The northeastern part of Thailand, referred to as Isaan, is poised to emerge as a burgeoning hotspot for tourism expansion. This initiative forms a significant aspect of the government’s strategy, in collaboration with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), aimed at revitalizing economic activity in smaller cities.
Recently unveiled during the China International Travel Mart 2023, the plan actively promotes Isaan among Chinese travelers, encouraging more land-based excursions. To further this, the Cabinet conducted its inaugural mobile meeting in Nong Bua Lam Phu, the country’s least affluent province, with plans to extend visits to other Isaan provinces. The objective behind this move is to rejuvenate the region’s economy and amplify its attractiveness for tourists. Those involved in Isaan’s tourism sector hold an optimistic outlook on this initiative, especially regarding the potential enhancement of public infrastructure.
Nalumon Raksapakdee, the vice president of the Tourism Council of Nong Khai, highlighted the adverse impact on the province’s tourism industry due to sluggish border trade and the weakening of the Lao kip. This resulted in a decline in visitors from Laos, who significantly contribute to the local economy. Despite escalating costs, residents of Laos often prefer larger tourist destinations like Bangkok and Phuket over Nong Khai.
Nalumon emphasized the necessity for the province, heavily reliant on domestic and Lao tourists, to diversify and attract new markets, including expatriates and Chinese tourists. During the Cabinet’s mobile meeting, suggestions were put forth to offer Chinese language training to personnel and establish a Chinese consulate in the province, as reported by Bangkok Post. This proposed consulate would aid Chinese tourists traveling through the China-Laos railway. Furthermore, it could simplify the process for foreigners residing in Thailand to apply for a Chinese visa, potentially enabling combined trips to southern Chinese cities alongside visits to Nong Khai and Laos.
Regarding tourism offerings, Nong Khai boasts a wide array of attractions such as culinary experiences, natural landscapes, and religious sites. Nalumon proposed the integration of Nong Khai with Laos and China to allure both leisure and business travelers, thereby augmenting revenue.
Poppon Kasemsan Na Ayutthaya, president of the Tourism Council of Khon Kaen, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the region’s distinctive culture as a pivotal factor in promoting tourism. This includes Isaan cuisine, Mudmee silk, traditional mor lam music, and Isaan-style massage. Additionally, there are hopes for elevating Khon Kaen’s stature as a prominent hub for business gatherings and trade in the Greater Mekong Subregion, attracting more commercial opportunities and international flights, necessitating improvements in public transportation.
anchana Vatanasathien, president of the Khao Yai Tourism Association and vice president of the Tourism Council of Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat), advocated for enduring initiatives to bolster Isaan tourism. These encompass sustainable tourism education, development of universally accessible designs, and waste management. Additionally, she recommended transportation development projects, including intra-city public transport and the expedited construction of the Korat motorway, to enhance logistical efficiency and tourism competitiveness.
