Fancy a crowd-free weekend in Chiang Rai or a beach escape to Ranong and its many sleepy islands? Good news is at hand.

Thailand’s Finance Ministry is reportedly prepared to pay people to visit the country's "second-tier" destinations. 

As reported by Bangkok Post, a campaign is in the works to gift eligible citizens B1,500 to visit any of 55 less-frequented provinces.

It's anticipated that the handouts will help to stimulate the economy and also promote the use of electronic payments.

A slice of the B15 million budget will be allocated to 10 million people who register on a first-come, first-served basis. To be eligible, you'll need to be a Thai national over 18.

The money would be transferred via PromptPay into recipients’ bank accounts—under the proviso it's spent at participating stores in the designated provinces.

Further details about how to register or when the campaign might launch are yet to be announced, but Bangkok Post states the package could be up for cabinet approval on April 30. 

Other notable provinces on the list include Lamphang and Mae Hong Son in the north, Udon Thani and Nong Khai in Isaan, Lopburi and Trat to the east, and the southernmost provinces of Yala, Pattani and Narathiwat.

See also: TAT launches video to promote Thailand as safe for LGBT+ tourists

A foraging food tour in the Chiang Rai jungle