Sense of Thainess focus of 2015 campaign
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| In Photo: Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Executive Director for Tourism Investment Department Wiboon Nimitrwanich, Friends of Thailand awardee Christine Dayrit, Swiss-based Berg Go and TAT Deputy Governor for Tourism, Business and Products Vilaiwan Twichasri |
TAT Philippines, headed by its director, Kate Kritwutikon, recently met with members of the media to discuss the new tourism focus.
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| Friends of Thailand awardee Marbee Shing Go, Tourism Authority of Thailand Singapore and Philippines Director Kate Kritwutikon and officer Elaine Seah |
Discover Thainess calls on all stakeholders in Thailand to showcase the sense of “Thainess,” or the distinct character of the Thai people and unique culture as the country becomes part of the Asean Economic Community (AEC) this year.
With its long-standing geographical advantage as the center of Asean and the region’s hub for connectivity, the emphasis on promoting the Kingdom’s unique entity or Thainess will help enhance the reputation of the country as a unique and must-visit tourist destination in Asean.
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| TAT Director for Investment Coordination Division Puangpen Klanwari; TAT Assistant Director for Tourism Products and Business Group Jirawat Liangcam; and TAT Philippines representatives Len Rivera and Milky Evangelista |
To promote this sense of Thainess, TAT has identified seven areas where tourists will most appreciate Thai culture and traditions: food, arts, way of life, wellness, festivals, wisdom and sense of fun.
1. Thai Food
Thai food is known and loved all over the world for its fiery rich flavor combinations, unique cooking styles and age-old methods of preserving foods and offering nutrition. Thai food can be enjoyed at local street stalls, filled with scents and atmosphere. Tourists can learn to cook Thai style, to buy local herbs and spices and take the tastes of Thailand home. While enjoying the sights of Thailand’s magical scenery, tourists are also encouraged to try the best loved dishes; such as, Phat Thai, Tom Yam Kung and the fiery Som Tan salad.
2. Thai Arts
Thailand’s long history and blend of traditions, religion and people means that the country has a rich cultural heritage in terms of arts, crafts and literature. The best examples of unique Thai arts are found in temples, palaces and historical parks, up and down the country. To experience this legacy, tourists should take in khon masked dance shows, enjoy the many murals in temples, study the ancient art of Thai boxing and dance, or seek out Thai silk products made in the traditional way.
3. The Thai Way of Life
Thailand is a land of contrasts and very different landscapes, from steamy rain forests to rice paddies, tropical islands and misty mountains, all rich with natural resources. For generations, the Thai people have lived in many different and unique ways. A homestay experience allows tourists to enjoy the Thai way of Life in all of its forms and develop closer bonds with the locals. It is possible to learn ancient occupations, become an elephant mahout, see how agriculture feeds the people at the Royal Projects, or buy high quality local items.
4. Thai Wellness
The Thai style of massage and Thai traditional medicine, which uses a holistic approach and makes use of herbal medicines, are known worldwide and acknowledged as unique to Thailand. Tourists can experience the many traditional healing and wellness techniques in spas up and down the country. Visitors are also encouraged to learn Thai massage techniques, enjoy Thai herbal food and drinks and even take courses on holistic healing and holistic medicine.
5. Thai Festivals
Thailand is a land of festivals that reflect local traditions and beliefs with many being sacred religious events. Tourists are encouraged to witness at least one unique religious celebration; such as, the Khao Phansa or Ok Phansa festivals that mark the beginning and end of Buddhist Lent. Two festivals not to miss in Thailand are, of course, Songkran or the Thai New Year with its water-based fun and the charming full moon festival of the Loi Krathong.
6. Thai Wisdom
Thailand and its people are a storehouse of knowledge and wisdom with the country’s long history of religion, philosophy, folk wisdom and traditions of oral teaching passed down in families and in the temples. Tourists can visit religious places, which have always been educational centers, and historic sites to learn some of the wisdom of past people and leaders. Meditation courses are recommended for visitors seeking inner knowledge and to learn the secrets of living a contented life.
7. Thai Fun
Fun, laughter and an easy-going attitude are a unique character of the Thai people, which is why Thailand is known as the “Land of Smiles.”. Simply by mingling with the Thai people and sharing in the fun, tourists can experience this most unique aspect ofThainess everywhere – from markets and malls to the islands and hills. Thai people are always sharing jokes and laughter, whether they are waiting in queues, at the office or enjoying free time, there is always fun to be found.
Be sure to explore more of Thailand when you go there to visit in the coming months.
TAT is recommending 12 hidden gems that tourists must not miss when they are in the Kingdom. All these places are renowned for their unique history, culture and style.
1. Lampang : The Sleeping Beauty – visit the land where time stands still
2. Phetchabun : Bliss in the mist – Immerse in the land of mist shrouded mountains of flowers
3. Nan: Slow Life Zone – Indulge in the most romantic province of Thailand
4. Buriram: Dual Diversions – Discover the land where ancient Khmer and modern Thai civilizations meet
5. Loei: Be Cool – Explore the wisdom of the mountains
6. Samut Songkhram: A River Runs Through It – Appreciate the glory of the rivers
7. Ratchaburi: I love Arts – Learn the age-old arts of Thailand
8. Trat: Islands of Dreams – Journey to the islands of dreams
9. Chanthaburi: The Fruitful Land – Step into the home to all fruits of Thailand
10. Trang: All You Can Eat – Experience the exotic nature and cuisine
11. Chumphon: Eternity Beach – Enjoy the land of beautiful beaches and crystal clear sea
12. Nakhon Si Thammarat: Pure Indulgence – Be mesmerized in the land of distinct religion and culture
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