the United Kingdom, Australia, Sweden, Norway, Libya and the United Arab Emirates. Thus, it predicts that approximately 20% of future travelers from Thailand will go overseas to visit their families. This group of Thai travelers often behaves differently from the standard vacation travelers. They might travel for longer periods, for example, and not using hotels, but lodging with friends or relatives. The growing experience of travel and greater access to and familiarity with the internet will drive an increasing number of Thai travelers to self-manage their travel research and tailor their bookings, rather than rely on the more limited range of options often provided by tour agents. Self-managed booking is perceived cheaper and leisure travelers enjoy the process of discovery. The increasing trend toward self-research and booking will encourage travel agents to offer a broader range of services catering specially for this type of travelers. It also expects that other significant new traveler segments will emerge, such as the senior traveler, and the small business traveler, all of which have different aspirations and requirement from the travel experience. Over the next 15 years, Thailand will see a significant increase in older people. By 2020, the age group between 55 and 74 year olds will account 22% of the total population in Thailand, increasing by 30% from 2013. This demographic development will create significant changes in the outbound travel market, in which an increasing significant proportion of senior leisure 22
travelers is expected. Senior travelers likely rely on travel agents to make booking, thus represents a large and growing opportunities for travel providers. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are the lifeblood essential to Thailandâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s economic vitality. SMEs make up 99.6% of total enterprises in the country. As Thai SMEs look to work regionally and internationally, especially with the launch of AEC in 2015, it expects that the number of small business travelers will increase significantly. Usually, those business travelers travel on a budget, thus providing a further stimulus for the lower end of the business travel market. This new market
â&#x20AC;&#x153;Travelers will increasingly wish to interact via a mobile device. In some countries such as Indonesia and Thailand have skipped the fixed internet phase and moved direct from face-toface contact to contact via a mobile device (table, smartphone, etc.). Agents and travel providers will need to provide mobile solutions or become irrelevantâ&#x20AC;?
segment will create a potentially attractive niche for travel providers to cater for the demand, such as budget airlines and budget hotels with appropriate business facilities.
Mark Dougan, Managing Director, Australia & New Zealand, Frost & Sullivan
Increasing use of mobile devices for travel Smartphone and tablet usage is growing rapidly in Thailand. Smartphone use saw a record 29.1 percent increase in the third quarter of 2013, from 7.1 million to 8.0 million smartphones.
Thailand also has among the highest growth rate in tablet penetration in the region. With 3G/4G networks now roll out in Thailand, mobile devices are increasingly being used as part of the overall travel experience, for travel-related arrangements and bookings.
With technology providing greater flexibility for the traveler, there also comes greater expectations from travel service providers by consumers. With many travel providers still not providing any form of mobile solution, they face an increasing challenge in staying relevant to the mobile device savvy travelers from Thailand.
23
In Thailand, approximately 49% of smartphone owners access social media daily. Social media, in fact, is changing the way people father information about their travels. By 2030, it expects that social media usage will become an important aspect of the overall travel experience. For this reason, travel providers will need to adopt social media into the way that they interact with their customers, using the channel both to transact and to interact. Should travel providers choose to embrace social media, they will have new ways to interact with their customers, and to enhance the value and perceptions of their brands.
3 Thailand and India-A Traveling History Thailand and India have cross-histories going back to the 329 BC when the Indian Emperor Ashoka sent Sona and Uttra to Suvanabhumi to spread the message of Buddhism in Thailand. People-to-people ties between Thailand and India have existed for several centuries. Throughout the past six decades after the establishment of modern diplomatic relations between Thailand and India, the two countries have leveraged the long-standing historical and cultural ties into the current warm friendship, close cooperation and shared values. The convergence of Thailand's "Look West" policy since 1996 and India's "Look East" policy of 1993 has resulted in mutually beneficial cooperation covering diverse dimensions ranging from trade and investment, science and technology, defense, agriculture to tourism, culture and education.
3.1 Indian Tourists in Thailand Tourists from India have greatly contributed to the growth of tourism in Thailand. Thailand in fact is the second favorite destination in Asia for India. Indian travelers often choose Thailand as one in the list of popular destinations for shopping before going back home. In 2013, over 1 million Indian tourists travelled to Thailand. Among the top 10 popular destinations for Indian tourists, travel to Thailand is expected to show particularly high growth, with the number of annual visitors from India expected to more than double on the 2013 level by 2018. Chart 8 Number of Indian Arrivals to Thailand 2006-2018
24
3,000,000 2,437,680
2,500,000 1,936,630 2,000,000 1,415,020 1,500,000
1,015,865 760,371
1,000,000 459,795
500,000
536,964
0 2006
2008
2010
2012
2014f
2016f
2018f
Source: TAT, 2014
The steady growth of Indian tourists in Thailand over the past 10 years has driven by a steady progress in the Thailand-Indian relations, particularly since the two countries entered to the bilateral agreement on Tourism Cooperation in 2003 and singed the Mutual of Understanding (MOU) on Air-Services in 2006. According the MOU, governments of both countries agreed to increase the number of flights, from Bangalore and Kolkata to Bangkok, with the goal to increase the number of seats to 10,000 seats per week within 3 years. At present, the air connectivity between Thailand and India is growing with over 160 flights per week, reflecting rapidly growing passenger traffic between the two countries (see Table 8). Bangkok is connected by air to 10 Indian destinations. Thai Airways operates daily flights from Bangkok to Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Bengaluru; Bangkok to Hyderabad 5 flights a week and Bangkok to Varanasi 4 flights a week. Indian Airlines, Air India, Jet Airways, Indigo also operate their direct flights from Delhi to Bangkok, 7 flights a week. Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI) offers special deals for travelers to India every year. This year, THAI is offering â&#x20AC;&#x2022;Indian Sub & Middle East Winter Specialâ&#x20AC;&#x2013; promotional fares for roundtrip travel
in
Economy
Class
for
passengers
from
Bangkok
to
Mumbai/Delhi/Bengaluru/Hyderabad/Chennai at the price from US$ 550.
25
In addition, India and Thailand are cooperating closely on improving regional connectivity through initiatives such as India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway, Asian Highway Network (under UNESCAP), BTILS under BIMSTEC framework. Table 8 Airline Service between Bangkok and India
Airline
Thai Airways
Bangkok Airways
Air India
Thai AirAsia Jet Airways Jet India
Indigo
Destination
Direct
Indirect
Flight/week
Mumbai
√
7
Delhi
√
7
Bengaluru
√
7
Varanasi
√
4
Kolkata
√
7
Hyderabad
√
5
Mumbai
√
7
Delhi
√
7
Goa
√
7
Mumbai
√
7
Bengaluru via Delhi
√
7
Bengaluru via Bombay
√
7
Chennai via Delhi
√
7
Chennai via Bombay
√
7
Hyderabad via Delhi
√
7
Hyderabad via Bombay
√
7
Kolkata via Delhi
√
7
Ahmedabad via Bombay
√
7
Kozhikode via Bombay
√
7
Chennai
√
5
Delhi
√
7
Mumbai
√
7
Delhi
√
7
Mumbai
√
7
Delhi
√
7
26
Bhutan
Kolkata
√
7
Kolkata
√
7
Dehli
√
7
Ahmedabad
√
7
Chennai
√
14
Jalpur
√
7
Kozhikode
√
14
Bengaluru
√
14
Delhi
√
14
Mumbai
√
14
Hyderabad
√
14
Kolkata
√
7
Delhi
√
7
Malaysia Airlines
Mumbai
√
14
(via Kuala Lumpur)
Chennai
√
14
Hyderabad
√
7
Bengaluru
√
14
Etihad Airways (via Adu Dhabi)
Source: Synthesized by SEA-LAC from various sources
3.2 Thai Travelers in India 3.2.1
Traveler Segments
India has long been a popular holiday destination for travelers from a range of source markets across the world, including the UK and the USA. For Thai tourists, India indeed is among the top 15 destinations and the most popular destination in the South Asia region (see Chart 9). Chart 9 Top 15 Outbound Tourism from Thailand 2013
27
MALAYSIA
2,044,002
LAOS
963,462
SINGAPORE
426,582
CHINA
329,527
HONG KONG
243,359
JAPAN KOREA
219,002 172,088
TAIWAN
159,139
UNITED KINGDOM
141,701
AUSTRALIA
111,055
VIETNAM
109,612 98,642 93,823
GERMANY INDIA U.A.E.
92,043
MYANMAR
74,315 0
500000
1000000
1500000
2000000
2500000
Source: TAT, 2014
Thai people travel to India for three main purposes: pilgrimage, education and business. The pilgrim traveler Thailand and India have been historically and culturally linked centuries ago. References are found in ancient Indian literature about Thailand as Suvanabhumi or the Golden land. In 329 BC, Emperor Ashoka sent Sona and Uttra to Suvanabhumi to spread the message of Buddhism. Hinduism has also influenced Thailand as reflected in architecture, arts, sculpture, dance, drama and literature. Ramakien, a Thai national epic is derived from Ramayana and has important influence on the Thai literature, art and drama. Several socio-cultural habits and festivals of the Thai and Indian people are similar. The influence of Pali and Sanskrit on the Thai language has been considerable and is particularly noticeable in the terminology connected with state-craft, science and technology. The shared link of Buddhism is reflected in the regular pilgrimages to 28
places of Buddhist interest in India by Thai people. The majority of Thai tourists to India (7080%) travel to visit significant Buddhist sites in India. The first Thai Monastery outside Thailand, built by the Thai Government on the invitation of Indian Government in Gaya has become one of major tourist destinations for Thai people. Joining the Thai tourists is also a small number of monks visit India to study and practice Buddhism. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Indian Airlines has done a wonderful job in launching this flight between Bangkok and Bodh Gaya. It will help fulfill the dreams of a large number of people in Thailand, which is largely Buddhist, of making the pilgrimage to the place where Lord Buddha attained his enlightenment.â&#x20AC;? , Ms Ponappa.
The Business Traveler According to the Department of Industrial Policy Promotion of Government of India, Thailand has invested over US$ 164 million (April 2000-December 2013). Thai business groups in India include leading Thai companies in the fields of agro-processing, construction, automotive, engineering and banking. Major Thai companies active in India are - C P Aquaculture (India) Ltd., Ital Thai Development Pcl., Krung Thai Bank Pcl., Charoen Pokphand (India) Private Limited, Thai Summit Neel Auto Pvt. Ltd., Delta Electronics, Prueksa Real Estate, Thai Airways International Pcl. and Precious Shipping (PSL) of Thailand. The strong present of Thai companies in India represents a great number of business trips to India by Thai investors. Thai business travelers visit India for various purposes, including branch offices and client visits, sales calls, and attending industry meetings and training events. The Student Traveler India's educational institutions are globally recognized for their quality and as good value for money. The tertiary level educational institutions in India offer a wide range of courses in the fields of Engineering, Medicine, Agriculture, Management, Humanities, Social Sciences, Fine Arts, Science and also in emerging areas of Bio-Technology, Bio-Informatics, Space Technology. Indian universities are vibrant centers offering a multi cultural environment, with English as the medium of instruction. Currently, over six thousand students from Thailand are 29
studying in India, mainly in Pune, Darjeeling, Bangalor, Kolkata and Delhi. Most of these students came to India to study subjects such as humanities and engineering. India also offers scholarships to Thai nationals through its Embassy in Bangkok. Every academic year (AprilMarch), both long and short term scholarships are offered. The large number of Thai students in India contributes to an increase in the number of departures from Thailand, either for education or visiting friends and families. â&#x20AC;&#x2022;Thai and Nepalese students prefer Indian educational institutions as they provide quality education at low costâ&#x20AC;&#x2013;, Vivek Shukla
3.2.2
Traveler Behaviors
According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the number of departures from Thailand to India increased by 39%, from 67,329 trips in 2009 to 93, 823 trips in 2013 (see Table 9). Boosted by rising disposable incomes and appreciating currency, Thai tourism spending in India has steadily increased since 2011, reaching an expenditure of US$ 80 million in 2013. Most Thai travelers prefer to travel to India between October and March, mostly because the weather gets cooler during those months of the year. However, recently Thai travelers have a tendency to travel the whole year around. Often, Thai tourists stay for a week and spend approximately US$ 130 per day. This is similar to what they normally spend in other ASEAN countries, such as Vietnam, Indonesia and the Philippines (see Appendix 5.3). Tourists on nonpackage trips spend slightly more than those traveling on package tours (US$ 137.82 and US$ 125.08 per day, respectively) (see Appendix 5.3). Table 9 History of Visitors from Thailand into India
No. of Departures No.
Length of Stay
Per Capita Spending
Tourism Expenditure
+/- (%)
(Days)
US$/Day
Mil. US$
+/-
+/- (%)
+/- (%)
2013
93,823
1.76
6.43
0.10
133.15
2.33
80.32
5.77
2012
92,204
3.45
6.33
0.47
130.12
1.40
75.94
13.31
2011
52,168
3.84
9.16
0.00
165.77
8.61
79.21
12.77
30
2010
89,067
32.29
6.02
0.40
124.70
9.24
66.86
54.80
2009
67,329
19.98
5.62
-1.67
114.15
0.22
43.19
-8.11
Source: TAT, 2014
Among the Thai travelers to India, the largest age demographic is between 40 and 60+ years. Many of them travel for religion and sightseeing purposes. They often go in a group tour of 10 to 26 people, mostly with family members and friends. Thai travelers to India are likely to depend on traditional distribution operators. Most of them book through a travel agent. Currently, there are 16 tour agents in Bangkok offering travel packages to India, in cooperation with various carriers (including Thai Airways, Air India, and Jet Airways) (see Appendix 5.6). Some tour programs also include a trip to Lumbini, a Buddhist pilgrimage site in the Rupandehi district of Nepal (see Table 10). Table 10 Tour Programs from Bangkok to India
Route
Duration
Delhi- Khao Kitchchakut -Nepal
7 days and 6 nights
Bodh Gaya- Vaishali- Kusinaga- Varanasi - Taj Mahal
8 Days and 7 nights
Bodh Gaya- Vaishali- Kusinaga- Varanasi - Taj Mahal - Kashmir Delhi - Agra- Jaipur Tour
7 Days and 6 nights 5 Days 4 Nights
Delhi-Kashmir-Srinaka- Himalaya Range- Agra- Taj Mahal
10 Days and 9 nights
Mumbai- Aurangabad
5 Days and 3 Nights
Delhi - Sikkim
9 Days and 7 nights
Delhi - Nepal - Varanasi
8 Days and 7 nights
Delhi-Mandawa- Bikaner- Jodhpur- Udaipur- Pushkar
11 Days and 9 nights
Nepal - Kashmir
7 Days and 6 nights
Delhi-Srinaka-Kashmir- Pahalgam
8 Days and 7 nights
Delhi- Bodh Gaya 窶天aranasi-Lucknow
10 days and 9 nights
Source: SEA-LAC
When planning a trip to India, Thai travelers would predominantly use online sources such as a general internet search, travel booking and advice websites and the Government tourism website.
31
After online sources, respondents would talk to family and friends who have been to India. They also promptly contact tour operators for information.
4 Strategy for Thai Outbound Tourism Market A much greater variety of Thai people will be traveling for a more divergent set of reasons, with a much broader range of aspirations, behaviors and expectations for the travel experience. The nature of this diversity in the Thai travelersâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC; behavior and the reciprocal interaction between the travelers and destinations will naturally create new opportunities for destination promoters. India already has a well-established tourism market, with the strong historical popularity, combined with its new perception as a luxury tourist destination. In order to take advantage of all the country has to offer tourists, India will need to make substantial improvements to its transport infrastructure network and address some substantial security concerns (such as regional tensions with Pakistan and the lingering threats from domestic and regional terrorist groups; violent attacks on women). In addition, the Indian Ministry of Tourism should develop and deliver high quality tourism experiences. New products and new destinations should be introduced to the Thai market. A robust distribution network of Indian Specialist agents to promote these experiences should be established. The Indian Ministry of Tourism should also support and encourage tourism operators to increase their understanding of Thai culture and consumers to deliver high quality products and services.
In short-term, the consumer marketing activities should focus on three key cities in Thailand, including Bangkok, Chiangmai and Phuket, where the majority of the Thai middle-income class is residing. Increasing the visibility of India, introducing new products and developing the capability of travel sellers in those three key markets, are equally important if India is to attract more Thai travelers.
The following market segmentation is recommended for Indian and Thai tour operators: Leisure Market 32
Segments
Preferences/Values/Benefits
Competitors
Value for money Need relaxation activities Beach resorts Family
Kids facility
Japan; Malaysia
Accommodation
Singapore, South Korea
Flight accessibility Security Immigration Curious and active Value for money Price consciousness Selective destination Senior Female (Age 45-60)
Travel with female companion (friends, relatives and daughters) Accessibility Security
South Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, China, Japan Singapore, Malaysia, Australia and Europe
Immigration Dining Shopping Travel with friends and family Living cost Senior (Age 65 +)
Transportation
South Korea, Hong Kong,
Accessibility
Taiwan, China, Singapore,
Security
Japan, Malaysia, Australia
Immigration
and Europe
Selective destination Dining
Special Interest Market
33
Segments
Preferences/Values/Benefits
Competitors
Spiritual awareness Study and practice Buddhism Monk
Living cost
Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka
Transportation Accessibility Security Spiritual awareness
Buddhism Followers
Transportation
Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka
Accessibility Security Exchange activity at school
Youth
Visit Indian university and
Singapore, Japan, Hong Kong, South Korea.
education institutes. Highly Educated Middle Income Have
experience
Young professionals
abroad
(Age 19-35)
Knowledgeable
traveling Europe, USA, Japan, South
about
the Korea, Singapore, Malaysia
country they visit Travel without tour agents Security Hi-End Market Segments
Preferences/Values/Benefits
Competitors
Relaxation Convenience Individual investors
Net environment Investment opportunities Accessibility to Bangkok
Singapore, Malaysia, China, Japan, Australia, South Korea
Value for money
34
Among the mentioned target groups, SEA-LAC recommends the future strategies to attract more Thai tourists to India should pay special attention on young adults and young professionals (Age 19-35). Young travelers in Thailand today want, more than ever, to enrich themselves with cultural experiences, to meet local people and to improve their employability when they return home. Therefore, SEA-LAC suggests the Indian Government need to manipulate destinations as experiences and not sightseeing point alone.
Young professionals, with higher education, travel with lap tops, smart phones and other high tech gear, thus tending to have heftier budgets than traditional young tourists. Therefore, hotels in India has to adapt to meet the demands of modern youth travelers and increasing the variety of services they offer. Hotels in India are now considered to be very expensive and sometimes lack of entertainment facilities such as satellite and internet.
As young Thai adults will travel without tour agents, they would concern more about accessibility, security and hygiene. It means that the Government needs to enhance the national connectivity, linking the nearest transportation inter-change point namely an airport, a railway station or a roadways terminal, or from the entry point to the town to the specific place of tourist interest. The Government also needs to act to improve the quality of its air and water as well tighten its security, especially for young Thai women.
The Indian Government should coordinator with Ministry of Education and Tourism Authority of Thailand to roll out the following raising awareness and marketing campaigns: ď&#x192;&#x2DC; Organize contests, and writing articles or essay on India. ď&#x192;&#x2DC; Set up Information Booth at Universities, Office Buildings and Public Areas (e.g. shopping malls, train stations) to provide information on India and its tourist attractions, with traveling package tailored for young adults and young professionals, such as luxury
35
spa sessions, rare animal sanctuaries, religious pilgrimage tours and extreme Himalaya tours. Conduct annual cultural exchange events at universities and shopping malls. In addition, SEA-LAC recommends the MoT organize events called ―India Evenings‖, wherein the travelers who have been to India are called and asked to articulate their experience. The evenings are facilitated by the pictures and collages explaining or defining India as a tourist destination. A taste of cuisine and culture of India is offered at these events. Another interesting activity which is initiated by the tourism office is organizing the ‗festivals of India‘. The throughput is directed to re-create the experience that is often related with the fairs and festivals of India. In addition to making India a more hospitable place to visit, the country needs to highlight the unique sights and offerings it has that are unavailable anywhere else. Apart from the Taj Mahal, India has many more places to visit that foreign tourists may not know about. Jaipur, also known as the Pink City, is a popular travel destination for Indians and those of Indian descent living abroad, but it is not widely known to foreigners. The beaches of Goa are a tropical paradise but are also relatively unknown to the rest of the world. Publish information on India and its tourist attraction on popular websites such as www.Dek-Dee.com, www.Pantip.com, www.Sanook.com and www.teenee.com. Link those websites to a travel planner portal, Tripigator.com, and the Incredible India website of MoT—www.incredibleindia.org. Exploit social media such as Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube and other traditional media tools such as Traveller's Companion Magazine (Puen Dern Tang), Praew Magazine, A day, Thairath, to effectively communicate tourist packages, festivals, tourist attractions offered by India. In order to ensure a success for the marketing campaign, SEA-LAC estimates the required budget should range between US$180,000 and US$ 200,000 per year.
36
-----------
End of the report.
5 Appendix 5.1 Top 10 Arrivals to Thailand by Nationality Rank
2013
2012
2011
2010
2009
1
China
4,705,173
2,789,345
1,721,247
1,122,219
777,508
2
Malaysia
2,996,071
2,560,963
2,500,280
2,058,956
1,757,813
3
Russia
1,736,990
1,317,387
1,054,187
644,678
336,965
4
Japan
1,537,979
1,371,253
1,127,893
993,674
1,004,453
5
South Korea
1,297,200
1,169,131
1,006,283
805,445
618,227
37
6
Laos
1,106,080
951,090
891,950
715,345
655,034
7
India
1,049,856
1,015,865
914,971
760,371
614,566
8
Singapore
936,477
821,056
682,364
603,538
563,575
9
Australia
907,868
930,599
829,855
698,046
646,705
10
United Kingdom
906,312
870,164
844,972
810,727
841,425
Source: TAT, 2014.
5.2 Thailand National Tourism Development Plan The Thai cabinet has approved Thailand‘s national tourism development master plan 2012-2016, which targets to turn Thailand into one of the top 5 destinations in Asia. In order to achieve this aim, five strategies have been set for implementation:
Develop infrastructure and logistics, linking with domestic and international tourism Development and rehabilitation of tourist sites and improvement of various rules and regulations to enhance the country‘s potential for accommodating more tourist arrivals Development of the creative economy, which is the focus in the 11th national Economic and Social Development Plan, 2012-2016. New products and services will be launched, while incentives for tourism trade and investment will be offered and human resource development will be emphasized. Create confidence in Thailand‘s good image among visitors, so that the country will welcome a greater number of tourists who will spend more in Thailand. Participation of the public sector, civil society, and local administrative organizations in tourism management.
5.3 Outbound Tourism Statistics 2013 Country of Destination
No. of Departures
No.
+/(%)
Length of Stay
(Days)
+/-
Per Capita Spending
US$/Day
Tourism Expenditure
+/(%)
Mil. US$
+/(%)
GRAND TOTAL
5,969,913
4.34
5.00
-0.14
159.61
5.82
4,764.42
7.41
EAST ASIA
4,931,019
5.48
4.44
-0.11
152.20
5.61
3,332.32
8.71
ASEAN
3,738,200
4.90
4.09
-0.13
139.30
5.57
2,129.75
7.33
Brunei
14,064
4.60
5.60
-0.04
124.28
5.01
9.79
9.02
Cambodia
29,515
7.82
4.28
0.07
107.26
5.59
13.55
15.71
Indonesia
59,933
5.09
5.06
0.26
136.56
4.93
41.41
16.22
963,462
-0.16
3.31
-0.23
106.50
5.07
339.62
-1.91
Laos
38
Malaysia
2,044,002
6.47
4.06
-0.18
140.48
3.38
1,165.81
5.40
Myanmar
74,315
3.17
4.25
-0.04
108.46
4.76
34.25
7.06
Philippines
16,715
3.20
6.10
0.90
136.71
6.59
13.94
29.07
Singapore
426,582
10.42
5.50
0.07
187.39
6.78
439.66
19.43
Vietnam
109,612
2.85
4.86
0.15
134.62
4.29
71.71
10.68
China
329,527
8.47
5.49
0.11
164.68
4.80
297.93
16.01
Hong Kong
243,359
8.35
4.81
-0.28
196.79
2.84
230.36
5.30
Japan
219,002
8.41
6.36
-0.20
214.16
7.05
298.30
12.52
Korea
172,088
5.99
5.46
-0.01
181.20
5.96
170.25
12.10
Taiwan
159,139
8.86
5.97
-0.02
161.01
4.86
152.97
13.77
Others In East Asia
69,704
-3.24
4.71
-0.22
160.70
5.76
52.76
-2.22
522,229
0.41
7.94
-0.18
199.91
7.24
828.92
5.30
37,716
2.22
6.18
-0.40
181.66
7.03
42.34
2.74
189
-9.57
6.66
-0.49
174.40
4.56
0.22
-12.00
Denmark
38,061
2.17
8.03
0.06
174.86
4.44
53.44
7.50
Finland
17,560
0.19
8.01
-0.10
168.26
5.23
23.67
4.14
France
35,524
2.35
6.80
-0.08
218.46
6.15
52.77
7.37
Germany
98,642
1.88
7.55
-0.27
206.27
6.45
153.62
4.71
Italy
22,057
0.75
6.44
-0.41
197.19
8.99
28.01
3.24
Netherlands
38,866
-2.15
7.67
-0.17
184.37
4.76
54.96
0.29
EUROPE Austria Belgium
Norway
288
-14.79
8.18
-0.14
166.86
7.47
0.39
-11.36
Russia
11,290
-0.98
6.97
-0.10
167.72
7.78
13.20
5.26
Spain
10,804
1.28
6.09
-0.32
184.45
5.78
12.14
1.85
Sweden
34,140
7.98
8.33
0.32
172.25
7.28
48.99
20.49
Switzerland
11,803
6.67
7.31
-0.17
213.47
6.55
18.42
11.10
141,701
-1.94
9.68
-0.20
219.25
9.19
300.74
4.91
United Kingdom East Europe
2,102
9.31
5.16
0.08
180.82
6.67
1.96
18.07
Others In Europe
21,486
-8.75
6.58
-0.06
170.17
6.18
24.06
-3.99
THE AMERICAS
53,200
-5.72
9.89
0.22
183.40
7.60
96.50
3.76
Canada
1,306
7.05
9.03
0.26
168.13
6.67
1.98
17.16
U.S.A.
51,479
-5.92
9.93
0.22
183.95
7.64
94.03
3.55
Others In The Americas
415
-14.78
7.12
0.36
162.88
5.28
0.48
-5.88
118,149
2.00
6.25
0.11
131.39
2.26
97.03
6.18
8,274
0.32
5.08
0.28
121.20
0.67
5.09
6.71
India
93,823
1.76
6.43
0.10
133.15
2.33
80.32
5.77
Nepal
7,355
0.52
5.91
0.19
132.40
2.58
5.76
6.67
Pakistan
1,850
17.76
5.93
-0.01
114.14
3.97
1.25
22.55
Sri Lanka
4,986
1.55
5.61
-0.06
123.84
4.22
3.46
4.53
Others In South Asia
1,861
17.64
5.41
-0.13
112.74
5.64
1.14
21.28
127,911
-5.59
9.12
0.21
174.72
7.81
203.82
4.19
111,055
-5.31
9.26
0.26
175.58
7.87
180.56
5.09
16,699
-7.87
8.19
-0.10
169.36
7.14
23.16
-2.48
SOUTH ASIA Bangladesh
OCEANIA Australia New Zealand
39
Others In Oceania
157
112.16
4.72
-2.31
134.81
5.13
0.10
42.86
208,405
-1.02
6.51
-0.26
145.00
5.75
196.72
0.65
Egypt
15,117
1.51
6.00
0.05
123.50
-14.79
11.20
-12.77
Israel
6,791
-31.04
6.15
-0.58
149.18
8.83
6.23
-31.46
MIDDLE EAST
Kuwait
1,704
12.33
6.09
0.21
146.04
9.07
1.52
27.73
Saudi Arabia
30,130
0.64
6.60
-0.65
143.97
8.67
28.63
-0.42
U.A.E.
92,043
0.52
6.76
-0.20
148.30
7.12
92.27
4.58
Others In Middle East
62,620
-0.27
6.28
-0.22
144.61
6.65
56.87
2.76
AFRICA
9,000
7.27
7.26
0.40
139.60
5.03
9.12
19.22
South Africa
4,600
3.35
7.34
0.40
142.82
5.55
4.82
15.31
Others In Africa
4,400
11.70
7.18
0.42
136.08
4.41
4.30
23.92
Note : Exchange Rate 1 US$ = 30.73 Baht
Source: TAT, 2014
5.4 Outbound Tourism-Non Package Tour-2013 Country of Destination
No. of Departures
No.
+/(%)
Length of Stay
(Days)
+/-
Per Capita Spending
US$/Day
Tourism Expenditure
+/(%)
Mil. US$
+/(%)
GRAND TOTAL
4,707,378
0.79
5.21
-0.13
158.17
5.51
3,879.15
3.76
EAST ASIA
3,946,726
2.20
4.60
-0.11
150.39
5.22
2,730.37
5.03
3,088,525
2.61
4.24
-0.14
138.54
5.55
1,814.23
4.85
Brunei
11,917
7.67
5.84
-0.15
123.10
4.92
8.57
10.15
Cambodia
26,199
6.91
4.31
0.07
104.91
5.27
11.85
14.49
Indonesia
45,467
14.45
5.31
0.12
133.51
4.71
32.23
22.59
828,111
-2.42
3.39
-0.24
104.57
4.88
293.56
-4.42
1,665,880
3.50
4.20
-0.22
140.38
3.44
982.21
1.74
Myanmar
46,075
-1.90
4.57
0.08
104.88
4.93
22.08
4.74
Philippines
16,457
5.18
6.13
0.91
136.63
6.98
13.78
32.12
Singapore
363,648
10.11
5.84
0.07
185.61
6.72
394.17
18.94
84,771
1.52
5.03
0.20
130.79
4.62
55.77
10.61
China
215,730
6.16
5.83
0.21
164.28
4.90
206.62
15.53
Hong Kong
206,497
1.70
5.01
-0.23
194.53
1.85
201.25
-0.96
Japan
130,075
-8.77
7.57
0.32
210.36
6.04
207.13
1.01
Korea
107,820
-0.24
5.92
0.10
179.33
5.51
114.46
7.07
Taiwan
137,164
5.02
6.20
0.03
163.36
5.00
138.93
10.82
60,915
-5.08
4.85
-0.26
161.62
6.36
47.75
-4.17
379,015
-5.28
9.00
0.02
198.44
7.04
676.90
1.61
23,535
-3.86
7.05
-0.20
180.93
6.23
30.02
-0.69
147
-20.11
7.35
-0.12
176.80
5.93
0.19
-17.39
28,957
-4.99
8.68
0.17
175.57
4.71
44.13
1.47
ASEAN
Laos Malaysia
Vietnam
Others In East Asia EUROPE Austria Belgium Denmark
40
Finland
12,237
-2.43
9.13
-0.14
166.10
4.67
18.56
0.60
France
25,855
-5.29
7.75
0.16
213.04
5.45
42.69
1.98
Germany
75,629
-0.82
8.42
-0.25
202.83
6.22
129.16
2.30
Italy
13,186
-10.20
7.94
-0.10
195.42
9.03
20.46
-3.31
Netherlands
28,741
-15.85
8.89
0.45
185.68
5.53
47.44
-6.47
220
-24.14
8.93
0.31
162.33
6.79
0.32
-15.79
Russia
5,920
-5.13
8.08
0.19
166.50
7.03
7.96
3.92
Spain
8,107
-3.88
6.34
-0.26
180.62
4.70
9.28
-3.33
27,378
6.29
8.89
0.34
170.91
7.73
41.60
19.06
8,185
2.92
8.45
0.05
214.10
6.93
14.81
10.69
108,758
-7.31
10.80
0.06
216.45
8.97
254.23
1.57
650
4.33
8.19
0.13
176.23
3.94
0.94
10.59
Others In Europe
11,510
-14.42
7.82
0.07
167.83
4.82
15.11
-9.47
THE AMERICAS
42,144
-12.23
10.32
0.44
185.21
7.89
80.55
-1.10
956
2.36
9.05
0.40
167.07
6.75
1.45
15.08
40,869
-12.56
10.37
0.45
185.71
7.93
78.71
-1.34
319
-8.07
7.66
0.27
164.74
4.12
0.40
-2.44
76,328
-3.21
6.23
0.12
135.10
3.03
64.24
1.68
5,340
-14.64
4.84
0.21
127.81
3.81
3.30
-7.56
India
59,224
-4.13
6.40
0.11
137.82
3.00
52.24
0.48
Nepal
5,474
21.00
6.20
0.06
132.18
2.67
4.49
25.42
Pakistan
1,673
19.50
6.02
-0.02
113.67
4.50
1.14
23.91
Sri Lanka
3,555
-6.23
5.68
0.00
121.35
3.92
2.45
-2.39
Others In South Asia
1,062
-4.50
5.73
0.05
101.71
4.53
0.62
1.64
100,825
-6.14
9.85
0.29
175.44
8.01
174.24
4.45
Australia
88,083
-4.67
10.02
0.32
176.23
8.04
155.53
6.40
New Zealand
12,729
-14.88
8.67
-0.06
169.36
7.53
18.69
-9.10
13
-81.94
6.78
-0.25
121.84
-4.64
0.01
-83.33
154,772
-7.64
6.51
-0.29
144.29
5.83
145.39
-6.42
Egypt
9,584
-1.42
6.32
-0.04
110.63
-24.25
6.70
-25.80
Israel
4,652
-35.06
5.84
-0.25
151.35
11.92
4.11
-30.34
Kuwait
1,653
14.39
6.07
0.21
146.53
9.49
1.47
30.09
Saudi Arabia
14,797
-15.47
4.77
-1.82
144.67
11.49
10.21
-31.80
U.A.E.
75,953
-5.46
6.88
-0.24
147.48
7.37
77.07
-1.91
Others In Middle East
48,133
-6.35
6.57
-0.02
144.91
7.26
45.83
0.15
AFRICA
7,568
10.76
7.29
0.33
135.33
4.83
7.47
21.66
South Africa
3,701
-1.86
7.33
0.44
135.31
3.75
3.67
8.26
Others In Africa
3,867
26.29
7.25
0.22
135.39
5.96
3.80
38.18
Norway
Sweden Switzerland United Kingdom East Europe
Canada U.S.A. Others In The Americas SOUTH ASIA Bangladesh
OCEANIA
Others In Oceania MIDDLE EAST
Note : Exchange Rate 1 US$ = 30.73 Baht
41
5.5 Outbound Tourism-Package Tour-2013 Country of Destination
No. of Departures No.
GRAND TOTAL
1,262,535
+/(%) 20.12
984,293
Length of Stay (Days)
+/-
Per Capita Spending US$/Day +/(%) 165.76 6.48
Tourism Expenditure Mil. US$ +/(%) 885.27 27.01
4.23
-0.03
21.05
3.78
0.00
161.79
6.76
601.95
29.23
649,675
17.31
3.37
0.02
144.12
5.27
315.53
24.21
Brunei
2,147
-9.71
4.30
0.29
132.25
5.42
1.22
1.67
Cambodia
3,316
15.62
4.04
0.09
127.11
6.51
1.70
25.93
Indonesia
14,466
-16.41
4.26
0.35
148.96
7.90
9.18
-1.71
Laos
135,351
16.32
2.81
-0.13
121.10
5.92
46.06
17.77
Malaysia
378,122
21.91
3.41
0.08
142.39
4.58
183.60
30.56
Myanmar
28,240
12.68
3.73
-0.18
115.54
3.73
12.17
11.55
Philippines
258
-53.01
4.00
-0.63
151.67
4.19
0.16
-56.76
Singapore
62,934
12.21
3.53
0.11
204.76
6.94
45.49
23.85
Vietnam
24,841
7.67
4.28
-0.03
149.97
3.74
15.95
10.92
113,797
13.13
4.84
-0.08
165.78
5.22
91.31
17.11
Hong Kong
36,862
70.99
3.73
0.08
211.70
7.05
29.11
87.08
Japan
88,927
49.63
4.59
-0.30
223.35
8.07
91.17
51.77
Korea
64,268
18.37
4.69
-0.07
185.09
6.35
55.79
24.03
Taiwan
21,975
41.08
4.52
0.07
141.36
7.85
14.04
54.63
8,789
11.83
3.76
0.23
151.62
1.89
5.01
21.31
143,214
19.42
5.15
-0.10
206.12
7.24
152.02
25.63
14,181
14.20
4.72
-0.55
184.11
9.72
12.32
12.20
42
68.00
4.23
-0.57
160.47
-3.02
0.03
50.00
Denmark
9,104
34.42
5.96
0.43
171.63
3.44
9.31
49.92
Finland
5,323
6.80
5.44
0.25
176.47
6.72
5.11
19.39
France
9,669
30.45
4.26
0.02
244.82
5.49
10.08
38.27
23,013
11.93
4.71
0.03
225.69
6.18
24.46
19.61
8,871
23.05
4.22
-0.20
201.68
7.63
7.55
26.47
10,125
81.94
4.21
0.02
176.39
0.79
7.52
84.31
68
41.67
5.79
-0.72
188.45
3.99
0.07
16.67
Russia
5,370
4.03
5.75
-0.33
169.50
8.88
5.23
6.95
Spain
2,697
20.78
5.35
-0.31
197.70
7.73
2.85
22.84
Sweden
6,762
15.43
6.09
0.46
179.39
3.41
7.39
29.20
Switzerland
3,618
16.26
4.74
-0.40
210.49
5.03
3.61
12.46
32,943
21.27
5.98
-0.18
236.05
8.64
46.50
27.89
East Europe
1,452
11.69
3.81
0.16
184.94
9.05
1.02
27.50
Others In Europe
9,976
-1.20
5.14
-0.02
174.58
8.68
8.95
6.93
EAST ASIA
ASEAN
China
Others In East Asia EUROPE Austria Belgium
Germany Italy Netherlands Norway
United Kingdom
42
THE AMERICAS
11,056
31.46
8.25
-0.21
174.78
7.60
15.94
37.89
350
22.38
8.96
-0.20
171.32
6.40
0.54
28.57
10,610
32.89
8.25
-0.24
175.09
7.58
15.33
38.98
96
-31.43
5.33
0.13
153.91
8.15
0.08
-20.00
41,821
13.11
6.28
0.07
124.82
1.63
32.78
16.24
2,934
47.29
5.51
0.19
110.79
-2.15
1.79
49.17
India
34,599
13.70
6.49
0.07
125.08
2.01
28.09
17.29
Nepal
1,881
-32.65
5.08
0.03
132.82
2.58
1.27
-30.60
177
3.51
5.09
-0.05
119.20
0.19
0.11
10.00
1,431
27.88
5.45
-0.18
129.97
3.16
1.01
27.85
799
70.00
5.00
-0.23
129.19
-1.00
0.52
62.50
27,086
-3.47
6.38
-0.01
171.20
6.51
29.58
2.64
22,972
-7.69
6.35
-0.06
171.54
6.77
25.02
-2.38
3,970
25.16
6.65
0.44
169.41
4.59
4.47
40.13
144
4.53
-2.47
136.69
-6.04
0.09
53,633
7,100.0 0 24.78
6.54
-0.13
146.35
4.67
51.33
28.07
Egypt
5,533
7.02
5.43
0.25
149.80
5.23
4.50
18.11
Israel
2,139
-20.34
6.84
-1.59
144.79
2.86
2.12
-33.54
51
-29.17
6.51
0.27
136.24
0.12
0.05
-16.67
Saudi Arabia
15,333
23.33
8.37
0.21
143.52
5.61
18.42
33.58
U.A.E.
16,090
43.34
6.22
0.36
151.96
3.50
15.21
57.45
Others In Middle East
14,487
27.11
5.34
-0.75
142.72
3.38
11.04
15.24
AFRICA
1,432
-8.03
7.10
0.68
162.78
7.69
1.66
9.93
South Africa
899
32.21
7.38
0.16
173.58
7.71
1.15
45.57
Others In Africa
533
-39.22
6.61
0.81
142.89
0.98
0.50
-30.56
Canada U.S.A. Others In The Americas SOUTH ASIA Bangladesh
Pakistan Sri Lanka Others In South Asia OCEANIA Australia New Zealand Others In Oceania MIDDLE EAST
Kuwait
Note : Exchange Rate 1 US$ = 30.73 Baht
5.6 Tour Agents offering Tour Program to India in Bangkok 1. Quality Express Address:
1111/30-31 12 FL. Ladprao Rd. Chankasem Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900
Tel:
Hot line1606, +66 (0)2-2462111
Tour@qetour.com
Website:
http://www.qetour.com
Airlines Thai Airways
Package 1. Delhi- Khao Kitchchakut -Nepal 7 days and 6 nights
43
Air India
2. Bodh Gaya- Vaishali- Kusinaga- Varanasi - Taj Mahal 8 Days and 7 nights
Air India
3. Bodh Gaya- Vaishali- Kusinaga- Varanasi - Taj Mahal - Kashmir 7 Days and 6 nights
Air India
4. Delhi - Agra- Jaipur Tour 5 Days 4 Nights
2.R-Rom-D Tour Co.,Ltd
Address:
116 Soi Ramkamhaeng30/1 [Ramvilla] Huamark Bangkapi Bangkok 10240
Tel:
+66 (0)2-7363866-9
Email.
info@rromdtour.com / rromdeetour@hotmail.com
Website:
http://www.rromdtour.com/
Airlines
Package
Air India
1. Delhi - Agra Jaipur Tour 5 Days 4 Nights
Air India
2. Bodh Gaya- Vaishali- Kusinaga- Varanasi - Taj Mahal - Kashmir 7 Days and 6 nights
Air India
3. Bodh Gaya- Vaishali- Kusinaga- Varanasi 8 Days and 7 nights
Jet Airways
4. Delhi-Kashmir-Srinaka- Himalaya Range- Agra- Taj Mahal 10 Days and 9 nights
Jet Airways
5. Bodh Gaya- Vaishali- Kusinaga- Varanasi - Taj Mahal 8 Days and 7 nights
3.Asia Holiday Services
Address:
99/77 Moo 4, Vista Park, Watcharapol Road Khlong Thanon Sai Mai Bangkok 10220
Tel:
+66 (0)2-1530808
Fax:
+66 (0)2-1530813
contact@asiaholiday.co.th
Website:
http://www.asiaholidayservices.com
Airlines
Package
44
Thai Airways
1. Delhi - Agra Jaipur Tour 5 Days 4 Nights
Jet Airways
2. Bodh Gaya- Vaishali- Kusinaga- Varanasi - Taj Mahal 7 Days and 6 nights
Jet Airways
3. Delhi- Bodh Gaya 窶天aranasi-Lucknow 10 days and 9 nights
Jet Airways
4. Delhi-Kashmir-Srinaka- Himalaya Range- Agra- Taj Mahal 8 Days and 7 nights 5. Delhi- Sonamarg- Gulmarg- Kashmir 6 Days and 5 nights
Air India
6. Delhi - Kashmir 6 Days and 5 nights
Air India
4.Thai travel center
Address:
9 Soi 24/2 Ramkhamhang Rd. Huamark, Bangkapi Bangkok Thailand 10240
Tel:
+66 (0)2-3088383
Fax:
+66 (0)2-308-8355
rsvn@thaitravelcenter.com
Website:
http://www.thaitravelcenter.com
Airlines
Package
1. Delhi - Agra - Jaipur Tour 5 Days 4 Nights
Air India Air India
2. Bodh Gaya- Vaishali- Kusinaga- Varanasi - Taj Mahal - Kashmir 7 Days and 6 nights
Air India Air India
3. Delhi - Kashmir 7 Days and 6 nights
Air India
5. Bodh Gaya- Vaishali- Kusinaga- Varanasi - Taj Mahal 8 Days and 7
4. Delhi- Bodh Gaya 窶天aranasi-Lucknow 7 Days and 6 nights
nights Thai Airways
6. Bodh Gaya- Vaishali- Kusinaga- Varanasi -Khao Kitchchakut 7 days and 6 nights
Thai Airways
7. Delhi-Kashmir-Srinaka- Himalaya Range- Agra- Taj Mahal 10 Days and 8 nights
5.Tour Took Tee Address:
19/179 Soi Nawamin50, Nawamin Road, Khwaeng Khlong Kum, Khet Bueng Kum, Bangkok 10230 45
Tel:
+66 (0) 2-3792992
Fax:
+66 (0) 8-3792990
Email.
tourtooktee@gmail.com
Website:
http://www.tourtooktee.com/
Airlines
Package
1. Bodh Gaya- Vaishali- Kusinaga- Varanasi 8 Days and 7nights
Air India Air India
2. Delhi- Bodh Gaya –Varanasi-Lucknow 10 Days and 9 nights 3. Delhi – 3 Days and 2 Nights
Air India Air India
4. Delhi – 5 Days and 4 Nights
6. Wonderful package Address:
429 3.3 Sriwara Town in Town Soi 94 (Panjamit) Khwang Phlabphla Khet Wang Thong Lang, Bangkok 10310.
Tel:
+66 (0)2-7929292
Website:
http://www.wonderfulpackage.com
Airlines
Package
Thai Airways
1. Bodh Gaya- Vaishali- Kusinaga- Varanasi - Buddhist pilgrimage place 6 Days and 5 nights
Thai Airways
2. Bodh Gaya- Vaishali- Kusinaga- Varanasi - Taj Mahal 9 Days and 7 nights
7. Variety Holiday Address:
29/2 Sukhumvit Rd. Pak Nam Samut Prakan Bangkok 10270
Tel:
+66 (0)2-3806277
Email.
varietyholiday@hotmail.com
Website:
http://www.varietyholiday.com/index.php
Airlines
Air India
Package
1. Bodh Gaya- Vaishali- Kusinaga- Varanasi - Taj Mahal 5 Days and 4 nights 46
Air India
2. Bodh Gaya- Vaishali- Kusinaga- Varanasi 7 Days and 6 nights
Air India
3. Delhi - Nepal - Kashmir- Taj Mahal 8 Days and 7 nights
8. Best fights Travel Address:
2689/5 Road, Khwang Bang Kholaem Bangkok 10120
Tel:
+66 (0)2-2918551
Fax:
+66 (0)2 688-2936
Email.
info@bestflights.co.th
Website:
http://www.bestflights.co.th
Airlines
Package
Air India
1. Bodh Gaya- Vaishali- Kusinaga- Varanasi - Kashmir- Taj MahalGulmarg 8 Days and 7 nights
Air India
2. Delhi - Kashmir 7 Days and 6 nights
Thai Airways
3. Bodh Gaya- Vaishali- Kusinaga- Varanasi 5 Days and 4 Nights
9. Elle Travel Agency Address:
4 Soi 5 Sari Road Bang Kapi, Huamark, Bangkapi Bangkok 10250.
Tel:
+66 (0)2-300 4619
Fax:
+66 (0)2-719 0265
Email.
elletravelagency@yahoo.com
Website:
http://www.elle-travelagency.com
Airlines
Package
New gen airways
Bodh Gaya- Vaishali- Kusinaga- Varanasi 8 Days and 7 nights
10. Gusto Tour Address:
8/29 Road. Sukhonthasawud Khwang Lat Phrao Khet Lat Phrao, Bangkok. 10230.
Tel:
+66 (0)2-542-4040 47
Fax:
+66 (0)2-542-4292
Email.
gusto@gustotour.com
Website:
http://www.gustotour.com
Airlines
Package
Air India
1. Delhi - Nepal - Taj Mahal 8 Days and 7 nights
Air India
2. Delhi - Agra - Jaipur Tour 5 Days 4 Nights
11. Tara Arrya Travel Address:
32/537 Private Villa Soi Nawamin 135 Road, Nuanjan. Bangkok 10230
Tel:
+66 (0)2-9488437
Fax:
+66 (0)2 - 948 - 8401
taraarryatravel@gmail.com
Website:
http://taraarryatravel.com
Airlines
Package
1. Delhi- Bodh Gaya 窶天aranasi-Lucknow 8 Days and 7 nights
Jet Airways
12. E Travel Way Address:
190 Moo 5, Srinakarin Road, Samrongnue, Muang Samutprakan, Samutprakan Bangkok 10270 Thailand
Tel:
+66 (0)2-7486245
Email.
sale.bkk@etravelway.com
Website:
http://www.etravelway.com
Airlines
Package
Thai Airways
1. Delhi- Bodh Gaya 窶天aranasi-Lucknow 7 Days and 6 nights
Air India
2. Delhi-Kashmir-Srinaka- Himalaya Range- Agra- Taj Mahal 8 Days and 7 48
nights 13. Double Enjoy Address:
300/50 Premium Place. Nawamin Road Nawamin Bueng Kum, Bangkok 10240.
Tel:
+66 (0)2-3791168
Fax:
+66 (0)2-379-1163
doubleenjoy@hotmail.com
Website:
http://www.doubleenjoy.com
Airlines
Package
Jet Airways Thai Airways Thai Airways Thai Airways Jet Airways Jet Airways Air India
1. Delhi - Nepal - Buddhist pilgrimage place 9 Days and 7 nights 2. Delhi - Nepal - Varanasi 8 Days and 7 nights 3. Delhi- Bodh Gaya 窶天aranasi-Lucknow 7 Days and 6 nights 4. Delhi-Mandawa- Bikaner- Jodhpur- Udaipur- Pushkar- 11 Days and 9 nights 5. Delhi - Sikkim 9 Days and 7 nights 6. Bodh Gaya- Vaishali- Kusinaga- Varanasi - Kashmir- Taj Mahal 8 Days and 7 nights 7. Nepal - Kashmir 7 Days and 6 nights
14. NC Tour Address:
KSL. Building Tower, 11th Floor, Phayathai, Bangkok 10400.
Tel:
+66 (0)2-2472517
Fax:
+66(0)-2247-2515-16
nctour2004@yahoo.com
Website:
http://www.nctour.net
Airlines
Jet Airways
Package
1. Mumbai-Ellora 5 Days and 4 Nights 49
Thai Airways
2. Bodh Gaya- Vaishali- Kusinaga- Varanasi 6 Days and 7 nights
Jet Airways
3. Kashmir- Delhi 6 Days and 5 nights
Thai Airways
4. Bodh Gaya- Vaishali- Kusinaga- Varanasi 8 Days and 7 nights
Thai Airways
5. Bodh Gaya 窶天aranasi-Lucknow 7 Days and 6 nights
Air India
7. Delhi - Nepal - Kashmir- Taj Mahal 9 Days and 8 nights
15. Highlight world tour Address:
300/76 Premium Place 6 Nawamin Rd. Nawamin Buengkum Bangkok Thailand 10240.
Tel:
+66 (0)2-3791933
Fax:
+66 (0)-2379-1955
Email.
informhilight@gmail.com
Website:
http://www.hilightworldtour.com
Airlines
Package
Air India
1.Delhi - Jaipur- Bikaner- Mumbai 10 Days and 9 Nights
Air India
2. Kashmir- Taj Mahal 8 Days and 7 nights
Air India
3. Bodh Gaya- Vaishali- Kusinaga- Varanasi 6 Days and 7 nights
Air India
4. Bodh Gaya- Vaishali- Kusinaga- Varanasi 7 Days and 6 nights
Air India
5. Mumbai- Aurangabad 5 Days and 3 Nights
Air India
6. Delhi - Agra- Jaipur Tour 5 Days 4 Nights
Thai Airways
7. Delhi - Nepal - Khao Kitchchakut 7 days and 6 nights
16. Tour Express Center Address:
300/76 Premium Place 6 Nawamin Rd. Nawamin Buengkum Bangkok 10240
Tel:
+66 (0)2-3791988
Email.
info4tec@gmail.com
Website:
http://www.tourexcenter.com
50
Airlines
Package
Air India
1.Delhi-Srinaka-Kashmir- Pahalgam 8 Days and 7 nights
Air India
2. Delhi – Agra- Taj Mahal – Kashmir 8 Days and 7 nights
Air India
3. Delhi- Bodh Gaya –Varanasi-Lucknow 7 days and6 nights
Air India
4. Delhi-Kashmir-Srinaka- Himalaya Range- Agra- Taj Mahal 7 Days and 6 Nights
Thai Airways
5. Bodh Gaya- Vaishali- Kusinaga- Varanasi 7 Days and 6 Nights
Air India
6. Delhi - Agra- Jaipur Tour 5 Days 4 Night
5.7 Government Tourism Departments and Associations in Thailand 1. Ministry of Tourism and Sport Mission:
promotes and develops tourism, sports, and recreation activities for sustainable social development.
Address:
4 Ratchadamnoen nok Road, Watsomanas, Pom Prap Sattru Phai, Bangkok 10100
Contact:
Tel: +66 (0)-2283-1500
Website:
http://www.mots.go.th/main.php?filename=Home
Fax : +66 (0)-2356-0746
2. Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) The Tourism Authority of Thailand is specifically responsible for the promotion of tourismin Thailand. TAT supplies information and data on tourists and tourists‘ activities Address:
TAT Head Office 1600 New Phetchaburi Road, Makkasan, Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400.
Tel:
+66 02 250 5500 (120 automatic lines)
Fax:
+66 02 250 5511
Website:
http://www.tourismthailand.org
E-mail:
center@tat.or.th
3. Department of Tourism 51
The Department of Tourism is a Thai governmental body under the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. The Department of Tourism is in charge of all tourism-related activities, including development of tourism service system and tourism sites as well as support for tour guide businesses aiming to create sustainable tourism. Address:
The National Stadium, RamaI Road, Wangmai, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330
Tel:
+66(0)2219-4010-17
Fax:
+66(0)2216-6906
Email: Website:
webmaster@tourism.go.th http://www.tourism.go.th/home/content
4. Tourism Council of Thailand The Tourism Council of Thailand acts as the representative of the tourism industry operators for systematic co-operation between the government and the private sector, and within the private sector. It promotes the preservation of arts, culture, traditions, tourist attractions, archaeological sites and environment, including the Thai heritage. Address :
17 th/Floor, 1600 New Phetchaburi Road, Makkasan, Ratchathevi, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
Tel. :
(66) 2 250 5500 Ext. 1645-8
Fax. :
(66) 2 250 0797, (66) 2 250 0016
Email :
info@thailandtourismcouncil.org
Office Time : Monday - Friday 08.00-17.00 (Close on public holiday) Website:
http://www.thailandtourismcouncil.org/en/index.php
5. Association of Thai travel Agents (ATTA) The Association of Thai Travel Agents, widely known as "ATTA", is Thailand's private sector association of travel agents. It is a non-profit organization that aims at promoting and supporting the Thai travel industry for the benefit of its members, clients and the tourism industry. Address:
33/42-43 Wallstreet tower office Condomonium 10th FL. Surawong Road, Suriyawong Sub-Dist, Bangkok Dist, Bangkok 10500 Thailand
52
Contact: Fax: Email:
TEL: (662)237-6046-8, (662) 632-7400-2 FAX: (662)237-6045 info@atta.or.th
Website:
http://www.atta.or.th/HomeUI.aspx
6. Thai Ecotourism and Adventure Travel Association (TEATA) The Thai Ecotourism and Adventure Travel Association (TEATA) was created with a joint effort of tour operators that regularly organize eco-trips. The organization aims to maintain a high quality and standard for this type of tour activities, management, staff, programs management, trip itineraries and services, in order to achieve the ecotourism goal. i.e. to preserve nature, culture and environment. Address:
133/14 Ratchaprarob Road, Ratchathewe, Bangkok 10400 Thailand
Tel:
+66 (0) 2642 5465
Fax:
+66 (0) 2642 5466
Email:
admin@teata.or.th
Website:
www.teata.or.th
TEATA Hotline:
+66 (0)8 3250 9343
5.8 Tour Programs to India A. India Agra Jaipur Tour 5 Days 4 Nights with Air India. Company: Thai Travel Info Service Ltd. Tour Schedules Month
Period
Updated
October
4-8Oct , 11-15Oct
21 Aug 14
November
8-12Nov , 15-19Nov , 22-26Nov
21 Aug 14
December
5-9Dec
21 Aug 14
53
December
10-14Dec
21 Aug 14
December
29Dec-2Jan
21 Aug 14
Tour Price Type of Staying
Tour Prices (Baht/person) 4-8Oct , 11-15Oct
5-9Dec
29Dec-2Jan
Adult (Twin room) rate per person
32,900
34,900
35,900
1 Child + 1 Adult
32,900
34,900
35,900
1 Child + 2 Adults (with Bed)
31,900
33,900
34,900
1 Child + 2 Adults (no Bed)
30,900
32,900
33,900
Adult Single Room Surcharge
8,000
8,000
8,000
-
-
-
3rd Adult Discounted
Tour Price Included:
2 persons per hotel room; Food; Tour transportation Shuttle bus from airport to hotel. Tour guide Fuel and insurance costs; Life insurance in case of accidents on the road. Coverage in an amount not exceeding 1,000,000 baht and accident cases, medical expenses in an amount not exceeding 200,000 baht each (conditional policy). Indian visa
Tour Price Excluded:
The 7 % value added tax and the 3% withholding tax . Personal expenses in addition to the items listed, such as beverages and food , custom orders , phone calls , laundry, meals and drinks outside of the laundry , the telephone, the internet, etc. . Passport, a work permit re-entry of a foreign or alien (as a function of the journey in the manual). Tipping for guide, driver , porter at the hotel . The airline fuel surcharge that may be charged more later. The charge for excess baggage weight of the scheduled airlines
Tour Itinerary
54
Day 1- Suvarnabhumi Airtport to Delhi 06.00 Suvarnabhumi Airport ready to board the Air India counter, gate 10. 08.55 Leave the airport to Delhi by The Air India (AIR INDIA) flight AI 333 (travel time approximately 4.30 hours). 12.05 Arrival at The Gandhi International Airport in Delhi. Lunch at the restaurant. Afternoon
Tour around New Delhi (visit the Indian Gate, the Parliament building, Old Delhi)
Travel to Jaipur Evening
Dinner at the hotel restaurant
Stay
at LE MERIDIEN HOTEL JAIPUR
Day 2 - The Harmandir Sahib : the Golden Temple in Punjab Morning
Visit Amber Palace and City Palace.
Lunch
at the hotel restaurant.
Afternoon
Visit Astronomical Observatory.
Evening
dinner at the hotel restaurant.
Stay
at LE MERIDIEN HOTEL JAIPUR
Day 3 - Jaipur - Agra Morning
Travel on an air-conditioned coach. Visit Fatehpur Sikri.
Lunch
at the hotel restaurant.
Afternoon
Travel on an air-conditioned coach to Agra city.
Evening
dinner at the hotel restaurant
Stay
at JAYPEE PALACE
Day 4 Agra - Taj Mahal - Delhi. Morning
Visit Taj Mahal and Agra Port.
Lunch at the hotel restaurant.
55
Afternoon –
Travel by air-conditioned coach to Delhi.
Evening-
Dinner at the restaurant
Stay
at the CROWNE PLAZA HOTEL
Day 5 – Delhi to Thailand 14.00
Take you to the airport by AIR INDIA, Flight AI 332
19.15
Arrival at Suvarnabhumi Airtport
B. India Tour - Nepal - Khao Kitchchakut 7 days and 6 nights with Thai Airways Company: Quality Express QTour.com Tour Price (Bath per person) Type of staying 2 Adults 3 Adults 1 Adult + 1 Child (>12years) 2 Adult + 1 Child (>12years, with bed) 2 Adult + 1 Child (>12years, No bed) Adult Single Room Surcharge
Departure Date 2014-11-12 2014-11-19 2014-11-26 2014-12-05 2014-12-10
Day WED WED WED FRI WED
Period 12 Nov 14 47,900 47,900 47,900
19 Nov 14 47,900 47,900 47,900
26 Nov 14 47,900 47,900 47,900
5 Dec 14 48,900 48,900 48,900
10 Dec 14 47,900 47,900 47,900
46,900
46,900
46,900
47,900
46,900
45,900
45,900
45,900
46,900
45,900
12,000
12,000
12,000
12,000
12,000
Period 7 7 7 7 7
Airlines TG TG TG TG TG
Price(Start) 47,900 47,900 47,900 48,900 47,900
Quota 16 16 16 26 26
Available 16 16 16 26 26
Rate includes: 1. Economy Class Airticket-Roundtrip 56
2. Accommodation as indicated in the list or equivalent. 3. Airport tax list. 4 Indian visa 5 Meals and drinks as indicated in the list. 6. Shuttle between and sightseeing as specified. 7. Admission to the attractions listed. 8. Thai Guide and staff to take care throughout the trip. 9. Travel Accident Insurance. The maximum amount of insurance, not exceeding 1,000,000Baht. 10. Health insurance coverage the maximum, not exceeding 200,000 Baht. Rate not include: 1. Excess baggage 2. The passport 3. The other expenses items such as beverages, food, custom orders, phone calls, laundry. 4. Meals that are not specified in the list. 5. The license to return to the country of foreigners. 6. 7% value added tax (VAT invoice if required) and the service tax deducted at source 3%. 7. Tips for local guides and drivers. Tour Itinerary Day1 10.00 Suvarnabhumi Airport Thai Airways gate counters 2 Row C (Group) 12.10 Leave for Gaya on Thai Airways flight TG327. 14.00 Arrival at The Gaya Airport India (Later than 01:30 hours local time) Afternoon
Visit Bodh Gaya
Evening
Dinner at the restaurant 57
Stay
at the BUDHGAYA REGENCY hotel
Day 2
Rajgir Rajgir, the ancient capital of Magadha Empir
Evening-
Dinner at the restaurant
Stay
at the VISHALI RESIDENCY Hotel
Day 3 Morning
Visit Vaishali, the capital city of the Licchavi
Lunch
at the hotel restaurant.
Afternoon
Departure by air-conditioned coach to the Kushinagar town, a place of Gautam Buddha.
Evening-
Dinner at the restaurant
Stay
at the IMPERIAL HOTEL KUSHINAGAR
Day 4 Morning
Visit Kushinagar, where the Great Lord Buddha, founder of Buddhism, delivered his last sermon
Lunch
at the hotel restaurant.
Afternoon
Departure by air-conditioned coach to Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, in the Terai plains of Nepal.
Evening-
Dinner at the restaurant
Stay
at the NIRVANA HOTEL LUMBINI
Day 5 Morning
Visit Lumbini, where Buddha was born he had perfected the child.
Lunch
at the hotel restaurant.
Afternoon
Departure by air-conditioned coach to Sravasti, a city of ancient India, one of the six largest cities in India during Gautama Buddha's lifetime.
Evening-
Dinner at the restaurant
Stay
at the PAWAN HOTEL SRAVATSI 58
Day 6 Morning
Visit the ancient city of Sravasti
Lunch
at the hotel restaurant.
Afternoon
Departure by air-conditioned coach to Varanasi.
Evening-
Dinner at the restaurant
Stay at the RIVATAS HOTEL BY IDEAL Day 7 Morning
Visit the Ganges, India's holiest river, considered a source of spiritual purification for devout Hindus.
Lunch
at the hotel restaurant.
Afternoon 16.30
Departure to Bangkok by Thai Airways flight TG328
21.15
Arrival at Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok.
5.9 Interview Transcript with Tour Agent Questionnaire Tourism Flows Outbound (Thais traveling to India) Introduction: The SEA-LAC Trade Center at the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce collaborates with the Indian Embassy in Bangkok to conduct a market survey on Tourism Flows Outbound, with a special focus on Thais traveling to India. The survey results are expected to assist the Indian Government in designing programs to promote Tourism Flows Outbound from Thailand to India. For this reason, your opinions are highly appreciated! 1, When did your company start tour packages to India for Thai tourists? 1.1 Started in 2010. 59
2, How many tour packages to India does your company offer? 2.1 : 4 Programs Tour - India - Napal- Taj Mahal
8 Days 7 Nights
- India - Napal- Khao Khitchakut
7 Days 6 Nights
-India â&#x20AC;&#x201C; delhi - Agra
5 Days 4 Nights
-India - Kashmiri - Taj Mahal
7 Days 6 Nights
3, On average, how many clients travel to India with your company every year? 3.1 Twice in 1 year 4, Please provide further details on the clients who travel with your company: (Please tick in the appropriate box) Age group: ( ) 17-25 years
( ) 26-45 years
( ) 46-60 years
( ) 61 + years
4.1 46 -60 years and 61+ years Reason of travel: ( ) Education ( ) Business
( ) Sightseeing
( ) Conference/Events
( ) Religion
4.1 Sightseeing and Religion Type of tour packages bought: 4.1 India - Napal- Khao Khitchakut 7 Days 6 Nights and India - Kashmiri - Taj Mahal 7 Days 6 Nights Time of the year to travel: 4.1 October -March 5, What your companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s strategies in promoting Thais traveling abroad, specially to India? 5.1 We use media for marketing, such as advertising in newspapers, magazines, Brochure and online media in various social media channels, such as Facebook and Line Application. In addition, the company also visits other tour agents and meet sales representative to introduce tours to India.
60
6, What are your recommendations to the Thai and Indian Governments in promoting Thais traveling abroad, especially to India? 6.1 The Indian government should organize more cultural exchange events in Thailand to provide in-depth information about India to the Thai population. Information related to traveling such as appropriate time to travel, tourist attractions, local transportations, travel facilities as well as visa regulations should be provided in those events.
Thank you for your invaluable contribution! End of the interview transcript.
5.10 Holidays in Thailand Public Holidays Date
Holiday Name
Date
Holiday Name
Jan 1
New Year's Day
May 9
Royal Ploughing Ceremony Day
Feb 14
Makha Bucha
May 13
Visakha Bucha
Apr 6
Chakri Day
Jun 21
June Solstice
Apr 7
Chakri Day observed
Jul 11
Asalha Bucha
Apr 13
Songkran
Aug 11
The Queen's Birthday holiday
Apr 14
Songkran
Aug 12
Mother's Day
61
Apr 15
Songkran
Oct 23
Chulalongkorn Day
Apr 16
Songkran observed
Dec 5
The King's Birthday
May 1
Labor Day
Dec 10
Constitution Day
May 5
Coronation Day
Dec 31
New Year's Eve
School Holidays School Holidays in Thailand vary from school to school. In general, they are as follows: Term 1 mid-term break, starting from the last week of September to the end of October Term 1 holiday 14 Dec to 5 January Term 2 mid-term break 15 to 23 February Term 2 holiday 5 to 20 April.
5.11 Demographic Forecast Thailandâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s Population by Age Group, 1990-2020 (â&#x20AC;&#x2014;000) 1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2013
2015f
2020f
56,583
58,984
62,343
65,559
66,402
67,011
67,401
67,858
0-4 years
5,367
5,107
4,669
4,487
3,919
3,651
3,507
3,219
5-9 years
5,697
5,339
5,086
4,940
4,370
4,111
3,957
3,546
10-14 years
6,036
5,671
5,318
5,219
4,548
4,382
4,300
3,891
15-19 years
6,149
5,906
5,457
5,296
4,761
4,530
4,419
4,177
20-24 years
5,828
5,768
5,264
5,292
4,745
4,626
4,568
4,236
25-29 years
5,098
5,420
5,306
5,317
4,956
4,761
4,664
4,493
Total
62
30-34 years
4,608
4,863
5,532
5,482
5,468
5,218
5,026
4,738
35-39 years
3,946
4,457
5,264
5,535
5,640
5,584
5,482
5,050
40-44 years
3,092
3,846
4,918
5,169
5,630
5,648
5,597
5,448
45-49 years
2,502
2,990
4,086
4,805
5,280
5,487
5,570
5,545
50-59 years
2,317
2,393
2,981
3,956
4,714
4,998
5,146
5,439
55-59 years
1,897
2,209
2,292
2,851
3,792
4,276
4,532
4,961
60-64years
1,501
1,773
2,075
2,158
2,691
3,225
3,593
4,310
65-69years
1,009
1,357
1,616
1,900
1,985
2,230
2,489
3,341
70-74years
668
864
1,178
1,409
1,665
1,702
1,754
2,216
75-79 years
451
528
696
951
1,146
1,294
1,371
1,460
80-84 years
258
299
366
491
681
774
838
1,018
85-89 years
111
134
167
211
290
364
414
519
90-94 years
38
46
58
73
96
117
136
199
95-99 years
8
11
14
17
23
27
31
45
100+ years
1
1
2
3
3
4
5
7
Source: UNFPA 2014
5.12 Key Macro Economic Indicators and Forecast Indicators
2012
2013
2014e
2015f
2016f
2017f
2018f
6.5
2.9
3.2
4.4
4.8
4.5
4.3
366.0
388.5
388.6
429.1
469.5
524.7
562.2
Real Consumer Spending (% change) Real Imports of Goods and Services (% change) Real Exports of Goods and Services (% change)
6.7
0.5
2.8
3.9
3.6
3.7
5.1
6.2
2.4
3.3
5.1
5.5
5.6
5.5
3.1
4.0
3.6
5.2
5.1
5.0
4.9
Consumer Price Index (% change)
3.0
2.2
1.8
2.3
3.1
3.4
3.5
Real GDP (% change) Nominal GDP (US$ bn)
63
Policy Interest Rate (%)
2.75
2.25
2.75
3.50
3.75
4.61
4.30
Unemployment Rate (%)
0.7
0.8
0.7
0.7
0.7
0.7
0.7
30.63
32.82
32.09
31.49
31.37
30.48
30.71
Exchange Rate (LCU/US$, end of period) Source: IHS Global Insight 2014
5.13 Regional Experiences to Attract Thai Tourists Malaysia Malaysia Year of Festivals 2015 (MyFEST) campaign in Thailand. Budget Estimate: 6 million Bath/year (equivalent to US$ 189,000) The campaign intends to give visitors a magical holiday experience with a special emphasis on the various festivals celebrated by the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s multicultural society throughout the year. Besides festivals and celebrations, visitors will also be able to enjoy an array of interesting products namely shopping, cuisine, and theme parks that are available throughout the country. The most popular tourist destinations and products in Malaysia for Thai tourists include Kuala Lumpur, Legoland and Hello Kitty in Johor, Sunway Lagoon in Selangor, George Town in Penang, Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, Genting Highlands in Pahang, and Pulau Perhentian in Terengganu. Throughout the sales mission, Tourism Malaysia will organise a travel mart in main cities of Thailand (Hat Yai, Bangkok) to provide a platform for the travel trade players to meet and network. It also aims to showcase Malaysiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s diverse tourism offerings and highlight the scope for collaboration between travel agents. In addition, a trade evening will also be organised to promote Visit Malaysia Year 2014 with cultural performance and fashion show. The dinner also serves as a token of appreciation to the local tourism fraternity and media for their support and commitment in promoting Malaysia as a preferred destination for both leisure and business. Besides that, media interviews, press conferences, and meetings with tour operators will also be held. Together with Tourism Malaysia, the low-cost airlines were also promoting value-for-money and budget tour packages. Companies or Organizations that have forged strategic alliances with the Ministry of Tourism and Culture Malaysia in the form of financial contributions, in kind or materials in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2014, will receive tax deduction. Local travel agents run mini-contest to give away mini Ipad for those who buy tour package to Malaysia. In addition, Thai tourists will receive accommodation vouchers for shopping, restaurants, bars, hotels, bed and breakfasts and country cottages.
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South Korea Budget estimate: 6 million Bath/year (equivalent to US$ 189,000) Promotions and Special Offers -
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2014 Visitkorea User Survey: The Korea Tourism Organization is conducting a survey to find out more about tourists‘ experience. By completing a questionnaire, an informant has a chance to win a 2night voucher at Seoul Luxury Hotel Fair and other awards. Duty Free Korea: Free gifts are given to customers of Korea Tourism Organization‘s Duty Free Korea Korea Grand Sale 2015: the largest shopping/tourism festival ever held in this country, will run for 84 days from December 1, 2014 to February 22, 2015. The Event is a shopping/tourism festival designed to give foreign tourists a good time by offering them exciting shopping benefits, experience of Hallyu (Korean Wave), and the joys of sightseeing. Kt Wifi Router for tourists with 2000 KRW discount per day Thailand – Korea Friendship Festival 2014: Korean Tourism Night My Korean Travel Story: Korea Tourism Organization invites Thai people who had traveled to Korea for sharing travel experiences in Korea under the heading "My Korean Travel Story" to win tickets to Korea with 3nights accommodation and other prizes. Fun Snow Tube Festival at Yongpyong Resort: This winter, Thai visitors to the Yongpyong Resort will be offered with great winter fun activities and performances. 10 people will be selected randomly from the list of contestants attending both the first (Dec 11) and second (Dec 12) event dates. Prizes include -1st place winners (5 people): Participation fee refunds -2nd place winners (5 people): The Face Shop cosmetic gift sets -Rest of participants: Cashbee transportation card loaded with 5,000 won
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Source: http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/HD/event/enu_20130924/enu.html
6 References
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Embassy of India, Bangkok 46, Prasammitr, Sukhumvit, Soi 23, Bangkok 10110 Tel: +66 (0) 2 2580300-5 Fax: +66 (0) 2 2584627 / 2621740
SEA-LAC Trade Center University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce
126/1 Vibhavadee-Rangsit Road, Dindeng, Bangkok, 10400 Tel: +66 (0) 2 6976642
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