The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the official travel body of the Asian nation, has collaborated with the dating app Tinder to offer tour packages specifically for matchmaking purposes and to promote domestic trips for single tourists.
As part of its ‘Singles Journey’ initiative, it is planning nine itineraries across the country that involve travelling to Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lop Buri-Saraburi, Udon Thani-Loei, Chumphon-Surat Thani, Phuket, Pattaya and Ayutthaya.
The first of these pilot trips will take place on December 20 and is a cruise along Bangkok’s famous Chao Phraya River for up to 100 singletons. This day-long travel experience will include sightseeing, dinner, and a talk from a Feng Shui expert “who will share tips on how to pay homage to Buddha and ask for blessings.”
The other two pilot projects will commence in January 2021 and will accommodate around 50 people each. They are a beachside party and concert in Phuket and a train trip to the Pa Sak Jolasid Dam in Lopburi.
“Tourism connects people, and some people might end up being lifetime partners. Tourists can also help support tourism and the economy during tough times,” Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT deputy governor for tourism products and business said.
This innovative campaign is expected to drive 7 million domestic trips, generating at least 100 million baht in tourism income during the first quarter of next year.
The TAT plans to raise more awareness about these travel programs through social media in the next three months.
Isn’t this a win-win situation for both, tourists and the government? Let us know your views on this ingenious initiative in the comments section below!
