BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand Travel Mart Plus 2013 kicked off highlighting four niche markets: golf; ecotourism; wedding and honeymoon; health and wellness and attracting an estimated 1,000 delegates.
Speaking at the event’s buyers and sellers session, Tourism Authority of Thailand Deputy Governor for International Marketing-Europe, Africa, Middle East & America, Juthaporn Rerngronasa said, “There are 395 sellers from Thailand and Greater Mekong Sub-region and 302 buyers from 58 countries.” This compares with 421 sellers, 408 buyers LY.
She noted that there were new buyers from emerging markets such as South Africa, Latin America, CIS, and eastern Europe that ensured sellers had an opportunity to do business with suppliers from almost all global travel markets.
Sellers represent travel and hospitality products in Thailand and the Mekong Region. This year, there are 395 seller booths with the following breakdown: 22 health & wellness; 8 weddings & honeymoons; six ecotourism; 3 golf; 273 hotels/resorts & others; 32 tour operators and travel agents; 12 entertainment/ theme park/ cultural products; 6 transportation; 5 other travel services; 20 organizations from the Mekong Region; 9 travel associations; and 5 NTOs.
“Thailand’s tourism growth will depend more on products for individual travelers, interactive or experience travel,” Ms. Juthaporn said. “Customers no longer wish to be passive consumers on traditional holiday packages. They look for an experience or an opportunity to interact with communities, but it is a very competitive marketplace.
“Therefore, the theme this year is ‘Customize Your Experience’ focusing on the future direction of Thailand tourism, which offers unique as well as unforgettable experiences.”
Commenting on their attendance at TTM Plus 2013 Mr. Norman Allin, MD Worldwide Destinations Asia and a well-known travel personality here in Thailand said, “We are delighted to attend our first TTM. It has been very well organized and the venue – IMPACT, is spacious and immaculate and allows the interaction of buyers and sellers not only at the booth but also around the venue with its wide aisles and various breakout rooms.”
“As a new Thailand DMC my company is working closely with all sectors of the international and local tourism industry, and TTM allows us to meet our many friends and we are honored to have also been chosen to handle buyers pre and post itineraries.”
