Bangkok (Thailand) – June 16, 2016 (travelindex.com) – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and QNA International today signed an agreement confirming the success of Thailand's bid to host the 4th Annual Destination Wedding Planners Congress 2017 (DWP Congress 2017). The event will take place in Thailand from May 2-4, 2017, and is expected to draw 450 attendees from around the world.

Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, Governor of the TAT, said: “We are delighted that Thailand has been selected as the host country for the prestigious Destination Wedding Planners Congress 2017. Thailand is an extremely attractive country for couples who wish to marry or spend their honeymoon, and we offer a wide range of wedding packages, romantic venues, and luxurious private accommodations. Furthermore, Thailand’s wedding planners have extensive experience in helping couples create unforgettable and romantic weddings.”

The DWP Congress is a groundbreaking initiative and unique worldwide. This spectacular congress has raised the bar for destination weddings, bringing together the crème de la crème of the international wedding industry on one platform. The first DWP Congress took place in Greece in 2014 and has continued to evolve ever since. Mauritius followed in 2015, and Florence, Italy, in 2016. From a multitude of exclusive destinations in Asia, Africa, the Americas, Australia, and Europe, Thailand was chosen for the 2017 edition.

Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn and Mr. Ackash Jain exchange a brief handshake after the signing ceremony of the agreement.

Mr. Ackash Jain, Director of QNA International, said: “Thailand was a very strong competitor; the country is already very popular with travelers and those seeking leisure, and is also high on the list as a sought-after destination for weddings and honeymoons. Given the country’s reputation as a destination with deeply rooted cultural traditions, rich heritage, and warm hospitality, we are extremely excited to embark on the 4th edition.”

According to a survey by QNA International, the results of which were released at the third annual DWPC conference, Thailand is the most popular destination in Asia for weddings and honeymoons. Given Thailand's cultural appeal, its natural beauty with picturesque beaches, mountains, lush greenery, unique gastronomy, diverse entertainment options, and world-renowned hospitality, this is no surprise.

“Thailand’s experience as a wedding and honeymoon destination, built on its appeal to couples from across Asia, encompasses a diverse range of wedding ceremonies – from beach weddings and climbing weddings to underwater weddings and traditional Thai weddings. Thanks to collaborations with luxury resorts and hotels, wedding planners, event organizers, and professional photographers, attractive packages are available for couples. Thailand is therefore ideally positioned to welcome couples seeking an unforgettable and exclusive experience for their wedding and their guests,” according to the press release from QNA International.

Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn summarized: “Weddings can generate considerable revenue for Thailand. The average cost of a wedding ranges from 5 to 20 million baht, depending on the number of guests. An estimated 400 couples travel from India alone to marry in Thailand, with Europe and the USA being important markets. Hosting the 2017 DWP Congress will undoubtedly further increase Thailand's profile as a preferred wedding destination for couples from around the world and strengthen the country's positive image by positioning Thailand as a high-quality travel destination.”

International Public Relations Department, Tourism Authority of Thailand, 1600 New Petchaburi Road, Makkasan, Ratchathevi, Bangkok 10400, Thailand, Tel.: +66 (0) 2250 5500 ext. 4545-48, Fax: +66 (0) 2250 0246, E-mail: [email protected], Website: www.TATnews.org