TAT backs Ratchaprasong complex efforts to prepare for the New Normal

Bangkok, 21 August, 2020 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has helped build confidence with the Ratchaprasong Square Trade Association (RSTA), a cluster of 17 major hotels, shopping malls and convention centres in the heart of Bangkok, by presenting the Amazing Thailand Safety and Health Administration (SHA) certification.

The RSTA was the first district in Thailand to receive the certification, which was presented on 18 August, 2020, and this will further assure the residents, staff, office personnel and tourists, both Thai and foreigners, that all the government’s health guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19 are being strictly enforced and monitored.

Mr. Chai Srivikorn, President of the RSTA said “The Ratchaprasong district is Thailand’s leading commercial business centre, world-class shopping and tourist district. Receiving the SHA certification will facilitate the shift to the “New Normal”, boost the economy, and send a clear message to prospective foreign tourists that Thailand is ready to welcome and support them with internationally recognised health and safety standards.” 

He said that all the district’s shopping centres, hotels and restaurants are participating in the “We Travel Together” campaign. “Domestic tourism is our first target by organising activities, events and seminars by companies and organisations based in Thailand. These will be stepped up later this year after the restrictions on inbound visitor arrivals are hopefully lifted.”

Mr. Chai said that a recovery campaign “Stronger Together: Arts from the Heart” will be launched this September with strict hygiene measures covering all public areas, shopping malls, office buildings, and food courts.

Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Deputy Governor for Tourism Products and Services, ​​said, “All the 17 buildings in the Ratchaprasong area have received SHA certification. This is a great example of public-private sector cooperation and unity in accordance with the government’s economic stimulus policy. It will help to raise the standards of our tourism products and services, send a strong message of safety and confidence, promote a good tourism image, and ensure that Thailand remains a top-line “Preferred Destination.”

Hotels are reporting initial bookings of up to 20-30% for rooms and conference facilities depending on their individual promotions. Hotels participating in the “We Travel Together” campaign have gained the advantage of the discounted and subsidised room rates. Functions also began to come back after the fifth phase of the lockdown measures were relaxed. This has generated more shopping and eating activities for the entire complex.

Mr. Daniel Simon, General Manager of the Anantara Siam Bangkok, said the hotel has implemented stringent hygiene and safety measures to ensure the well-being of  guests and staff. A special project called ‘Stay with Peace of Mind’ has observed all the hygiene and environment protocols and standards of the Thai Environmental Protection Agency.

He said, “The Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel never shut down even during the COVID-19 epidemic. It is projecting an occupancy of 30% by the fourth quarter of 2020, thanks to domestic tourism, rental of functions and meetings space. Various promotional packages are being offered; such as, free dinners for all room bookings.”

Dr. Natthakit Tangpoonsinthana, Executive Vice President for Marketing, Central Pattana PCL said that after the reopening of the Central World Shopping Centre on 17 May, 2020, customers have slowly regained confidence.

He said the shoppers have returned to about 70-85% of the pre-COVID-19 levels and bookings for events are coming in steadily. New campaigns are planned to target shoppers; such as, offers of 90% discounts on September 9 (9/9) and the Amazing Thailand Grand Sale 2020: Non-Stop Shopping campaign, under which E-Vouchers worth more than 17 million Baht are being made available for more than 30 famous brands, valid until 15 September, 2020.

All activities will strictly abide by the 75-point measures being implemented under
the slogan: “Central:  Clean, Confident”. This will both enhance customer confidence about hygiene and safety standards, and also bolster the image of Thailand as the leading global country in curbing the spread of the pandemic.

Other leading shopping centres are also offering discounts and promotions; such as, the Amarin Plaza, which is hosting an Amarin Brand Sale event every week. The complex expects 80% of Thai and foreign customers to be back for shopping by the end of 2020.

The Platinum Fashion Mall and The Market Bangkok shopping centre have organised weekly activities and promotions since July. In addition, many interesting events and festivals have been held aimed at Thai tourists and expats.

For accommodation packages, restaurants, hotels and special promotions from shopping centres in Ratchaprasong, please visit www.facebook.com/heartofbangkok.