Lucky Norwegian man gets welcoming party for being Thailand’s 26 millionth visitor

A lucky Norwegian tourist was bombarded with a welcoming ceremony and free gifts after he landed at Phuket International Airport on Friday and became the 26 millionth visitor to Thailand this year.

Tommy Jeppsson, who arrived on flight TG205 from Bangkok, was surprised to be the guest of honor at a grand welcoming ceremony, led by Thailand’s Minister of Tourism and Sports Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul, when he walked into the passenger arrival lounge.

Jeppsson was awarded two economy-class return tickets from his home to Thailand, a voucher for a five-night stay in luxury accommodation, a 4G mobile phone, and the best part of all, a “Thailand’s Luckiest Visitor” certificate.

Jeppsson said: “I chose Phuket as my travel destination for the winter break so I can enjoy the nice weather, amazing Thai food and culture, beaches and natural attractions.”

“I have visited Phuket seven times already and on each trip I have stayed for two weeks.”

The “Thailand’s Luckiest Visitor” promotion, launched in June this year, is part of a “2015 Discover Thainess” campaign that aims to encourage international tourists to visit Thailand.

Visitor numbers to Thailand for this year surged from 25 million to 26 million in just 10 days in November. The country hopes to welcome 28.8 million international visitors by the end of the year.

“November and December are among the most pleasant times to visit Thailand, and during this period tourists can enjoy a cool breeze in most parts of the country, azure seas with blue skies in the south, and there are numerous festive activities to enjoy,” Kobkarn said.

Story/ Photo: The Phuket News



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