Madrid, 25 January 2024 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has announced a continued drive to maintain Thailand’s image as one of the world’s most desirable destinations at Spain’s largest travel trade fair, Feria Internacional de Turismo (FITUR) 2024, from 24 to 28 January, in Madrid, Spain.
Mr. Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing – Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas, said “TAT’s participation at FITUR 2024 symbolises Thailand’s invitation to tourists from the Spanish-speaking markets. We want to inspire them to embark on a discovery journey to indulge in meaningful relationships with every aspect of Thailand, from the locals and the communities, to stunning natural attractions and rich cultural heritages, as well as immersive, sustainable experiences.”
This is Thailand’s 28th participation in FITUR, the leading travel trade fair for the Spanish-speaking markets, including Spain and Latin America. Joining the TAT at the Thailand Stand are 16 Thai tourism businesses including eight tour operators specialised in the Spanish and European market; seven hotels and resorts from Bangkok, Phuket, and Krabi; and Thai Airways International.
The Thailand Stand showcases a multitude of meaningful, one-of-a-kind travel experiences exclusive to the North, Northeast, and Central parts of Thailand that have the potential to match with the Spanish tourist market.
Reflecting the concept are demonstrations and performances of traditional Thai arts and crafts including Bo Sang umbrella colouring, umbrella dance, and Gingala Lanna bird dance from the North; Phi Ta Khon mask painting, Phi Ta Khon dance, and Serng Isan from the Northeast; and Thai potpourri making, long drum dance, and Thai dance from the Central region.
With the absent of direct air access between Spain and Thailand, TAT has been partnering with international airlines and Spain-based tour companies to promote Thailand package tours.
This year’s focus is on inspiring revisited tourists from Spain to explore new immersive experiences in key destinations – Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi, and Ko Samui – in linkage routes combining emerging destinations including Phuket-Khao Lak-Khao Sok, Bangkok-Kanchanaburi-Hua Hin, and Chiang Mai- or Chiang Rai-Phuket.
Honeymoon, health and wellness, LGBT+ and golf are identified as potential market segments for 2024.
Spanish tourists spent on average 57,635 Baht per person per trip in Thailand, at an average length of stay of 15.07 nights. Their favourite activities include Thai food, historical sightseeing, beach, massage and spa, and snorkelling.
Last year, the show hosted 8,500 tourism companies – both sellers and buyers – from 131 countries. The event is attended by 136,000 trade participants and 86,000 people from the public, as well as 6,374 local and international media.
