TAT’s strategy will promote tourism in south-central Thailand, enhance local attractiveness, and upgrade Hua Hin Airport to international standards.
BANGKOK, THAILAND – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has announced plans to expand the Lower Central Region as part of the government’s policy to promote regional soft power and encourage cross-regional tourism while attracting more flights to Hua Hin Airport. further promotional plans were outlined. .
The plan reflects a four-pillar directive given by Prime Minister Sretha Thavisin during the Third Circular Ministerial Meeting for 2024, held in Phetchaburi from May 13-14.
Prime Minister Threatta called for further promotion of the “Four Buri” cities in the lower central region, namely Suphanburi, Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi and Phetchaburi provinces, to boost tourism, while Khao Ngu Stone Park in Ratchaburi is being developed as a tourist attraction. He said that it should be developed and promoted. Recreation and sports attraction. He also directed that Phetchaburi’s traditional bullfighting races be promoted as sports tourism and local culture preserved.
Meanwhile, Hua Hin Airport is scheduled to be converted into an international airport by October 2025. Works should include expanding the runway to accommodate larger aircraft and renovating the passenger terminal to facilitate travellers.
TAT Governor Ms. Tapani Khiaphaibulu said, “TAT is a gateway to the established tourist cities of Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan, as a gateway to the hidden gems of Suphanburi, Ratchaburi, Kanchanaburi and other border areas.” By utilizing this, we are strengthening tourism promotion in the lower central region.” Provincial city. We are promoting the work that needs to be done to encourage more travel and better distribute tourism revenue across the region. ”
TAT’s five must-do activities include Must Beat (Muay Thai), Must Eat (Thai food), Must Seek (Thai culture), Must Buy (Thai fabric), and Must See (Thai show) It will be.
As a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, Phetchaburi province is known for its high-quality sea salt, key lime, and palm sugar, making it a must-eat. Local food and drinks like Ken Kua Hua Tan (toddy palm curry) and ‘lime palm soda’ are must-sees. The province is also home to ‘must-see’ events, the annual Phra Nakhon Khiri Festival, which is set to expand to an international scale, and a ‘must-see’ new landmark, Thailand’s largest It also boasts of Naga statues.
Hua Hin Airport in Prachuap Khiri Khan is promoted as a key gateway for travel connecting major destinations and hidden gems in the lower central region. The airport currently serves daily flights from Hua Hin to Chiang Mai with AirAsia. Negotiations are progressing regarding a direct flight from Hat Yai.
Meanwhile, the unique cultural identity of Suphanburi, Kanchanaburi and Ratchaburi will be further promoted. Suphanburi is a UNESCO Music Creative City and is also known for its revered temples and famous chiffon cakes. As well as the annual Bridge of Kwai Week, Kanchanaburi has many natural and cultural resources. Finally, Ratchaburi is also famous for its local arts and crafts.
From January to April 2024, TAT recorded 36.96 million trips to the lower central region, generating 161.78 billion baht. TAT has set a target of 103.07 million trips and 464.6 billion baht in revenue for the year.
Theodore is the co-founder and editor-in-chief of the TravelDailyNews media network. His responsibilities include business development and long-term opportunity planning for TravelDailyNews.
