TAT Revives Historical Tourism in Sukhothai as a World Creative City

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is promoting historical tourism in Sukhothai, inviting visitors to experience a world-class creative city. The event, taking place from January 30 to February 1, 2024, will transform the area in front of Wat Mahathat in Sukhothai Historical Park into a creative space. Apichai Chatchalermmkit, TAT's Deputy Governor for Domestic Marketing, highlighted the importance of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN), which promotes cooperation between cities using creativity for sustainable economic, social, and cultural development. Thailand has already been recognized in 9 cities across 4 categories, including Phuket, Phetchaburi, and Songkhla in the food category; Chiang Mai, Sukhothai, and Nan in crafts and folk arts; Bangkok and Chiang Rai in design; Suphan Buri in music; and Pattaya (pending) in film. For 2024, TAT is focusing on repositioning Thai tourism towards "The New Thailand", targeting high-quality, high-spending tourists and spreading income to attractive destinations through traditional arts and crafts. Sukhothai, recognized as a UNESCO Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art in 2019, is a key strategic location. The event offers unique experiences like a CRAFT Market, traditional food tastings, local wisdom workshops, cultural performances, and even vintage Thai costume photo opportunities. TAT expects the event to stimulate tourism, create interest in creative travel, and support long-term community sustainability.