TAT planning “Tsunami Trail’ tours

ANDAMAN: The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is hoping to launch a “Tsunami Trail” tour in March, in collaboration with private tour companies.

Sethapon Chindanon, the TAT’s Regional Director for the Americas, told the Gazette this morning that the tours would be aimed initially at the Thai market.

“We are discussing the idea with tour companies, low-cost airlines and hotels, and are trying to decide on the sites that tourists should visit – both damaged and undamaged,” he said.

He added that the Tsunami Trail will include a visit to a rescue center, temporary housing and – if they have been built by then – a memorial area and a center for orphans with the aim of allowing visitors to make donations to victims.

“We would like them to see that only some places were damaged. I expect that this tour will at least help people feel more confident about traveling to the Andaman provinces,” he added.