Mumbai: The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) in partnership with AIS 5G has launched a ‘Welcome Back to Thailand’ campaign offering specially-branded ‘Amazing Thailand SIM’ card with a one-day trial of 8GB max speed internet and a range of travel privileges to mark the upcoming high tourist season. The campaign runs from 17 October 2023 to 31 March 2024.
Mr. Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya, TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing – Asia and the South Pacific, said “The launch of the ‘Welcome Back to Thailand’ campaign corresponds with the Thai government’s quick-win measures to boost tourism income through the ease of travelling policy by revising and facilitating the visa application procedure and exempting the visa fee for tourists. This partnership with AIS 5G and other partners also underscores the TAT’s direction to expand collaboration with stakeholders and suppliers and to leverage the digital transformation.”
In 2023 to-date, Thailand has welcomed 20.3 million foreign visitors, with the majority – 14.7 million visitors – coming from the Asia-Pacific markets including China, Malaysia, and India. In addition to the five-month visa exemption for Chinese and Kazakhstani nationals from 25 September 2023 to 29 February 2024, the TAT is maximising the growth potential of the Asia-Pacific markets by providing the convenience of communication systems and digital services through the Amazing Thailand SIM card.
According to AIS, a study on tourist behaviour showed an ever-growing popularity in the utilisation of all aspects of services through digital channels, including financial transactions, accommodation bookings, shopping, and public utilities. In addition, the digital nomads take into consideration superior infrastructure and fast internet access among criteria for selecting a destination to enjoy working while travelling.
Mr. Pratthana Leelapanang, Chief Consumer Business Officer at AIS, said “The tourism sector plays an important role in driving the Thai economy. As a digital leader and developer of digital solutions, AIS is ready to support and facilitate tourists to enjoy the best experience possible. The Amazing Thailand SIM reflects our commitment to enhance tourists’ experience with an extensive 5G network across the length and breadth of Thailand.”
A total of one million Amazing Thailand SIM cards will be offered to tourists through the TAT’s offices in Asia and the South Pacific in collaboration with online travel agencies (OTAs), airlines and other tourism partners.
Visitors can take part in the ‘Welcome Back to Thailand’ campaign by making travel arrangements for Thailand with the TAT’s partners in Asia and the South Pacific. They will receive a QR code to redeem a free SIM card at AIS shop at airports in Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang), Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, and Samui.
The Amazing Thailand SIM card comes with a one-day free trial of 8GB max speed internet and can be topped up via the AIS One-2-Call website and AIS WeChat mini programme.
Once the SIM is activated, visitors will be entitled to a range of travel privileges. These include a free travel insurance coverage from Bangkok Insurance, a welcome package from Central Group, a discount for online shopping at King Power’s website and application, shopping privileges at Siam Piwat’s malls (Siam Centre, Siam Discovery and Siam Paragon), discounts at Singha Park Chiang Rai, special self-drive car rental rates at Sixt Car Rental, a discount on travel activities from the TAGTHAi application, and special offers from Grab Thailand.