The growth of low-cost airlines has made it easier for Thais to travel internationally.
Aggressive competition among airlines has resulted in attractive airfares and promotions for international routes, sometimes cheaper than for domestic routes.
The Thai Travel Agents Association said growth of outbound tourism averaged 10 per cent per year, while the number of outbound tourists was projected to increase to 5.5 million this year and 6 million in 2016 from 5 million last year.
The TAT’s 2016 marketing plan should cater to Thai travellers, particularly those aged 25-40, as this group has the highest purchasing power, said Anuphap Thirarat, the TAT’s deputy governor for the domestic market.
The main focus of the TAT’s 2016 marketing plan will build on the success of campaigns this year such as Dream Destination, Discover Thainess and the 12 Hidden Gems.
Mr Anuphap said more Thai travellers now preferred to plan their own trips instead of buying package tours, so tourism offerings should meet the changing demand.
For fiscal 2016 starting this October 1, the TAT will launch its Dream Destinations 3 campaign covering 20 selected destinations of interest, while Discover Thainess will remain a major promotion.
The Tourism and Sports Ministry said the economies of the 12 Hidden Gem provinces grew by 8.7pc year-on-year in the first quarter, generating B16.2 billion in tourism revenue, up by 10pc.
Hidden Gems provinces are Lampang, Nan, Phetchabun, Buri Ram, Loei, Samut Songkhram, Ratchaburi, Trat, Chanthaburi, Trang, Chumphon and Nakhon Si Thammarat. The TAT plans to refresh the campaign by launching 12 Hidden Gems Plus next year, where the 12 new provinces will be adjacent to the existing 12.
Mr Anuphap said the objective of the new campaign was to introduce more choices for tourists so they extend their stays.
The TAT projects domestic tourism will generate B800 billion in revenue from an estimated 148 million domestic trips this year, up from B700 billion in revenue and 138 million trips last year. Kasikorn Research Centre expects domestic tourism will generate B772 billion in revenue from 148.5 million domestic trips.
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