Post Bag Lift travel warnings so tourism can recover

As one of the largest companies in Thailand employing more than 25,000 people through its many brands, Minor Group has a duty to think of the well-being of its staff, and indeed the well-being of millions who are employed directly and indirectly from the Thai tourism industry and beyond.

The tourism industry is a vital driver of the Thai economy, and hence it is the role of Minor, and all businesses, to join together and unite all efforts in order to accomplish what is necessary for the economy's rapid return to good health.

One of the most pressing concerns is to clarify that Thailand is now a safe country to visit.  The curfew has been lifted and all hotels and tourist attractions are welcoming guests as usual. Indeed, while certain areas of Bangkok suffered from the demonstrations, visitors to the Kingdom continued to enjoy their holidays in the capital and throughout Thailand, which remained open for travel during the uncharacteristic events of May. Now, with daily life having returned to complete normality nationwide and with the Thai people reacting quickly to ensure that visitors can fully enjoy the wonders of one of the world's most popular tourist destinations, it is crucial to publicise that Thailand is peaceful.

It is also imperative to assert that tourists were never a target during the protests. Foreign visitors in every part of Thailand experienced no malevolence, ill treatment or any cause for concern from the Thai people, and instead continued to receive  the warm welcome that Thailand is so famous for.

We strongly believe that the time has come for international embassies to lift the travel warnings and restrictions that are in place for Bangkok and all of Thailand. The Kingdom's image has been tarnished by recent critical, and at times unfair, media coverage, and this impression needs to be addressed. We must understand that in international terms, a demonstration in Paris or Athens would not shut down the Cote d'Azur or Corfu!

As a citizen of Thailand and a member of the business community, I feel it is my duty to reach out and seek your assistance. I also feel that it is my role to showcase to the world through all available channels that the nation as a whole is peaceful, tranquil and safe. We are confident that people still wish to travel to Thailand but remain hesitant due to obstacles such as the inability to obtain travel insurance due to the travel warnings and restrictions issued from their home country.

The time has come to rebuild international visitors' confidence, and barriers to travel to Thailand now need to be lifted. Such efforts will serve as a vital first step in support of the Kingdom and the people of Thailand, and the sooner this objective is achieved, the sooner the tourism industry and Thailand can begin its journey to a full recovery.

Some nations have already taken the necessary steps and we thank them for their leadership and collaboration. I ask the diplomatic community to take the necessary measures that will allow this nation to prosper once again.

Sourced=Bangkok-Post