Thailand Open to the New Shades
Beyond the beaten track
‘Open to the New Shades’ introduces the rich diversity of Thailand and extends a warm welcome to everyone
Idyllic beaches & back to nature Culinary marvels
Thousands of visitors travel each year to uncover the secrets behind Thailand’s fi nest recipes. They might be interested in joining food tours, strolling through local markets or visiting organic farms around the country. The charm of Thai food goes beyond what is served on the table, it goes to the heart of the country’s unique regions where the fi nest ingredients are found and local artistry is infused into the dishes. Examples of Thai gastronomy can be found in the various kinds of Phat Thai, chili pastes, soups and curries. Visitors can experience anything from authentic street food to fi ne-dining restaurants while cookery classes and intriguing food tours will satisfy those with a thirst for new experiences. Miang Klep Bua (Lotus Petal Wrap) and other edible fl ower menus, for instance, are probably unfamiliar to most. Last year, the Michelin Guidebook Bangkok was launched with 98 Thai, Asian and International restaurants, including 28 Thai street food stalls. And this year the Michelin 2019 selection, which includes restaurants in Bangkok, Phuket and Phang-nga, will be released on November 14th. Visitors can now begin their culinary journey in Bangkok at the Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurants before expanding their journey in search of eat-like-a-local experiences in other provinces.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has taken note of the UK’s appetite for Thai cuisine and launched ‘Eat Thai, Visit Thai’ as their brand campaign for 2018/19 – to promote the country as a gastro- tourism destination and to drive more consumers into Thai restaurants, where they will then be inspired to consider Thailand as their next holiday destination. The TAT also aims to pair up tour operators and independent travel agents with their local restaurant groups, to essentially use the restaurants as an extension of their marketing strategy. There are also incentives, competitions and giveaways to boost engagement within the trade as well as a variety of events tailored to the consumer alongside national press, digital and social media marketing campaigns.
Thailand boasts outstanding coastal sites from north to south and west to east. From well-known destinations such as Chiang Mai, visitors can travel north to Mae Hong Son, visiting peaceful forests and mountains in Pang Ung. Alternatively, travel down to Chiang Rai and be embraced by the coolness in Doi Mae Salong – a popular choice during winter. In the Northeast, Samphan Bok in Ubon Ratchathani is where visitors are charmed by stories about the huge naturally-shaped rock islets. Journey south to witness the white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters of Phang Nga Bay. Its famous limestone rock was featured in a James Bond movie. If you need a true hideaway, Ko Kradan in Trang, could be the answer. It’s blessed with broad white beaches, emerald waters and shallow-water corals.
Head east to Trat, Thailand’s coastal province for pristine nature and beautiful islands, among them, Ko Chang, the country’s second largest island. Easily accessible by road and air, Trat is full of potential and ready to be developed as a major tourist destination in the near future. Trat is home to some exceptionally biodiverse conservation areas. Here tourists would be able to trek through the forests, cycle along the numerous community trails and cruise the canals and mangrove forests. These opportunities along with the many local folk activities, from palm leave weaving to relaxing in natural spas, make Trat an ideal destination for the modern ecotourist.
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