Beyond Beaches: Thailand’s New Tourism Frontiers Unveiled on FAM Trip

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) recently organised an exclusive Familiarisation (FAM) trip for media representatives from India, giving them firsthand exposure to the country’s evolving tourism offerings. Designed to highlight experiences beyond the familiar sun, sand, and shopping, the itinerary showcased Thailand’s diversity—spanning culture, wellness, gastronomy, and innovative niche tourism segments.

One of the standout themes of the programme was Bangkok’s rising status as a world-class golf destination. With more than 250 internationally recognised courses, many designed by golfing legends, Thailand is fast becoming Asia’s golfing hub. Delegates were introduced to select golf facilities in and around Bangkok, where manicured fairways, professional coaching services, and premium clubhouses combine to create exceptional experiences for amateurs and professionals alike. This focus on golf tourism reflects Thailand’s efforts to attract high-value travellers from markets such as India, where golf is gaining popularity among both leisure and corporate segments.

Another highlight was Thailand’s strong emphasis on inclusivity and LGBTQ+ tourism. Bangkok, in particular, has emerged as one of Asia’s most progressive cities, with vibrant nightlife, colourful annual pride festivals, and a tourism ecosystem that embraces diversity. Participants explored districts renowned for their LGBTQ+ friendly spaces, and TAT officials emphasised that inclusivity is not just a marketing theme but a core value of Thailand’s tourism landscape. This positioning has made the country a top choice for LGBTQ+ travellers seeking both leisure and celebration.

The itinerary also offered delegates an opportunity to dive deeper into Bangkok’s cultural and lifestyle experiences. Visits to ornate temples, bustling street markets, luxury shopping avenues, and riverside dining venues painted a holistic picture of the capital’s versatility. Special sessions on Thai culinary arts, wellness retreats, and community-based tourism highlighted how Thailand continues to blend its traditional heritage with modern hospitality.

In addition to immersive site visits, the FAM trip provided a platform for networking with local hospitality partners, hoteliers, and tourism operators, fostering dialogue on strengthening Indo-Thai tourism ties. Stakeholders discussed opportunities in segments such as luxury travel, weddings, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions), golf, and LGBTQ+ tourism—areas where Thailand is positioning itself as a global leader.

Speaking about the initiative, TAT representatives underlined that the goal was to offer authentic experiences that reflect Thailand’s evolving brand as the “Land of Smiles”—a country that welcomes every traveller with warmth, inclusivity, and memorable encounters.

The FAM trip reaffirmed Thailand’s enduring charm while shining a light on its bold strides into emerging tourism frontiers.