"You'd better book your trip to Thailand earlier this year," said TATTPE Director Samporon Maneenmaitreejit, who cited medical tourism, quality services and world-famous Thai hospitality to explain the increasing popularity of Thai culture worldwide.

"The price of a five- to six-day sejourn in Bangkok starts at NT$15,000," he said.

Maneenmaitreejit explained that the impressive results of tourism in Thailand come from TATTPE's strict policy regarding travel packages sold on the Taiwan market.

"We look after the interest of Taiwan tourists, and ban operators from offering low-quality stays at discount prices," he said.

"Hotels are not allowed either to surcharge clients, anyhow," he added.

Only 23 travel agents are authorized by TATTPE to sell holiday tours in Thailand. They offer a variety of more than 82 travel packages to every corner of the country, but also for new services offered at an attractive price in Thailand.

Medical tourism is one of them, as Thailand doctors have long been recognized internationally for their quality services, from organ transplants to cosmetic and dental surgery.

"There is also a lot of potential in the spa sectors too," Maneenmaitreejit said.

As a result, he explained, between 40 and 50 percent of travelers now travel to Thailand on their own rather than with travel agencies, as Taiwan tourists are feeling more and more confident about the quality of tourism services offered in Thailand.

Further, those interested in holidaying in Thailand can contact TATTPE directly -- it will occupy eight booths in the upcoming Taipei International Travel Fair (ITF), held between Dec. 14-17 at the Taipei World Trade Center.