The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) teamed up with Artiwara Kongmalai (Toon Bodyslam) and over 2,000 Songkhla residents to announce their readiness to welcome tourists through a campaign.“Smile @ South”which clearly signals that“The South is 100% ready for tourism”after recovery from the flooding at the end of last year.
They organized a 3.1 km City Walk filled with joyful atmosphere, inviting people to forget last year's floods. Toon Artiwara Kongmalai led the Kaokonlakao Foundation to invite Hat Yai residents to enjoy a relaxed walk and good food along a classic economic route spanning 3.1 kilometers.
Starting at Srinakorn Foundation School, the route passes legendary check-in points such as Lee Garden Plaza, Kim Yong Market, and Chue Chang Temple. The atmosphere was filled with smiles and greetings, reflecting that Hat Yai's charm lies not just in its places but also in its.“people”who are ready to welcome everyone with strong friendship.
Along with the activity“Fried Chicken Without Abandonment”which gathered top Songkhla delicacies that food lovers crave by bringing together over 30 popular eateries previously impacted by flooding to fully serve their delicious offerings—from original Hat Yai fried chicken fragrant throughout the neighborhood to intensely flavored dim sum and pulled tea, plus local desserts that can’t be found elsewhere.
Beyond satisfying appetites, this event also warmed hearts by directly supporting local entrepreneurs, helping revive the local economy.
TAT also catered to social media fans with the “Stamp Passport” activity, inviting participants to check in at four important landmarks to receive a souvenir,a specially designed scarfmade exclusively for this event. Additionally, over 30 influencers visited Satun, Trang, and Phatthalung to capture beautiful images, confirming that“every inch of the South is worth visiting.”
Nithi Seephrae, Deputy Governor for Marketing Communications at TAT, emphasized, “This event returns happiness to the community and reassures tourists that the South remains a warm and beautiful destination.”
“We want everyone to see that Hat Yai and the South have come alive again. The resilience of the people and the charm of the culture here are still waiting for everyone to experience firsthand.”