Thailand has started a new safety campaign to ensure foreign tourists feel secure while visiting the country. Announced by Tourism and Sports Minister Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol on Feb. 14, the campaign is a joint effort by Thailand's Tourism and Sports Ministry and its Public Health Ministry. The scheme, running from Jan. 1 - Aug. 31, offers medical coverage and compensation in case of accidents or death.
Thailand Launches New Safety Campaign for Tourists
Thailand is taking steps to make tourists feel safer. The government has set up a new plan that covers medical costs and offers compensation if a tourist gets hurt or dies while visiting. This plan is part of a campaign to show tourists that Thailand cares about their safety.
According to Travel Daily News, Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, the Minister of Tourism and Sports, launched the campaign. It is a joint project between the Ministry of Tourism and Sports and the Ministry of Public Health. The idea is to make Thailand look even more attractive as a holiday spot. To fund this, the ministry has set aside 50 million baht.
This safety net is available for tourists from Jan. 1 to Aug. 31. It covers up to one million baht for death, 300,000 baht ($8,000) for serious injuries like losing an organ or sight, and up to 500,000 baht ($14,000) for medical costs. But, it's important to note that tourists won't get this coverage if they get hurt because of their own carelessness or while doing something illegal or dangerous.
To apply, tourists with a visa can go to tourism offices or some airports in Bangkok. They can also send their applications by post or email.
Thailand has launched a new insurance program to boost tourism, targeting 35 million visitors and 3.5 trillion baht in revenue for 2024. The initiative, supported by the Thailand Traveller Safety (TTS) online platform, allows tourists to quickly claim medical expenses following accidents, with a streamlined process for compensation. This move follows the closure of a previous tourist assistance fund and delayed additional tourist fees. The program highlights Thailand's commitment to the safety and well-being of its international visitors.
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A Surge in Tourist Arrivals in Early 2024
Thailand's tourism industry has kicked off 2024 on a high note. In January alone, the country welcomed close to 4 million tourists from abroad. This information was shared by the government's spokesperson, Chai Wacharonke, on Feb. 10.
VN Express shared that a notable peak in arrivals was observed on February 8, just before the Lunar New Year, with 128,969 international tourists entering Thailand. Chinese visitors led the count at 730,747, followed by tourists from Malaysia, Russia, India, and Laos.
The increase in travel to Thailand could be due to the easing of outbreak-related travel restrictions in China. Additionally, Thailand's decision to offer a free visa policy has made it an even more attractive destination.
Furthermore, Thailand is actively working to enhance its ties with ASEAN countries. This effort includes the "One Destination" project, which promotes tourism among six nations, including Thailand, Cambodia, Malaysia, Vietnam, Laos, and Myanmar. This initiative aims to boost regional tourism and attract global travelers.
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