Thailand Roundup: Digital economy and infrastructure, attempted rape, top honeymoon destination
Travel and Tour
At the World Travel Market London 2024, Thai Airways announced plans for extensive route expansion and fleet modernization to bolster its global presence and support Thailand's tourism recovery post-COVID. WIT Kitchathorn, the airline's Director of Sales, highlighted new destinations in Europe, including Milan, Oslo, and Brussels, set to launch in mid-2024. Thai Airways aims to attract more tourists from China and India by leveraging Thailand's new visa-free policies, anticipating increased passenger traffic from these key markets. According to Travel and Tour World, the airline is modernizing its fleet with orders for 45 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners and 20 Airbus A321s, emphasizing sustainability and enhanced passenger experience.
Digital economy and infrastructure
GDS International has announced a $1 billion investment to develop a hyperscale data centre park in Chonburi, Thailand, over the next five years. This initiative aims to enhance Thailand’s digital economy and infrastructure, reinforcing its position as a regional tech hub for cloud and AI technologies, Thailand Business News reports. The project was endorsed by Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, highlighting the investment's potential to attract further high-value investments in the digital sector. The Thailand Board of Investment (BOI) has approved the project, which is expected to create employment opportunities and foster skill development through collaboration with local industries.
Grand Tourism
At the World Travel Market 2024, Thailand's Minister of Tourism, Mr. Sorawong Thienthong, announced the "Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025." This campaign aims to lure international visitors with a mix of cultural festivities, travel experiences, and infrastructure investments, targeting £75.55 billion in tourism revenue. Key initiatives include improving visa facilitation, expanding the ASEAN travel network, and promoting lesser-known destinations like Nan and Sakon Nakhon. The campaign emphasizes Thai cultural experiences through its "Five-Must Do" categories and plans to host major events such as the Amazing Thailand Countdown and the Songkran Festival.
Attempted rape
A Thai piano teacher, identified as Jan, has accused renowned lawyer Sittha Biabangkerd of attempted rape, sharing CCTV footage of the incident with media outlets. This accusation follows Sittha being linked to a separate case where he allegedly swindled millionaire Jatuporn Ubonlert out of 71 million baht. Jan claims that Sittha, who initially contacted her for legal advice after she was a victim of an investment scam, attempted to sexually assault her during a music lesson at her home. She escaped and has since distanced herself from him, expressing fears of retaliation for coming forward. According to Asean Now, She believes Sittha is receiving "karma" for his actions.
Honeymoon destination
Thailand has overtaken the Maldives as the top international honeymoon destination, according to a MakeMyTrip (MMT) report. Domestically, the Andaman Islands have replaced Kerala as the most popular honeymoon spot in India, while Kashmir moved into third place, Economic Times reports. While Goa's bookings remained unchanged, Himachal Pradesh saw a 4% decline. Couples increasingly prefer luxury accommodations, with 68% choosing 4-star or 5-star hotels, and the average spending per couple has risen by 13%.
