For Mumbaikars, the New Year party is in Thailand

Can’t afford the sky-rocketing fares to Goa for a New Year party? Fly to Thailand. That’s what many Mumbaikars are doing, according to travel professionals. “For the price of a return ticket to Goa one can get a full vacation in Thailand,” says Vijaya Hariharan of Travel Consultants.

Keen to revive its tourism industry after the setback during the floods, Thailand is rolling out cheap deals to woo tourists. “Five-star hotel rooms for Rs5,000 and discounts at malls make Bangkok a big draw,” says Abhishek Tanna of Globus Tours, who has booked 30 people from Mumbai. While Bangkok and Phuket continue to be the favourites, a few are reaching out to offbeat areas.

Another factor that has made Thailand a value destination is the near-simultaneous movement of the Indian rupee and Thai Baht.

“We are conscious that the Indian rupee has depreciated significantly vis-a-vis the dollar and we are asking our associates to make special concessions for Indian tourists,” says Sansern Ngaorungsi, Deputy Governor for International Marketing — Asia, Tourism Authority of Thailand. “There are nearly 10 flights to Bangkok every day and the short journey of four hours gives plenty of flexibility for planning a quick holiday,” says Sethaphan Buddhani, Director of TAT’s Mumbai office.