Dear valued clients and partners,
During the last couple of months, I spoke with many tour operators and suppliers to ask them what their customers are looking for when they book their overseas trips, and what trends their sales teams have noticed during consultations with their customers. I also read various reports and studies of customer behaviours and trends from leading companies in the travel industry.
In general, we recognised 3 trends or interests of travellers, which the DTH Thailand team has drawn insights from and created new products for. We are pleased to share more about them with you in this month's newsletter.
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The latest travel trends and insights |
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1. Preference for Social Travel
Recent data indicates a shift towards group bookings, with a 10% increase compared to solo bookings since the pre-pandemic era. This suggests a growing desire among travellers to connect and share their journeys with others, which allows for more personalised and tailored experiences. However, we have seen that more than just travelling with a group, this trend is about creating communal experiences with friends who are brought together by shared interests or passions, allowing travellers to dive deeper into their hobbies and create meaningful memories with old or newly-found friends at the same time.
2. Seeking Authenticity and Unique Experiences
Today's travellers are increasingly distancing themselves from the conventional, often overcrowded tourist attractions. Instead, they are driven by a desire for authentic experiences that allow them to connect deeply with the local culture, people, and environment. This trend reflects a shift from mere sightseeing to a more immersive type of travel.
3. Personalisation and Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations
And they are seeking personalised experiences that resonate with their interests and values. This has led to a rise in the popularity of off-the-beaten-path destinations – places that are not mainstream or widely advertised but offer rich and unique experiences. These can range from visiting remote villages to discovering hidden natural wonders.
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Our response to these trends |
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Our team understands that today's travellers are in search of unique and authentic experiences. They seek accommodations that not only offer family-friendly amenities but also provide a gateway to Thailand's lesser-known marvels. They are eager to immerse themselves in the local culture, sample a diverse array of Thai cuisine, and explore destinations that are yet to be touched by the typical tourist.
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With our new Heritage Collection, we have included all these 3 components in our new roundtrips. DTH offers guaranteed weekly departures for small groups of up to 6 guests for every roundtrip. Our tours are ideal for your guests looking to travel in smaller groups and share unique experiences.
Our Heritage Collection features destinations such as Nan, Phrae, and Chanthaburi, offering your guests an authentic glimpse into the daily lives and cultures of the Thai people, away from the usual tourist crowds.
Our exclusive tours are more than just journeys; they are an invitation to immerse in the local way of life. Travellers will have the chance to engage with local artisans, gaining insights into their crafts and traditions.
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Discover the time-honored tradition of indigo-dyeing
in Northern Thailand
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In one of our upcoming tours, we invite your customers to immerse themselves in a colourful and authentic Thai experience – the art of organic indigo dyeing. This tour isn't just a showcase of traditional craftsmanship; it's a deep dive into a world where every shade of blue tells a story. Your guests will explore local villages and interact with artisans who have preserved this art form for centuries, providing a unique insight into their culture and daily lives. |
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Organic Indigo-Dyed Cotton Clothes:
A Cultural Emblem
Indigo dyeing, a technique passed down through generations, is synonymous with the rural landscapes of Thailand. The clothes dyed with indigo, particularly cotton garments, hold a special place in the daily lives of local farmers. These garments are not just clothing but are emblematic of a lifestyle in harmony with nature.
The dyeing with indigo, derived from natural sources, is both an art and a science. The dye is extracted from the leaves of the indigo plant, and fermented to release the vivid blue hues. This eco-friendly method not only produces a unique colour but also embodies the sustainable practices of local communities.
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Your Hands-On Experience
During our tour, guests have the unique opportunity to participate in an indigo dyeing workshop. Here, they can colour a towel using traditional methods, creating a personal and meaningful souvenir to take home. This experience not only allows them to engage with local artisans but also gives a deeper understanding of the significance of these practices in Thai culture.
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Beyond Dyeing: A Journey Through
Local Folklore
Our adventure doesn't stop at indigo dyeing. The tour includes a visit to the mysterious "Forest of the City of Ghosts," where you can explore its spooky legends and lore. Afterwards, we will take you to a beautifully lit cave, a site steeped in local folklore, offering a glimpse into the mystical side of Northern Thailand.
These interactions not only support local communities but also provide a rare window into the skills and stories that shape Thailand’s cultural treasure.
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DTH Travel Thailand provides weekly departures for joining tours from Chiang Mai. It is an ideal combination to extend the tour in the North, or provide an alternative program for repeat customers.
Most of our sightseeing programs and local restaurants included in our tours are not bookable via an online travel portal; these are a result of our team's investments and efforts, putting to use our deep product knowledge and relationships with various communities around Thailand.
Send us an email to get more inside information about our Heritage collection, or simply reply to this newsletter.
We look forward to collaborating with you!
Yours,
Stefan
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