Thailand shouldn’t forget about the backpackers

Thailand has always been a popular tourist destination. The country’s beautiful islands have attracted people from all walks of life and continue to do so. Whether its golfing on Ko Samui or binge drinking on Ko Pha Ngan, Thailand has something for every taste.

The Bangkok Bank recently held a seminar on tourism trends in Bangkok, where Accor hotel chain chairman Victor Pang encouraged the industry not to forget about the backpacker market.

The concern that the Thailand tourism authorities are focusing too much on the high-end and the luxury traveller was brought up by Mr. Pang, as many advertising and marketing campaigns aim at the wealthier target markets, ignoring the potential of the ‘backpackers.’

”Backpackers today don’t necessarily have long, unkempt hair, dirty clothes and little money,” said Mr. Pang, “Now they are mostly smart, well educated and have greater resources to purchase goods at a reasonable price.”

With the raging success of low-cost airlines in the region, more budget conscious travellers can afford to move around with greater ease. Mr. Pa ng points out that this  sector is seeing a growth rate of 20% every year, and this cannot be ignored.