He highlights its enduring appeal, future opportunities, and the qualities driving the industry's long-term success globally.
Travel and tourism remain the vital drivers of economic growth and cultural exchange, with Thailand standing as one of the world’s most dynamic destinations. As the industry evolves, its continued success depends on adapting to shifting traveller expectations whilst preserving the unique qualities that set it apart.
Eric Levy, Managing Director of Tourism Solutions International and a leading expert in the Asian hospitality industry, shared his insights. His career spans senior leadership roles in hotel investment, advisory, and brokerage, establishing him as a respected figure in the global hospitality sector.
He was a founding partner of Octagon Capital Partners from 2002 to 2005. He later served as Executive Vice President of Colony Capital Asia Pacific, where he led hotel investment efforts across the region. Previously, he was a Senior Partner with Horwath Asia Pacific and the Founder and President of Horwath Hotel Partners, which provided brokerage services to Asian hotel owners.
In an interview with Travel Daily Media, Levy offered his perspectives on Thailand’s strengths, emerging opportunities, and the key factors that will define its continued leadership in global tourism.
A global tourism leader
When asked about Thailand’s position in today’s travel market, Levy said it remains a leader in tourism not only in Asia but globally. He attributed this to its unique combination of exotic and approachable culture, friendliness, affordable destinations, warm climate, and outstanding cuisine.
"In addition to Thai cuisine being so good, Bangkok is a mecca for foodies to come and experience its offerings, from Thai street food to Michelin quality restaurants that are a bargain when compared to global pricing," he remarked.
He also highlighted the diversity of its tourism offerings, from urban to remote resorts, complemented by well-developed medical tourism. Unlike other markets such as Indonesia, he noted, "the tourism in Thailand has been well distributed geographically with multiple arrival destinations."
Reflecting on hotel investment trends, Levy said that "the luxury market in Bangkok had finally been able to ramp up rates to global levels befitting a major destination." He also described the branded residential market as Asia's most developed, with significant room for growth.
Levy pointed out innovative approaches that companies can implement to elevate the quality and uniqueness of their tourism offerings in Thailand. "Thailand has historically been a leader in tourism innovation from refinement of villa hotels, pool villas, and tented accommodation," he noted. He stressed that industry leaders must have a DNA for innovation, and keeping this spirit alive is critical for the industry to continue leading rather than following.
He also paid tribute to influential figures who had shaped the sector, including Thai leaders Thanpuying Chanut Piyaoui and Chanin Donavanik from Dusit Thani, the Chirathivat family from Central Group, William Heinecke of Minor International PCL, and influential foreigners such as Ho Kwon Ping, Adrian Zecha, and Kurt Wachtveitl, who has been the renowned General Manager of Mandarin Oriental Bangkok for 41 years. Ensuring a pipeline of future leaders, he said, was vital for continued success.
To stay competitive amidst shifting consumer expectations and regional competition, Levy advised Thai travel and hospitality businesses to focus on value and experience, targeting emerging demographics such as global nomads, seniors, and Asia’s affluent travellers. Sustainability and wellness programmes are stressed to be essential pillars of competitiveness.
"Move beyond mass tourism to offer high-quality, personalised, and authentic Thai experiences," he added.
Looking to the future, Levy detailed the factors that will shape the long-term success of Thailand's travel and hospitality industry. He emphasised adaptability in proactively addressing climate change, shifting traveller demographics, economic fluctuations, and increased competition and innovation. He also highlighted the importance of infrastructure investment, policy innovation such as digital nomad visas, and supporting new travel experiences.
For Thailand to retain its global standing, Levy believed it must retain a leader in sustainable tourism, maintain its reputation as a safe, high-quality destination, and continue diversifying its offerings. "Keep the golden goose from becoming tarnished," he emphasised.
Recognising industry leadership
As an esteemed judge at the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards 2025 - Thailand, Levy explained that he would be looking for nominees who embodied being "truly Thai," whilst demonstrating consistency, leadership, excellence, and sustainability. Importantly, he stressed the development of future leaders as a key measure of long-term industry success.
