The Thai government has announced their plans to gift an all-expenses paid, week-long vacation to international rescuers as a reward for participating in the successful rescue of the “Wild Boar” soccer team at Chiang Rai’s Luang Cave.
Throughout the historic 18-day operation, a diverse team of volunteers from numerous countries flocked to the rescue site to offer their expertise in what was initially thought to be an “impossible mission.”
Some of the volunteers still in Chiang Rai or Bangkok have already accepted the paid holidays, but those who decided to travel back to their respective countries immediately still have a one-week Thai vacation awaiting them, said Worawit Taechasupakul, a secretary to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports.
While the itinerary has not been revealed, the volunteers will be given round-trip business class tickets courtesy of Thai Airways, free accommodation, and the Thailand Elite membership, which comes with a five-year travel visa, reported Thai PBS.
The Thailand Elite program usually charges a whopping THB520,000 (US$15,600) for the five-year visa. Some of the privileges includes VIP-expedited airport services and immigration formalities, access to a number of golf clubs, and discounts for spas and shopping.
TAT Governor Yuthasak Supasorn said that the number of volunteers who will receive the reward has not yet been determined, and they will discuss further details in their next meeting at the end of this month.
The move is aimed at not only displaying Thailand’s immense gratitude, but to also encourage long-term friendly relations with each country.
