Agents get chance to win 'dream trip' to Thailand

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has launched a special competition for travel agents, giving them the chance to live out their 'dream itinerary' in Thailand.

The “Best Itinerary Contest” launched in January runs until August 2011 and has been devised as a way to encourage continuous education and research of Thailand as a holiday destination by the region’s travel trade.

Travel agents are invited to submit their “perfect” Thailand itinerary based on a given theme.

The competition will be held four times throughout 2011 based on four distinct themes which will be announced at the launch of each competition round. Itineraries will be judged on their ability to incorporate criteria such as, the inclusion of new attractions, authenticity, travelling time and efficiency, relaxation, budget and the so-called “7 Wonders of Thailand” (Thainess, Treasures, Beaches, Nature, Trends, Wellness and Festivities).

The winning travel agents will get the opportunity to live out their dream itinerary with a complementary holiday package for two adults to Thailand. The winner’s name, picture, agency logo and itinerary will also be posted on the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s dedicated Middle East website.

All travel agents from the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Lebanon, Syria, Jordan and Iran will be eligible to enter the competition.

Despite the challenges impacting Thailand’s tourism sector last year, including violent political demonstrations in Bangkok - the destination saw a 20% increase in visitor numbers from the Middle East.

Pramoth Supyen, Tourism Authority of Thailand Director for Middle East said: “2010 proved to be a challenging year for all destinations due to various global and international events and Thailand was no exception. However, I am pleased to announce that due to the combined efforts of our travel trade partners and the continuing popularity of Thailand among residents of this region who appreciate the value and quality of experiences Thailand has to offer; Thailand continues to grow strongly as a favoured destination of choice, and this is something that we are very pleased about. Given the circumstances a projected increase of 20% in 2010 is an outstanding result.”

Full details on the Best Itinerary Contest” can be found at: http://tourismthailand-middleast.org or travel agents should contact the Tourism Authority of Thailand Middle East office directly.