Delegates from across the globe were warmly welcomed by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) at Singha Park, Chiang Rai for the PATA Destination Marketing Forum 2025, which took place on December 2nd. Guests enjoyed live performances of traditional Thai music and dance while sampling specialties that highlighted the culinary heritage of the Lanna region.
The event featured distinguished attendees, including PATA chair Peter Simone, chief executive Noor Ahmad Hamid, and officials from Thailand’s Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA) that co-hosted the forum. Plaques of appreciation were awarded by PATA to TAT, DASTA, and the provincial government of Chiang Rai for their support.
In his remarks, TAT’s executive director for the Americas, Middle East, and Africa, Santi Sawangcharoen, noted that Chiang Rai, as a UNESCO Creative City of Design, is not just beautiful and traditional but also a place of deep cultural significance. He stated, “This evening marks the beginning of what I believe will be an inspiring and memorable forum under the theme Steeped in Tradition, Rooted in Wellness: Weaving the Meaningful Narrative of Travel. This perfectly reflects the essence of Chiang Rai, blending rich cultures, natural beauty, and creative innovation.”
