By Raynald C Rivera
DOHA: Good value for money, diverse touristic sites and warm Thai hospitality are some of the reasons why Qataris choose Thailand as destination, says Thai Ambassador Soonthorn Chaiyindeepum.
“Every year Thailand receives about 30,000 Qatari visitors. They love to go to Thailand for vacation and also for medical treatment,” Ambassador Chaiyindeepum told The Peninsula, adding many residents also fly to Thailand during holidays .
Latest figures from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) reveal 13, 459 Qataris visited Thailand in the first half of this year. Last year, the number of Qatari visitors to the country reached 29, 450.
There has also been a 12.77 percent increase in the number of travellers from the Middle East from January to July this year compared to the same period last year, according to data from Thai immigration.
“Thailand is a good place and a good value for money if they want to go for vacation and medical treatment in addition to Thai hospitality,” he said. Thailand has been ranked as one of the most affordable holiday destinations with places like Chiang Mai which has been known to be a haven for backpackers.
With Eid Al-Adha holidays just around the corner , Thailand is one of the countries Qataris and residents prefer to visit as families take their final chance to vacation before schools open next month. Attractive packages offered by travel agencies are also playing a great role in attracting more tourists to the country.
Thailand is a perfect haven for visitors who love nature, relaxation, food and shopping.
“Thailand has everything to offer from shopping to natural sites such as pristine beaches and mountains, that’s why people like to go there,” said Chaiyindeepum.
Thai embassy has spared no effort to further promote the country’s tourism through various activities and events that introduce Thai culture to Qataris and residents.
For the past few years the Royal Thai Embassy has organised many cultural events in Qatar to promote various aspects of Thainess. These include cultural performances, Thai culinary art and festivals, ” said the Ambassador at a recent event to introduce Muay Thai or Thai boxing to Qatar. The event saw around 300 martial arts enthusiasts learn the art of Muay Thai - a centuries-old combat sport which is a national sport that has gained popularity around the world.
The Peninsula
