Thailand is positioning itself as the ASEAN region's premier Tourism Hub, targeting 39 million tourists in 2025.** The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) aims to generate no less than **2.23 trillion baht** in revenue by promoting self-drive tourism through border checkpoints and showcasing the country's unique '5 Must Do in Thailand' experiences, aligning with government policies.
### Driving Tourism Growth in 2025
On **December 15, 2024**, Miss Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), announced Thailand’s readiness to attract tourists from ASEAN neighbors, including Malaysia, Laos, and Singapore, who rank among the top five visitor groups. Singaporean tourists, in particular, have voted Thailand as their favorite travel destination.
TAT is collaborating with various partner agencies to organize activities encouraging **self-drive tourism** through border checkpoints in **Songkhla, Sa Kaeo, Bueng Kan, Nong Khai, Mukdahan, Nakhon Phanom,** and **Chiang Rai.** Customized travel routes will highlight Thailand's top attractions and provide memorable experiences under the '5 Must Do in Thailand' concept.
### Porsche Caravans from ASEAN Highlight Self-Drive Tourism
A notable example of Thailand’s self-drive tourism initiative was seen in a recent event where **37 Porsche cars from Singapore, 20 from Malaysia,** and **17 from Cambodia** entered Thailand through various checkpoints. The drivers toured Bangkok, Central, and Eastern regions before participating in **Das Treffen 9** at IMPACT Speed Park, Nonthaburi. Many also extended their travels to Northern Thailand to enjoy the cool weather and scenic routes, demonstrating the appeal of self-drive tourism in attracting high-potential tourists.
### Das Treffen 9: Celebrating Automotive Tourism
The **Das Treffen 9 event**, organized under the theme **'Limited Edition,'** serves as a platform to connect car enthusiasts across Southeast Asia. Featuring over **500 Porsche cars** and attracting **3,000 attendees**, the event showcases rare models such as the Porsche 911 Turbo S 'Edition 918 Spyder' and the Porsche Taycan Turbo S Celestial Jade, highlighting cutting-edge automotive technology and the vibrant spirit of Southeast Asia.
According to Mr. Jakkaphan Jarusuvarnabhumi, General Manager of 2000 Publishing, car enthusiast gatherings like Das Treffen 9 encourage high-spending tourists to explore Thailand. This aligns with government policies to promote **'must-visit cities'** and attract niche tourist groups.
### High-Value Tourists Drive Economic Impact
Mr. Sihabut Chumsai Na Ayudhya, Executive Editor of GT Porsche Magazine Thailand Edition, emphasized that self-drive tourism and events like Das Treffen 9 cater to tourists with significant purchasing power. These travelers tend to stay longer and explore new destinations, contributing to Thailand’s economy.
By focusing on **self-drive tourism** and high-profile events, Thailand is set to strengthen its position as a leading Tourism Hub in ASEAN, ensuring sustainable growth and maximizing economic impact throughout 2025.
