All hotels in Thailand will stop offering discounts to foreign tourists.

The Thai government is working to reposition its tourism brand and change the perception of it as a "cheap destination." Ms. Traisuree Taisaranakul, spokesperson for the Thai government, stated that hotels will be required to implement two pricing policies: foreign tourists will pay the same prices as before the Covid-19 pandemic, while Thai citizens will continue to receive discounted rates.

"This aims to maintain price and service standards for foreign tourists, which have impacted Thailand's tourism brand. Discounts will still be applied to Thais to maintain the growth momentum of domestic tourism," said Ms. Traisuree Taisaranakul.

Hotels in Thailand are still maintaining discounted pricing policies to attract tourists back after the Covid-19 pandemic, especially in tourist hubs like Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Samui. The Thai government will need to negotiate with the Hotel Association of Thailand on a new pricing policy for international guests.

However, recently, Thai Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul suggested that Thai hotels should limit excessive price reductions in order to enhance the country's value as a high-end tourist destination: "Don't let people come and stay in Thailand just because of cheap prices."

The Deputy Prime Minister of Thailand wants to adopt the strategy of luxury brands, which is "to sell high-end products; the more expensive, the more customers you'll attract."

Phuong Thao is an editor at Travellive magazine. She is passionate about traveling and enjoys capturing moments with her camera in every place she visits. Travel, art, and lifestyle are Phuong Thao's favorite writing topics.

Phuong Thao