Mice (meetings, incentives, conventions, exhibitions) is making a determined attempt to promote little-known Rayong province, a half hour drive from Chonburi’s Pattaya, as a refreshing value-for-money-destination. Both provinces are part of the hi-tech Eastern Economic Corridor.
Supawan Teerarat, president of the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau, said there were many Mice opportunities in Rayong including key digital technologies, a largely green environment and health and wellness resorts. Rayong also hosts U-tapao international airport which is, one day, scheduled to link with the two Bangkok air hubs.
The Rayong Tourist Association said that long-stay guests from Scandinavian countries were relocating to Rayong’s Ban Chang district where costs are 30 percent lower than Pattaya whilst still offering five star international brands. There is also a growing retirement community along Saeng Chan beach where the setting is tranquil, contrasting with neighboring Pattaya’s hullabaloo.
Amongst Rayong’s tourist attractions are the Botanic Gardens covering 3,800 rai, Suphattraland Farm organic fruit learning center and Tamnan Pa Resort which has the atmosphere of a tropical jungle. Rauong has around 300 licensed hotels with more than 7,000 rooms.
