It has called on the Tourism Authority of Thailand to help drive development of the area.
The Thai government is keen to develop the country’s Eastern Seaboard (EEC) – a region covering the provinces of Chon Buri, Rayong and Chachoengsao, off the coast of the Gulf of Thailand.
It has called on the Tourism Authority of Thailand to help drive development of the area.
Yuthasak Supasorn, TAT Governor said, “Thailand’s Eastern Economic Corridor is a diverse region and offers a huge range of attractions.
“We want people coming here to have the chance to explore the culture of the area. Foodies will love the area, especially the farms and orchards where amazing fruit can be enjoyed.”
While Pattaya is a magnet for tourists, TAT hopes to encourage attractions offering more diverse and family-friendly experiences in the beach resort city, as well as in the nearby provinces of Rayong and Chachoengsao.
Tourist attractions in the EEC area that have become popular for day-trips include the Cartoon Network Amazone water park and the Sanctuary of Truth that is a showcase of Buddhist and Hindu art.
Chachoengsao’s attractions include a 100-year-old market on the local canals and fruit orchards where visitors can take tours and enjoy freshly picked durian and mangosteen.
More natural attractions in the EEC include Ko Si Chang, which was once home to King Rama V the Great’s summer palace.
It is currently being developed to accommodate more tourists and attract visitors coming to watch the Air Race 1 World Cup Thailand, being held from November 17-19 at U-Tapao Rayong-Pattaya International Airport.
Chon Buri’s Sattahip is home to attractions such as, Ko Kham Undersea World, and there is a plan to develop a new commercial seaport as well as to expand the Chuk Samet Pier. There are also plans to further develop the seaports of Laem Chabang and Map Ta Phut.
Yuthasak said, “These developments will allow the EEC area to be more accessible to cruise liners and luxury yachts bringing high-quality tourists into the region and further boost regional transport links.”
While Thailand’s main gateway, Suvarnabhumi Airport is easily accessible for the Eastern Seaboard, the U-Tapao Rayong-Pattaya International Airport is being converted into a commercial airport with the construction of a second runway and new passenger terminal.
Rail transport will also be developed with plans for a high-speed double track railway into the eastern provinces that will connect the three international airports, Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi and U-Tapao Rayong-Pattaya.