NAKHON SI THAMMARAT, Thailand – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Frankfurt Office has completed an eight-day familiarisation trip under The Link Plus initiative, bringing 10 tour operator representatives from Germany, Switzerland and Austria to explore hidden-gem destinations in Southern Thailand from 9–16 October 2026.
The programme connected Khanom and Sichon in Nakhon Si Thammarat with Khao Sok and Cheow Lan Lake in Surat Thani, introducing new possibilities for multi-destination itineraries.
Ms. Suladda Sarutilavan, Executive Director Europe Region said, “The next chapter of Thai tourism is about creating greater value across more destinations, communities and seasons. Through The Link Plus, we are bringing international travel partners closer to local businesses and experiences, turning lesser-known destinations into viable travel products. Our goal is to create a more connected tourism landscape where growth reaches beyond established centres and benefits local economies.”
The Link Plus connects high-potential international markets with emerging destinations and local communities to distribute visitor flows and tourism spending more widely. The route also encourages travel across different seasons, combining Khanom and Sichon, best visited from February to September, with the year-round nature experiences of Khao Sok and Cheow Lan Lake.
Participants explored coastal attractions and accommodation in Khanom and Sichon, Khao Sok’s natural landscapes and floating accommodation on Cheow Lan Lake. The itinerary also featured community experiences in Tha Kham and Phrom Lok, alongside cultural attractions in Nakhon Si Thammarat city, including Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan, Thailand’s ninth UNESCO World Heritage property.
The Khanom–Sichon Trade Meet on 11 October brought the delegation together with 14 local hotel businesses to explore commercial partnerships and travel products. TAT Frankfurt also introduced a German-language promotional video and brochure for Khanom–Sichon, along with souvenir bags featuring traditional Nakhon Si Thammarat batik fabric to build destination recognition.
The programme aligns with TAT Frankfurt’s 2027 marketing strategy, which targets high-potential regional markets. Priority segments include Millennials, dual-income couples without children (DINKs), first-time and repeat visitors, with families as a secondary market. Khanom–Sichon will feature alongside established beach and nature destinations, with emphasis on coastal holidays, wellness, culture and local experiences.
Germany remains a key European source market for Thailand, with 640,674 arrivals recorded from 1 January to 30 September 2026. German visitors stay an average of 15.58 days and spend 58,814 Baht per trip, providing a strong market base for longer itineraries connecting established and emerging destinations. (TAT)
