Phetchaburi Province played host to the launch of the Wellcation health tourism route on 19 December 2024, a key initiative under the Ministry of Public Health’s drive to establish Thailand as a leading Medical and Wellness Hub.
The project, covering eight central provinces, aims to integrate health services with tourism to promote relaxation and wellbeing while generating economic opportunities for local communities.
Mr Kittikorn Lohsunthorn, Secretary to the Minister of Public Health, presided over the event, held at the Baba Beach Club Hotel in Cha-am.. He was joined by senior officials, including Dr Veerawut Imsamran, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Public Health, and Mr Lertchai Sakolsawapak, Deputy Governor of Phetchaburi Province, along with representatives from public and private sectors, wellness entrepreneurs, and local business operators.
The initiative, named “Wellcation,” combines wellness and vacation, leveraging Thailand’s reputation for world-class medical services and diverse tourism experiences. Mr Kittikorn highlighted Thailand’s competitive edge, noting that the country offers high-quality healthcare at reasonable prices alongside destinations popular among international travellers.
“This initiative blends relaxation with health and happiness, creating innovative tourism routes tailored to modern travellers seeking wellness-focused experiences,” said Mr Kittikorn. He emphasised the unique potential of Health Zone 5, which includes Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Samut Sakhon, Samut Songkhram, Suphan Buri, Nakhon Pathom, Ratchaburi, and Kanchanaburi.
The Wellcation project links the natural resources, local culture, and health services of the participating provinces to enhance their appeal to both domestic and international tourists. Mr Kittikorn explained that the initiative promotes job creation and income generation by supporting local businesses such as health food restaurants, spas, and producers of health products made from local ingredients.
A highlight of the launch was the introduction of the “Wellcation Line Bot Wellness Region 5,” a digital assistant designed to provide information on health tourism routes, wellness services, attractions, and special activities.
Dr Veerawut Imsamran, Deputy Permanent Secretary, stressed the importance of positioning Thailand as a global health tourism leader, noting that Health Zone 5 offers an ideal starting point. “The aim is to create routes that combine medical care, wellness activities, and the charm of cultural and natural tourism,” he said.
He added that the initiative would attract high-quality tourists and support local economies by boosting employment, encouraging the growth of small businesses, and promoting locally sourced products such as Phetchaburi’s palm sugar, Prachuap Khiri Khan’s pineapples, and Thai herbs.
Phetchaburi’s role in the initiative
Phetchaburi Province, with its diverse natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage, plays a central role in the project. Recognised as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, Phetchaburi is renowned for its distinctive cuisine, which integrates local ingredients to promote health and wellbeing.
“This initiative combines Phetchaburi’s natural beauty and culinary expertise with high-quality health services to attract wellness-focused tourists,” said Mr Lertchai Sakolsawapak, Deputy Governor of Phetchaburi.
He highlighted the economic benefits for local communities, particularly through the development of health tourism-related businesses such as spas, wellness centres, and health product enterprises. The project also aligns with global trends towards environmentally friendly and health-conscious tourism.
The eight participating provinces each bring unique characteristics to the initiative. These include natural attractions, traditional culture, and distinctive cuisines, which are being integrated with health services to develop new tourism routes.
By catering to the needs of health-conscious travellers, the Wellcation project aims to boost the regional economy, create employment opportunities, and encourage sustainable growth.
The launch in Phetchaburi marks the beginning of plans to promote health tourism across the central region, providing benefits for both visitors and local communities.
