Slow down, enjoy the North: TAT campaign

"The main objective is to stimulate people into learning and experiencing more about the local culture, ways of living and natural sites in various provinces," Suraphon Svetasreni, governor of TAT, said yesterday.

The campaign was created to boost local arrivals at 10 selected destinations in nine provinces in the region.

Activities include cycling in the old town in Phrae, visiting an organic farm at Sukhothai Airport, staying at a royal project in Chiang Mai and food-tasting in Uttaradit.

TAT expects the campaign to increase visitors by 10 per cent from last year's 20,000-30,000 during the four-month period and generate more income in the communities.

The campaign's concept was carefully picked to suit the local character of the North, where people tend to move slowly in their daily lives even when speaking.

There are many second-tier attractions in the region that need to be promoted to holidaymakers in other regions.

"No need to hurry when travelling to the North. We should do something slowly. This is the global trend in travel right now," Suraphon said.

More than 20 operators in the region have already joined the campaign by offering special deals to consumers, with more businesses expected to participate.

This year, TAT is aiming at 91 million domestic trips contributing Bt432 billion in revenue.

Similar campaigns are planned for other areas such as Amphawa district in Samut Songkhram as well as Bangkok to encourage local tourists to stay longer and spend more.

The campaigns could also attract international tourists off the beaten paths.

The flooding has bypassed key attractions and tourists still visit scenic places. "Up to 15 per cent of all the attractions in the North are affected, but remain open," Suraphon said.

All of TAT's domestic offices are monitoring the situation and will evaluate the impact soon.