Thailand 'about more than cities and beaches'

Thailand has a diverse appeal and is about more than just big cities and beach destinations, according to an industry spokesman.

Chris Lee, marketing advisor for the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), pointed out that the most popular parts of the country among British travellers are the capital, Bangkok, and the coastal hotspots of Phuket, Koh Samui and Pattaya.

The TAT is now trying to encourage travellers to experience all that the country has to offer, such as the elephant camps, orchid farms, heritage trails and historic cities.

"What we are trying to do is create a destination that is not just about 'drop and flop' - not just about the city and the beach," Mr Lee said.

"[Thailand] is about culture, nature and heritage."

The spokesman also commented on how the country's tourism industry has fared during the economic downturn, pointing out that the fourth quarter is "looking pretty strong" and 2010 is expected to be a "good year".

• Singapore attractions to take part in green initiative
• Flybe promotes flights to France
• Austrian Airlines targets 1m extra passengers this year
• British Airways staff offer to work during strike
• Paris festival to celebrate jazz
• BAA signs contract for construction of Heathrow Terminal 2
• Travellers promised value for money in Malaysia
• Bmi to launch London Heathrow to Berlin flights this month
• Whale sharks arrive in Western Australia
• Sonar festival to return to Barcelona