The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has honoured five outstanding Thai tourism enterprises with the Responsible Thailand Awards 2024, recognising their exceptional contributions to sustainable tourism and their alignment with TAT’s commitment to advancing responsible, inclusive tourism.
The awards, presented by Thailand’s minister of tourism and sports, Sorawong Thienthong, took place at the World Travel Market 2024.
In its 17th consecutive year, the categories for the Responsible Thailand Awards this year were streamlined to align with TAT’s responsible tourism vision, covering five areas: Responsible Animal Welfare, Responsible Community Tourism, Responsible Conservation, Responsible Local Guide, and Responsible Tourism Accommodation.
Elephant Hills was awarded the Responsible Animal Welfare once again, previously won in 2015 and 2016 for Animal Welfare, in 2017 for Animal Welfare and Eco-Lodge / Eco-Hotel categories, and again in 2018 in the Eco-Lodge category.
Winning the Responsible Community Tourism award for the first time, Bang Rong Community-based Tourism is a community initiative in Phuket that began in 2001 to promote sustainable tourism while preserving its rich Islamic cultural heritage.
Previously recognised in 2020 in the Hotel category and in 2021 as an Eco-Lodge, Khao Lak Merlin Resort is a winner again in the Responsible Conservation category, while Wipaporn Ord from All Points East won the award for Responsible Local Guide.
Finally, Anurak Lodge is the first-time winner in the Responsible Tourism Accommodation category, which opened in 2016 at Khao Sok National Park. With its eco-friendly practices and commitment to rainforest conservation, Anurak Lodge has become a model of sustainable accommodation.
TAT governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool said: “We are delighted to continue with the Responsible Thailand Awards, celebrating Thai tourism pioneers across five categories who exemplify excellence in sustainable tourism practices. Their contributions guide our industry towards a more responsible future. We hope these awards inspire others to prioritise sustainability in tourism, underscoring its importance for both societal and environmental well-being.”
