Tourism, Organisations & Operators,

The Gambia Tourist Board (GTB) and UK tour operator The Gambia Experience have held successful talks to support increased awareness of Destination Gambia among the UK travel sectors
The Gambia Experience reports the success of its meeting ahead of the early start of its winter sun programme, which commences on October 13th in time for popular half-term holidays.
The tour operator reports a 25% growth in capacity this winter and, in meeting with tourism representatives at its Hampshire headquarters, will work on joint initiatives with the GTB to further promote The Gambia’s diverse array of holiday opportunities.
With a proven track record of success operating flights between London Gatwick and Banjul for 36 years, the tour operator has established itself as the UK’s leading specialist to the destination.
The GTB’s Director of Tourism, Mr Adama Njie commented:ADVERTISEMENT“The Gambia Tourism Board values collaboration with The Gambia Experience towards the development of Gambian Tourism. This is manifested by the recent visit of the Honourable Minister of Tourism and Culture and the Director General of the Gambia Tourism Board with other tourism stakeholders in which we have mapped out the areas of cooperation with The Gambia Experience to push the demand from the United Kingdom. We are committed to continuing working with The Gambia Experience to further increase air arrivals from the UK which is still our main market.”
He added: “Another example of our collaboration is the recent participation at the Rutland Global Bird Fair to promote bird watching in The Gambia which is among others a niche product for destination Gambia. I will continue to work with The Gambia Experience towards increasing the number of flights and other activities toward tourism development in The Gambia.”
The Gambia Experience’s managing director Mr Chris Ayling said:
“The Gambia is a fantastic destination that offers a huge variety of opportunities to experience unspoilt Africa. It has an incredible offering, with some amazing beachfront hotels and lodges, fascinating wildlife and birding, along with great cultural adventures, and reliably hot weather, all within six hours flying time. You’ll meet some of the friendliest people you’ll ever encounter, and working with the GTB, we’re excited about the season ahead. We’ve added some great new accommodation options to our programme and are offering new birding tours with Springwatch presenter Megan McCubbin along with our award winning guide, Malick Suso, who last month received the Wanderlust World Guide Award for his Wildife and Safari work in The Gambia.”

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When it comes to the Caribbean’s breathtaking beauty, few destinations can rival the enchanting island of Saint Lucia. With its lush rainforests, towering mountains, and pristine beaches, this tropical gem is a haven for travelers seeking sun, sand, and serenity. For those who dream of lounging on soft, powdery shores with turquoise waters lapping at their feet, Saint Lucia delivers an array of picture-perfect beaches. Here are the best five beaches on this captivating island:
Reduit Beach:Nestled in Rodney Bay, Reduit Beach is one of Saint Lucia’s most popular and accessible beaches. Boasting a long stretch of golden sand, this family-friendly destination is perfect for sunbathing, beach games, and swimming. The calm, shallow waters provide a safe environment for children to splash around, while water sports enthusiasts can enjoy jet skiing and paddleboarding. After a day of fun in the sun, visitors can explore the nearby dining and shopping options, adding a lively touch to this paradisiacal beach experience.
Anse Chastanet Beach:For a more secluded and intimate beach encounter, Anse Chastanet is the place to be. Located near Soufrière, this beach offers a serene escape surrounded by lush greenery and the iconic Pitons—two volcanic peaks that form Saint Lucia’s striking landscape. Snorkeling and diving are highly recommended here, as the crystal-clear waters teem with colorful marine life and stunning coral reefs. Anse Chastanet Beach is also home to a luxurious resort of the same name, where visitors can indulge in fine dining and spa treatments with an idyllic ocean backdrop.
Sugar Beach:Also located in Soufrière, Sugar Beach, known locally as Jalousie Beach, exudes luxury and exclusivity. Flanked by lush hillsides and framed by the majestic Pitons, this crescent-shaped beach is a visual delight. Accessible only by boat or through the exclusive Sugar Beach Resort, the beach maintains an unspoiled allure, offering visitors a sense of tranquility and privacy. The resort offers upscale amenities and water sports, making it an excellent choice for couples seeking a romantic escape.
Pigeon Island National Park:Combining history and natural beauty, Pigeon Island National Park is a unique beach experience. Located near Rodney Bay, this beach is surrounded by historical landmarks and ruins, providing a fascinating glimpse into Saint Lucia’s past. Visitors can explore the well-preserved military ruins, hike to Fort Rodney for panoramic views of the island, and then relax on the beach’s golden sands. Pigeon Island National Park is an excellent destination for history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike.ADVERTISEMENTMarigot Bay:Often referred to as the most beautiful bay in the Caribbean, Marigot Bay offers a picturesque and serene setting. Surrounded by lush hills and mangroves, the bay’s turquoise waters provide a tranquil oasis for travelers seeking a laid-back beach experience. The bay is an ideal spot for sailing and yachting, with a marina that welcomes visitors from all over the world. Along the shores, visitors will find boutique shops, upscale resorts, and charming restaurants, creating a refined atmosphere to savor every moment.
Saint Lucia’s beaches offer a diverse range of experiences for travelers seeking different types of paradise. Whether you prefer a lively family-friendly environment, secluded luxury, historical insights, or a serene natural escape, the island’s beaches have something special for everyone. With its warm hospitality and breathtaking vistas, Saint Lucia is undoubtedly a beach lover’s dream come true. So, pack your swimsuit, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure—paradise awaits on the shores of Saint Lucia.
The magical island of Saint Lucia will host the World Travel Awards Caribbean & The Americas Gala Ceremony 2023 on 26 August 2023. The leading travel industry figureheads from across the region will attend the red-carpet reception at Sandals Grande St. Lucian.
Graham Cooke, Founder, World Travel Awards, says: “I am honoured to unveil Saint Lucia as the host of our Caribbean & Americas Gala Ceremony 2023, in this our landmark 30th anniversary. Saint Lucia is helping to spearhead the recovery of travel and tourism in the Caribbean, and I am delighted this captivating island will form a crucial part of our anniversary tour.”He adds: “World Travel Awards has maintained its position as the industry leader for the past 30 years, consistently proving its value as the global benchmark for recognising excellence in travel and tourism. I look forward to joining the most senior travel industry figureheads from across the Caribbean and The Americas for what promises to be a fabulous event, acknowledging those organisations spearheading the growth of the region’s travel and tourism sector.”

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Wego, the largest online travel marketplace in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), invites travelers to discover Azerbaijan in all seasons. The two companies will join forces for a new campaign aiming to showcase Azerbaijan’s incredible attractions to MENA travelers. Building on the successful previous partnership, this collaboration will leverage Wego’s extensive reach and innovative marketing strategies to showcase Azerbaijan’s rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and warm hospitality.
In Azerbaijan, both summer and winter offer a wide range of exciting activities for each type of traveler.
Mamoun Hmedan, Chief Commercial Officer and Managing Director, MENA and India, Wego, said: “As we renew our partnership with Azerbaijan Tourism Board, we aim to inspire and guide travelers to explore the wonders of Azerbaijan and create a seamless and inspiring travel experience. We recorded over 830,000 searches globally to Azerbaijan this year and we are expecting to see an increase in the searches towards the summer.”
During the summer months, the country’s beautiful coastal areas become a haven for beach lovers. Travelers can indulge in water sports such as jet skiing and parasailing. Additionally, the picturesque mountainous regions of Azerbaijan, such as the Greater Caucasus range, provide fantastic opportunities for hiking, trekking, and exploring scenic trails that lead to breathtaking vistas and hidden waterfalls.
Florian Sengstschmid, CEO, Azerbaijan Tourism Board, said: “In winter, Azerbaijan transforms into a winter wonderland, providing excellent opportunities for winter sports enthusiasts. The country has premier ski resorts and offer world-class skiing and snowboarding facilities with a range of slopes suitable for beginners to advanced skiers. Additionally, the picturesque village of Gabala, located in the Tufandag Mountains, offers a charming winter retreat with opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and even enjoying horse-drawn sleigh rides through snowy landscapes.”ADVERTISEMENT

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The Argyll and Isles Tourism Cooperative has launched a new Whisky Year Zero commemoration to mark the 200th anniversary of the 1823 Excise Act, which was published on 18 July 1823The act, which sanctioned the distilling of whisky in return for a licence fee, played a key role in shaping Argyll and the Isles as Scotland’s Whisky Coast – an area which encompasses four of Scotland’s recognised whisky regions – Campbeltown, Islay, Highlands (Oban and Loch Lomond) and Islands (Jura and Tobermory).
Recognising the significance of the year, particularly to Argyll’s one-time ‘Whisky Capital of the World’, Whisky Year Zero celebrates the destination’s distinct whisky heritage by showcasing the wide range of sites, festivals and experiences whisky lovers can experience in Argyll and the Isles from July 2023 to June 2024. This includes brand new distillery openings, such as the reopening of the historic Port Ellen Distillery on Islay, more than 35 years after it was closed and almost 200 years since it first opened in 1824 as one of the first distilleries to be licensed after the 1823 Excise Act.
The commemoration is today being welcomed by leading historians and whisky aficionados, including Pro Vice Principal at the University of Glasgow Bradley Professor Murray Pittock; Master of the Quaich (the whisky industry’s highest accolade) author Dr Nick Morgan; fellow Master of the Quaich acclaimed whisky writer Charles MacLean; and founder of World Whisky Day consultant Blair Bowman.
Launching the commemoration Cathy Craig, CEO of the Argyll and Isles Tourism Cooperative said: “We’re delighted to launch Whisky Year Zero to celebrate the rich whisky, or uisge beatha, heritage that has shaped communities and culture throughout Argyll and the Isles.
“Known as Scotland’s Whisky Coast due the high volume of world-class distilleries dotted along our coastline, there are so many ways in which visitors to the area can learn more about our significant whisky history and why our destination, with its abundance of fertile landscapes, produces some of Scotland’s finest food and drink.”ADVERTISEMENTExplaining the importance of the commemoration, Professor Murray Pittock, Bradley Professor and Pro Vice Principal at the University of Glasgow said: “Understanding our past gives us confidence in our ability to shape the future, so it is vital that we continue to remember key historical moments. Commemorations like Argyll & the Isles’ Whisky Year Zero, that take the time to bring history to life, can play a central role in addressing this.”

Throughout Whisky Year Zero, Glen Scotia, one of three distilleries remaining in Campbeltown, is offering immersive whisky experiences that take visitors behind the scenes and back in time, to discover more the history of their whisky, including how the Excise Act led to their hometown town being proclaimed the one-time Whisky Capital of the World.
Hannah Young, Visitor Centre Manager at Glen Scotia said: “Our historical distillery still maintains much of its original design dating from the 1830s, including our Dunnage Warehouse, so our celebrated heritage and history still influence the award-winning whisky produced here. The 1823 Excise Act played a key role in our formation and those who come on one of our distillery tours can learn all about the impact it made on our town.”
Explaining the significance of the act on Argyll and the Isles, renowned Whisky Writer and Master of the Quaich Charles Maclean said: “The 1823 Excise Act laid the foundations for the Scotch whisky industry by fixing the method of Scotch whisky distillation as we know it today. The Argyll and Isles Tourism Cooperative is to be congratulated for celebrating this significant piece of legislation, which made it possible for Campbeltown to become ‘the world whisky capital’ in the late 19th Century and for Islay to become the world’s leading pilgrimage destination for whisky lovers today. Before the Act, distilling in the region was mainly illicit; today it is burgeoning.”
Professor Pittock added: “The 1823 Excise or Wash Act led to a boom in the whisky industry. Local businesspeople and landowners saw vast opportunities in the market, and in Campbeltown developments supported by the Duke of Argyll saw the creation of some 30 distilleries in a town of around three thousand people – it was certainly, as it proclaimed, ‘the Whisky Capital of the World’ in per capita terms at least.”
Reinforcing the scale of industry growth at that time, Dr Nick Morgan, Master of the Quaich, whisky aficionado and author of the book Everything You Need to Know About Whisky (but are too afraid to ask) said: “In 1821 there were eleven licensed distilleries in Argyll producing around 40,000 gallons of whisky a year. Only one, owned by John Beith, was in Campbeltown. By 1826, three years after the passing of the 1823 Excise Act, there were thirty-four distilleries in Argyll producing some two-hundred thousand gallons a year.”
Though there are less distilleries than there once was in the area, whisky and now gin production is still a significant industry across Argyll and the Isles, as Whisky Year Zero highlights.
The commemoration showcases 14 world-class whisky distilleries, a myriad of whisky experiences, festivals and distillery openings across the destination.
Welcoming the celebration and explaining why Argyll and the Isles is such an important whisky destination, whisky enthusiast, founder of World Whisky Day and author of The Pocket Guide to Whisky, Blair Bowman said: “Uniquely for a Scottish destination, Argyll and the Isles encompasses four of Scotland’s recognised whisky regions, earning it the title of Scotland’s Whisky Coast. During Whisky Year Zero, I would encourage all visitors to celebrate by going on a distillery-hoping journey of discovery across Argyll and the Isles to explore the real impact Scotland’s iconic uisge beatha or ‘water of life’ has had on culture and communities in the area, and what makes each of the whisky regions different.
“There is also something quite extraordinary about drinking a whisky in the same places where the whisky was made. It really enhances the experience. Each whisky is very unique, their flavours tell an important part of history too.

“Whisky is quite literally known in Scottish Gaelic as the Water of Life, uisge beatha, which is very apt. There is something magical about each and every sip. When you pick up a glass from Argyll and the Isles, you’re not just picking up a drink, you’re picking up a story of Scottish life too. It tells you story of history, a story of culture and a story of craftmanship – from the farmers producing barley to the unique distillation processes.”
Emma Clark AITC Vice Chair, official Argyll & the Isles Food & Drink Ambassador and owner of Glenegedale Guesthouse on Islay (where they serve food platters on top of a reclaimed whisky barrel and even give guests the opportunity to enjoy local whisky in their porridge) agreed: “With our rich fertile lands and world-leading producers, we make and supply some of the very best food and drink, including whisky, right here in Argyll and the Isles. Whisky Year Zero provides the perfect excuse for visitors to go on a culinary journey of discovery to responsibly enjoy our sensational local produce, our unique land and waters, tantalising food trails, world class distilleries and vast amount of award-winning eateries to suit all tastes.”
To find out more about Whisky Year Zero visit: wildaboutargyll.co.uk/whisky-year-zero

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The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has announced the 2024 strategic direction that will continue to elevate the tourism supply and sustainable standards, as well as leverage Thai soft powers to promote and develop high-value and sustainable tourism in Thailand.
Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, TAT Governor, said “2024 will be the year of accelerating Resilience, transforming Thailand’s tourism into High Value and Sustainable Tourism that emphasises on elevating and moving forward to a better tourism ecosystem. To build a new ecosystem, we need to become less reliant on the number of tourists and focus more on increasing tourist spending, attracting quality tourists, developing the supply chain with our partners, and distributing income fairly to the local communities. We need to create a balance between economic wealth, social well-being, environmental wellness, and human wisdom.”
To strengthen the country’s tourism industry, TAT is committed to building tourism security with long-term immunity, so that the industry can face global polycrisis and keep moving forward.
The 4 key factors to create tourism security are: 1) Strengthen the supply chain with quality and sustainability to cater to the rising demand, and distribute income to the local community fairly. 2) Develop factors supporting tourism and tourism infrastructure to create safe and smooth travel. 3) Leverage the digital transformation through innovation and technology to create value-added and sustainability to the tourism industry. 4) Focus on external risk management effectively.
ADVERTISEMENTMs. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Deputy Governor for Domestic Marketing, said “TAT will continue to focus on creating and delivering ‘meaningful experiences’ to quality travellers with different demands in tourism experiences. To achieve this, TAT is concerned about the subculture movement and will strengthen partnerships at all angles with stakeholders and suppliers to drive Thailand’s tourism industry towards sustainability.”
International MarketFor the international market, five directions have been devised to boost the overseas market comprising:
1) Enhance the sustainability image of Thailand and utilising it as the country’s unique selling point, which aims to strengthen the awareness of the Kinnaree Brand (Thailand Tourism Awards) to international travellers.
2) Penetrate emerging quality markets to focus on new markets in Europe and the Middle East region and other potential segments, such as Oya Rich, business travellers, and wedding and honeymoons.
3) Seek new partners and expand collaboration with global partners, such as Tourism Cares, Alipay, and WeChat.
4) Promote overland travelling via the high-speed train between the People’s Republic of China-Lao PDR-Thailand.
5) Empower marketing with digital content, such as utilising virtual influencers to promote Thailand to Generation Z and Y to Thailand.
Domestic MarketThe domestic market promotion will be prioritised on stimulating Thais to travel in Thailand, increasing travel frequency, and distributing tourism income to the local communities, so to generate income for all sectors equally. TAT will also showcase the strengths of the Thailand Soft Power (5F) and highlight meaningful travel experiences across all five regions of Thailand.
The ‘Northern Region’ invokes nostalgia through local arts and crafts and soft power of the North.
The ‘Central Region’ highlights the happiness of travelling through 4HD or the 4 Happy Definitions, which aim to stimulate frequent travels in the Central Region.
The ‘Northeastern Region’ leverages the fabulous Isan food and the Michelin Guide to whet the domestic travel appetite to the Northeast.
The ‘Eastern Region’ highlights the gastronomic delights, local beliefs, getaway destinations, and responsible tourism in the East.
The ‘Southern Region” recommends an exciting array of food, nature, superstitions, and work from anywhere in the South.
For marketing communication in 2024, the ‘Amazing Thailand’ brand is being implemented for both the domestic and international markets. ‘Create Your Great Moment Now’ is the key concept, which is being conveyed to domestic tourists, while the ‘Meaningful Relationship’ is being communicated to international travellers to encourage them to engage in meaningful connections with the local people and community.
By synergising with the private sector, TAT will strengthen Thailand’s five soft powers under the Brand Collaboration: Amazing Thailand x 5F project.
2024 Targets“With the carefully planned 2024 strategic direction, TAT has set an overall revenue target in the best-case scenario of 3 trillion Baht. This constitutes 1.92 trillion Baht from international tourism and 1.08 trillion Baht from domestic tourism. TAT expects to welcome 35 million foreign tourists and inspire 200 million domestic trips in 2024,” Ms. Thapanee concluded.
TAT announces 2024 strategic direction towards high value and sustainability

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Yas Island and Saadiyat Island Achieve Remarkable 90% Hotel Occupancy During Eid Al-Adha Celebration

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Yas Island Abu Dhabi and Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi were the places to be this Eid Al Adha with attractions galore for all family members to enjoy.
Yas Island, the capital’s leading leisure and entertainment destination delivered world-class entertainment, dazzling fireworks and family-friendly packages with Yas Theme Parks experiencing an astonishing surge in guests and families, with a remarkable increase of over 100 percent in domestic and international visitation compared to the previous year. Notably, one-third of all guests chose to explore the captivating wonders of the newly unveiled SeaWorld® Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.

Yas Island’s recent launch of the summer edition of Miami Band’s sensational hit song, “AlHamdullah w Chefnakom,” has caused a remarkable surge in popularity within the GCC market. This musical masterpiece not only captivated audiences but also propelled Yas Theme Parks to new heights, experiencing an astounding 200% increase in GCC country visitation compared to the previous year, 2022.
Neighboring Saadiyat Island was the ultimate choice for guests seeking an island getaway this Eid break, with over 80 percent hotel occupancy. From luxurious resorts, fine dining restaurants and white sandy beaches, visitors were spoilt for choice.ADVERTISEMENTMohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral, said: “We were delighted to welcome families from across the world this Eid. These numbers are a reflection of our commitment to positioning Yas Island as a global destination for entertainment and leisure, and Saadiyat Island as a leading beach, nature and cultural destination, as well as contributing to Abu Dhabi’s overall economic growth. We look forward to continuing to exceed our guests’ expectations and creating unforgettable memories that last a lifetime on both islands.”
For endless entertainment at every corner, Yas Theme Parks offered a treasure trove of fun activities for the young and young at heart. All-inclusive entertainment packages with ‘Kids Go Free’ offers saw families flocking to Yas Island’s leading theme parks; Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi and SeaWorld® Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.

Yas Mall, the largest mall on Yas Island, greeted thousands of enthusiastic shoppers through its doors during the Eid break.  With extended opening hours until 2am, there was plenty of time to take advantage of the mall’s 50 new retail and dining outlets, special performances, family-friendly activities and a host of exciting giveaways.
In June, Yas Mall saw a 21% increase in footfall compared to June 2022 and the 10-day Eidiyah campaign for Eid Al Adha witnessed great success, recording an impressive 29% increase in participant numbers compared to last year’s celebrations, while more than 16,000 shoppers took part in the mall’s ‘Spend and Win’ campaign over Eid Al Adha to stand the chance of winning an Audi E-tron GT 2023.
Over at Yas Bay Waterfront, spectators were treated to dazzling displays of fireworks lighting up the night sky – adding to the overall exuberance of the holiday spirit. Guests and families turned out in droves to enjoy the festive atmosphere and take in the awe-inspiring views with restaurants being fully packed. Likewise, Yas Marina and The Fountains saw the total number of visitors doubling that of last year, witnessing an increase in attendance from international visitors, once again highlighting Yas Island Abu Dhabi’s leading position as a global tourism hub for travelers from across the world.
Fans of legendary Saudi Arabian singer, Rabeh Sager were in for a holiday treat as he took center stage at Etihad Arena. Drawing fans both young and old, the crowd-pleaser thrilled the close-to-capacity crowd with a rendition of some of his most iconic songs at the expansive arena.
Yas Island hotels enjoyed a 90 percent occupancy, Yas Plaza Hotels is home to top hospitality brands including Radisson Blu, Crowne Plaza, Centro, Yas Island Rotana, Park Inn by Radisson and Staybridge Suites. With 1,760 room keys, direct cyan beach access and 21 award-winning restaurants and bars, Yas Plaza Hotels was the place to be this Eid. Meanwhile, the W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island and the Hilton hotels enjoyed equally high occupancy during the Eid break.

For the ultimate staycation on Yas Island this summer, the incredible ‘Kids Go Free’ offer can be availed with a minimum stay of two nights, where little ones can stay, eat and play for free. Packages start at AED 595 for 3-star hotels and AED 645 for 4-star hotels. The offer is valid for stays until September 30, 2023.
Meanwhile, hotels located on the untouched shores of Saadiyat Island attracted numerous visitors and the luxury resorts saw an occupancy of over 80% with guests seeking to ‘travel without travelling.’
Visitors looking for ultimate luxurious family getaway were spoilt for choice between the spectacular St Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, the refined Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort, the luxurious Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas, all-inclusive Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island, the stylish Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel, and the serene and exclusive private island resort, Nurai Island.
Miral Destinations, a subsidiary of Miral Group, remains committed to delivering exceptional entertainment experiences with best-in-class family offerings.
Yas Island and its world-class theme parks, experiences and attractions were recognised with seven awards in the globally renowned World Travel Awards in 2022. In addition to scooping the accolade of World’s Leading Theme Park Destination 2022, Yas Island received the flagship Middle East’s Leading Tourism Development award for the fourth consecutive year, testament to the global reputation Yas Island has as a leisure and entertainment hub.

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TAT and Alipay promote ‘Amazing Thailand, A Must-visit Destination This Summer Holiday’

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The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and Alipay are expanding their partnership to promote the ‘Amazing Thailand, A Must-visit Destination This Sumer Holiday’ marketing campaign with an aim to enhance the travel experience for tourists from China, Hong Kong SAR, Malaysia, and South Korea by allowing them to pay seamlessly with their home mobile wallets via Alipay+.
Mr. Tanes Petsuwan, TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing – Asia and the South Pacific, said “The expanded partnership with Alipay will help bring a smoother consumer experience to Chinese tourists visiting Thailand, and open up more resources to Thai businesses, especially the vast number of SMEs to help them develop digital operations and marketing capabilities.”
Platforms like Alipay are becoming increasingly important for destination markets like Thailand, because they play a significant role in shaping travellers’ decisions on airlines, hotels, and destination selection, added Mr. Tanes.
Thailand welcomed over 1.4 million Chinese tourists in the first half of 2023, and with Chinese travellers on average spending 24% more on Alipay when abroad during this first half compared to first half 2019, this signals new growth trends that Thailand is preparing to capitalise on with its increased cooperation with Alipay.
As travel revives, Alipay is launching a series of campaigns in summer 2023 with regional partners like TAT, which feature a variety of promotions on travel-related services, such as shopping, attractions, and transportation. Thailand is seen as the destination with the greatest potential in Southeast Asia to promote Cashless Society spending, and as part of this Alipay aims to increase tourist flows to secondary cities across Thailand.ADVERTISEMENTAlipay became available in Thailand in 2015, and now connects Chinese travellers to 550,000 local traders across the country. Thailand is among the top four outbound travel destinations by total transaction volume on Alipay.
Alipay is a payment platform trusted by the Chinese people, and is thus well-positioned to promote Thailand as a trusted travel destination. It works with payment platforms in Thailand, such as TrueMoney, Kasikornbank, and Krungthai Card (KTC), and may soon add PromptPay to this list.

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The problem of disruptive tourists, which included a German lady who stripped in a temple in Ubud town and an American who defaced a Balinese police cruiser, has become so severe that province governor Wayan Koster last month issued an order to affix a list of seemingly apparent dos and don’ts onto visitor passports. At least 136 non-citizens have been deported by the local authorities so far this year for different offences.
So starting in 2024, the province will begin collecting a fee from all out-of-country visitors equal to around $10 per person, with the proceeds going toward environmental and cultural preservation.
With 439,475 visitors reported as of May, Bali’s tourism industry has almost quadrupled since it reopened to international visitors in 2022. After reopening, however, tourists once again engaged in a wide variety of socially unacceptable behaviours, such as brawling with police and engaging in sexual activity in public.
Moreover, as a result of many visitors consistently breaking local traffic restrictions, the government has declared that tourists would no longer be allowed to rent motorcycles.
In addition, tensions have been rising because of the frequent disrespect displayed by visitors to the people and their traditions.ADVERTISEMENTThe idea of charging tourists from outside a fee was originally proposed in 2019, far before the outbreak of the coronavirus global crisis.
Furthermore, there is precedent for such a tax: at the beginning 2023, Malaysia requested that hotels resume charging a 10 ringgit ($2) per night tourist tax, and in the previous year, Bhutan imposed a fee of $200 a night for visitors’ stays, with authorities justifying the tax due to the strain tourism has placed on the country’s infrastructure.
Some local companies are worried that Bali’s forthcoming electronic tourist tax may prevent visitors from outside. However, Koster is certain that the minor fee will not have a negative impact on the province’s tourism industry.
Bali still ranks high on lists of the most stunning travel destinations. In addition to its beautiful beaches and mystical temples, Bali is home to a wide variety of other natural wonders. The island is mostly made up of beautiful mountainous regions with lush vegetation, picturesque lakes, breathtaking waterfalls, iconic rice fields, flower gardens, flowing holy rivers, and hidden gorges.

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