Majority of Thais Plan New Year Travel, Call for Government Support to Boost Tourism
A recent survey reveals that over half of Thais are gearing up for New Year travel, with most opting to explore domestic destinations. However, many are also looking to the government for financial support to help ease economic pressures and stimulate tourism.
Survey Highlights: Travel and Financial Concerns
The poll, titled “Thais and New Year’s Gifts from the Government,” conducted from December 3-6, 2024, gathered insights from 1,246 respondents nationwide. The results shed light on the public’s travel plans, spending habits, and hopes for government assistance during the holiday season.
Key Findings:
- Travel Plans:
- 56.02% of respondents plan to travel during the New Year holidays.
- Over 90% of travelers are sticking to domestic destinations, reflecting a strong preference for exploring within Thailand.
- Spending Habits:
- Only 9.64% plan to spend more than 20,001 baht, indicating cautious spending amid ongoing economic recovery.
- Government Gift Preferences:
- 59.95% of respondents favor cash handouts as their top choice for a government New Year gift, highlighting their potential to boost spending and tourism.
- Other popular suggestions include reducing utility and energy costs (58.03%) and addressing the cost of living (53.17%).
These findings point to financial challenges faced by many Thais, with citizens prioritizing practical support over traditional holiday perks.
Public Expectations of Government Action
Thais are calling on the government to take an active role during the New Year period, not just with celebratory gestures but with measures addressing pressing economic and social issues.
Key Expectations:
- 60.76% believe the government has a responsibility to provide New Year gifts.
- 51.95% emphasize that these gifts should focus on addressing public needs.
- 48.81% are open to any measures that genuinely benefit citizens.
Top Issues for Government Intervention:
- High cost of living – 66.48%
- Drug problems – 57.51%
- Flood and drought crises – 56.46%
Expert Perspectives: From Temporary Relief to Sustainable Solutions
Experts agree that while seasonal support like cash handouts can provide immediate relief, the government must focus on long-term strategies to ensure economic stability.
- Pornpan Buathong, president of Suan Dusit Poll, emphasized,
“The government should seize the New Year season as an opportunity to implement long-term economic policies. Temporary measures must evolve into sustainable solutions to address structural challenges.” - Asst Prof Anchalee Rattana, a political science lecturer at Suan Dusit University, added,
“Policies must enable citizens to live with dignity, have adequate resources, and maintain self-respect.”
A Call for Lasting Change
The poll underscores the importance of balancing immediate support with sustainable economic policies. While cash handouts and cost-of-living reductions are welcomed, they should be part of a broader strategy to improve quality of life for all Thais. As the New Year approaches, the government faces a unique opportunity to address these challenges, fostering economic growth and stability that extends well beyond the holiday season.
