In a groundbreaking collaboration, Qantas Airways has partnered with Krungthai Card (KTC) to launch the campaign "One Journey, Two Worlds: The Best of Australia and New Zealand with Qantas." This initiative aims to create a travel experience that transcends ordinary tourism by integrating art, culture, food, and learning into travel itineraries across Australia and New Zealand. The campaign leverages Qantas's extensive network, which includes direct flights to seven major cities and a global partnership network, while offering exclusive privileges through KTC designed to meet the rising trend of experiential travel among Thai travelers, particularly families and younger generations.
According to Mr. Simon Smith, General Manager for Southeast Asia and South Asia at Qantas, the airline has been operating flights from Thailand for over 65 years. He emphasized Qantas's commitment to providing exceptional travel experiences, stating, "We aim to connect Thai travelers with diverse destinations through over 700 flights, accommodating approximately 180,000 passengers each year." Qantas operates daily flights from Bangkok to Sydney, facilitating seamless connections to a comprehensive network of destinations across Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Islands.
Passengers flying with Qantas enjoy a range of benefits, including checked baggage, meals, and a comprehensive in-flight entertainment system. Additionally, Qantas offers the 'Qantas Explorer' service, allowing travelers to book multi-city tickets within Australia and New Zealand at competitive prices.
Highlighting the artistic connection between travel and creativity, Mrs. Lesley Dumbrell, an Australian artist known for her geometric abstract works, expressed, "Art and travel are deeply intertwined. In Australia, the landscape is not just a backdrop; it is part of the creative process." The striking natural environments of Australia, from the red sands of Uluru to the Great Barrier Reef, have long inspired artists. Since moving to Thailand in 1991, Dumbrell has noted fascinating similarities between Australian and Southeast Asian art, particularly in color usage and nature interpretation. "Thai travelers passionate about art will find endless inspiration in Australia’s landscapes and creativity," she added.
Mrs. Donnah Ciempka, President of AustCham Thailand and head of Ascot International School in Bangkok, highlighted the importance of education as a key motivator for family travelers choosing Australia and New Zealand as their destinations. She stated, "Education is paramount for parents, and the emphasis on creative thinking and cultural diversity in Australia and New Zealand fosters independent thinking and a broader understanding of the world." This educational approach makes these countries popular among families seeking quality education and enriching life experiences.
Dr. Chuthamas Wisalsingh, founder of the Thailand Gastronomy Network and an alumnus of New Zealand education, praised New Zealand's advanced education system, which not only imparts academic knowledge but also encourages creative thinking and adaptability. "New Zealand offers more than just an educational destination; it provides life experiences that inspire essential skills for the future and a new perspective on the world," she explained.
Ms. Waristha Pattanaratch, Chief Marketing Officer at KTC, noted that the spending behavior of Thai travelers has shifted towards more meaningful travel experiences, particularly those that seek inspiration through art, culture, food, or education for their children. Australia and New Zealand have emerged as favored destinations due to their natural charm and excellent facilities. Between January and February 2025, KTC reported a 21% increase in spending in Australia, with the country ranking among the top ten for KTC members' overseas spending.
As part of the collaboration, KTC World Travel Service is offering special privileges, including a 1,000 baht discount per person for Qantas flights to Australia and New Zealand. The I.T. Package for Australia or New Zealand, which includes Qantas flights and four nights of accommodation, is available for just 40,000 baht per person for a limited number of sets. These offers are valid for bookings made from April 1 to June 30, 2025, with travel permitted from April 1 to November 30, 2025.
Traveloka is also participating in the campaign, providing a 1,000 baht discount per booking for Qantas flights during the same promotional period. Interested travelers can find more information through KTC World Travel Service at 02 123 5050 or via LINE @KTCWORLD.
The launch event was attended by notable figures, including Dr. Angela Macdonald, the Australian Ambassador to Thailand, and Mr. Jonathan Kings, the New Zealand Ambassador to Thailand, who were welcomed by Mrs. Phitiya Warapanyasakul, CEO of KTC.
This initiative not only highlights the importance of travel as a means of learning and cultural exchange but also aims to create unforgettable experiences for those exploring the vibrant landscapes and rich cultures of Australia and New Zealand.
