Thailand is taking steps to address issues of excessive tourism by offering complimentary flights to thousands of travelers. The Tourism and Sports Ministry in Thailand is proposing a unique solution to combat overcrowding by providing free domestic flight tickets to 200,000 international visitors arriving in the country from September to November. This initiative aims to entice tourists to explore less crowded areas of Thailand during the off-peak season. To qualify for the free flights, travelers must have an international flight ticket (arrivals via boat or bus are not eligible). The government will cover one-way domestic flights up to 1,750 baht (£40) and round-trip flights up to 3,500 baht (£80).
The campaign, titled ‘Buy International, Free Thailand Domestic Flights,’ is designed to disperse tourist traffic away from popular destinations like Bangkok and Chiang Mai to more secluded regions such as the northeastern Isaan area, historical sites like Sukhothai and Lampang, the northern town of Phayao, and lesser-known islands like Koh Kood and Koh Jum. Six airlines, including Thai Airways, Thai AirAsia, Bangkok Airways, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, and Thai Vietjet, have already agreed to participate in the program. Additionally, each complimentary ticket includes a baggage allowance of 20kg, allowing travelers to bring back souvenirs without extra charges.
While awaiting approval from the Thai government’s cabinet, it is anticipated that the scheme will soon be implemented. Travelers who have already booked their flights to Thailand will not be eligible for the free ticket offer, prompting potential visitors to consider delaying their plans until the policy is officially in effect.
Overtourism concerns not only the total number of visitors but also their distribution and activities during their stay in a destination. Noel Josephides, chairman of Sunvil, a family-owned tour operator, highlights the detrimental impact of all-inclusive resorts on local economies and communities. Josephides argues that all-inclusive resorts divert money away from local businesses towards large corporations, disadvantaging independent establishments. By encouraging guests to remain on the resort premises, these all-inclusive models hinder travelers from engaging with local communities and experiencing the authentic culture of their destination.
Mr. Josephides emphasizes that these practices not only lead to local resentment but also diminish the opportunity for travelers to engage with the destination authentically. He believes that the dominance of all-inclusive resorts has led to the closure of local businesses in popular tourist spots like Cyprus and Greece.