Thailand’s tourism revenues are projected to fall by about Bt3 billion for the first three months following Japan’s recent natural and nuclear disasters, according to the Thai-Japan Tourist Association (TJTA).
One hundred per cent of Thai travellers have cancelled their intended trips to Japan, and their air tickets will be fully refunded if they had booked to travel with Thai Airways International (THAI).
Speaking to reporters after meeting the public and private sectors concerning Thai-Japan tourism, Deputy Permanent Secretary for the Tourism and Sports Ministry Thanitta Maneechot said the Thai-Japan Tourist Association and related agencies have agreed to fully refund Thai tourists wishing to cancel their trips if flying with THAI.
The agencies are coordinating with the Japanese Embassy to Thailand concerning the refund of visa fees and tickets issued by other airlines.
Thais travelling as tourists and in Japan have been reported safe and will return to Thailand as originally planned.
Ms Thanitta advised tour agents to organise tours in other parts of Asia, particularly India and China, due to their lower cost of travelling.
A THAI representative said at the meeting all types of tickets to Japan can be cancelled until the end of April, while the airline is facilitating ticket purchases for Thais in Japan wishing to return to Thailand. Those want to return home can have their families and friends at home buy tickets.
via Thai tourism to lose Bt3 bln in revenue from Japan disaster.
