By Ivy Tejano
BANGKOK, Thailand – The Davao Travel Agencies Association set its sights on Thailand’s vibrant tourism model, hoping to draw lessons that could help Davao position itself as a more attractive and sustainable destination in Southeast Asia.
In a five-day familiarization tour in Pattaya and Bangkok, organized with Cebu Pacific, Aries Travel and Tours, and GEMT, DTAA members experienced how Thailand blends nature, culture, and commerce into unique attractions that draw visitors again.
From the serene Laser Buddha carved into a mountain face to the sprawling Nong Nooch Tropical Garden, including their Elephant Show, Pattaya’s charms were a blend of the spiritual, the natural, and the spectacular.
The group also explored the colorful Pattaya Floating Market, the glittering Gems Gallery, and capped the evening with Tiffany’s Show—a dazzling performance that underscored Thailand’s flair for storytelling through art and entertainment.
DTAA ventured beyond Pattaya on the second day to experience J-Park Sri Racha Nihon Mura, the Honeybee Farm, Latex Exhibition Center, and even the immersive Jurassic World: The Experience at Asiatique, and a dinner at Chao Phraya Cruise .
On Friday, August 22, the group toured the bustling Maeklong Railway Market, Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, and the breathtaking Mahanakhon Skywalk and Skyverse before the night ended with a sumptuous dinner.
When asked how Thailand ensures its tours go beyond sightseeing, Michael Chong, managing director of the GEMT Thailand, emphasized the value of immersive experiences in their country, known for its diverse culture.
“Our program focuses on experiential tourism. For example, at Tiffany’s Show, we showcase world-class performances that tell stories about our people and places. It’s about letting visitors truly feel the culture if Thailand,’ Chong said.
DTAA President Gian Caguiat said Davao can adopt a similar approach by highlighting its indigenous plants and wildlife, such as the Philippine Eagle, instead of attempting large-scale projects it cannot yet sustain.
“You see plants, animals, food, and shopping all in one place—that’s why tourists flock to Thailand. In Davao, we may not have a huge facility like their gardens, but we can replicate it in smaller ways by featuring what is uniquely ours,” Caguiat said.
Caguiat said Thailand’s approach serves as both inspiration and a practical guide. He emphasized that partnerships with airlines, local governments, and foreign travel associations play a key role in expanding Davao’s reach.
DTAA envisions Davao as a destination that can weave together culture, sustainability, and authentic local experiences—creating a tourism identity that is proudly Filipino while standing strong on the global stage.
With the Philippines and Thailand recently signing a five-year tourism cooperation agreement, Davao stands at a crossroads. By weaving culture, sustainability, and authentic experiences, our city can become a destination that doesn’t just attract visitors—but inspires them to return.
