In a significant collaboration aimed at enhancing travel experiences, Qantas Airways has partnered with Krungthai Card Public Company Limited (KTC) to launch the "One Journey, Two Worlds: The Best of Australia and New Zealand with Qantas" campaign. This initiative is designed to offer travelers more than just tourism; it emphasizes a blend of lifestyle, culture, food, and educational opportunities in Australia and New Zealand.
Mr. Simon Smith, the manager of tours for Asia-Pacific at Qantas, highlighted the airline's long-standing commitment to connecting Thai travelers with various destinations. "Qantas has been providing flight services from Thailand for over 65 years," he stated. The airline currently operates over 700 flight routes and serves more than 180,000 passengers annually, focusing on direct flights from Bangkok to Sydney, which seamlessly connect to a comprehensive network across Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Islands.
As part of the campaign, KTC is offering special privileges aimed at meeting the needs of Thai travelers who are increasingly seeking meaningful travel experiences. These include discounts on flights and packages specifically tailored for families and young travelers. The campaign taps into the growing trend of experiential travel, which emphasizes immersive experiences that go beyond traditional sightseeing.
Miss Celia Dunham, an Australian artist known for her abstract work, shared her insights on the relationship between art and travel. "Art and travel are deeply intertwined," she remarked, noting that Australia’s diverse landscapes—from the red sands of Uluru to the Great Barrier Reef—serve as profound sources of inspiration for artists. Dunham, who has lived in Thailand since 1991, pointed out the striking similarities between Australian and Southeast Asian art, particularly in their use of color and interpretation of nature.
Education is another critical aspect of the campaign. Miss Donnah See, president of the Australian-Thai Chamber of Commerce, emphasized that education is a top priority for parents and a significant motivator for family travel to Australia and New Zealand. She noted that both countries prioritize creative thinking and cultural diversity in their educational systems, which help students develop a broader understanding of the world.
Dr. Juthamas Wisalasilp, a representative from the Thailand Gastronomy Network, also praised New Zealand's educational approach, stating it fosters not only academic knowledge but also creative and critical thinking skills. "New Zealand is more than just a study destination; it offers life experiences that inspire and equip students with essential skills for the future," she explained.
The campaign also highlights the culinary scene in Australia, which is renowned for its creativity. Ms. Samantha Chong, a Thai-Australian entrepreneur and founder of Bangkok Foodies, noted that Melbourne is a global hub for food culture. "Traveling in Australia is not just about tasting food; it’s about experiencing the people, places, and inspirations behind each dish," she said. Her restaurant, VIVIN Asok, showcases high-quality Thai cuisine sourced from local producers, embodying the essence of Australian culinary diversity.
As part of the promotional efforts, KTC has introduced several exclusive offers for travelers. These include a discount of 1,000 baht per person on Qantas flights to Australia and New Zealand, as well as a special F.I.T. package that includes a flight and a four-night stay for just 40,000 baht per person. This package is designed for couples and families looking to explore Australia and New Zealand together.
Additionally, KTC's World Travel Service is providing various booking privileges, which can be utilized from April 1 to June 30, 2025, for travel until November 30, 2025. The aim is to make travel more accessible and appealing to Thai tourists, particularly those interested in enriching experiences that combine leisure with learning.
During the campaign's launch event, Ms. Phitiya Warapanyasakul, CEO of KTC, welcomed Dr. Angela Macdonald, the Australian Ambassador to Thailand, and Mr. Jonathan Kings, the New Zealand Ambassador to Thailand, who both expressed their support for the initiative. This collaboration signifies a commitment to enhancing ties between Thailand and both Australia and New Zealand, particularly in areas of education and cultural exchange.
In conclusion, the "One Journey, Two Worlds" campaign by Qantas and KTC represents a forward-thinking approach to travel, focusing on creating meaningful experiences that resonate with today’s travelers. By combining art, culture, education, and culinary adventures, this initiative aims to inspire Thai travelers to explore the rich landscapes and vibrant cultures of Australia and New Zealand in a way that goes beyond mere tourism.
