The government would promote Hua Hin and Cha-am as Thailand’s “Wellness Sandbox” to attract health-conscious tourists from all around the world.
Government spokesman Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana said that the Centre for Economic Situation Administration (Cesa) approved in principle the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s (TAT) proposal to promote the “Thailand Wellness Sandbox” for Hua Hin and Cha-am.
According to the spokesman, Hua Hin and Cha-am are destinations for wellness tourism. The main goal is to attract tourists from neighboring countries in Asean, Europe, the Middle East, the US, and Canada.
The government will highlight health-related products and services in both districts, along with the “Thailand Riviera” campaign to attract visitors to coastal destinations in the South, Mr. Thanakorn said.
Efforts will be made to ensure tourists receive international-standard services, he said.
Cesa also instructed TAT to consider expanding wellness promotion to other regions, Mr. Thanakorn said.
Krod Rojanastien, president of the Thai Spa Association and head of the Hua Hin Recharge program, welcomed the Wellness Sandbox project.
He said a notable trend has emerged among tourists around the world who are placing greater emphasis on health and wellness, and that Hua Hin and Cha-am are among wellness destinations that fit the bill.
“To build this kind of destination, we have to look at components such as decent living standards and conditions, the environment and also tradition and culture.”
He added, “These are components on the supply side, and we have to look into whether they are suitable or not and if so, we can then promote the districts as two of the world’s newest wellness destinations providing a high-quality tourism and wellness experience.”
Regarding Hua Hin’s readiness to become a wellness destination, he said that Hua Hin is already more than sufficiently equipped to serve health-conscious tourists.
