The Tourism Authority of Thailand aims to inspire responsible tourism

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is seeking to inspire environmental, cultural and social awareness among locals and visitors alike by placing responsible tourism at the heart of a short travel documentary series  "The Seasons". 

H.E. Weerasak Kowsurat, Minister of Tourism and Sports, said: "Responsible tourism plays a pivotal role in conserving nature for future generations, and sustainability is everyone's responsibility. While Thai people will be encouraged to ensure the beauty of our natural and cultural heritages, visitors will be inspired to travel more responsibly and respect Thailand's nature and culture."

The Seasons is a unique documentary series that tells stories of the way of life of the Thai people, and the amazing scenery of 12 natural attractions in different seasons and regions. Four episodes have already been released: "Into the Rainforest", "The End of the Cliff", "The Highest Faith" and "Gone in the Mist". The next episode, "The Sea of Lives," is scheduled for March.

Mr. Tanes Petsuwan, TAT Deputy Governor for Marketing Communications, said: "Each episode of The Seasons represents either one of Thailand's three seasons: rainy, cool, and summer, while focusing on responsible and sustainable tourism to educate the public, students, media, tour operators and related agencies. The objective is to enhance respect for all forms of natural and cultural resources on which tourism depends."

To demonstrate TAT's commitment to promote responsible tourism, The Seasons' launch event features a host of socially and environmentally responsible initiatives, including Pop Art Bann 36, an art school that combines groups of independent artists from various professions to help society, and Tlejourn Shoes upcycling flip-flops from ocean debris under the collaboration of the Trash Hero Pattani volunteers.

There is a performance by the Immanuel Orchestra (Children's String Orchestra) from Bangkok's impoverished Khlong Toei community. This music program educates 100 children aged 7 to 20 years old who are taught to play classical instruments. They also perform in orchestras and choirs with the music school improving the lives of hundreds of children in Khlong Toei. 

Another highlight is a "Responsible Tourism Leads to Sustainability" talk by two guest speakers known for their roles in promoting environmental, cultural and social aspects. Mr. Pipat Apirakthanakorn, owner of Thailand's first eco design and consultancy service company ECOSHOP&Brand O and KidKid, is a celebrity, thinker and designer who is concerned about society and the environment.

Meanwhile, Mr. Dwight Turner, Director of Courageous Kitchen, runs cooking classes and a street food tour project to help students and at-risk youth who are suffering from poverty, malnutrition and poor education. 

The Seasons follows on the success of TAT's first documentary series, called Insight Thainess that was aired between March and October 2018. The seven-part travel documentary series received rave reviews from media, travel industry professionals, and visitors for its insightful tales of the Thai culture and way of life.

For more information go to https://www.tatnews.org/ 

Image above: From Left: Mr. Kitsana Kaewtumrong, TAT Executive Director of the Advertising and Public Relations Department; Mr. Pipat Apirakthanakorn, owner of ECOSHOP&Brand O and KidKid; Mr. Tanes Petsuwan, TAT Deputy Governor for Marketing Communications; H.E. Weerasak Kowsurat, Minister of Tourism and Sports; Mr. Charun Ohnmee, TAT Deputy Governor for Policy and Planning; and Mr. Dwight Turner, Director of Courageous Kitchen, at the press launch of “The Seasons”.