The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) showcases a model multi-destination ASEAN connectivity itinerary that combines the cultural and historical heritages of Lao PDR., Myanmar and Thailand
A new alliance to promote travel and tour packages among key destination partners — Lao PDR., Myanmar and Thailand — could help accelerate the region’s tourism growth as part of greater ASEAN connectivity promoted by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).
A five-day excursion for Bangkok-based international media was fully hosted by TAT and achieved its objective to highlight Thailand’s potential as the region’s primary aviation hub and tourism engine. Low-cost carriers continue to add new flights around the region helping to make the action-packed itinerary possible. It clearly showed how air connectivity between secondary tourist destinations helps maximise the immense tourism potential of the region.
DAY ONE: Bangkok-Mandalay
The first day started with a direct Thai AirAsia flight from Bangkok to Mandalay, the former capital of Myanmar. After arrival, the group took a private boat trip up the Irrawaddy River to Mingun, taking in the picturesque scenery along the river. Here, the group visited Mingun Paya, an incomplete monument stupa that was intended to become the world’s largest pagoda, the white Myatheintan Pagoda, and the Mingun Bell, the world’s biggest functioning bronze bell. After a return boat trip to the town, a climb up Mandalay Hill provided stunning panoramic views of Mandalay.
DAY TWO: Mandalay-Chiang Mai
The second day kicked off at 3.30 a.m. to observe the early morning ritual of washing the face of the Mahamuni Buddha image at Mahayatmuni Monastery. The temple was packed with devout Buddhists coming to witness the sacred ritual, initiated since 1988, which commences every day at 4.00 a.m. and lasts over an hour. The group…
