Discovering Thailand: A Collaborative 2024 FAM Trip with TAT, Bangkok Airways & ONYX

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From 25 May to 4 June 2024, Eastern Favourites Representation embarked on a remarkable journey through Thailand together with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Frankfurt, Bangkok Airways, and ONYX Hospitality Group.

Eight travel agents and tour operator partners from the DACH region joined us on this immersive familiarisation trip – a journey designed to showcase Thailand the way guests experience it: authentic, emotional, and full of variety.

Why This FAM Trip Mattered

For many participants, this was their first-ever trip to Thailand – making the experience especially powerful. Nothing replaces personal experience:

• You sell what you know.

• You inspire with what you have felt.

  
  

This trip provided:

• Real, first-hand insights into Thailand’s hospitality and culture

• Stronger product knowledge of hotels, regions, and key attractions

• Emotional highlights that translate directly into confident customer recommendations

  
  

Thailand revealed itself as warm, diverse, welcoming, and endlessly inspiring.

Four Regions – One Message: Endless Diversity

Bangkok – A City of Culture, Contrast & Culinary Magic

Bangkok surprised our group with its unique mix of tradition and modernity. Golden temples, peaceful canal rides, vibrant market life, and stylish rooftop dining created a vivid picture of a city that never fails to impress.

Highlights included:

• Amari Bangkok – warm welcome, excellent dining, and superb event facilities

• Shama Petchburi 47 and Shama Lakeview Asoke – spacious long-stay comfort with prime locations

• Oriental Residence Bangkok – elegance, outstanding service, and a memorable dinner experience

For many, Bangkok became a clear “must-include” in any Thailand itinerary.

Koh Samui – Tropical Bliss with Authentic Island Charm

Koh Samui welcomed the group with peaceful beaches, lush nature, and lively towns. Many participants were surprised by how diverse and expansive the island really is, making it suitable for families, couples, and adventure seekers alike.

Hotels that left strong impressions:

• Amari Koh Samui – tranquil beachfront location and warm, family-friendly atmosphere

• OZO Chaweng Samui – modern design, inspiring hotel tour, and an unforgettable beachfront BBQ dinner

Amari

Chaweng Beach

Amari Koh Samui

These insights will help travel advisors confidently match Samui to the right customers.

Phuket – A Blend of Lifestyle, Culture & Coastal Adventure

Phuket offered a fantastic mix of experiences: iconic viewpoints, cultural heritage, shopping, local cuisine, and high-quality entertainment such as the evening at Siam Niramit.

Hotel highlights included:

• Amari Phuket – panoramic ocean views, elegant rooms, and an outstanding seafood buffet

• OZO Phuket – one of the most memorable stops, thanks to a joyful surprise welcome from the GM and team, interactive cooking activities, and exceptional hospitality

Amari Phuket Cooking Workshop

Amari Phuket

Phuket Amari

The group frequently emphasised the warmth and professionalism encountered throughout the stay.

Phang Nga & Khao Sok – Nature That Touches the Soul

This segment of the trip showcased Thailand’s dramatic landscapes and deep tranquility.

Phang Nga Bay impressed with:

• Towering limestone cliffs

• Hidden lagoons explored by kayak

• The iconic James Bond Island

In Khao Sok National Park, many experienced their personal trip highlight:

• Floating Lake Camp accommodations

• Canoeing and jungle trekking

• Insightful and ethical elephant encounters at Elephant Hills

Several participants described these moments as “life-changing”—perfect for travellers seeking nature, authenticity, and adventure.

What Participants Appreciated Most

• Expert organisation and knowledgeable local guides

• A rich range of culinary experiences, from street food to show kitchens

• Hotels catering to diverse customer types (families, couples, long-stay, luxury)

• Emotional natural encounters in Khao Sok

• Unique surprise moments – particularly the joyful welcome at OZO Phuket

A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Partners

This FAM trip would not have been possible without the collaboration of:

• TAT Frankfurt – inspiration, expert insights, and consistent support

• Bangkok Airways – smooth domestic connections and excellent onboard service

• ONYX Hospitality Group – warm hospitality and outstanding hotel experiences

  
  

Their dedication turned this trip into a high-quality learning journey.

Conclusion: Thailand Continues to Inspire

The 2024 FAM Trip highlighted exactly why Thailand remains one of the most beloved long-haul destinations for German-speaking travellers.It offers:

✨ Heartfelt hospitality

✨ A captivating blend of culture, nature, and culinary discovery

✨ Excellent infrastructure and world-class hotels

✨ Experiences that create lifelong memories

Our travel partners return home not just with better product knowledge—but with genuine emotion and inspiration, ready to share Thailand’s magic with their clients.

We look forward to continuing our work together to promote Thailand through meaningful experiences, strong partnerships, and storytelling that resonates.