Thailand Launches ‘Check-in, Fun, Wow East × Northeast’ to Boost Border Tourism

 

An evening in Bangkok

Thailand’s New Tourism Push to Revive Border Economies

The Thai government has launched a new tourism campaign titled “Check-in, Fun, Wow East × Northeast”, designed to boost travel and economic activity in provinces located along the Thai–Cambodian border.

The programme focuses on attracting domestic and international visitors to explore the lesser-known eastern and northeastern regions of Thailand through registered group tours.

Target Provinces Under the Campaign

The initiative covers seven provinces known for their cultural heritage, temples, and natural beauty:

• Ubon Ratchathani

• Sisaket

• Surin

• Buriram

• Sa Kaeo

• Chanthaburi

• Trat

These provinces were specifically chosen as they have been economically affected by recent border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia, leading to a drop in cross-border tourism.

Goal and Expected Economic Impact

The campaign aims to attract up to 10,000 travelers through organized tour packages managed by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and registered tour operators.

Participants can enjoy subsidies for accommodation and travel, including a 300-baht discount per night on qualifying hotel stays.

The government expects this initiative to inject over 90 million baht into the local economy through spending on accommodation, transportation, food, and other services — creating more opportunities for local communities and small businesses.

Duration and Implementation

The “Check-in, Fun, Wow East × Northeast” programme will begin around 15 November 2025 and continue until the quota of 10,000 participants is filled.

It will encourage tourists to rediscover border destinations that offer rich traditions, cultural events, and authentic Thai hospitality.

Why This Initiative Matters

Thailand’s eastern and northeastern regions have long been overshadowed by popular destinations such as Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai.

By promoting less-traveled provinces, this campaign seeks to:

• Revive border tourism impacted by geopolitical tensions.

• Encourage domestic travel among Thai citizens.

• Distribute tourism revenue more evenly across the country.

As of the latest updates, Thailand–Cambodia border crossings remain partially restricted or temporarily closed, making this domestic push especially timely.

Tourism Authority’s Role

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is managing the campaign in collaboration with approved local tour operators. It ensures that all participating businesses meet government standards for safety, hospitality, and travel quality.

Conclusion

The “Check-in, Fun, Wow East × Northeast” initiative highlights Thailand’s efforts to revitalize lesser-known destinations and strengthen local tourism economies.

By providing travel incentives and promoting community-based tourism, Thailand continues to position itself as a diverse, inclusive, and sustainable travel destination in Southeast Asia. Watch Here: