On March 1, 2025, Thailand announced its new three-day holiday schedule aimed at boosting domestic tourism and providing economic relief amid rising costs. This initiative, promoted by Tourism and Sports Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, emphasizes the significance of extending weekends to maximize the potential for travel and relaxation within the country.
The planned holidays include the weekend of Coronation Day, which falls on May 4, 2025, making May 3-5 designated days off. The government hopes to leverage this extended break to attract domestic travelers, particularly to tourist hotspots and national parks. "We want to encourage families to travel and support local economies," Minister Phiphat emphasized during the announcement.
The push for these holidays is timely, considering the economic struggles many families are facing. The rise of living costs and the subsequent impact on disposable income have become pressing concerns. To supplement this, the government has also initiated programs to provide financial support for digital spending. The upcoming phase of its digital wallet incentive scheme will issue 10,000 baht to eligible citizens aged 16-59 who register through approved channels.
With this combination of holidays and financial assistance, the government aims to revitalize spending within various sectors, particularly those directly linked to travel and hospitality. Phiphat pointed out the potential benefits for small businesses: “This can really give them the boost they need. It's important for us to see our local economies thrive again.”
Travel agencies have already reported increased inquiries for short domestic getaways as news of the new holiday spreads. Bookings for accommodations and tours have risen sharply, indicating strong public appetite for leisure travel. "People are excited about the chance to escape the everyday routine. Given the recent economic challenges, they are eager to explore our beautiful country," said Chitra Buranapong, owner of one of Thailand’s prominent travel agencies.
People's enthusiasm is also reflected online, where social media platforms are buzzing with discussions about travel plans. Insights reveal strong interest in exploring less-frequented destinations, which could alleviate crowding at popular sites during the holiday. A surge of hiking and nature-related inquiries highlights the public's desire for rejuvenation and connection with nature.
Critics, though, have raised concerns about the potential environmental impact of mass travel, urging the government to promote sustainable tourism practices alongside these initiatives. Environmental advocates are calling for stricter regulations to preserve natural sites and minimize tourist footprints. Meanwhile, officials maintain the intention to promote sustainable travel behaviors, emphasizing conservation and local culture.
To maximize safety and convenience during these holidays, authorities plan to bolster law enforcement and emergency services around popular tourist destinations. Efforts to improve public transport operations are underway to accommodate increased travel demand effectively. With each facet of this initiative, the Thai government is endeavoring to make citizens feel secure and supported, thereby enhancing their holiday experience.
The three-day holiday plan is anticipated to boost the overall economy through increased spending on travel, dining, and entertainment sectors. Overall, the initiative reflects Thailand's commitment to not only revitalize its tourism industry but also support its citizens during economic challenges.
Minister Phiphat concluded the announcement by stating, "Our aim is to instill confidence among the public. We want them to feel comfortable to travel, to explore this beautiful land, and to spend accordingly. Together, we can create unforgettable experiences and memories as we gear up for this new phase of tourism."2