The arriving passengers, including H.E. Mr. Hari Prabowo, Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to Thailand, who travelled on the inaugural flight, were warmly welcomed by Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor; Datuk Bernard Francis, Aviation Group Chief Executive Officer of TransNusa Airlines; Miss. Pranuengnuch Bamphensamai, Advisor and Acting Vice President, Customer Service Department, Suvarnabhumi Airport; Miss Pattaraanong Na Chiangmai, TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing – Asia and South Pacific; TAT executives; and tourism partners. The reception featured a traditional Thai welcome and commemorative gift, reflecting Thailand’s warm hospitality.

“The new service reflects TAT’s Airline Focus strategy and supports the Thai Government’s Ease of Travelling policy by expanding air connectivity, making journeys within Southeast Asia more convenient,” Miss Thapanee said. “The additional capacity will help attract quality Indonesian travellers, particularly independent travellers, Muslim families and millennials, while advancing ‘Healing is the New Luxury’ through Thailand’s food, culture, wellness and diverse destination experiences.”

Operated with a 174-seat Airbus A320-200, the Jakarta–Bangkok service offers 14 flights per week, providing around 2,500 inbound seats weekly and more than 130,000 annually. Flights depart Jakarta at 08.20 and 16.40 Hrs., arriving in Bangkok at 11.45 and 19.55 Hrs. Return services depart Bangkok at 12.30 and 20.40 Hrs., arriving in Jakarta at 16.10 and 00.20 Hrs.

The route strengthens links between two major Southeast Asian business and tourism hubs while expanding access to Bangkok for Indonesian travellers. Driven by the strong appeal of Thai cuisine, shopping, culture, wellness and beauty, the twice-daily flights are expected to reinforce Thailand’s position as a preferred short-haul destination in the Indonesian market.

The launch builds on the separate Memorandums of Understanding signed by TAT with TransNusa Airlines and Traveloka on 4 August 2026, covering destination marketing, travel product development and stronger air links between Indonesia and Thailand. Under the TransNusa Airlines agreement, a direct Bali–Phuket service is planned for late 2026, supported by integrated marketing and public relations activities to raise destination visibility, expand route opportunities and reach Indonesian travellers more effectively.

From 1 January to 2 August 2026, Thailand welcomed 378,881 Indonesian visitors. They stayed an average of six days, with 85 per cent travelling independently and 53 per cent repeat visitors. Leading destinations included Bangkok, Songkhla, Chon Buri, Phuket and Krabi, while popular activities included Thai dining, historical attractions, community-based tourism, spa treatments and beach experiences.

The post TAT welcomes TransNusa Airlines inaugural Jakarta–Bangkok service appeared first on TAT Newsroom.

From Fishing Village to Royal Retreat

The story begins in 1834, when farmers fleeing drought in nearby Phetchaburi settled a stretch of coastline, they called Samo Riang. Everything changed with a railway. When the Southern Railway line reached completion in 1911, it opened Siam’s aristocracy to a coast they’d never seen. Prince Purachatra Jayakara championed its development, and in 1921, construction began on The Railway Hotel, which welcomed its first guests in 1922 — the same year King Rama VI commissioned Thailand’s first Royal Hua Hin Golf Course. King Rama VII completed the summer palace Klai Kangwon “Far from Worries” in 1929, cementing Hua Hin’s status as the country’s original royal seaside retreat, a role it retains today. That original hotel survives as the Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas, its colonial silhouette still evoking the era of steam trains and sea breezes.

A New Push to Go Global

That royal legacy is now the centrepiece of a fresh government campaign. In July 2026, Tourism and Sports Minister Mr. Surasak Phancharoenworakul visited Hua Hin, Cha-am, and the surrounding districts of Prachuap Khiri Khan, unveiling a plan to reposition the resort as a world-class destination on a par with Phuket and Ko Samui. Rather than chasing mass tourism, the strategy leans into what officials say makes Hua Hin distinctive: a quieter atmosphere, royal heritage and an established following among quality travellers. “Hua Hin has enormous potential and truly embodies the essence of a destination for a simple, peaceful lifestyle,” Surasak said, adding that future development would prioritize health and wellness tourism, sporting events and luxury hospitality.

The centrepiece of that plan is air connectivity. The government is pushing to reopen Hua Hin Airport to international traffic, with runway expansion and terminal upgrades targeted for completion by the end of 2026 and is courting airlines to launch direct routes from Kuala Lumpur, Taipei, Shanghai and Singapore. The Tourism Authority of Thailand has already signed a three-year partnership with Thai AirAsia to drive high-quality visitors to the destination, framing the approach as “Value over Volume” — prioritizing higher-spending travellers over raw arrival numbers. Provincial authorities are backing the push with a “Royal Destination” branding campaign, and State Railway of Thailand has special excursion trips from Bangkok to Hua Hin via the Royal Blossom luxury train.

A Destination for Every Kind of Traveller

Hua Hin already welcomes retirees drawn to its calmer pace, families favouring shallow waters and all-inclusive resorts, and golfers spoiled for choice among a dozen championship courses. Wellness and longevity travellers book into Chiva-Som Hua Hin Resort, while most major hotels there have full-service spas. Vana Nava Water Jungle draws thrill-seekers, and boutique properties with architecture ranging from eco-conscious coastal hideaways to Moroccan splendour appeal to design-minded guests.

Hua Hin’s food culture runs on fresh Gulf seafood, grilled and steamed at night markets. Beyond the bazaar, a visit to Monsoon Valley Vineyard will surprise wine connoisseurs with its highly rated Shiraz and Colombard varieties.

The Hua Hin Jazz Festival lights up the beach each late May into June, honouring the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s own passion for saxophone and composition. The colourful Hua Hin International Kite Festival fills the sky. Beach polo, an annual marathon, and kiteboarding and windsurfing along the coast toward Pran Buri round out an active calendar.

Shoppers balance night markets with Cicada Market’s weekend arts-and-crafts stalls. Wat Huay Mongkol and Khao Takiab’s hillside temples anchor the cultural scene, while Pala-U Waterfall offers a half-day countryside escape.

A century after a prince and a king first saw promise in a quiet fishing village, Hua Hin is once again being rewritten — this time as Thailand’s next world-class gateway, with new flights, upgraded runways, and a value-driven strategy stitching the resort onto the region’s map of far-flung, world-class beach destinations.

About the Author

“Frequent foodie and occasional craftsman of travel stories, Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya (Chat) draws on his nearly 4 decades of promoting Thailand’s tourism industry to highlight everything from world-class attractions to hidden gems. When not writing stuff, he makes it a mission to catch rom-coms and DC superheroes whenever they show up in theaters.”

The post Hua Hin is Where Royal Legacy Meets the Gulf of Thailand appeared first on TAT Newsroom.

Signed by Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor; Datuk Bernard Francis, Aviation Group Chief Executive Officer of TransNusa Airlines; and Mr. Albert, Co-founder of Traveloka, the agreements aim to expand air connectivity, strengthen digital marketing and boost Indonesian arrivals across Thailand, while supporting closer tourism and business cooperation between the two countries and stronger connectivity within ASEAN.

Ms. Thapanee said, “Indonesia is an important ASEAN market for Thailand, supported by close cultural ties, convenient travel and growing demand for diverse tourism experiences. These partnerships advance TAT’s Partnership 360 strategy by combining air access, digital reach and market insight to grow Indonesian travel to Thailand. They also support the global ‘Healing is the New Luxury’ campaign by connecting travellers with meaningful experiences across established and emerging destinations, while extending tourism benefits to communities and the wider economy.”

Through the agreement with TransNusa Airlines, TAT will focus on tourism promotion, travel product development and stronger air links between Indonesia and Thailand. Activities will support the “Feel All the Feelings – Visit Thailand, Feel Every Emotion” campaign through tourism fairs, promotional campaigns, digital content, workshops and familiarisation trips, alongside efforts to strengthen the Jakarta–Bangkok and Bali–Phuket routes.

The Traveloka partnership will use the platform’s digital reach, distribution capabilities and market intelligence to promote destinations and tourism experiences across Thailand. It will also support TAT’s Sustainable Tourism Goals by raising awareness of responsible travel, sharing consumer insights, planning campaigns, and communicating relevant tourism policies, entry requirements, and safety measures, subject to appropriate data privacy and security safeguards.

Together, the agreements connect improved air access with targeted digital promotion and market intelligence, supporting greater visitor flows and wider tourism benefits across Thailand.

From 1 January to 31 July 2026, Thailand welcomed 376,337 Indonesian visitors, who stayed for an average of six nights. Their leading interests include Thai cuisine, historical sites, community-based tourism, wellness experiences and beaches. TAT aims to attract 890,000 Indonesian visitors in 2026.

The post TAT signs strategic partnerships with TransNusa Airlines and Traveloka appeared first on TAT Newsroom.

Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said, “The tremendous response to Running Man Thailand reflects the power of Entertainment Marketing to bring Thailand’s tourism experiences to global audiences through engaging, widely accessible content. By placing destinations, culture and communities within the programme’s storytelling, the collaboration raised international visibility for Thailand while inspiring domestic travel. It also supported our ‘Healing is the New Luxury’ direction by presenting travel as a source of enjoyment, connection and discovery.”

TAT supported the first season through destination content, tourism featurettes and integrated Amazing Thailand visibility. Produced by iQIYI in close collaboration with South Korea’s SBS Studio Prism, the original format’s creator, Running Man Thailand adapted the internationally recognised franchise through Thai personalities, humour and destination experiences.

Premiering on 22 February 2026, the 10-episode series aired weekly on Sunday at 18.00 Hrs. (GMT+7) on One31. The cast featured seven leading Thai entertainers: Oat Pramote Pathan, Jeff Worakamon Satur, Ink Waruntorn Paonil, Tay Tawan Vihokratana, NuNew Chawarin Perdpiriyawong, Pueak Pongsatorn Jongwilas and Daou Pittaya Saechua.

Each episode transformed prominent locations into settings for missions and challenges. Featured sites included the Giant Swing, the Grand Palace and Bangkok’s historic neighbourhoods, together with Pattaya’s floating markets and beaches.

The programme became Thailand’s most searched variety show on Google Trends in 2026, frequently ranked No. 1 on X in Thailand, and trended weekly in more than 10 countries. It also won the KAZZ Awards 2026 Hottest TV Program award, reflecting its broad reach and cultural impact.

Nearly half of the audience was aged between 19 and 30, with around 30 per cent from international markets. Additional exposure came from 3.39 billion media impressions, creator amplification and citywide out-of-home advertising, including Bangkok Skytrain wraps, LED billboards and mobile displays.

TAT’s campaign included two tourism featurettes developed for distinct audiences. MINNIE introduced international viewers to favourite places, food and people in Thailand, while Mos and Bank shared personal stories from their home provinces of Loei and Chanthaburi. The content generated approximately 21,000 video views, 13,000 likes and more than 450 shares across iQIYI Thailand’s official channels.

Amazing Thailand visibility was integrated throughout the season through programme graphics, subtitles, end credits and official social media. A 30-second promotional spot aired in each episode, complemented by a designated programme clip for TAT distribution and cast amplification. MINNIE also appeared as a special guest.

The uncut version of Running Man Thailand, together with deleted scenes and behind-the-scenes content, remains available through the iQIYI application and iQ.com.

The post TAT spotlights Running Man Thailand’s record-breaking debut appeared first on TAT Newsroom.

Held today at Centara Ubon immediately after participants viewed the much-anticipated morning parade, the reception reinforced TAT’s positioning of the Ubon Ratchathani Candle Procession as one of three Signature Thailand Events, alongside the Nakhon Phanom Illuminated Boat Procession and the Christmas Star Parade in Sakon Nakhon. Presented under “Healing is the New Luxury – Signature Thailand: Inspiring Journeys Beyond Expectations”, the reception showcased Ubon Ratchathani’s woven textiles, candle artistry, gastronomy, community spirit and Mekong-influenced lifestyle through a contemporary format for international audiences.

Rooted in the Buddhist Lent tradition of candle offering, the Ubon Ratchathani Candle Procession blends faith, intricate wax artistry and province-wide participation. Running from 25–31 July at Thung Si Mueang, the 2026 edition features 47 elaborate candle pieces across traditional, moulded and carved categories, and major parades on 29 and 30 July with more than 37 dance processions. TAT is enhancing the visitor experience with lighting installations, light-and-sound performances, illuminated ‘Nong Mamuang’ landmarks and workshops in candle carving, wax-flower making and gold-leaf decoration.

Mr. Nithee Seeprae, TAT Deputy Governor for Marketing Communications, said, “This specially organised fam trip and purpose-designed reception give international media and travel trade partners a first-hand understanding of the Ubon Ratchathani Candle Procession and the wider experiences surrounding it. By elevating this living heritage as a Signature Thailand Event, TAT is advancing Value over Volume through meaningful travel while creating greater benefits for local artisans, businesses and communities. Under ‘Healing is the New Luxury’, Ubon Ratchathani offers an inspiring journey through faith, craftsmanship, cuisine and community life across the wider Isan region.”

Reflecting this direction, the reception opened with a contemporary Isan welcome performance featuring dancers, singers and musicians playing traditional instruments. Live music continued during networking, blending the phin (an Isan string instrument), khaen (a bamboo mouth organ regarded as a symbol of Isan), wot (a bamboo wind instrument), pong lang (a traditional Isan percussion instrument) and traditional drums with bass guitar. The phin is particularly significant in Ubon Ratchathani, where the two-string tradition was developed by Thongsai Thapthanon and preserved by Akhom Thapthanon. Its distinctive sound is closely associated with the province’s Candle Procession and reflects a musical heritage passed down through generations.

Alongside the cultural programme, the reception highlighted the festival’s appeal for long-haul markets while presenting Ubon Ratchathani’s heritage, craftsmanship and communities within the broader Isan experience. The event featured an exclusive Thailand tourism update presented by Mr. Nithee Seeprae. Following the update, Ubon Ratchathani native, Mr. Weerasak Kowsurat, Chief Adviser to the Deputy Prime Minister of Thailand, delivered an inspiring keynote address titled “From the Mekong to the World: Unlocking Ubon Ratchathani and the Mekong’s Tourism Potential”.

This presentation continued through four experience stations that brought Ubon Ratchathani’s identity to life. The Isan local spirit cocktail station introduced community-made spirits and regional ingredients, while the gastronomy showcases featured moo yor (Vietnamese-style pork sausage), nam nueng (grilled pork served with fresh vegetables, rice paper and dipping sauce) and banh mi (Vietnamese baguette). Participants also took part in a wax-sheet collage workshop inspired by the Candle Procession and stained-glass bookmarks reflecting local religious architecture.

The broader fam trip connected participants with candle-making communities, everyday local life and regional attractions. Experiences included watching candle masters at work, viewing elaborate wax displays at Thung Si Mueang, visiting Sam Phan Bok and Pha Taem National Park, and exploring Tohsang Cotton Village, Ban Pa-Ao Brassware Village and Ban Khampun Weaving Centre.

These experiences reflect Isan’s broader appeal across gastronomy, textiles and performing arts. Regional cuisine spans som tam (spicy green papaya salad), larb (spicy ground-meat salad with herbs, lime and toasted rice), and Vietnamese-influenced dishes. Michelin Guide-listed restaurants can also be found in Ubon Ratchathani, Udon Thani, Nakhon Ratchasima and Khon Kaen. Visitors can explore textile heritage at the Khampun Textile Museum, while Molam, a traditional Isan art form combining singing, music, dance and storytelling, embodies the region’s creativity and cultural identity.

Beyond the three Signature Thailand Events, TAT is presenting Thailand as a year-round destination for festivals and major international events. Upcoming highlights include the Udon Thani International Horticultural Expo 2026 and nationwide Loi Krathong celebrations, Vijit Chao Phraya 2026 in Bangkok, Tomorrowland in Pattaya and the Amazing Thailand Countdown.

The post TAT brings Ubon Ratchathani Candle Procession to global audiences appeared first on TAT Newsroom.

The World Heritage Committee inscribed the property at its 48th session, held from 19–29 July 2026 in Busan, Republic of Korea, following a recommendation by the International Council on Monuments and Sites. Recognised for its Outstanding Universal Value under criteria (ii) and (vi), Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan has served as a major regional Buddhist centre since its foundation in the eighth century.

Religious and architectural traditions from northeastern India, central Java, Sri Lanka and the Mon region of southern Myanmar were integrated into the monastery’s buildings, rituals and cultural practices. Its distinctive artistic and architectural expressions subsequently exerted an enduring influence across Thailand and Southeast Asia. Religious and local traditions have continued at the monastery for more than 1,500 years, including the annual cloth-wrapping ceremony for the Great Reliquary and the Nora dance drama.

Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said, “TAT will build on this recognition to position Nakhon Si Thammarat as a leading destination for living heritage, where faith, culture and community remain central to the visitor experience. Our focus is to create lasting value through responsible tourism, strengthen local participation and ensure that the significance of Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan is understood, respected and sustained for generations to come.”

The inscription brings Thailand’s World Heritage portfolio to nine properties, comprising six cultural and three natural properties. The cultural properties are the Historic City of Ayutthaya; Historic Town of Sukhothai and Associated Historic Towns; Ban Chiang Archaeological Site; The Ancient Town of Si Thep and its Associated Dvaravati Monuments; Phu Phrabat, a testimony to the Sīma stone tradition of the Dvaravati period; and Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan. The natural properties are Thungyai-Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuaries, Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex and Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex.

The inscription is being celebrated across Nakhon Si Thammarat through a two-day programme concluding today, 27 July. Organised by the province with government agencies, private-sector partners and local communities, the programme includes Nora and Khon performances, merit-making and alms-giving, Buddhist chanting, ordination ceremonies, meditation sessions and exhibitions. Nora and Khon are both recognised by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Together, the activities present the historical, religious, artistic and cultural significance of Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan while reflecting its continuing role as a centre of worship and community life. They also celebrate the traditions and cultural identity of Nakhon Si Thammarat and southern Thailand.

Running alongside the celebrations, TAT is hosting a commemorative photo booth from 25–30 July near the sacred Bodhi tree and Sai Kaeo courtyard, opposite Phra Wihan Luang and in front of the souvenir centre. Visitors may register to receive an instant photograph and digital image marking Thailand’s newest World Heritage inscription and share the story with wider audiences.

Beyond the commemorative programme, TAT will extend the recognition throughout the year through “The Twelve Sacred Discoveries Nakhon Si Thammarat: A Journey to World Heritage” campaign. Under the concept “Discover the Past. Share the Faith. Shape the Future.”, the campaign invites visitors on a journey through the province’s Buddhism, ancient civilisation and enduring traditions.

Each month and season will reveal a different dimension of the royal monastery, from its architecture and inherited wisdom to Buddhist teachings and stories of faith. Guided by the local saying, “everyone should pay homage to Phra That of Nakhon Si Thammarat at least once in their lifetime”, the campaign will encourage deeper understanding of the property while supporting responsible visitation, heritage conservation, local participation and sustainable economic opportunities.

Participation in the commemorative activities is free of charge. Further information is available from the TAT Nakhon Si Thammarat Office at +66 (0) 7534 6515–6 or through the Facebook page TAT Nakhon Si Thammarat Office.

The post TAT celebrates Wat Phra Mahathat UNESCO World Heritage inscription with year-round campaign appeared first on TAT Newsroom.

Taste the Local @ Phitsanulok 2026

30 July – 2 August 2026
Chan Royal Palace
Mueang Phitsanulok District
Phitsanulok

Highlights:
A relaxed outdoor food and lifestyle festival celebrating the authentic flavours of Phitsanulok in the historic surroundings of Chan Royal Palace. Visitors can enjoy local culinary specialities, live music, and a picnic-style atmosphere perfect for unwinding with family and friends.

Feel All the Feeling @ Phrae 2026

31 July – 2 August 2026
King Rama IX Commemorative Health Park
Nai Wiang, Mueang Phrae District
Phrae

Highlights:
A creative lifestyle festival celebrating the timeless charm of Phrae. The event showcases the province’s Soft Power with immersive experiences in food, textiles, coffee, music, and contemporary Lanna culture.

2026 Ayutthaya Night Run Fun Fin Fear

1–2 August 2026
Wat Mahathat
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya

Highlights:
A one-of-a-kind night running festival that combines a road race with live entertainment, cultural experiences, food, and immersive light installations in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage city of Ayutthaya.

Mother’s Day @ Dan Chang 2026

6–12 August 2026
Dan Chang District Office
Dan Chang District
Suphan Buri

Highlights:
A week-long community celebration marking Thailand’s Mother’s Day with live entertainment, local products, delicious cuisine, and family-friendly activities in the heart of Dan Chang, Suphan Buri.

9th Sun-Dried Squid & Seafood Festival 2026

7–9 August 2026
Maharaj Club Grounds
Pak Nam Pran Subdistrict, Pran Buri District
Prachuap Khiri Khan

Highlights:
A lively seaside food festival celebrating Pak Nam Pran’s renowned sun-dried squid and fresh seafood, complemented by the Mini Balloon Festival 2026 @ Pranburi, live entertainment, and a vibrant beach atmosphere.

Mini Balloon Festival 2026 @ Pran Buri

7–9 August 2026
Lan Maharaj, Pak Nam Pran Subdistrict, Pran Buri District
Prachuap Khiri Khan

Highlights:
A vibrant seaside festival featuring colourful mini hot-air balloons, spectacular nighttime balloon glow displays, and live music, set against the scenic backdrop of Pak Nam Pran Beach.

Feel All the Feelings @ Chiang Mai: LANNA HAUTE COUTURE

8 August 2026
Rin Kham Intersection
Suthep Subdistrict, Mueang Chiang Mai District
Chiang Mai

Highlights:
A one-night fashion and cultural showcase transforming one of Chiang Mai’s iconic intersections into an open-air runway, celebrating the elegance of contemporary Lanna textiles through the Feel All the Feelings campaign.

Pantomime in Bangkok

8–9 August 2026
Muang Thai Life Assurance Auditorium
Ratchadaphisek Road
Bangkok

Highlights:
An international performing arts festival celebrating the art of pantomime through world-class performances, interactive workshops, and artist discussions, bringing together performers and audiences in Bangkok.

Phusa Sin Thin Pha Khrang: From Heritage to the Global Stage 2026

10–11 August 2026
Central Lampang
Mueang Lampang District
Lampang

Highlights:
A cultural and lifestyle event celebrating Pha Khrang, Lampang’s distinctive naturally dyed textile, showcasing how traditional craftsmanship is being reimagined through contemporary fashion, design, and creative products for a global audience.

Singha Pha Mae Thiao Festival 2026

10–16 August 2026
Mekong Riverside Road
Chiang Khan District
Loei

Highlights:
A week-long riverside festival celebrating Mother’s Day in the charming town of Chiang Khan, offering local cuisine, shopping, family entertainment, and live performances along the scenic Mekong River.

Character Fest Thailand 2

14–17 August 2026
CentralWorld
(Level 1 – Beacon Zone, Central Court and Eden Zone)
Bangkok

Highlights:
A vibrant pop culture festival bringing together beloved characters, artists, and fans for four days of interactive experiences, exclusive merchandise, and entertainment. Returning for its second edition, the festival embraces the lively “Pop Star Party” theme.

Feel All the Feelings @ Chiang Mai: LANNA OMAKASE

16 August 2026
Villa Uchi
Mueang Chiang Mai District
Chiang Mai

Highlights:
An exclusive culinary experience under the ‘Feel All the Feelings’ campaign, showcasing the essence of Lanna cuisine through a contemporary omakase-style fine dining journey.

2026 International ceremony of alms offering and Mahasanghadana

16 August 2026
Niphat Uthit 3 Road
Hat Yai City Centre
Songkhla

Highlights:
One of southern Thailand’s largest Buddhist merit-making events, bringing together thousands of monks and devotees for a grand international alms-giving ceremony in the heart of Hat Yai.

Thai Teaw Thai 79th

20 Aug 2026 – 23 Aug 2026
Queen Sirikit National Convention Center
Exhibition Hall 5-6, Level LG
Bangkok

Highlights:
One of Thailand’s largest domestic travel fairs, bringing together tourism businesses, hotels, airlines, attractions, and travel service providers from across the country, offering exclusive promotions and travel inspiration.

Feel All the Feelings @ Chiang Mai: LANNA MUSIC EDM

22 August 2026
Fur Cafe
Mueang Chiang Mai District
Chiang Mai

Highlights:
An immersive nightlife experience under the ‘Feel All the Feelings’ campaign, where the rich cultural identity of Lanna is fused with the energy of contemporary electronic dance music.

Feel all the Feelings @ Phuket: Illuminating Peranakan

23 – 29 August 2026
Phuket Old Town
Phuket

Highlights:
A week-long cultural experience celebrating Phuket’s rich Peranakan heritage under the ‘Feel All the Feelings’ campaign, featuring immersive light installations, artistic displays, and creative storytelling, highlighting the island’s unique multicultural identity.

The post August 2026 Event and Calendar appeared first on TAT Newsroom.

Presiding over the launch, Mr. Pasakorn Rangsiwatanasak, Secretary to the Minister of Tourism and Sports, said, “WTCE 2026 demonstrates Thailand’s commitment to harnessing tourism, culture, sport, entertainment and creative industries as engines of economic growth. The event will stimulate investment, deepen international cooperation and strengthen Thailand’s position as a gateway connecting ASEAN with global markets.”

Joining the launch were Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor; Lieutenant Anek Nurak, Committee Member of the TCT; Mr. Wang Zhaoyun, CEO of Grandeur Exhibition Group; Police Major General Pongsiam Meekanthong, Deputy Commissioner of the Tourist Police Bureau; TAT executives; and representatives of partner organisations.

WTCE 2026 reflects the Thai-Chinese partnership behind the event and builds on the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and China. It also aligns with China’s “Thousands of Sails Go to Sea” policy encouraging Chinese enterprises to expand internationally into Thailand, China and ASEAN for tourism, business and investment cooperation.

Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said, “TAT’s Value over Volume direction, supported by Healing is the New Luxury campaign, places meaningful experiences, sustainability and quality tourism income at the centre of tourism development. WTCE 2026 advances this direction by connecting tourism with culture, sport, and the creative industries, while opening new channels for investment, knowledge exchange, and business cooperation. As an official partner, TAT will promote international participation and help connect Thai businesses with investors, technology providers and creative-industry partners across regional and global markets.”

WTCE 2026 builds on the 2025 edition, which featured 300 exhibition booths showcasing leading global brands from 23 countries, welcomed participants from 36 countries and achieved a 98 per cent success rate in business negotiations and partnerships, according to the organisers.

Held under the theme “Smartly Link the World”, the 2026 expo will unite culture, innovation and commercial opportunity. The expo will feature five specialised expositions:

• The Thailand Amusement and Attraction Parks Expo (TAAPE) will focus on amusement and water parks, family entertainment and safety standards.
• The Thailand (Bangkok) Billiards Expo (TBE) will showcase billiards, snooker and indoor leisure sports.
• The ASEAN LED Display, Prolight, Sound and Entertainment Technology Expo (ASE) will present LED displays, professional lighting, sound systems and entertainment technologies.
• The Asia Film, Television and Equipment Technology Expo (APE) will cover production equipment, virtual production, extended reality and intellectual-property licensing.
• The ASEAN Global IP Expo will expand business opportunities across the intellectual property (IP) and the creative industries.

The launch also featured a “Future Trends of Tourism” panel discussion with Lieutenant Anek Nurak; Mr. Jeerayu Jarukittivorakan, TCT Secretary-General and a member of the TAT Board of Directors; Ms. Pattaraanong Na Chiangmai, TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing – Asia and South Pacific; and Police Major General Pongsiam Meekanthong. The session addressed tourism safety, sustainability and visitor experience, with an emphasis on risk management, environmentally responsible practices and immersive technologies.

China remains Thailand’s leading international visitor market. From 1 January to 20 July 2026, Thailand recorded 2,877,039 arrivals from China, up 14.76 per cent year-on-year. TAT forecasts more than 5.13 million Chinese visitors and at least 288.385 billion Baht in tourism revenue in 2026. WTCE 2026 will provide a strategic platform to convert this market strength into broader tourism, investment and business partnerships across the region.

The post Bangkok to host World Travel & Culture Expo 2026 in October appeared first on TAT Newsroom.

Rooted in the Buddhist Lent tradition of candle offering, the procession has evolved into a major expression of faith, craftsmanship and local identity. Its longevity reflects the collective contribution of temple communities, candle masters, educational institutions, residents, government agencies and other stakeholders committed to preserving and passing on specialised skills.

Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said, “The Ubon Ratchathani Candle Procession has earned its standing through the faith, craftsmanship and collective effort behind it. TAT is giving this living heritage a stronger platform by pairing its cultural foundations with contemporary presentation and meaningful participation. This will broaden international awareness, encourage longer stays and channel greater tourism value to local communities, artisans and businesses.”

The Ubon Ratchathani Candle Procession is one of three homegrown traditions TAT is elevating as Signature Thailand Events, alongside the Nakhon Phanom Illuminated Boat Procession and the Christmas Star Parade in Sakon Nakhon. Together, they support TAT’s strategy to bring distinctive regional celebrations to wider international audiences and strengthen Thailand’s cultural soft power.

As part of this approach, TAT is spotlighting the main venue at Thung Si Mueang from 25–31 July through lighting installations designed to create a more distinctive setting. On 29 and 30 July, TAT will stage four light-and-sound performances each evening, combining tradition with contemporary storytelling rooted in Ubon Ratchathani’s heritage.

Two large-scale three-dimensional sculptures of ‘Nong Mamuang’, a popular Thai cartoon character, will form an illuminated landmark at Lan Thian Chaloem Phra Kiat, from 23 July–13 August. Reimagined in contemporary Thai dress, one reclines while the other strikes a classical Thai dance pose. The installations combine traditional motifs with modern pop culture, reflecting the province’s identity as the “City of Beautiful Lotuses”.

TAT’s ART SPACE, open from 25–30 July, will offer hands-on activities based on local knowledge and craftsmanship, including candle carving, wax-flower making and gold-leaf decoration, encouraging visitors to engage with local crafts.

The main events take place from 28–30 July, beginning with the Candle Gathering on 28 July. A total of 47 elaborate pieces — one showcase candle and 46 competition entries — will represent Ubon Ratchathani’s three principal candle-making categories: traditional, moulded-wax and carved-wax.

On 29 July, the royally bestowed Buddhist Lent candle and monastic bathing cloth will be taken in procession from 08.29, followed by a candle parade, dance troupes, and folk cultural performances. The official opening on 30 July will also begin at 08.29, followed by another candle parade, dance troupes and the Phanom Phra boat procession from Surat Thani.

Across both days, more than 37 dance troupes involving temple communities and educational institutions throughout the province will take part. More than 5,000 complimentary seats will be available at five viewing points: Wat Si Ubon Rattanaram, Lan Khwan Mueang, U Hotel, Siam Commercial Bank and Bangchak service station.

Evening highlights on 29 July include the “Amazing Light of Isan: Stunned” light-and-sound production and illuminated candle displays, beginning at 19.00 at Wat Si Ubon Rattanaram and Lan Khwan Mueang. On 30 July, candle competition awards will be presented at 17.30, followed at 19.00 by a light-and-sound programme featuring a candle procession at both venues.

Award-winning candles will remain on display from 31 July–1 August at Thung Si Mueang and the City Pillar Shrine.

The wider programme includes visits to nine temple communities from 13–27 July, where visitors can learn about wax decoration. From 27 July–1 August, the “Candle Road of Dharma” event at the cultural plaza near Ubon Ratchathani City Pillar Shrine will feature candle making alongside local and One Tambon One Product markets.

Additional highlights include the “Stories of Ubon Ratchathani” light-and-sound performance at Lan Thian Chaloem Phra Kiat, on 31 July and 1 August at 18.00; the “Ganesha Barami UNSEEN” illuminated candle-flower field at Ubon Ratchathani Zoo from 25–31 July, from 16.30–20.00, with daytime viewing from 25–30 August, from 09.00–16.30; and “Ubon Candles on View Throughout the Month” at Wat Phra That Nong Bua from 3–17 August.

For further information, contact the TAT Contact Centre 1672 or LINE @tatcontactcenter; follow the Thailand Festival and TAT Contact Center Facebook pages, or @1672travelbuddy on Instagram, TikTok, LINE and X; or visit www.tourismthailand.org and www.1672travelbuddy.com.

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Launched in November 2025 by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) alongside the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, the Trusted Thailand initiative is a certification program built to do one thing: give visitors a visible, verifiable signal that the hotel, restaurant, shopping centre, or attraction in front of them meets rigorous safety standards. Businesses seeking the Trusted Thailand stamp are evaluated across four pillars — general safety measures such as CCTV coverage and emergency response readiness; secure and transparent payment systems (including recognized platforms such as Alipay and WeChat Pay); multilingual communication capable of serving travellers in a crisis; and accessible, well-maintained transport links. TAT has set its sights on assessing thousands of operators nationwide, from the high-rises of Bangkok to the beach clubs of Phuket and the temple towns of Chiang Mai.

As a safety-first traveller myself, what strikes me most is the “why” behind the timing. Officials have been candid that the safety of travellers is of paramount importance, particularly among Chinese travellers, who represent one of Thailand’s largest visitor segments. Rather than let perception outrun reality, TAT chose transparency: certify what’s safe and make that certification easy to find. From there, the program expanded through partnerships with major booking platforms — Agoda, Trip.com, and Meituan among them — so travellers can filter for Trusted Thailand-certified stays before they ever board a flight. Agoda has gone a step further by embedding QR code safety guides into its City Guides, starting with flood-preparedness information and expanding to cover additional hazards over time.

This shifts safety information out of the afterthought stage and into the booking journey itself.

The app in every traveller’s pocket

Certification is only half the equation — the other half is what happens once you’re on the ground. That’s where the Thailand Tourist Police application earns its place as, in my professional opinion, the single most useful download for anyone visiting the country. Free on iOS, Android, and Huawei devices and requiring no Thai SIM card to function, the app puts a genuine safety net in your hands.

Tap the app’s SOS function, and you’re instantly connected to the Tourist Police Call Hotline (1155) or routed via GPS to the nearest available officers — response times are reported to average about 5 minutes. A live chat feature lets you communicate directly with tourist police in five languages: English, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Russian, closing the gap that language barriers so often create in an emergency. The app also displays real-time updates on higher-risk areas and the location of the nearest police station, lets you securely document and report an incident with built-in translation support, and pushes alerts for travel advisories relevant to your location. Beyond the emergency toolkit, it doubles as a low-key travel companion, surfacing nearby attractions, accommodations, and essential services.

For those who prefer a browser-based option or want a second line of defence, the long-running “i lert u” tourist police platform offers a similar function — send your location and details from the scene of an incident, and a patrol is dispatched.

There are also very useful travel safety apps that you may consider having on your smartphone. They help you stay connected, monitor real-time local conditions, and secure your data. Key tools include GeoSure for neighbourhood safety scores, Signal for secure communication, and Smart Traveler for government advisories. Life360 and WhatsApp are excellent for sharing your live location with family.

What does this mean for your next trip?

None of this replaces good travel instincts — situational awareness, trusted transport, keeping copies of your documents. But smart systems like Trusted Thailand and the Tourist Police app are changing what “prepared” looks like for a modern trip to Thailand. Before you go, book Trusted Thailand-certified accommodation where you can, download the Tourist Police app before you land, and save 1155 somewhere you’ll remember it.

Thailand has always sold itself on warmth and hospitality. What’s changing now is that it’s backing that reputation with infrastructure — and that makes the country feel more reassuring for travellers.

About the Author

“Frequent foodie and occasional craftsman of travel stories, Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya (Chat) draws on his nearly 4 decades of promoting Thailand’s tourism industry to highlight everything from world-class attractions to hidden gems. When not writing stuff, he makes it a mission to catch rom-coms and DC superheroes whenever they show up in theaters.”

The post “Trusted Thailand” Is Rewriting the Rules of Travel Safety appeared first on TAT Newsroom.