The post U.S Economy Set To Lose $12.5BN In International Traveler Spend this year appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), the global body representing the Travel & Tourism private sector, announced its latest Economic Impact Research which found that the U.S. is on track to lose a staggering $12.5BN in international visitor spending this year.

Notably, international visitor spending to the U.S. is projected to fall to just under $169BN this year, down from $181BN in 2024.

This significant shortfall represents a 22.5% decline compared to the previous peak.

The loss won’t be felt by Travel & Tourism alone, with WTTC saying it represents a direct blow to the U.S. economy overall, impacting communities, jobs, and businesses from coast to coast.

According to the study, the U.S, the largest Travel & Tourism sector in the world, is the only country among 184 economies analysed by WTTC and Oxford Economics, forecast to see international visitor spending decline in 2025.

A Global Leader in Reverse

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “This is a wake-up call for the U.S. government. The world’s biggest Travel & Tourism economy is heading in the wrong direction, not because of a lack of demand, but because of a failure to act. While other nations are rolling out the welcome mat, the U.S. government is putting up the ‘closed’ sign.”

Simpson continues, “Without urgent action to restore international traveller confidence, it could take several years for the U.S. just to return to pre-pandemic levels of international visitor spend, not even the peak from 10 years ago.

“This is about growth in the U.S. economy – it is doable, but it needs leadership from DC.”

In 2024, nearly 90% of all tourism spending came from domestic travel, with Americans holidaying at home in record numbers. But this heavy reliance on homegrown tourism is masking a serious vulnerability; the international market is where the real growth lies, and the U.S. is losing its crown.

According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, new international arrivals data for March 2025 reveal a sharp and widespread drop in inbound travel from many of the country’s key source markets:

1. UK arrivals, one of the U.S.’s most important source markets, down nearly 15% year over year
2. Germany, another significant source market, plunged more than 28%
3. South Korea – down almost 15%
4. Other key markets, such as Spain, Colombia, Ireland, Ecuador, and the Dominican Republic, saw double-digit drops between 24% and 33%

As widely expected, the Canadian market is drying up, with early summer bookings down over 20% compared to last year. This is more than a dip. It’s a wake-up call.

While other countries are powering forward, the U.S. is slipping backward. Relying on domestic travellers might have kept the lights on during the pandemic, but without a bold international recovery plan, the world’s biggest Travel & Tourism economy risks falling further behind.

A Missed Economic Opportunity

The economic cost of inaction is clear. Travel & Tourism contributed $2.6TN to the economy last year and supported more than 20mn jobs. It also contributed more than $585BN in tax revenue annually, accounting for almost 7% of all government income. It could be even higher with a strong international visitor base. The sector has long been a reliable driver of federal, state, and local tax receipts.

At the same time, outbound travel is surging. Americans are travelling abroad in large numbers, yet inbound recovery from key markets has stalled. The U.S. is welcoming fewer visitors from its neighbours and countries further afield, which is a clear indicator that the global appeal of the U.S. is slipping.

WTTC warns that this imbalance not only affects local economies and employment but also undermines America’s position as a top global destination for trade, culture, and business.

In 2019, international visitors generated $217.4BN in revenue and supported almost 18MN jobs across America. Today, that legacy is under threat.

WTTC is calling for immediate action to address travel access, rebuild international marketing efforts, and restore global traveller confidence in the U.S.

 

 

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The post India revokes security clearance for Turkey’s Celebi appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

India revoked the security clearance of Celebi Airport Services India, a unit of Turkey’s Celebi, with immediate effect, citing national security concerns, the country’s civil aviation ministry said in an order on Thursday. As informed by a news report in Reuters.

New Delhi’s decision came a day after travel booking firms said Indians were cancelling holidays in popular resorts in Turkey and Azerbaijan following the countries’ support for Pakistan during the recent conflict with India.

Celebi Aviation Holding, the parent of Celebi Airport Services, whose website says it operates ground handling services at nine airports in India including Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru, was not immediately available for a comment.

Murlidhar Mohol, India’s deputy civil aviation minister, said the government had received requests from across India to ban Celebi Airport Services without providing details.

“Recognising the seriousness of the issue and the call to protect national interests, we have taken cognizance of these requests and Ministry of Civil Aviation has revoked security clearance of the said company,” Mohol said on X.

Turkey and Azerbaijan, popular budget holiday destinations for Indians, issued statements backing Islamabad after India’s strikes.

 

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The post Air Arabia launches non-stop flights to Krabi, Thailand from 28th Nov appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Air Arabia has annonced the launch of its new non-stop flights to Krabi, in Thailand. Starting 28^th November, the new service will operate daily from Sharjah International Airport to Krabi International Airport.

Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer, Air Arabia, said: “We are pleased to expand our network in Thailand with the launch of our new direct service to Krabi, a destination that offers strong appeal for both leisure and adventure travellers. With the growing demand for travel to Southeast Asia, this new route reaffirms our commitment to providing affordable and convenient air travel while continuously investing in expanding our global reach.”

This new service marks Air Arabia’s third destination in Thailand, joining its existing routes to Bangkok and Phuket and further solidifies the airline’s commitment to expanding its presence in Southeast Asia.

The new destination offers a gateway to one of Thailand’s most scenic coastal regions, known for its vibrant tourism offerings.

 

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The post Emirates unveils more enhancements to First Class appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

  

Emirates continues to refine its First Class ‘Fly Better’ experience, with an array of new enhancements for First Class customers; from keepsake menus to gloved service, luxurious lounge-inspired check in areas in Dubai, to the memorable ritual of unlimited caviar onboard.

Finessing the finer details of hospitality and service, the latest enhancements onboard Emirates’ First Class include a newly designed keepsake menu which tells an explorative story of Emirates’ wine selection and culinary inspirations. Customers can discover the heritage of rare bottles handpicked from renowned châteaux, with full tasting profiles and suggested pairings for an elevated dining experience. First Class customers are now invited to savour their unlimited caviar in elegant new Emirates engraved bowls, designed by Robert Welch to complement Emirates’ existing range. Emirates First Class cheeseboard has also been enhanced, presented on a rustic slate, with accompanying bowls and a wooden honey dipper, in addition to its array of artisan cheeses and chutneys. Emirates First Class cabin crew provide a gloved service for exceptional hospitality onboard.

Enhancing the on-ground experience for First Class customers, the First Class Check In area in Terminal 3, Dubai International (DXB) is also being refurbished to provide an exclusive atmosphere, featuring dedicated, personalised check-in services and a relaxing lounge design set to open in the coming weeks. Across the world, the journey for Emirates First Class customers is curated from start to finish, with complimentary access to 43 world class, luxury lounges across the globe, and complimentary chauffeur drive for seamless door-to-door transfers across most destinations.

In addition to regular enhancements in service and hospitality, here are some of the most celebrated aspects of flying Emirates’ First Class;

An abundance of personal space and privacy

Described as a ‘hotel room in the sky,’ Emirates offers First Class customers spacious, private suites above the clouds. Innovative technologies in Emirates First Class suites include electronically controlled privacy doors on some aircraft, with personal temperature controls and adjustable mood lighting on others.

In the First Class Suites onboard the Emirates A380 for example, there are 14 flat-bed Private Suites, set in a 1-2-1 configuration, located on the upper deck. The suite offers a seat that reclines from upright position to a lie-flat bed, with an automatic door for full privacy. Inside there is ample space for work, reading, or dining, with a work desk and pull-out dining table. Similarly, in the First Class Game Changer Suite onboard the Emirates B777, there are 6 luxurious private suites with floor to ceiling doors, set in a 1-1-1 configuration. The suites offer seats that can convert to ‘zero gravity’ setting for a comfortable sleep, and thoughtfully designed privacy so customers can comfortably relax or work. A video call feature is available on Game Changer aircraft so that customers can order ‘room service’ from their suite. The private suites in the middle row have virtual windows, while window seat passengers are provided with bespoke binoculars to enjoy the views. Across Emirates’ fleet, customers can check the configuration of the First Class suites on each aircraft, by exploring the seating charts available Emirates.com.

Emirates First Class customers get a generous 50kg luggage allowance, and for hand luggage items in the cabin, there is ample storage including a full-length wardrobe, overhead stowage, baggage storage and extra space for bags or shoes.

Restorative rest and pampering products in Emirates’ First Class

To transform seats into comfortable lie-flat beds, Emirates First Class customers are offered soft mattresses and pillows, cotton-lined duvets, including a plush, faux sheep-skin blanket on the Game Changer aircraft to support a good night’s sleep. First Class customers are also offered Hydra Active moisturising pyjamas to enhance their onboard comfort where the microcapsule technology keeps skin hydrated during the flight. The patented technology uses billions of capsules applied to the fabric to gently release naturally moisturising Vitamin C and olive oil. The pyjamas also include matching slippers and eye mask.

A curated array of skin and bodycare products are offered to First Class customers – from Byredo skincare to Bulgari perfumes and body lotions. Each First Class suite features a Byredo skincare collection designed exclusively for Emirates by the Swedish luxury brand. The Emirates First Class collection includes a towelette to cleanse and refresh the face, facial toner, eye cream, sleep oil and a pillow mist. Suites also feature a built-in illuminated vanity mirror.

Emirates also collaborates with luxury Italian brand Bulgari to create exclusive designer amenity kits for long haul passengers on select routes in First Class. The kits include essential items such as a sustainable hairbrush, hair tie, mirror and toothbrush, shaving kit and dental kit, alongside signature Bulgari Le Gemme fragrances and lotions. The latest fragrances now onboard are Le Gemme Orom for women, an intense wood and amber fragrance crafted around the finest vanilla bourbon absolute and precious oud assam essence. For men, the Le Gemme Tygar perfume contrasts woody and citrussy fragrances crafted from accords of fresh bursting grapefruit and deep sophisticated ambergris. The Bulgari bags themselves come in four elegant leather designs, featuring a rich chocolate colour for men and Champagne for women.

Fine dining on demand and world class drinks selection

First Class customers can dine on their own schedule, as the menu is available on demand. Orders can be placed at any time during the flight on long haul routes including à la carte multi-course meals with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Gourmet vegan dishes are available to First Class passengers on select routes, as well as a Movie Snacks Menu, featuring delicious options like Wagyu sliders, lobster rolls, popcorn, and edamame. First Class customers may indulge in unlimited caviar served with seven accompaniments, including melba toast, blinis, egg, chives, white onions, sour cream, and lemon, all served with a mother-of-pearl spoon. First Class customers are offered a selection of luxury chocolates, pralines, dates, and sweets and can take away their favourites in a mini box if desired. Premium sweet and savoury snacks are also featured in each suite, with still and sparkling water.

As part of an outstanding beverage collection, Emirates is the only airline in the world to offer Dom Pérignon champagne to First Class customers, served in First Class across all global routes. A complete range of drinks, alcoholic and non-alcoholic, is also available on a complimentary basis to First Class customers including the most premium spirits like Stoli Elit 18 Vodka from Latvia, The Botanist Hebridean Strength Gin from Scotland, Eminente Reserva 7 Year Old Rum from Cuba and Glenmorangie Signet Single Malt Scotch Whisky from Scotland and Hennessy Paradis Cognac from France. Every wine, spirit and beer onboard has been hand selected by Emirates as a best-in-class preferred beverage for customers.

For wine enthusiasts, Emirates world-class programme procures the finest wines from the most prestigious regions around the globe, offering the most extensive wine cellar of any airline. Emirates’ dedicated facilities in France house around 6 million bottles of fine wine, some of which won’t be served until 2037. Emirates currently offers a selection of the finest white Burgundy wines including prestigious Premier and Grand Crus wines such as Montrachet 2011, Chevalier-Montrachet 2013, and Corton-Charlemagne 2014, as well as some exceptional red Burgundy wines, primarily Grand Crus like Échezeaux, Clos Vougeot, and Chambertin. Emirates is also planning to introduce several First Growths from Bordeaux in the coming years, from the renowned estates of Château Mouton Rothschild, Château Margaux, Château Haut-Brion, Château Cheval Blanc, and Château d‘Yquem.

Emirates also offers premium Port wines, including vintage Tawny Ports such as the 1979 Graham’s and the 1981 from Dow’s. First Class customers can order from an extensive Lavazza Italian coffee menu and premium, handpicked Sri Lankan teas from acclaimed artisan teamakers – Dilmah.

Elevated entertainment in the sky 

For an outstanding viewing experience – First Class customers enjoy a 32-inch FULL HD LCD screen featuring ultra-wide viewing angles, touch screen, and LED backlight linked to Emirates’ award-winning ice inflight entertainment system. Customers also experience superior quality sound onboard using premium Bowers & Wilkins E1 headphones, exclusively created for Emirates using noise‑cancelling technology to block out ambient cabin sounds and deliver the cleanest output. The headphones are designed to be lightweight and made of the finest materials, including sheepskin leather for a comfortable fit. Emirates’ ice offers more than 6,500 channels of on demand entertainment in more than 40 languages. It includes more than 4,000 hours of movies and TV channels, up to 3,500 hours of music and podcasts, more than 2,000 Hollywood and internationally acclaimed movies, 250 dedicated kids and family channels and hundreds of TV series and full box sets including the latest shows from Paramount+, HBO Max, Discovery+, BBC, Bloomberg Originals and Shahid.

First Class on the Emirates A380 – Luxurious Shower Spa and A380 Onboard Lounge

Emirates is the first airline in the world to have introduced showers in First Class cabins and there are two Shower Spas in First Class, for the exclusive use of First Class customers travelling on an A380. The shower cubicle has water temperature control, a vanity unit, wash basin, changing area and toilet, a hairdryer, full-length mirror, heated flooring, leather seating and exotic flowers to create a relaxed ambience. Cosmetics provided include sustainable shower products from Irish luxury organic brand Voya, featuring shampoo, conditioner, body moisturiser, a soap bar and shower gel – where First Class customers can choose from two ranges; Revitalise and Tranquillity.

First Class and Business Class customers have exclusive access to the Onboard Lounge situated at the rear of the upper deck of the A380. In addition to a fully stocked bar containing premium branded liqueurs and spirits, champagne and classic cocktails, and a selection of hot and cold snacks, there is comfortable, open booth seating and a 55-inch LCD screen showing the aircraft’s position and views from its external cameras – for a uniquely social experience at 40,000 feet.

 

 

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The post Thai Airways signs lease agreement with BOC Aviation appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI) signed a lease agreement with BOC Aviation Limited for five new Airbus A321neo aircraft today, 16th May at THAI’s head office.

This new agreement strengthens a 15-year partnership and further enhances THAI’s narrowbody fleet. 

THAI CEO Chai Eamsiri and BOC Aviation chief executive and managing director Steven Townend signed the agreement. 

The event was witnessed by airline chief finance and accounting officer Cherdchome Therdsteerasukdi; BOC Aviation’s head of airline leasing and sales in APAC and the Middle East Michael-John Burke; BOC head of investor relations and corporate communications Timothy Ross; and senior vice-president for airline leasing and sales in APAC and the Middle East Ali Jahanshahi.

What the agreement entails

This agreement represents a significant milestone in THAI’s fleet modernization strategy. 

The introduction of the Airbus A321neo aligns with the airline’s Long-Term Fleet Plan, which aims to meet growing passenger demand and expand operational capacity. 

The Airbus A321neo delivers advanced capabilities that support both the airline’s short- and medium-haul expansion strategy and its commitment to operational efficiency. 

With its new-generation engines and aerodynamic improvements, the A321neo achieves significantly lower fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions compared to previous-generation aircraft, directly contributing to THAI’s environmental sustainability goals. 

The aircraft also offers enhanced passenger comfort with a modern two-class cabin configuration, bringing a widebody-like experience to narrowbody routes, ensuring a consistent and high-quality product offering across THAI’s network.

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The post CT Partners to hold 2025 conference in Singapore appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Independent Australian travel buying network CT Partners officially announced that its 2025 Annual Conference will be held at the Four Seasons Singapore from 28th to 31st October.

The announcement was made following a destination change designed to ensure full accessibility and engagement for CT Partners’ member network.

The decision to relocate the conference originally scheduled for the Maldives was made in response to recent developments that have impacted the ability or desire of some members to enter the Maldives. 

According to CT Partners chief executive Matt Masson: “Our decision to move the conference location is a reflection of our commitment to Members and partners alike. Singapore offers a premium, accessible and inspiring setting to connect, strategise, and celebrate. We’re planning a standout program that uncovers another side of Singapore and one that reflects the strength and spirit of CT Partners, and is a true reflection of our values of collaboration, access and excellence.”

The event will be delivered in partnership with Four Seasons , maintaining the premium calibre expected of CT Partners’ events, while Singapore Airlines continues as the Diamond Sponsor. 

As a world-class hub for business, innovation and travel, Singapore will provide access to senior business leaders and subject matter experts, elevating the business learning and leadership elements of the CT Partners conference. 

A great beginning

CT Partners recently reported a strong start to 2025, forecasting over ten percent in terms of growth and continued momentum towards the company’s ambitious $3 billion TTV target by 2027. 

This follows a record-breaking 2024 where the firm surpassed $2 billion in total transaction value. 

The group’s exceptional NPS of 96, reported in the latest member survey, reflects the success of its model and member satisfaction.  

CT Partners is the only 100% Member-owned network built to return maximum value to its members.

As Masson puts it: “We are proud of the strong relationships we hold across our network, and that includes providing premium engagement opportunities between our members and valued sponsors and suppliers. Our Conference is one of the most important of these moments.”

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The post Tourism Authority of Thailand welcomes incentive group from Infinitus appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) warmly welcomed the arrival of over 2,500 delegates from Infinitus (China) on Monday, 12th May.

Under the auspices of the Group Incentive Travel strategy aimed at the Chinese market, this visit reinforces Thailand’s position as a leading destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) in Asia.

The Infinitus group will be visiting Thailand till Monday, 19th May, with arrivals staggered into three batches. 

Each group follows a separate travel route within the country: Phuket–Bangkok, Chiang Mai–Bangkok, and Pattaya–Rayong–Bangkok.

This offers participants a chance to explore regional highlights before gathering in Bangkok for a large-scale seminar and gala event at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) tomorrow, 17th May.

To make the occasion even more special, a VIP welcome was organised at Suvarnabhumi Airport on Tuesday, 13th May for Infinitus executives and team leaders. 

Arriving from Guangzhou on China Southern Airlines flight, the group was received by Mr. Chuwit Sirivejkul, TAT’s Regional Director for East Asia, along with TAT staff and representatives from Guangzhou Huiyue International Travel Service.

The best that Thailand can present

TAT deputy governor for digitalisation, research, and development Kittipong Prapattong, will preside over tomorrow’s gala, which celebrates the Infinitus conference and highlights Thailand’s capability to host high-value Chinese visitors with efficiency and warmth.

The gala event will also feature a traditional Thai cultural performance, supported by TAT, adding a memorable local touch and reflecting the country’s unique identity. 

TAT also produced a welcome video thanking Infinitus for choosing Thailand as their preferred incentive destination for over a decade, underscoring the strength of the long-standing partnership.

This visit forms part of TAT’s broader strategy to attract quality tourism from China, positioning Thailand as the destination of choice for large-scale incentive travel. 

More major corporate groups are expected throughout 2025, building on this success.

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The post PONANT EXPLORATIONS invites voyagers to experience a total solar eclipse in 2026 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

For those keen on celestial events, PONANT EXPLORATIONS offers a unique opportunity to witness a truly breathtaking phenomenon: a total solar eclipse on 12the August 2026. 

Visible from select regions of the Northern Hemisphere, this rare phenomenon can be best experienced at sea. 

With three exclusive itineraries off the coasts of Iceland and Spain, guests will enjoy sailing alongside experts, ensuring an unforgettable journey under the path of totality.

Celestially memorable

As the day’s onshore excursions conclude, the ship will set sail for the open sea. 

The captain will navigate to the optimal viewing location, well away from landforms and potential cloud cover. 

On the outer decks, guests, equipped with observation glasses, will listen intently as renowned specialists and seasoned eclipse chasers share their insights.

Then, the light will begin to fade; colours will slowly disappear, and the surrounding waters will take on an eerie glow as silence settles over the ship as totality occurs mere moments later.

The Moon’s shadow will completely obscure the Sun, revealing only the radiant solar corona.

Three exceptional locations

Off the coast of Iceland and the Balearic Islands, PONANT EXPLORATIONS takes great care in designing journeys that promise unforgettable memories for its guests. 

With a commitment to delivering unique experiences that celebrate the world, its cultures and natural wonders, each itinerary is crafted as an exclusive voyage of discovery.

Whether along the coast of Iceland or in the Mediterranean, the unspoilt natural surroundings far from inhabited areas and artificial light, provides the perfect setting for an immersive experience. 

At sea, the tranquillity and purity of the air enhance the spectacle, while the mobility of small ships ensures the best possible vantage point to admire this celestial phenomenon.

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The post Tourism Australia to launch an indigenous place-based guide for travellers appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Tourism Australia and Discover Aboriginal Experiences (DAE) are launching an Indigenous place-based guide for travellers.

The guide is the first of its kind and was developed in collaboration with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. 

As such, it gives travellers a new way to see Australia through the lens of the world’s oldest living cultures.

Many of the experiences listed are part of the DAE collective, which brings together more than 200 Indigenous-led tourism offerings across the country. 

Part of Tourism Australia’s Signature Experiences of Australia programme, DAE showcases the best of Aboriginal tourism: experiences that are powerful, personal, and deeply memorable.

According to DAE executive officer Nicole Mitchell: “This new guide encourages visitors to Australia to learn about the nation’s shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation, particularly regarding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.”

Australia in the eyes of its native peoples

The guide is an Indigenous-led reintroduction to eleven of Australia’s key destinations and highlights stories and cultural experiences in places including Sydney / Warrane, Melbourne / Narrm, Hobart / nipaluna, and the Daintree Rainforest / Kaba Kada, in Queensland.

The guide weaves together 60,000 years of cultural knowledge with modern travel experiences including guided city walking tours, ancient rock art visits, exploring Indigenous-owned galleries and immersive culinary experiences. 

Through this unique approach, travellers are invited to see Australia through the stories that have shaped it for tens of thousands of years.

In each locale, the guide shares the traditional name, its Indigenous peoples and how to fully immerse in Indigenous culture as well as its creation story, and flora and fauna. 

For Cairns, in Far North Queensland, Gimuy (pronounced gee-moy), travellers learn How to say G’Day: Goorin boongun (pronounced goo-rin boon-un). 

There is also advice on how to buy Indigenous art, ethically, explore the Great Barrier Reef with indigenous sea rangers and dine on native produce. 

A timely development

The guide comes at a time of strong global interest in Indigenous-led travel. 

More visitors are seeking authentic, immersive experiences that connect them to Country, culture, and community. 

Over the past ten years interest in Indigenous Activities by all International Visitors has risen by 60 percent from 685,028 to 1,099,458. 

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The post Thailand and UN Tourism team up for 2025 Thailand Tourism Forum appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Together with stakeholders from both the public and private sectors, Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports collaborated with UN Tourism to host the Thailand Tourism Forum 2025.

Held last 7th May in Bangkok, the event revolved around the theme Navigating Global Tourism Trends: Strengthening Thailand’s Tourism Industry.

The forum brought in over 500 participants both at the actual venue and online, including senior officials from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports; namely minister Sorawong Thienthong, vice-minister Jakraphon Tangsutthitham, ministry secretary Krisada Tanterdthit, deputy permanent secretary Vanida Phansoad, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool, and Tourist Police commissioner Pol Lt Gen Saksira Pheuak-um.

A step in the right direction

The forum marked a major step in shaping the future of Thai tourism in line with global developments.

Harry Hwang, director of UN Tourism’s Regional Department for Asia and the Pacific, delivered congratulatory remarks on behalf of the secretary-general, reaffirming UN Tourism’s continued partnership with Thailand. 

Likewise, UN Tourism director of market intelligence, policies, and competitiveness Sandra Carvao delivered  the keynote address Global Tourism Trends and Directions: 2025–2030 wherein she outlined the key forces and opportunities transforming the global tourism landscape.

A key highlight was a panel discussion on Shaping the Future of Tourism Platforms and the Road to 2030: AI Transforming the Tourism Industry from Global Trends to Thailand, which explored how artificial intelligence is reshaping travel patterns, service delivery, and policy direction worldwide.

A prime example

During the event, Thienthong emphasised that Thailand must keep pace with a rapidly changing world through policies that align with global tourism trends. 

He also reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to the core principles of UN Tourism: sustainability, inclusivity, and resilience in the face of future crises.

He highlighted Borsuak Village in Nan Province, recently recognised by UN Tourism as one of the Best Tourism Villages 2024, as a strong example of how community-based tourism can successfully support sustainable development.

Thienthong also outlined Thailand’s five strategic priorities for the future of tourism: transitioning from volume to value by focusing on high-spending travellers; spreading tourism income to secondary cities through community-based tourism; integrating soft power with the digital economy; expanding into new, diversified source markets to reduce risk; and strengthening preparedness for all types of crises, from pandemics and natural disasters to economic instability.

He concluded with a call for all sectors to come together in building the Thailand Model: a new vision for sustainable tourism that will position Thailand as a “Destination of the Future” recognised for its quality, resilience, and meaningful experiences.

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