New York / Bangkok, 10 February, 2015 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) New York Office recently organised an innovative, interactive “Discover Thainess” luncheon at the Mandarin Oriental New York for a group of 40 top US media including important outlets; such as, Departures, Fodor’s Travel, Vanity Fair, Worth Magazine and Yahoo! Travel.
Ms. Srimala Waraphaskul, Director of the TAT New York Office said, “The event was organised to mark the global celebrations of TAT’s “2015 Discover Thainess” campaign, which aims at promoting the unique aspects of Thainess as memorable travel and cultural experiences for travellers visiting Thailand. Tourists can immerse themselves in the Thai way of life, Thai culture and Thai experiences; such as, Thai boxing, massage, cooking and food as well as all uniquely-designed handmade products and services.”
During the “Discover Thainess” luncheon, media delegates were greeted with a display of colourful Thai umbrellas and music as they received a traditional floral blessing upon entering the event space. Vibrant floral arrangements and destination imagery decorated the famed Lotus Suite of the hotel and guests were treated to an afternoon of traditional cultural performances, Thai food, and a glimpse into the world of Muay Thai fighting through a live demonstration.
Bangkok-based restaurant Somtum Der provided a live cooking demonstration of one of Thailand’s best known dishes, papaya salad or som tum. Members of the media also had the opportunity to receive relaxing hand massages to represent the experience of Thailand’s many spas that the TAT New York Office partnered for the event, including Six Senses Spa, Centara Hotels and Resorts, the Minor Hotel Group, COMO Hotels and Resorts, Anantara Phuket Layan Resort and Spa, and Phulay Bay, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve.
Ms. Srimala said, “This media luncheon event forms part of the various activities that the TAT New York Office has planned for this year to promote and to get more exposure on the “2015 Discover Thainess” campaign. Our objective is to pass on the campaign’s main message to travellers from around the world that ‘Thainess’ or the priceless cultural treasures of Thailand is what gives Thailand its charm and makes the country unique.”
Under the “Discover Thainess” campaign, TAT has listed 12 hidden gems that tourists must not miss when they are in the kingdom. All these places are renowned for their unique history, culture and lifestyle. They are Lampang, Phetchabun, Nan, Buri Ram, Loei, Samut Songkhram, Ratchaburi, Trat, Chanthaburi, Trang, Chumphon, and Nakhon Si Thammarat.
In addition, at least one large event will take place every month at various locations up and down the country to coincide with popular regional festivals. Many of these large festivals are uniquely Thai, having being celebrated by the local people for centuries, but new events celebrating Thainess have also be arranged. Highlights include the popular Muay Thai festival in March, the nationwide Songkran Festival in April, the Queen of Silk Festival in August and the nationwide Loi Krathong Festival in November.
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Contact Information
International Public Relations Division
Tourism Authority of Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 2250 5500 ext. 4545-48
Fax: +66 (0) 2253 7419
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.tatnews.org
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