Thailand Supercharges Domestic Tourism with Over Three Billion Baht Boost, Slashing Hotel and Meal Costs by Fifty Percent

Friday, February 28, 2025

Thailand’s government is set to roll out a new travel subsidy program, requesting 3.5 billion baht from the emergency budget to encourage domestic tourism. This scheme will provide Thai citizens with one million travel vouchers, covering 50% of hotel and meal costs. The initiative builds upon the success of the We Travel Together program, which previously subsidized 40% of accommodation and dining expenses to revive tourism after the COVID-19 pandemic.

The upcoming subsidy will offer increased financial relief for domestic travelers, aiming to stimulate local economies and drive revenue growth in Thailand’s hospitality and tourism sectors.

Thailand’s Post-Pandemic Tourism Recovery Plan

Thailand’s tourism industry was severely impacted by the pandemic, with international travel restrictions causing a significant downturn. To counteract the effects, the government introduced the We Travel Together initiative, which provided financial support for local travelers. The program successfully boosted hotel occupancy rates and encouraged tourism spending.

With international arrivals still recovering and economic concerns persisting, the government is now doubling down on domestic tourism efforts. The 50% subsidy for accommodations and meals is expected to attract more Thai travelers to explore their country while providing much-needed revenue to hotels, restaurants, and local businesses.

Key Details of the Tourism Subsidy Scheme

• Budget: 3.5 billion baht from the government’s emergency fund
• Subsidy Rate: 50% discount on hotel stays and dining expenses
• Total Vouchers: One million available for Thai tourists
• Validity Period: May to September 2025
• Target Locations: Nationwide, including Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, and Krabi
• Application Process: Online registration required for voucher eligibility

With an expanded budget and increased subsidy percentage, the scheme is expected to outperform previous domestic travel incentives by encouraging longer stays and increased spending per traveler.

Impact on Thailand’s Tourism and Economy

Stimulating Hotel and Hospitality Growth

The new subsidy plan is projected to increase hotel occupancy rates in major tourist destinations. Hotels and resorts are likely to experience higher bookings, especially during off-peak months between May and September.

Local businesses, particularly restaurants, travel agencies, and transportation providers, will also benefit from increased spending, helping stabilize the post-pandemic economy.

Encouraging Travel Beyond Major Tourist Hubs

By covering 50% of travel expenses, the initiative is expected to drive tourism to less-explored regions, including smaller provinces and secondary cities. This aligns with Thailand’s long-term goal of promoting sustainable and diversified tourism.

Long-Term Vision for Thailand’s Tourism Industry

While international travel remains a key focus, Thailand’s government is actively promoting domestic travel as a sustainable revenue source. The success of this initiative could lead to future expansions of travel incentives, strengthening Thailand’s reputation as a top domestic and international travel destination.

How to Apply for the Tourism Subsidy

1. Registration Process: Eligible Thai citizens must sign up through the official government tourism website.
2. Voucher Distribution: Once registered, travelers receive a 50% discount voucher for participating hotels and restaurants.
3. Redemption Period: The vouchers can be used for bookings between May and September 2025.
4. Usage Limits: Each traveler is entitled to a set number of subsidized stays and meals to ensure fair distribution of benefits.

With one million vouchers available, Thai travelers are encouraged to register early to secure their discounts.

Strengthening Thailand’s Tourism Industry

Thailand’s new 3.5 billion baht tourism subsidy program is a bold step toward revitalizing domestic travel. By covering 50% of hotel and meal costs, the government aims to stimulate economic growth, support local businesses, and encourage Thai citizens to explore their country.

The program is expected to benefit hotels, restaurants, and local businesses while reducing dependency on international arrivals. As Thailand moves forward with its post-pandemic recovery, initiatives like this are essential in building a resilient and self-sustaining tourism industry.