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By Author
Published on November 5, 2023
Hello, travellers! Thailand's inviting us over with a free visa this month, and it's the best time to visit. Ready for a trip full of laughter, amazing views, and some spicy food that'll make your toes wiggle? Let’s dive into where you should go in this cool place!
1. Bangkok: The Fun Never Stops
Bangkok's the first stop. It's a city full of life, especially on Khao San Road. This street is buzzing day and night. Fancy trying something new? How about a Muay Thai class? It's a cool way to work off those tasty street food snacks!
2. Khao Yai National Park: Nature's Own Adventure Park
Feeling adventurous? Head over to Khao Yai National Park. It's not far from Bangkok and is like stepping into a Jungle Book scene. You might see elephants, cheeky monkeys, and even tigers if you're lucky. And if you like wine, there's a little surprise – local vineyards just nearby!
3. Phuket: Sun, Sea, and Sand for the Family
Got kids? Phuket is the place for you. It's got beautiful beaches, loads of fun things to do like snorkelling and boat trips, and food that'll make your taste buds dance. Remember, December is the best time to go diving, but if you visit in May, you'll get some great deals at resorts.
4. Ko Tarutao: The Ultimate Island Chill
If you're dreaming of a chill island vibe, Ko Tarutao is where it's at. It's down south, near Malaysia, and is super relaxed. You can camp on the beach, see cool animals, and pretend you're Robinson Crusoe for a day.
5. Kanchanaburi: A Trip Through History
Want a taste of history? Kanchanaburi's got it. You can stay in floating houses, learn about the famous bridge over the River Kwai, and explore national parks with awesome waterfalls. Plus, you can rent a scooter and feel the wind in your hair!
6. Chiang Mai: A Temple Wonderland
Chiang Mai is like stepping back in time, with temples that are both beautiful and mysterious. You can eat yummy food all day and even learn how to cook Thai dishes. Sounds cool, right?
7. Railay: Rock Climbing Paradise
If you're into climbing, Railay’s got you covered. It's near Krabi, with cliffs that are perfect for adventurers. The beaches are stunning, and you can stay in cute beach huts. Plus, getting there by boat is just plain fun.
8. Isan Region: Off the Beaten Track
Feeling adventurous? Head to Isan, in northeastern Thailand. It's less touristy, and you'll see a different side of Thai life. There are cool sculpture gardens, dragon boat races, and ancient rock paintings to discover.
9. Similan Islands: Dive into the Deep Blue
Love diving? The Similan Islands are calling your name. The underwater world here is mind-blowing, with colourful corals and amazing fish. And keep your eyes peeled for manta rays and even whale sharks!
10. Khao Sok National Park: A Jungle Dream
Khao Sok National Park is like a real-life Jurassic Park, minus the dinosaurs. You can hike up high for epic views, or chill on a floating hut on a peaceful lake. It's a must-see for nature lovers.
11. Ayuthaya: Where History Lives
Interested in Thai history? Ayuthaya's your spot. It's full of ancient temples and cool ruins. Don't forget to check out the royal summer home nearby!
12. Ko Pha-Ngan: Party Island
If you're up for a big party, Ko Pha-Ngan is famous for its full-moon parties. Dance the night away, then relax on a quiet beach the next day. Renting a moped is the best way to see everything here.
13. Pai: Hot Springs and Cool Vibes
Pai is a laid-back town in the hills, perfect for chilling out. You can hike, check out waterfalls, and soak in hot springs. There's also great massage places if you want to totally relax.
14. Chiang Rai’s Hills: Hiker's Heaven
Love hiking? Chiang Rai's hills are a treasure trove of trails, with beautiful views and friendly villages. Don't miss the lesser-known temples and homestays in the area.
15. Sukhothai Historical Park: A Walk Through Time
Finally, Sukhothai Historical Park is a trip through Thailand's past. It's full of amazing ruins that tell stories of ancient times. Rent a bike and explore at your own pace.
There you have it, folks – Thailand's waiting with open arms and a smile. Whether you're into history, nature, or just looking for a good time, there's something here for everyone. Pack your bags and get ready for an adventure you won't forget!
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By Nithyakala Neelakandan
Published on October 14, 2024
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) introduced a new initiative called "Together in Travel" at its 2024 Global Summit in Perth, Australia. The initiative aims to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the global Travel & Tourism sector by providing essential tools and resources to help these businesses grow and have a stronger voice on the world stage.
The platform is free to subscribe to and offers access to various educational programs, networking opportunities, and valuable content. Starting next year, WTTC will offer a paid subscription with additional features to further assist SMEs in their development.
Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, highlighted the importance of SMEs in the industry, stating, "SMEs are a cornerstone of Travel & Tourism, with millions of small enterprises providing services to customers, creating innovative start-ups, and providing local knowledge to larger partners." She added that for the first time, SMEs can join a community to exchange ideas and resources to improve their businesses.
WTTC is predicting a record-breaking year for the travel and tourism industry in 2024, with the sector's global economic contribution expected to reach $11.1 trillion. Simpson also pointed out that up to 80% of the travel and tourism industry consists of SMEs, emphasizing the need for a system that can enhance their productivity and impact.
Matthew Upchurch, Vice Chair of Membership at WTTC and CEO of Virtuoso, said that the "Together in Travel" initiative marks a significant step forward in supporting SMEs. He emphasized the importance of building a more resilient and sustainable future for the travel industry, especially as it continues to recover from the effects of the global pandemic.
Ryan Mossny, Co-Founder of Matagarup Zip+Climb, shared his excitement about the initiative, saying, "As a small business, accessing the vital resources and industry connections needed to thrive in the travel sector can be challenging. WTTC’s new initiative has come at a perfect time; through tailored support, we will be able to directly tackle our problem areas head-on, allowing us not only to survive but to thrive in an increasingly competitive market."
For more information about the "Together in Travel" platform, visit their official website at www.togetherintravel.com or WTTC at www.wttc.org.
By Nishang Narayan
Published on October 13, 2024
Foreign airlines operating in India will no longer be liable to pay Goods and Services Tax (GST) on services provided by their head offices to branch offices in the country, as per a government notification issued by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs (CBIC). This decision, part of the recommendations made at the 54th GST Council meeting, will take effect starting October 10.
The exemption is subject to the condition that foreign airlines secure a certificate from the civil aviation ministry, confirming that their operations in India fall under the scope of a bilateral air services agreement. This move is expected to ease the tax burden on foreign airlines and streamline operations.
In addition to this, academic institutions that have received grants for research purposes will also be exempt from GST, further promoting research and development activities across the country.
The CBIC has rolled out several new GST-related updates, including measures aimed at reducing penalties for taxpayers. Individuals or businesses that comply by March 31, 2025, will be eligible for waivers on penalties and interest. This is particularly applicable to taxpayers facing demand orders under section 74(1) of the GST Act, as long as they have not filed an appeal.
The GST Council has also introduced a special rectification window for taxpayers to amend past input tax credit (ITC) discrepancies. This opportunity is designed to help taxpayers correct genuine mistakes made in the past, potentially resolving many pending litigations and reducing the burden on both taxpayers and the government.
Additionally, the Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) has raised concerns over the excessive GST charges on air ticket cancellations and modifications. The association revealed that GST was incorrectly charged at 18% instead of the appropriate rates of 5% for economy class and 12% for business class, leading to an over-collection of taxes. They have urged airlines and relevant ministries to refund the excess GST that was wrongly collected.
Experts believe that the latest measures are a step towards encouraging voluntary compliance while resolving disputes outside the court system. By offering taxpayers a chance to correct their errors and reduce penalties, the government aims to streamline tax compliance and promote a more efficient system.
This series of notifications, especially the rectification of ITC mistakes, is expected to significantly reduce taxpayer grievances and litigation, creating a more taxpayer-friendly environment moving forward.
India’s tourism sector is witnessing a significant surge, with foreign tourist arrivals expected to exceed pre-pandemic levels by 2025, according to the latest "How India Travels 2024 – The Inbound Edit" report by Booking.com. The report, conducted in collaboration with Accenture, highlights India's growing appeal, underscored by its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and competitive pricing, making it one of the top destinations in South Asia.
In 2023 alone, over 9 million foreign tourists visited India, driving foreign exchange earnings (FEEs) from tourism to USD 15.3 billion in the first half of 2024. This marked a 17.6% increase from the previous year and a 5.5% jump from pre-pandemic levels in 2019. The surge in inbound tourism is not just boosting the economy but also creating substantial employment opportunities, with the potential to generate 58 million jobs by 2033.
The United States, United Kingdom, Germany, and United Arab Emirates have emerged as top inbound markets, replacing traditional frontrunners like China and Canada. In 2024, new markets like Hong Kong, Australia, Italy, and the Netherlands also made their way into the top 10. While major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Jaipur continue to attract the lion's share of visitors, lesser-known destinations like Hampi, Leh, Patnitop, and Khajuraho have seen year-on-year growth double, as tourists increasingly seek out off-the-beaten-path experiences.
The influx of tourists has been fueled by the ease of online bookings and greater flexibility, with 52% of visitors opting for full travel packages and 40% booking individual components separately. Online platforms are playing a key role in offering personalized travel experiences, a growing trend among foreign tourists.
Despite the positive trajectory, challenges remain. Limited customization options (49%), a lack of seamless travel packages (51%), and an overwhelming amount of information (43%) were some of the barriers identified in the report. Addressing these issues will be crucial to maintaining momentum in the inbound travel market.
As part of World Tourism Day celebrations, the Indian government has launched several initiatives to bolster the industry, including the "Chalo India" campaign, which offers 1 lakh gratis visas to foreign tourists. The Paryatan Mitra and Paryatan Didi programs have also been introduced to promote responsible tourism across 50 prominent destinations, fostering sustainability and empowering local communities.
Looking ahead, India’s inbound tourism is poised for further growth. The report emphasizes the need for simplified visa processes, expanded international flight routes, and continued promotion of India’s diverse travel offerings. With targeted investments in infrastructure and digital resources, India is set to cement its position as a premier global travel destination.
Mugdha Sinha, Director General of Tourism, stated, “Vision 2047 for Tourism is designed to position India as a leading global destination. Through technology and data analytics, we are committed to offering travelers unparalleled experiences, from wellness to adventure tourism.”
Santosh Kumar, Country Head at Booking.com, noted, “The surge in foreign tourist arrivals demonstrates India’s rising stature as a must-visit destination, offering authentic and immersive experiences that cater to a wide variety of traveler preferences.”
Anshul Gupta, Managing Director at Accenture, added, “India’s tourism industry is undergoing a technology-driven transformation. Leveraging AI and big data, the country is well-positioned to streamline travel operations and enhance visitor experiences, reinforcing its place on the global tourism map.”
With such strong indicators, the future of India’s inbound tourism looks brighter than ever, promising further economic growth and global recognition for the nation’s unparalleled travel experiences
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