Bangkok: Domestic tourism thrived during the Mother’s Day long holiday from August 9-12, 2015, generating substantial revenue across Thailand.

According to Thai News Agency, more than 3.16 million Thais traveled domestically during this period, resulting in a revenue of 13.75 billion baht. The average hotel occupancy rate was reported at 66%, with 41% of the tourists being Thai nationals.

The Central region experienced the highest number of travelers, reaching 898,000, followed by the Northeast with 609,600, and the East with 600,500. Bangkok led in tourism revenue generation, accumulating 3.41 billion baht, while the South and East regions followed with 2.79 billion baht and 2.62 billion baht, respectively.

Among Thai tourists, the top five favored cities were Bangkok, Kanchanaburi, Chonburi, Nakhon Ratchasima, and Rayong. The preferred secondary cities included Lopburi, Udon Thani, Suphanburi, Ratchaburi, and Loei. Provinces with notable occupancy rates included Prachuap Khiri Khan at 88%, Samut Songkhram at 82%, Surat Thani at 77%, Songkhla at 77%, and Phetchaburi at 76%.

Most tourists opted for short-distance travel within or near their region, focusing on family-oriented activities such as paying respects to the Buddha, making merit, dining, and celebrating Mother’s Day on August 12th. Many tourists favored day trips without overnight stays. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) noted that domestic tourism is expanding well, despite economic challenges affecting household spending. Additionally, there is significant growth potential in the international tourist market.

Ms. Sasikan Wattanachan, Deputy Government Spokesperson, expressed gratitude to all sectors contributing to a vibrant Thai tourism environment, highlighting the cooperation among entrepreneurs, the government, and citizens. The government aims to continuously promote tourism to stimulate the economy, generate income, and enhance the quality of life sustainably.