Thailand promotes film tourism to attract travellers

Thailand is looking for turn its growing admiration as a global filming destination into a new destination of tourism by promoting its locations featured in popular movies and television productions.

Under its Amazing Locations: From Scene to Scenic campaign, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is targeting the growing trend of travellers visiting places they have seen on silver screen.

Deputy Governor Nithee Seeprae said film and television can create lasting interest in destinations while benefiting local communities.

The strategy is supported by Thailand’s production infrastructure, skilled crews, studios and government incentives. More than 100 international productions have reportedly used locations in the country under its cash rebate programme, generating more than THB20 billion in spending for local crews and businesses.

Koh Samui, Thailand's second-largest island, has outlined tourism potentials. After appearing in the third season of The White Lotus, online interest in the island rose by 88pc, while hotel bookings increased by 44pc, according to TAT.
The agency is now seeking to promote lesser-known destinations, including Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Ubon Ratchathani and Nakhon Si Thammarat, to filmmakers and travellers.

Thailand’s film industry is also expanding beyond service production into original local content. Recent international projects have included The Challenge Season 42, Jurassic World: Rebirth and Send Help.

TAT hopes the initiative will establish Thailand as a long-term global filming destination while spreading tourism benefits beyond the country’s best-known attractions.