Tourism Cares, a leading non-profit dedicated to advancing sustainability within the tourism industry, and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), have kicked off its week-long Global Meaningful Travel Summit in Bangkok and Krabi. As the host destination for 2025, Thailand is showcasing its leadership in community-based and sustainable tourism, welcoming more than 40 travel and tourism executives, advisors and industry associations to exchange insights and commit to action.

Now in its fifth year, the Tourism Cares Global Meaningful Travel Summit strengthens sustainable supply chain development, creates new opportunities for local businesses and educates the industry on responsible standards and best practices in sustainable tourism.

As part of the Summit this year, Tourism Cares and TAT will focus on four key areas:

• Community impact: Illuminating how Thai organizations are using tourism to drive positive environmental, cultural and social impact.
• Educational exchange: Tackling global sustainability issues through a local lens of Thai speakers and panelists who are championing destination stewardship, cultural heritage and responsible travel.
• Immersive experiences: Building connections between the travel trade and local partners via meaningful tours and visits in Bangkok and Krabi.
• Pledge-driven outcomes: Encouraging attendees to commit to actions that drive long-term positive change for their companies and destinations where they send or host travelers.

The Global Meaningful Travel Summit also highlights the evolving role of public-private partnerships between government, the travel industry and suppliers. Local partners—from grassroots organizations and small businesses to representatives from Thailand’s tourism sector—will share practical insights on stewardship and meaningful travel.

Putting Thailand’s People on the Map

Over the past two years, TAT has invested in its commitment to sustainable tourism by partnering with Tourism Cares on initiatives that will generate long-term positive impact for its country.

In 2023, TAT launched its Tourism Cares Meaningful Travel Map of Thailand, which highlights vetted, sustainable enterprises, products, services, accommodations, and tours across the country. Today, the Meaningful Travel Map of Thailand includes more than 45 organizations across the country that work to focus on cultural heritage, environmental conservation and regenerative practices.

As part of the Global Summit, attendees will engage with several of the Map’s featured partners through immersive tours and experiences, including Bang Korbua Community Tourism Club, Ban Nai Nang Community, Laem Sak Community, Patom Organic Living, Poomjai Garden and the Varana Hotel.