Named after the traditional Thai welcome gesture, the “Wai Thailand” campaign invites Thais of all ages and occupations – as well as past and potential future visitors – to submit their own “wai” photos via a tailor-made Facebook app.

The “Wai Thailand” Facebook campaign begins today in the United States, Thailand, Australia, Singapore and India. Participants have until February 28 to upload their “wai” photos.

“The ‘wai’ gesture, which involves the pressing of palms together in a prayer-like fashion, is the traditional way Thais greet people, express gratitude and demonstrate respect. Encouraging people everywhere, from all walks of life to share their own ‘wai’ photos’ is a fantastic way to showcase Thailand’s unique character and welcome travellers back to the country,” said Abhiram Chowdhry, vice president and managing director of the Hotels.com brand.

In addition to showcasing the country’s incredible mix of culture, people and places for a global audience, Hotels.com is alsoplanning to collectthe thousands of individual photos submitted from all over the world to create a huge “Wai” mosaic.

“By sharing their greetings with us, everyone will get a chance to help create a huge, international greetingto remind the world of Amazing Thailand. It will also demonstrate respect for Thai culture and thanks to the warm and friendly Thai people who have over the years shown themselves to be the most hospitable hosts to people from all over the world.” said Chowdhry.

Endorsing the campaign, Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, executive director, Information Technology Office, Tourism Authority of Thailand, said that the campaign will show the world that Thailand has always been a fantastic destination that genuinely offers Thainess experience for everyone.

“The campaign will show that this hasn’t changed and encourage travellers the world over to visit and enjoy their own personal ‘wai’ experience,” said Sripakorn.