As the global travel industry rebounds with vigour, Thailand is poised to take centre stage with the upcoming Thailand Travel Mart Plus (TTM+) 2024. Scheduled for June 5-7 at the JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort and Spa, this preeminent B2B travel industry event is set to welcome over 950 participants, marking a significant milestone in international travel and trade relations.
Under the strategic vision of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the TTM+ 2024 aims to underscore the nation’s commitment to high-value and sustainable tourism. Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, the dynamic Governor of TAT, emphasizes that the event will be a pivotal platform for industry professionals to deepen existing partnerships and forge new ones. With an anticipated 15,000 business appointments and an expected turnover exceeding 2 billion Baht, the expo is a testament to the resilient spirit of the global travel community.
The TTM+ 2024 is a beacon for sustainable travel, focusing on Thai tourism’s transformation towards more meaningful experiences. This aligns with Thailand’s 5F soft-power foundations—Food, Film, Festival, Fight, and Fashion—highlighting the country’s rich cultural tapestry and sustainable travel opportunities. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the serene beaches of the Southern region, participants will discover a diverse array of tourism products and services that promise to enchant and inspire.
This year’s edition is not just about business; it’s a clarion call for sustainability. TAT has introduced incentives for Thai sellers operating sustainably, a move that Mr. Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, TAT’s Deputy Governor for International Marketing, believes will yield substantial results for all stakeholders. The event will also spotlight emerging markets, including Eastern Europe, the Middle East, South America, and South Africa, showcasing Thailand’s allure to a global audience.
Beyond the confines of the conference room, TTM+ 2024 attendees will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in pre and post-tours designed to highlight Thailand’s commitment to wellness, soft adventure, and sustainability. These tours will offer a glimpse into the beauty and diversity of Phang-nga and beyond, from the pristine national parks to the vibrant local communities.
The choice of Phang-nga as the host destination is strategic, showcasing an area known for its breathtaking natural beauty and commitment to eco-friendly tourism. Mr Supoj Rodruang Na Nongkhai, Governor of Phang-nga Province, assures participants of a warm welcome and a smooth travel experience, highlighting the region’s significance as a significant income generator through tourism.
The Phang-nga Tourism Association, under the leadership of Mr. Lertsak Ponklin, is gearing up to present a showcase of unique, meaningful, and sustainable tourism experiences. Their enthusiasm for hosting this flagship event reflects a broader ambition to position Phang-nga and Thailand at the forefront of the global tourism industry.
As TTM+ 2024 draws near, the buzz is building among local and international media, with around 100 outlets expected to cover the event. This attention underscores the expo’s role as a business platform and a catalyst for positive change in the travel industry.
Since its inception in 2001, TTM+ has become a ‘must-attend’ event for travel professionals worldwide. Its journey across Thailand’s diverse landscapes—from the urban sprawl of Bangkok to the cultural richness of Chiang Mai and the coastal beauty of Phuket—reflects TAT’s strategy to promote provincial destinations, enriching the TTM+ experience for participants and hosting communities alike.
As the TTM+ 2024 opens its doors, it heralds a new chapter in global travel, where sustainability, collaboration, and innovation converge to shape the future of tourism. This event is not just a meeting point for the industry; it’s a beacon of hope and a testament to the enduring spirit of travel.
Online registrations for buyers and sellers will open today (9 February 2024) via the official website, www.thailandtravelmartplus.com.
Written by: Supaporn Pholrach
