Military tourism is an industry rarely recognized by most travelers because there are always alternatives such as historic, tradition-based or cultural tourism, which often includes stories of military ventures in every country. Military tourism focuses more on the same ventures -- but with real-life narrative delivery of veterans, a tour of military training academies, simulated battlefields, mountain trails and a possible experience of using firearms in designated shooting grounds.
According to The Hindu Business Line, India's Veer Yatra first revolutionized military travel. The Maharashtra Ex-Servicemen's Corporation (MESCO) focuses on "military games and activities, rafting and crocodile sightings," the latter likely to be part of a survival-themed vacation. The Hindu Business Line also writes that Veer Yatra intends to use military tours as a way for retired military servicemen to gain "meaningful employment" -- not all nations can provide for those who place their lives on the line after their service.
In a sense, military tourism is less about the narrative and more about the experience -- a tour that could appeal to experience and physical activity-oriented travelers. Stories of military heroism and actual battle experience only help to inspire one to see the life in the battlefield -- MESCO and Veer Yatra's goal for travelers after their tour.
Thailand has its own version of military tourism that is almost similar to India's Veer Yatra tourism program. But in Thailand is a chance to use a firearm. According to City Life Chiang Mai, military tourists could wear their own uniforms and even use firearms in designated shooting spots in one of the itineraries of the military tour.
Tourists in Thailand's military travel program could ride an army helicopter to Khao Khor Memorial, which also has a weapon's museum. Soon after, they will be brought to war bunkers and areas of Huya Tung Tao where families could enjoy various activities including bungee jumps, ATV rides and even horse rides for children.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
