Thailand tackles overtourism

THE Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is focusing on sustainability, following the decision to close popular Maya Beach on Ko Phi Phi Leh after concerns were raised about the environmental effect of overtourism. “We are striving to reduce tourist congestion in the main hubs by promoting emerging provincial destinations, upgrading the standards of safety and security, and instilling a higher level of environmental consciousness across the entire industry,” Yuthasak Supasorn, governor of TAT, told TNW at a recent event. TAT has embarked on a series of campaigns to further enhance sustainable tourism, including banning styrofoam containers and plastic bags in national parks, and banning smoking

on beaches. In 2018, TAT moved its focus on to 55 secondary destinations through a number of new marketing initiatives:  Local Experience provides visitors with an in-depth, community-based tourism experience around the lifestyle, wisdom, local identity and distinction of each area.  Future Challenge focuses on ‘Secondary Cities’, expanding their economies and boosting the income of the local people.  Connecting Destinations looks at connectivity between large and smaller cities and to neighbouring countries, to facilitate easier movement for tourists. TAT has also added a new communication campaign called Open to the New Shades, focusing on Thailand’s diversity.