Tag: Thailand

News

Indian Millennials and Gen Z Propel Thailand Travel Boom on Airbnb

Jun 10, 2024 by Mansi Praharaj 0 Comments #Airbnb, #Gen Z Propel, #Indian Millennial, #Thailand, #Thailand Travel

New Delhi, 10 June 2024 — New data from Airbnb reveals that between 2022 and 2023, bookings in Thailand by Indian guests on Airbnb increased more than 60 percent year-on-year, and a noticeable surge of interest during the recent Holi and Easter long weekends when searches by Indian guests for stays in Thailand during this period increased more than 200 percent.

According to data from Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports, India is the fifth largest inbound market for Thailand. This growth in interest amongst Indian travellers is credited to the government’s visa-free policy and recently announced extension till 11 November 2024 and is further fuelled by the availability of various non-stop daily flights. From their favourite destinations, to the types of stays they prefer, traveller types and demographics, Airbnb shares its latest data on India-Thailand travel trends.

This surge in travel interest on Airbnb is driven by India’s changing demographics and a new, more travel inclined younger generation, with Gen Z and Millennial Indian guests accounting for 80 percent of bookings in 2023*. India has the highest population of Gen Zs and Millennials in the world so it’s not surprising that youth is at the heart of Airbnb in India as well.

Thailand’s city and beach destinations made up the top 5 most booked destinations by Indian guests on Airbnb:

  • Bangkok
  • Phuket
  • Chiang Mai
  • Krabi
  • Samui

The desire for beach and city getaways is also seen in stays chosen by Indian guests – the most booked Airbnb Categories in Thailand by Indian guests were Pool, Tropical, Near a beach, Near a national park and Iconic city.

Based on Airbnb bookings by Indian guests, Duo and Solo travellers were the largest traveller types, while small groups (3-5 pax) and medium sized groups (5 pax+) were the fastest growing, increasing by approximately 67 percent and 68 percent year-on-year respectively in 2023.

“Travellers from India on Airbnb continue to show their love for Thailand with a growing interest in exploring destinations across the country. In addition to some of Thailand’s top destinations, we see Indian guests also exploring lesser known areas and supporting a more inclusive tourism in Thailand that spreads economic opportunities to more people in more places, not just big cities ,” said Amanpreet Bajaj, Airbnb’s General Manager for Southeast Asia, India, Hong Kong, and Taiwan.

“The Thai government’s extension of the visa waiver for citizens of both countries will further support and drive inbound tourism. There is strong appetite for Thailand amongst Indian travellers and we will continue to support Thailand’s tourism initiatives and help to make Thailand top of mind amongst Indian travellers.”

Favouring beach destinations and pool villas, here are some of the Most Wishlisted Amazing Pools stays by Indian guests on Airbnb in 2023:

  • The Sand Private Bungalow with Plunge Pool (Phuket)
  • Beachfront Villa near Ao Nang (Krabi)
  • Passambhati Villa (Samui)
  • 3 Bedroom Villa with Private Pool (Pattaya)
  • Grand Seaview Pool Suite (Phuket)
  • Oceanfront Deluxe 1 Bedroom Villa (Samui)
News

Blossoms in Adversity: A Groundbreaking Chinese Costume Drama Captivates Thai Audiences

May 21, 2024 by Sujata Muguda 0 Comments #Bangkok, #Blossoms in Adversity, #Chinese Costume, #Groundbreaking Chinese Costume Drama, #historical idol, #Thailand, #YOUKU Thailand channel on YouTube

BANGKOK, May 21, 2024– “Blossoms in Adversity” represents a major innovation in Chinese costume dramas. The series tells the story of Hua Zhi, the female lead, who strives to restore her family’s honor and revive their business while defending the nation alongside the male lead. The unique blend of “historical idol” and “idyllic life” themes, coupled with a fresh ensemble cast, breaks new ground in the genre, offering novel perspectives in production, content delivery, and vibrant character portrayals. The show is a must-watch.

YOUKU-Blossoms in Adversity- A Groundbreaking Chinese Costume Dr

Remarkable Success in Thailand:
In Thailand, “Blossoms in Adversity” has accumulated millions of views across various platforms, with Thai dubbing and subtitles available on the YOUKU app and the YOUKU Thailand channel on YouTube. The Thai dubbed version not only features local characteristics but also aligns well with the characters, providing a smooth and natural viewing experience.

Thai fans have actively promoted the series, organizing tuk-tuk support activities and creating a series of Thai-language commentary videos. This fan-driven promotion has significantly expanded the international influence of “Blossoms in Adversity.”

Innovative Themes and High Production Quality:
“Blossoms in Adversity” stands out with its novel idyllic life theme, rich plot elements, and distinctive narrative style as praised by its director. The actors’ makeup and the series’ visual production are meticulously crafted, showcasing the aesthetics of traditional Chinese culture and oriental beauty.

Captivating Romance and Detailed Love Story:
The male lead, Hu Yitian, presents a new image – calm, tall, and charismatic. His performance, even in intense action scenes, is seamless, with heroic rescues adding to the drama, exceeding audience expectations.

The female lead, Zhang Jingyi, has previously starred in YOUKU’s “Lighter and Princess” and “Fall In Love,” garnering popularity in Thailand. In “Blossoms in Adversity,” she portrays the eldest daughter of the Hua family, demonstrating her acting prowess with a clear, unpretentious, and inspiring performance.

The mature relationship between the leads, characterized by mutual respect and their prompt clearing of misunderstandings, provides a refreshing and natural romantic experience. The dynamic between a strong female lead and a loyal male lead is particularly engaging.

Portrayal of Female Strength Resonates with Audiences:
The series depicts the growth of a diverse and multi-dimensional female ensemble, with the protagonist leading her family to revive their business. The portrayal of these female characters is both exhilarating and touching.

Unlike traditional Thai dramas, “Blossoms in Adversity” emphasizes a strong female lead, capturing the essence of each woman’s growth and transformation. This has resonated deeply with Thai female audiences, awakening a sense of independence and bravery, and contributing to the rise of female consciousness in Southeast Asia.

Active Fan Engagement:
Additionally, fans have established groups on Facebook to share short videos, posts, and discuss scenes from the series, generating high engagement. They have also created individual pages for each actor to keep up with their latest activities. Both the lead actors have previously starred in dramas aired in Thailand, gaining a following and making them familiar faces to the Thai audience. Discussions about “Blossoms in Adversity” and its actors are also prevalent on Instagram.

With its intriguing plot, high-quality production, and the availability of a Thai dubbed version provided by YOUKU, “Blossoms in Adversity” has organically garnered a massive following in Thailand. The mutual support and healthy romantic relationship between the lead characters, combined with fan-driven promotions and the portrayal of significant emotional bonds—parental, friendship, and romantic—make this Chinese costume drama a captivating and popular series among Thai fans.

Business

Thai Brands Mumbai 2024: A Grand Showcase of Thailand’s Finest Products

Mar 21, 2024 by Sujata Muguda 0 Comments #Mumbai, #Nehru Centre, #Thai Brands, #Thailand

Mumbai, 21st March 2024: The highly anticipated ‘Top Thai Brands’, Mumbai 2024 is all set to grace the prestigious Nehru Centre from March 22nd to 24th. Organized by the Thai Trade Centre, Mumbai, this event promises to bring the essence of Thailand to the heart of Mumbai, showcasing a diverse array of high-quality products.

With a curated selection of exhibitors, ‘Top Thai Brands’, Mumbai 2024 will be a melting point of Thailand’s best offerings, including Health, Beauty, Wellness, Spa Products, Lifestyle Products (Home Furnishing and Decor), Food and Beverages, Pet Care Products, as well as Fashion Jewellery and Accessories. This event provides an exclusive opportunity for Mumbaikars to explore and experience the richness of Thai craftsmanship and innovation.

For the first time in Mumbai, approximately 50 Thai exhibitors will participate, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in Thailand’s vibrant culture and discover iconic brands that have gained international acclaim.

The focal point of the event is to facilitate meaningful business connections, linking consumers, importers, distributors, and businesses with Thai exhibitors. Attendees can engage in business matching sessions, explore potential collaborations, and source high-quality products directly from Thailand.

In addition to business opportunities, Top Thai Brands Mumbai 2024 has curated a delightful program for attendees. Cultural performances will bring the spirit of Thailand to life. Meanwhile, food demonstrations by authentic Thai restaurants promise to tantalize taste buds with authentic Thai flavors. Fashion enthusiasts can also explore the latest trends in Thai Fashion Jewellery and Accessories.

Apart from this, the event will also feature “Thailand Week”, a sub-event with high-quality Thai products, a Master Chef cooking demonstration, and captivating cultural activities, allowing visitors to experience the flavors and rhythms of Thailand before their eyes.

Admission to this extraordinary event is free, providing an inclusive opportunity for everyone to discover the allure of Thai products and forge connections with the vibrant Thai market.

Join the exhibition from March 22nd to 24th at Nehru Centre, Mumbai and embark on a journey to discover the best of Thailand’s high-quality products!

Business

Celebrating Success: A Recap of IAAPI Expo 2024

Mar 12, 2024 by Mansi Praharaj 0 Comments #IAAPI Expo, #Mr. Luangamornlert, #NSCI, #Silver Jubilee year, #Thailand

The Indian Association of Amusement Parks and Industries (IAAPI) Expo 2024 marked a historic milestone as it celebrated its 25th Silver Jubilee year with unparalleled success.The sprawling exhibition showcased the very best of the amusement industry, setting new records and inspiring industry stakeholders.

IAAPI EXPO

One of the most notable aspects of this year’s expo was its unprecedented scale. Covering an astounding 40% more area than ever before, the exhibition floor buzzed with excitement and innovation. Moreover, the footfall surged by an impressive 40% compared to the previous year, underscoring the growing popularity and significance of the event.

The grandeur of the expo was further enhanced by the esteemed presence of Mr. Wuthichai Luangamornlert, the current Chairman of the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA). Hailing from Thailand, Mr. Luangamornlert graced the inaugural event as the Guest of Honor on day one, captivating the audience with his insights and vision for the industry. He also engaged with the IAAPI board of directors, fostering invaluable connections and collaboration opportunities.

Day two of the expo witnessed the highly anticipated IAC Connect, a special conference dedicated to Indoor Amusement Centers (IACs) in India. Featuring a keynote speech and an enlightening panel discussion, the conference delved into various topics such as the future of IACs, emerging trends, operational challenges, competition dynamics, and strategic location selection. The overwhelming attendance on day two set a new record, reflecting the industry’s keen interest in knowledge-sharing and networking opportunities.

The festivities continued into the evening of day two with the glitzy Awards Night, a spectacular affair filled with music, dance performances, and an array of prestigious awards. The night culminated in a sumptuous dinner, creating unforgettable memories for all attendees.

Day three of the expo was equally eventful, drawing a diverse crowd eager to explore the latest offerings and forge new partnerships. Amidst the bustling atmosphere, IAAPI signed Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with the Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) and the National Safety Council of India (NSCI), paving the way for enhanced knowledge sharing and resource collaboration.

In conclusion, the IAAPI Expo 2024 surpassed all expectations, solidifying its position as a premier platform for industry professionals, enthusiasts, and stakeholders. With its record-breaking attendance, insightful conferences, and collaborative initiatives, the expo exemplified the spirit of innovation, growth, and celebration that defines the amusement industry. As we reflect on this momentous event, we look forward to the continued advancement and prosperity of the amusement industry in India and beyond.

Business World

HDFC Bank is numero uno in Indian Financial Sector: Asiamoney Poll

Nov 5, 2020 by Gouri Achary 0 Comments #China, #HDFC Bank, #Hong Kong, #India, #Indonesia, #Korea, #Malaysia, #Most Outstanding Company, #Mr. Srinivasan Vaidyanathan, #Pakistan, #Philippines, #Singapore, #Taiwan, #Thailand, #Vietnam

HDFC Bank Ltd. has been voted ‘Most Outstanding Company – Financial Sector’ in India, in a poll conducted by the well-known publication Asiamoney. Over 824 fund managers, buy-side analysts, bankers and research analysts voted across 12 markets in Asia.

More than 4,000 votes were received for publicly listed companies. Asiamoney asks participants in the poll to consider the company’s overall performance including its financials, management team, IR activities and CSR initiatives.

Known as Asia’s Outstanding Companies Poll, it aims to identify and recognise listed companies in 2 categories: by country and by sector. HDFC Bank has bagged this honour for the 2nd consecutive year.

The 12 markets covered were China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Korea, Malaysia, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam.

Business World

Over 50% of internet users in Asia will be using digital financial services by 2025

Oct 31, 2020 by Neel Achary 0 Comments #Cambodia, #Digital Financial Services, #India, #Indonesia, #Internet Users, #Philippines, #Southeast Asia, #Sri Lanka, #Thailand, #Unafinancial, #Vietnam
Analysts of the international fintech holding UnaFinancial revealed that more than half of internet users in the developing countries in South and Southeast Asia will be using digital financial services by 2025. Besides, by 2027 even digitally underdeveloped countries in the region will provide access to the Internet and digital technologies to 85% of the population.
The research considered the penetration of digital financial services in Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, the Philippines, Sri-Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam.
As the development of online financial services largely depends on access to the Internet, the analysts made a forecast of the maximum Internet penetration for each country first. This level can be as high as 81-85% depending on the age structure of the population.
UnaFinancial
Taking into account the Internet penetration rate of the previous years, as well as the government measures towards digitalization and the impact of Covid-19, the analysts have predicted that Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Philippines, Cambodia, India, and Sri Lanka will reach the maximum possible Internet penetration of 81-85% by 2025. The two remaining countries, Laos and Myanmar, will reach this level in 2027.
Given the year of the maximum Internet level for each country, the experts estimated the penetration of digital financial services. The forecast considered the share of the population having online financial accounts and the increase of financial inclusion during the previous years.
It revealed that in most countries, more than 50% of internet users will be using digital financial services by 2025-2027. In India, Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia the level of financial services penetration will be especially high – from 62% to 69%. Meanwhile, in Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar it will be relatively low. In these countries, the development of online financial services can be faster if the government takes a combined approach to develop financial technologies in terms of the legal framework and increase of digital and financial literacy.