Thailand’s tourism is reeling in the wake of political unrest that has experienced the removal of the prime minister, airports shut down by protesters, and travel warnings imposed by 23 countries. A measure of normalcy is expected when the deputy leader of the People Power Party, Somchai Wongsawat becomes prime minister.
Thailand's tourism industry is forecast to lose 32 billion baht (approximately $930 million). This represents 5 percent of the year's estimated earnings, if the current political standoff is prolonged into the fourth quarter of this year, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). Thai Airways is reporting that it is flying with 20 percent fewer passengers than the same period last year.
TAT will launch a new tourism recovery plan that will include online video campaigns, roadshows and fam trips. TAT has already recorded a series of testimonials from tourists visiting Thailand and has placed them on YouTube and other video sharing sites.
The Tourism Council of Thailand and 60 tourism associations are urging the Foreign Affairs Ministry to convince 23 countries to revoke their travel warnings in the hope of recouping business ahead of Thailand’s high season.
Access Thailand tourism updates at www.tourismthailand.org/thailandtourismupdate.