Phuket promotes island tourism in Russia and Belarus ahead of direct flights

A Phuket tourism delegation conducted a promotional roadshow in Belarus and Russia from July 24 to 29, ahead of the planned resumption of direct flights between Minsk and Phuket.

The delegation included representatives from the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation, the Phuket Tourist Association and local tourism businesses. It held events in Minsk, St Petersburg and Moscow to promote Phuket and strengthen links with travel industry partners.

The campaign was Phuket’s first promotional activity in Belarus and also renewed engagement with the Russian market. Organisers described Russia as one of Phuket’s most valuable international visitor markets because of longer average stays and higher spending. They identified Belarus as an emerging market with similar travel patterns.

Belarusian national carrier Belavia is scheduled to operate its inaugural direct Minsk-Phuket flight on October 21, followed by twice-weekly scheduled services from October 29. Tourism representatives said the return of the air link was expected to support package holiday sales and cooperation with Belarusian tour operators ahead of the high season.

The delegation promoted Phuket’s hotels and resorts, wellness tourism, marine activities, sporting events, cultural attractions and culinary offerings. It also highlighted Phuket’s status as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Moscow Office supported the campaign by providing market intelligence and analysis of consumer trends. The meetings were held in a table-top business format, allowing Phuket operators to meet travel agencies, tour operators, airline representatives and wholesalers directly.

Organisers said the three events generated 540 one-on-one business appointments and reported strong interest in Phuket, with the meetings expected to create new business opportunities for the coming tourism season.