Tap ASEAN says Ministry of Culture

BANGKOK, 17 August 2012: The Ministry of Culture says Thailand needs to tap ASEAN region cultural tourism products to broaden market the country’s appeal as a gateway destination and attract more international tourists.

The ministry’s permanent secretary, Somchai Seanglai, said Thailand should add value to ASEAN tourism by being a channel for cultural  travel in the region.

He also suggested the Thai travel industry take a close look at Mynamar and see how it can copy some of the projects that country has introduced in the cultural field.

“Myanmar’s management of cultural heritage, especially its plan to renovate historical sites every two to five years as well as tours focusing on local beliefs at many historical sites in the country have helped to make the places livelier and more attractive to tourists.”

Mr Somchai suggested: “Thailand might adopt Myanmar’s tourism promotion strategy by using religious beliefs among Thai people about Buddha relics to promote temple visits.”

He also revealed that the Ministry of Culture was contemplating the possibility of linking tourist sites in Thailand with other ASEAN countries’ to draw more foreign tourists into the region.

“ASEAN culture is outstanding and each country has its own strengths …if we encourage our ASEAN people to be more aware of preserving culture, the region will be stable.”

Sourced: ttrweekly