Imagine getting free domestic tickets to fly across an international destination! An offer any traveller simply can’t refuse! A Southeast Asian nation has announced a new tourism scheme that will let Indians and tourists from select countries explore domestic destinations with free tickets. Curious to know more about this offer? Read on to find out which country is making this possible.
Southeast Asian Country Offers Free Domestic Flight Tickets To Indians
When we think of travel, the flight ticket cost often limits the number of domestic destinations we can explore within a country. But what if you could fly for free? Sounds like a dream, right? Thailand has now announced a new tourism scheme which, if approved, will let visitors from specific countries explore its domestic destinations at no extra cost.
As per a report by The Indian Express, Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports has proposed a new campaign called “Buy International, Free Thailand Domestic Flights.” Under this campaign, international tourists from select countries will get a minimum of two free domestic flight tickets (one for departure and one for return), along with 20kg baggage allowance. Reportedly, the scheme aims to attract at least 200,000 international tourists to explore lesser-known destinations in Thailand, beyond the famous ones.
Why Is Thailand Taking This Step?
According to a report by The Economic Times, the initiative will be carried out in partnership with six airlines: Thai AirAsia, Bangkok Airways, Nok Air, Thai Airways International, Thai Lion Air, and Thai Vietjet. The Thai government will subsidise the cost of domestic tickets at 1,750 baht (₹4,785) for one-way and 3,500 baht (₹9,567) for round-trip tickets.
Thailand’s Tourism and Sports Minister, Sorawong Thienthong, has stated that they plan to submit the proposal to the cabinet next week. If approved, the policy will run from August to December 2025, with travel set between September and November.
But why would Thailand, which already sees a huge number of tourists, especially from India, introduce such a scheme? Apparently, a major chunk of travellers usually stick to destinations like Krabi and Phuket. The ministry has proposed this plan to encourage visitors to explore less popular places, ensuring a more even distribution of tourism revenue. The scheme will cover UNESCO-designated cities and other key destinations across the country.
The decision to choose September, October and November is also strategic. Since popular places like Bangkok and Krabi face heavy rainfall during these months, tourists are more likely to opt for other destinations.
Also Read: Thailand Moves Toward Eco-Friendly Tourism As First Climate Change Act Nears Final Approval
What do you think of this campaign by Thailand? Would you take the opportunity to explore lesser-known destinations at no extra cost? We think we would because there is no greater joy than discovering hidden gems instead of opting for popular spots!
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/ BiG-FOTOSKIT
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