The Thai tourism sector is forecast to suffer a revenue reduction, estimated at 1.69 trillion baht this year, due to the COVID-10 pandemic and the weak purchasing power of tourists, according to the Kasikorn Research Centre.

It also said that, although the Thai tourism sector may begin to recover next year, it still has a long way to go to return to the pre-coronavirus level, as several lockdown measures will remain for public safety, such as strict screening of in-bound and out-bound travelers and social distancing.

Tourism operators, said the research centre, must adjust their service format and focus on safety in hotels, at tourist destinations and when travelling, online check-ins, temperature screenings and avoidance of contact with others.

Tourism operators must adopt a pro-active approach, by reaching out to their potential customers and offering their best services and products, instead of letting their customers to come to them.

Regarding package tours, the research centre suggested Thai tourism operators collaborate with airlines to offer fully packaged services from the point of arrival at the airport, including travel to their hotels, as well as tours to various destinations until their departure.

Locally-made souvenirs and other products should be exhibited at hotels, so tourists can choose and buy on-line without the need to visit shops, said the research centre.