in Phang-Nga, marking the event’s debut in the southern province. Mr. Sermsak Pongpanit, Minister of Tourism and Sports, presided over the opening ceremony. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) presented the theme “Amazing Thailand: Your Stories Never End,” a new marketing campaign showcasing Thailand’s commitment to deliver experiences that create lasting memories. The focus of this initiative highlights luxury travel, spa/wellness, soft adventure, and sustainable tourism.

Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand added, “Another prominent feature is our ‘smart tourism’ strategy, which is aimed at elevating Thai tourism’s competitiveness. We are highlighting the unprecedented digital transformation to accelerate Thailand’s tourism ecosystem to quality and sustainability.”

Additionally, Thailand will be hosting Asia’s second Tourism Cares summit in 2025, partnering with the US-based NGO to bolster regenerative tourism in Thailand. The summit will be accompanied by a “meaningful travel” mart showcasing high-yield tourism products. The two organizations have also created a Meaningful Travel Map of Thailand, highlighting their first 15 impact partners, with plans for expansion, available on the Tourism Cares website. Their homepage states, “We believe we can change the world through travel by inspiring the travel industry to put people and places first.” www.tourismcares.org

This year’s Travel Mart showcased Phang Nga’s potential as a high-value tourism destination. Your Luxury Stories Never End for Phang-Nga could include stays at pool villas, treehouse villas, or even a private island. Perhaps indulge in a culinary journey featuring everything from authentic local specialties to Michelin-starred restaurants.

The province aligns with TAT’s focus on high-value tourism, appealing to high-end travelers with its national parks, fishing villages, rafting adventures, beaches, spa/wellness and a well-developed dining scene – including 12 Michelin-recommended and Bib Gourmand locations for 2024. At the TTM Talk, Ms. Chudaree Debhakam, Head Chef at Baan Tepa, a 2 Michelin-star restaurant in Bangkok, spoke about “Thailand’s Gastronomic Journey: Towards a Sustainable Food Future”. She went on to explain the roots of Thai cuisine, their role in the country’s culture, the increasing interest in culinary travel and the importance of authenticity and sustainability in her cooking. Master Chef also leads gastronomy tours showcasing each region’s culinary offerings when she’s not in the kitchen of her acclaimed eatery.

How To Go
Cathay Pacific offers seamless daily non-stop service from major cities to Hong Kong, connecting to Bangkok and Phuket. Business class offers the ultimate in comfort and amenities that make a huge difference on long flights. Spacious seats turn into comfy lie flat beds. The food is excellent, with a choice between Asian favorites and International dishes. It’s like a flying 5-star hotel. Additionally, the huge Pier Business Class Lounge in Hong Kong offers an array of amenities to help you recharge and relax. These include the popular noodle bar, elegant Tea House, International specialties, tasty sweets and luxurious lounge seating.  www.cathaypacific.com

For more info on travel to Thailand: www.tourismthailand.org/home