A Smiling Tourist Industry
Thailand is nicknamed as the "Land of Smiles" because the locals have a habit of spreading a grin on their face even when they encounter an awkward situation. Could this moniker be the cause of the booming tourist industry for the Thais? How can smiles boost up tourism?
It is believed that what makes a holiday truly memorable is the superb hospitality given to the vacationer. If you are in a foreign country where you do not speak the language and where you have never been to, you would naturally feel anxious and perhaps constantly wonder how you can communicate with the locals. Your first impression of the country usually begins from the departure flight. Having a crew who smiles as they welcome you makes you feel safe and assured that you will have a comfortable trip. When you are greeted by the smiling airport staff member who welcomes you to the country, you feel warmth and more confident that the locals will be eager to assist you. When you commit cultural bloopers because of language barriers, you will not feel embarrassed when the person you 'offended' smiles at you. Being surrounded by smiles in a foreign land will surely make you feel more welcome and relaxed as you are more comfortable to be friendly with the locals.
Why do smiles have such a big effect on your impression with the destination that you visit? Smiles can immediately change the mood in a room. Optimism, confidence and happiness are reflected from smiles. A smiling person is quickly liked and trusted as the receiver will gradually warm up. As the saying goes, a smile is a language understood by everyone.
