Sufficiency Economy Tourism
Thailand Branding
“Seven Amazing Wonders” of Thailand
International Marketing
Domestic Marketing
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) presented Thailand’s 2008 tourism marketing plans at its annual Marketing and Planning (MAP) Conference. The five-day event (9-13 July) provided a forum for extensive consultation with private sector representatives of the Thai tourism industry, as well as state agencies and organizations responsible for the planning, development and management of the country’s travel and tourism-related resources.
Thailand’s five-year tourism marketing and promotion plans (2007-2011) reflect the national agenda: striving to maintain a delicate balance between economic growth and the achievement of sustainable development. The idea of a “sufficiency economy” has been advanced by His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, Rama IX.
INTRODUCING “SUFFICIENCY ECONOMY” TOURISM
The pursuit of Thailand’s new concept of “sufficiency economy” tourism has presented Thailand with a golden opportunity to adjust many of the tourism policies and marketing strategies in line with the sufficiency economy principles of His Majesty the King to create a better balance between development and marketing.
"Sufficiency Economy"1 is a philosophy that stresses the middle path as the overriding principle for appropriate conduct by the populace at all levels. This applies to conduct at the level of the individual, families, and communities, as well as to the choice of a balanced development strategy for the nation so as to modernise in line with the forces of globalization while shielding against inevitable shocks, internal and external, and excesses that arise.
"Sufficiency" means moderation and due consideration in all modes of conduct. To achieve this, the application of knowledge with prudence is essential. In addition, a balanced approach combining patience, perseverance, diligence, wisdom and prudence is indispensable to cope appropriately with critical challenges arising from extensive and rapid socioeconomic, environmental, and cultural changes occurring as a result of globalization.
Sufficiency economy tourism promotes quality tourism by attracting individuals who are more sophisticated, environmentally aware and responsible. In a renewed effort to promote sustainable tourism by reducing tourism pressure and environmental impact on natural and cultural attractions, the new tourism policy of the Royal Thai Government focuses more on yield and expenditure per visitor than on headcount.
Sufficiency economy tourism plans place equal importance on the significant contribution that tourism makes to the national economy as well as the vital role it plays in promoting the cultural, social and economic development of rural communities, raising the overall standards of living and contributing to a better quality of life. Equal attention is paid to ensuring both sustainability and grassroots benefits from tourism.
While Thailand’s destination marketing campaigns will continue normally, the Royal Thai government is focusing more attention on how to best influence and improve the experience for every visitor.
Thailand’s fresh emphasis on sufficiency economy tourism is perfectly tailored to the experiential wants of a new generation of world travellers who wish to be socially and environmentally responsible. They are as much on a quest for new knowledge and cultural exchange as they are in search of leisure, rest and relaxation. They are keen to learn about the communities they visit. This has led to the increasing popularity of community-based tourism.
Sufficiency economy tourism presents opportunities to enhance the experience for visitors by highlighting the uniqueness of Thailand’s tourism assets, particularly cultural heritage. Sufficiency economy tourism also makes it possible for visitors to immerse themselves in colourful local culture and learn about Thai ways through the conservation of traditional Thai culture and the development and promotion of community-based tourism. It promotes the protection and preservation of the natural environment and instils pride in the national heritage among the local population. This all helps pave the way towards sustainable tourism development, strengthens the Thailand brand, and sharpens the kingdom’s international competitive edge.
“Sufficiency economy” tourism recognizes that tourism development needs to proceed in tandem with the preservation of the kingdom’s natural resources and cultural treasures. Achieving this demands true commitment from the Thai tourism industry to devote increased effort and resources to rehabilitate popular attractions. Many are in urgent need of restoration following decades of being subjected to heavy tourism traffic, both foreign and domestic. This will be undertaken in co-ordination with the relevant ministries, government departments and local administration units in a way that takes into account the prudent carrying capacity of each attraction to ensure its long-term viability.
TAT has set its 2007 targets at 14.8 million international visitors which will help generate estimated revenues of 547.5 billion baht (about US$ 14.5 billion). The domestic tourism target is for 82 million domestic trips with a projected revenue of 377.8 billion baht (approximately US$ 10 billion). Efforts will be directed at ensuring a good mix of source markets in terms of both customer segments and geographical distribution.
Source: 1The 1999 TDRI Year-end Conference Distribution Material
Web site: www.chaipat.or.th/chaipat/journal/dec00/eng/e_economy.html
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
NYC exhibit unveils rich treasures of Yuan dynasty
NYC exhibit unveils rich treasures of Yuan dynasty
NEW YORK (AP) - A new exhibition in New York City makes it easy to see why Marco Polo and other early European traders were dazzled by the treasures they saw in China.
Porcelain, lacquer, scroll painting, silk tapestries and other art forms flourished during the Yuan dynasty. It was founded in 1271 by Khubilai Khan, China's first Mongol ruler and grandson of Ghenghis Khan.
"The World of Khubilai Khan: Chinese Art in the Yuan Dynasty'' opened today, Sept. 28, 2010, at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. There are 200 artifacts, most on loan from China. Included are archaeological objects never before exhibited outside the country.
Among the highlights is a "cloth of gold.'' That's the name European traders gave the gold-thread silk woven by craftsmen brought to China from Central Asia and eastern Iran.
NEW YORK (AP) - A new exhibition in New York City makes it easy to see why Marco Polo and other early European traders were dazzled by the treasures they saw in China.
Porcelain, lacquer, scroll painting, silk tapestries and other art forms flourished during the Yuan dynasty. It was founded in 1271 by Khubilai Khan, China's first Mongol ruler and grandson of Ghenghis Khan.
"The World of Khubilai Khan: Chinese Art in the Yuan Dynasty'' opened today, Sept. 28, 2010, at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. There are 200 artifacts, most on loan from China. Included are archaeological objects never before exhibited outside the country.
Among the highlights is a "cloth of gold.'' That's the name European traders gave the gold-thread silk woven by craftsmen brought to China from Central Asia and eastern Iran.
A critical time for Thailand: towards a stronger, tourist-friendly nation | Thailand Business News
This is a critical time for Thailand, with the country recovering from the recent political events of April and May and preparing for elections next year.
We have made it through a sad and painful period for Thailand, and today, I’d like to share my thoughts on what we can learn from the events of the past few months, and how I feel that the public and private sectors, the diplomatic community and the media, should work together to position Thailand to bounce back once again and prove its resilience. The perception of Thailand in the eyes of the world impacts all aspects of the Kingdom, from the jobs and incomes generated by the tourism industry, to the level of foreign direct investment, to the number of businessmen who travel to Thailand to do business with Thai companies and drive the growth of the economy.
It is of vital importance to the health of the Thai economy and Thailand’s 65 million citizens that the state of affairs in Thailand is depicted as accurately and as responsibly as possible around the world.People watching the news from their home in the US or Europe need to have a balanced understanding of events taking place in Thailand. This is where I strongly feel that the foreign diplomatic community and the media, who play a major part in framing the message, have a leading role to play.
We have made it through a sad and painful period for Thailand, and today, I’d like to share my thoughts on what we can learn from the events of the past few months, and how I feel that the public and private sectors, the diplomatic community and the media, should work together to position Thailand to bounce back once again and prove its resilience. The perception of Thailand in the eyes of the world impacts all aspects of the Kingdom, from the jobs and incomes generated by the tourism industry, to the level of foreign direct investment, to the number of businessmen who travel to Thailand to do business with Thai companies and drive the growth of the economy.
It is of vital importance to the health of the Thai economy and Thailand’s 65 million citizens that the state of affairs in Thailand is depicted as accurately and as responsibly as possible around the world.People watching the news from their home in the US or Europe need to have a balanced understanding of events taking place in Thailand. This is where I strongly feel that the foreign diplomatic community and the media, who play a major part in framing the message, have a leading role to play.
Thai Baht: what can stop it from raising ? | Thailand Business News
After the baht appreciated 8 per cent so far this year, concern about the economic consequences of such a rise is becoming more evident especially when a further rise in the baht is being anticipated.
The belief that the baht will continue to rise is not far-fetched when viewed within the broader context in which the central banks of the G3 key reserve currencies – US dollar, euro and yen – are committed to near zero interest rates and quantitative easing.
The global monetary easing we are witnessing today is unprecedented. This is because the major economies are unable or unwilling to use fiscal policy to counter the economic slowdown that is now evident. For example, the US is mired in the politics of the November mid-term election, which will likely allow the Bush tax cuts to expire, implying a tightening of fiscal policy next year. Few other fiscal stimulus programmes are likely to come about even though US GDP will grow only about 1.5-1.6 per cent during the second half of this year.
In Europe the fear of falling victim to a “Greek tragedy” had most countries committing to fiscal tightening starting in 2011. This is even as eurozone GDP growth is expected to be an anaemic 1 per cent during the second half of this year, with most of the periphery countries mired in recession. During the same period, Japan’s GDP growth is expected to be less than 1 per cent.
The inability to use fiscal policy means that the job of engineering the economic recoveries of the G3 must rest solely on the shoulders of monetary policy. Near zero interest rates were put in place nearly two years ago in December 2008. But this is clearly not sufficient in the context of the devastating losses suffered by the banking system, over-leveraged consumers and near 10-per-cent unemployment.
Enter quantitative easing (QE), in which the G3 central banks not only depress short-term interest rates but also print money to buy bonds so that longer-term interest rates are kept exceptionally low as well.
On September 21, the US Federal Reserve said in effect that the US economy is slowing down and that inflation is too low. Economists see this as a signal that the Fed is moving ever closer to QE2, when it would intensify its purchases of US treasuries in order to bring long-term interest rates down even further to offset the possibility of a double-dip recession.
Meanwhile, the European Central Bank continues its policy to give unlimited credit to commercial banks. Closer to us, the Bank of Japan is believed to be conducting unsterilised intervention to weaken the yen, which means trillions more yen are being put into circulation.
via The Baht currency: What is at stake?.
Currency Exchange Rate Date : 28 September 2010
Update : 1 Effective From : 8:30 [Unit : Baht per 1 unit of foreign currency]
Currency Description Bank Note Buying Rates Selling Rates
Bill-DD-TT
Buying Rates Selling Rates Sight Bill TT
USD1 USD : 1 29.42 30.80
USD5 USD : 5-20 29.73 30.80
USD50 USD : 50-100 30.20 30.85 30.35 30.45 30.70
GBP United Kingdom 47.68 49.26 47.92500 48.05000 48.70750
EUR Euro Zone 40.57 41.75 40.72000 40.81750 41.40000
JPY Japan (:100) 35.59 37.04 35.86625 35.95000 36.63500
HKD Hong Kong 3.84 4.04 3.90375 3.91750 3.96375
The belief that the baht will continue to rise is not far-fetched when viewed within the broader context in which the central banks of the G3 key reserve currencies – US dollar, euro and yen – are committed to near zero interest rates and quantitative easing.
The global monetary easing we are witnessing today is unprecedented. This is because the major economies are unable or unwilling to use fiscal policy to counter the economic slowdown that is now evident. For example, the US is mired in the politics of the November mid-term election, which will likely allow the Bush tax cuts to expire, implying a tightening of fiscal policy next year. Few other fiscal stimulus programmes are likely to come about even though US GDP will grow only about 1.5-1.6 per cent during the second half of this year.
In Europe the fear of falling victim to a “Greek tragedy” had most countries committing to fiscal tightening starting in 2011. This is even as eurozone GDP growth is expected to be an anaemic 1 per cent during the second half of this year, with most of the periphery countries mired in recession. During the same period, Japan’s GDP growth is expected to be less than 1 per cent.
The inability to use fiscal policy means that the job of engineering the economic recoveries of the G3 must rest solely on the shoulders of monetary policy. Near zero interest rates were put in place nearly two years ago in December 2008. But this is clearly not sufficient in the context of the devastating losses suffered by the banking system, over-leveraged consumers and near 10-per-cent unemployment.
Enter quantitative easing (QE), in which the G3 central banks not only depress short-term interest rates but also print money to buy bonds so that longer-term interest rates are kept exceptionally low as well.
On September 21, the US Federal Reserve said in effect that the US economy is slowing down and that inflation is too low. Economists see this as a signal that the Fed is moving ever closer to QE2, when it would intensify its purchases of US treasuries in order to bring long-term interest rates down even further to offset the possibility of a double-dip recession.
Meanwhile, the European Central Bank continues its policy to give unlimited credit to commercial banks. Closer to us, the Bank of Japan is believed to be conducting unsterilised intervention to weaken the yen, which means trillions more yen are being put into circulation.
via The Baht currency: What is at stake?.
Currency Exchange Rate Date : 28 September 2010
Update : 1 Effective From : 8:30 [Unit : Baht per 1 unit of foreign currency]
Currency Description Bank Note Buying Rates Selling Rates
Bill-DD-TT
Buying Rates Selling Rates Sight Bill TT
USD1 USD : 1 29.42 30.80
USD5 USD : 5-20 29.73 30.80
USD50 USD : 50-100 30.20 30.85 30.35 30.45 30.70
GBP United Kingdom 47.68 49.26 47.92500 48.05000 48.70750
EUR Euro Zone 40.57 41.75 40.72000 40.81750 41.40000
JPY Japan (:100) 35.59 37.04 35.86625 35.95000 36.63500
HKD Hong Kong 3.84 4.04 3.90375 3.91750 3.96375
Hua Hin and its region turned into a spa hub destination
BANGKOK (eTN) - The ceremony increasingly allures Hollywood’s Academy Awards with hundreds of people present at the event gathering. Far from Hollywood, however, the ceremony – organized in the vast reception hall of the 5-star Centara Grand Hotel - takes place in the heart of Bangkok, in Ratchaprasong. The eighth edition of the "Thailand Tourism Awards" coupled with the seventh edition of the "Friends of Thailand Awards" took place last Monday, September 27. The show, opened by Thailand’s Minister of Tourism, acknowledges the best players in the tourism sector from Chiang Rai in the North to Narathiwat in the deep South.
Yesterday, the Selecting Committee, which stands under the supervision of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, granted 112 awards in 5 categories and by geographical location. Of these awards, 32 ranked as "Awards of Excellency" while 80 "Awards of Outstanding Performance" were distributed.
For Suraphon Svetasreni, governor of TAT, the awards help also to further raise Thailand’s tourism quality and sense of innovation. “We are very glad to see, for example, more and more companies making a dedicated effort to provide the best quality of service but also to be more committed to protect the environment. The Selecting Committee is indeed getting increasingly sensitive to sustainability and environmental issues,” he explained.
Mr. Svetasreni is especially satisfied with the awarding of new products, especially spas. “I am pleased that spa tourism gets more awareness and helps to promote new destinations such as the province of Prachuap Khiri Khan [home to the resort city of Hua Hin] or completely new products such as the agro-eco-knowledge tourism activities from the Chokchai Farm in Nakhon Ratchasima,” he added.
TAT introduced a year ago a scheme to spa certifications overseas while spa operators are also honored at the Thailand Tourism Awards ceremony. Fourteen spa-related operators received an award in four different categories (day spa, destination spa, health spa, and hotel/resort spa). Hua Hin is indeed becoming an increasing attractive destination for people looking for a relaxing spa experience. The royal city started to gain its reputation as a haven for spa lovers some 15 years ago when Chiva-Som, a luxury spa resort, opened its doors. Many times honored with awards all around the world, Chiva-Som remains one of the most distinguished health resort in Thailand with its private beach, its lush tropical gardens, its typical Thai architecture, and its 70 treatment rooms.
Chiva-Som faces more and more competition from other famed spas in the Hua Hin area. At the Thailand Travel Awards ceremony, the Selecting Committee attributed on Monday night an Award of Outstanding Performance to the Anantara Spa Hua Hin and an Award of Excellence to the Barai, an exquisite resort inspired by ancient Asian architecture and located next to the Hyatt Regency.
TAT will continue to foster the certification of more spa operators to attract an increasing number of overseas travelers, promised Mr. Svetasreni. The tourism authority works in close cooperation with the Thai Spa Association, which groups some 265 members. In August, Thai Airways launched in cooperation with the Thai Spa Association a campaign called “Visit Thailand, Visit Thai Spa” targeting the airline’s passengers who are entitled to discount coupons at the spa service counter at Suvarnabhumi airport in Bangkok.
Yesterday, the Selecting Committee, which stands under the supervision of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, granted 112 awards in 5 categories and by geographical location. Of these awards, 32 ranked as "Awards of Excellency" while 80 "Awards of Outstanding Performance" were distributed.
For Suraphon Svetasreni, governor of TAT, the awards help also to further raise Thailand’s tourism quality and sense of innovation. “We are very glad to see, for example, more and more companies making a dedicated effort to provide the best quality of service but also to be more committed to protect the environment. The Selecting Committee is indeed getting increasingly sensitive to sustainability and environmental issues,” he explained.
Mr. Svetasreni is especially satisfied with the awarding of new products, especially spas. “I am pleased that spa tourism gets more awareness and helps to promote new destinations such as the province of Prachuap Khiri Khan [home to the resort city of Hua Hin] or completely new products such as the agro-eco-knowledge tourism activities from the Chokchai Farm in Nakhon Ratchasima,” he added.
TAT introduced a year ago a scheme to spa certifications overseas while spa operators are also honored at the Thailand Tourism Awards ceremony. Fourteen spa-related operators received an award in four different categories (day spa, destination spa, health spa, and hotel/resort spa). Hua Hin is indeed becoming an increasing attractive destination for people looking for a relaxing spa experience. The royal city started to gain its reputation as a haven for spa lovers some 15 years ago when Chiva-Som, a luxury spa resort, opened its doors. Many times honored with awards all around the world, Chiva-Som remains one of the most distinguished health resort in Thailand with its private beach, its lush tropical gardens, its typical Thai architecture, and its 70 treatment rooms.
Chiva-Som faces more and more competition from other famed spas in the Hua Hin area. At the Thailand Travel Awards ceremony, the Selecting Committee attributed on Monday night an Award of Outstanding Performance to the Anantara Spa Hua Hin and an Award of Excellence to the Barai, an exquisite resort inspired by ancient Asian architecture and located next to the Hyatt Regency.
TAT will continue to foster the certification of more spa operators to attract an increasing number of overseas travelers, promised Mr. Svetasreni. The tourism authority works in close cooperation with the Thai Spa Association, which groups some 265 members. In August, Thai Airways launched in cooperation with the Thai Spa Association a campaign called “Visit Thailand, Visit Thai Spa” targeting the airline’s passengers who are entitled to discount coupons at the spa service counter at Suvarnabhumi airport in Bangkok.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Phuket Marketing Phuket targets the wedding market - eTurboNews.com
PHUKET (eTN) - Southern Thailand’s gem, the island of Phuket, looks further to diversify its product to attract a wider range of travelers. Many visitors to the island know exclusively the "brash" side of Phuket at Patong, the island’s entertainment center. However, miles away from this center of endless fun activities, there is another Phuket of discerning luxury. This is rather that aspect that the Tourism Authority of Thailand wants now to promote. With a clear target: to turn Phuket as Thailand’s trendiest destination for wedding groups.
Phuket is already the second largest resort in the Kingdom in terms of international tourists (2.43 million in 2008) and for the total number of rooms in commercial accommodation (37,800 units in 2008). The international airport offers over 6 million seats in air capacity, including 2.5 million on international flights.
“International air access to Phuket has improved tremendously since 2008. We have seen an increasing number of flights to Singapore but also to Tokyo. We have also new destinations being now linked to Phuket such as Ho Chi Minh City, Jakarta, and from October, Qatar Airways. We even get now regular charters from Iran with over 30 flights during the high season,” explained a representative from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) office in the Southern Province.
With the further development of luxury properties, such as the Westin Siray Bay (it opened officially in early August), the Impiana Private Villas Kata Noi (officially opened at the end of July), and the Renaissance Phuket Resort and Spa (opened in May), Phuket looks effectively as an ideal venue for a wedding, which can be high-profile or just simply romantic. These luxury hotels pool together their resources with another 15 properties on the island to lure wedding and honeymoon groups. TAT has published two books to help wedding planners: memorable weddings in Thailand and Thailand Pool Villas – a favorite for honeymoon couples - are precious guides to plan a wedding.
“We see tremendous potential for wedding[s] today. Although we still get western wedding demand, we increasingly look at welcoming Indian and Chinese,” said Robert J. Lohrmann, vice president and sales manager of the JW Marriott Phuket.
Indian travelers are increasingly discovering Phuket as a wedding destination thanks to its relative proximity to India and its cheaper prices to organize a wedding. “These Indian weddings obey to extremely strict rules and customs with very specific needs. It takes on average six to eight months to plan and can cost up to THB 100 million (US$3.2 million) but it brings big business to us,” added Mr. Lohrmann. Japanese and Korean markets, however, look more into honeymoon travel rather than wedding celebrations. “Japanese continue to favor a traditional wedding ceremony in Japan,” said TAT.
"The southern island could become even more attractive to Indian tourists if direct flights were established. However, they are no such plans for the time being according to TAT. Other countries with strong potential for wedding tourism are Russia and Australia, while the demand gets softer from Western Europe due to the world recession in 2009. For honeymooners and wedding groups, Phuket is the perfect getaway as we have all kinds of products: five-star resorts, boutique hotels, and private pool villas. And all of them offer pristine private beaches where it is easy to organize a ceremony or even a reception,” highlighted Kutchada Boonrawd, marketing communication manager at the Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa.
It seems that Phuket’s efforts to attract more travelers come at the right time. The island is, in fact, profiting from the political turmoil earlier in the year in Bangkok. Many travelers seem to have now switched their travel plan from Bangkok and its surroundings (including Pattaya or Hua Hin) to southern destinations. This explains the sudden increase in interest for international airlines to propose direct flights to Phuket. This trend could have also a positive aspect for the airport. It might force the authorities to speed up the construction of a new international passengers’ terminal. The project – in planning for over a decade - has been constantly delayed over the years.
Phuket is already the second largest resort in the Kingdom in terms of international tourists (2.43 million in 2008) and for the total number of rooms in commercial accommodation (37,800 units in 2008). The international airport offers over 6 million seats in air capacity, including 2.5 million on international flights.
“International air access to Phuket has improved tremendously since 2008. We have seen an increasing number of flights to Singapore but also to Tokyo. We have also new destinations being now linked to Phuket such as Ho Chi Minh City, Jakarta, and from October, Qatar Airways. We even get now regular charters from Iran with over 30 flights during the high season,” explained a representative from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) office in the Southern Province.
With the further development of luxury properties, such as the Westin Siray Bay (it opened officially in early August), the Impiana Private Villas Kata Noi (officially opened at the end of July), and the Renaissance Phuket Resort and Spa (opened in May), Phuket looks effectively as an ideal venue for a wedding, which can be high-profile or just simply romantic. These luxury hotels pool together their resources with another 15 properties on the island to lure wedding and honeymoon groups. TAT has published two books to help wedding planners: memorable weddings in Thailand and Thailand Pool Villas – a favorite for honeymoon couples - are precious guides to plan a wedding.
“We see tremendous potential for wedding[s] today. Although we still get western wedding demand, we increasingly look at welcoming Indian and Chinese,” said Robert J. Lohrmann, vice president and sales manager of the JW Marriott Phuket.
Indian travelers are increasingly discovering Phuket as a wedding destination thanks to its relative proximity to India and its cheaper prices to organize a wedding. “These Indian weddings obey to extremely strict rules and customs with very specific needs. It takes on average six to eight months to plan and can cost up to THB 100 million (US$3.2 million) but it brings big business to us,” added Mr. Lohrmann. Japanese and Korean markets, however, look more into honeymoon travel rather than wedding celebrations. “Japanese continue to favor a traditional wedding ceremony in Japan,” said TAT.
"The southern island could become even more attractive to Indian tourists if direct flights were established. However, they are no such plans for the time being according to TAT. Other countries with strong potential for wedding tourism are Russia and Australia, while the demand gets softer from Western Europe due to the world recession in 2009. For honeymooners and wedding groups, Phuket is the perfect getaway as we have all kinds of products: five-star resorts, boutique hotels, and private pool villas. And all of them offer pristine private beaches where it is easy to organize a ceremony or even a reception,” highlighted Kutchada Boonrawd, marketing communication manager at the Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa.
It seems that Phuket’s efforts to attract more travelers come at the right time. The island is, in fact, profiting from the political turmoil earlier in the year in Bangkok. Many travelers seem to have now switched their travel plan from Bangkok and its surroundings (including Pattaya or Hua Hin) to southern destinations. This explains the sudden increase in interest for international airlines to propose direct flights to Phuket. This trend could have also a positive aspect for the airport. It might force the authorities to speed up the construction of a new international passengers’ terminal. The project – in planning for over a decade - has been constantly delayed over the years.
THAILAND TRAVEL MART 2010 Thailand looks to balance its tourism strategy - eTurboNews.com
BANGKOK (eTN)- Originally the Thailand Travel Mart was scheduled in June, like every year. But political turmoils in April and May forced to postpone the event to September. TTM took then place on September 9 and 10 and it has been a blessing in disguise. The belated hosting served to see if Thailand is now recovering from a turbulent year. “ This TTM ediion is part of our recovery program. And we are so far very satisfied with the outcome of the show which recorded some 335 buyers from 50 countries. We have invited many emerging inbound markets to participate such as Argentina, Mexico, Portugal, Poland or Kazakhstan”, explained at TTM traditional press conference Suraphon Svetasreni, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.
Mr Svetasreni has some good reasons to be relatively optimist. Once again, Thailand is bouncing back from a gloomy time, and it bounces back quicker than expected. “Many of us predicted that the market would take six to twelve months to recover. We started to see business back after only six weeks following May events,” tells Chanin Donavanik, CEO of Dusit International (see an exclusive interview with eTN early next week). Mr. Svetasreni indicated that international arrivals to Thailand finally grew by 13.8% from January to July totalling 8.7 million travelers. All markets are recovering strongly except the Americas up by only 1.6% during the same period. Thailand experienced especially a jump in arrivals from the Middle East and South Asia.
“It is a good performance even if we had expected originally a better outcome for the year 2010. Until March, tourist arrivals were growing by 20% on average and all indicators then pointed out to a futher growth in this range for the next months. However, we saw a drop from 20% to 25% in April and May due to political instability. We believe that Thailand will be able to welcome again at least 14 million international tourists in 2010 bringing some US$ 16.5 billion in revenues”, he explains. For 2011, TAT estimates that the country would see over 15.5 million travelers.
For TAT Governor, this rapid recovery is due to the many strong assets of Thailand’s tourism: “The sense of service and welcome of our people, the charm of our Thai culture and Thai way of life bring a strong feeling to many visitors. This emotional connection of travelers to our country is an asset that we will use in our marketing campaign”, he says.
The new marketing campaign is all in balancing trends to speed up tourism’s recovery. Mr. Svetasreni has then developed with his team a marketing strategy including three key dimensions to tourism: the economy, the environment and the society. The well-known emblematic “Amazing Thailand” will be retained for 2011 marketing campaigns and will be underlined with a new slogan “Always Amazes You”. The slogan will reinforce then the emotional value of the country’s brand but also highlights all the assets offered by Thailand to its visitors, from its numerous attractions, sense of welcome to amazing good value offers. However, Mr Svetasreni will also give more emphasis to promote the country to domestic travelers. “We can then reduce the dependence to international markets which are easier affected by events such as recession or natural disasters,” he adds. Of course, political instability would also take its toll on international travelers decisions to come to the Kingdom. International markets identified with a promising potential for Thailand are Eastern Europe, the CIS and North Africa. Thematic activities will also be fostered such as Golf, diving, wellness or luxury wedding and honeymoon. Sustainable tourism as well as eco tourism will be then promoted during the off peak season to turn Thailand into a year-round destination.
Positioning Thailand as a premium luxury destination for honeymooners or medical treatment will help to slowly move away from the period of heavily discounts which were made available following March and April political violences. “Discounting hotel rates is just good for a short time to bring back confidence into our destination. But it is not a long-term solution,” estimates Mr Svetasreni.
The growth of tourism will however only be successful if the country truly embarked into a quality sustainable tourism. “For the first 50 years of Thai tourism, our development largely focused on maximizing economic benefits. However, the next 50 years will require an equivalent focus on minimising the ecological impact of tourism”, adds Mr Svetasreni. Initiatives such as Community-Based tourism or Green tourism have been launched with new awareness campaigns to come over the next months.
Building up an environment-friendly tourism product is probably one of the biggest challenges that Thailand faces. For decades, business practices and political decisions have been closely linked to corruption, most of the time to the detriment of environment protection. However, Mr Svetasreni perceives some positive changes. “ A new way of thinking is emerging and it is very different of what we used to see in the past", he says. “I see more and more investors or public administrations looking at the environmental impact or at the green issue, often under the pressure from local people, foreign visitors and also the media, prompt to point out issues. It is a good and necessary evolution”, adds the Governor.
Mr Svetasreni has some good reasons to be relatively optimist. Once again, Thailand is bouncing back from a gloomy time, and it bounces back quicker than expected. “Many of us predicted that the market would take six to twelve months to recover. We started to see business back after only six weeks following May events,” tells Chanin Donavanik, CEO of Dusit International (see an exclusive interview with eTN early next week). Mr. Svetasreni indicated that international arrivals to Thailand finally grew by 13.8% from January to July totalling 8.7 million travelers. All markets are recovering strongly except the Americas up by only 1.6% during the same period. Thailand experienced especially a jump in arrivals from the Middle East and South Asia.
“It is a good performance even if we had expected originally a better outcome for the year 2010. Until March, tourist arrivals were growing by 20% on average and all indicators then pointed out to a futher growth in this range for the next months. However, we saw a drop from 20% to 25% in April and May due to political instability. We believe that Thailand will be able to welcome again at least 14 million international tourists in 2010 bringing some US$ 16.5 billion in revenues”, he explains. For 2011, TAT estimates that the country would see over 15.5 million travelers.
For TAT Governor, this rapid recovery is due to the many strong assets of Thailand’s tourism: “The sense of service and welcome of our people, the charm of our Thai culture and Thai way of life bring a strong feeling to many visitors. This emotional connection of travelers to our country is an asset that we will use in our marketing campaign”, he says.
The new marketing campaign is all in balancing trends to speed up tourism’s recovery. Mr. Svetasreni has then developed with his team a marketing strategy including three key dimensions to tourism: the economy, the environment and the society. The well-known emblematic “Amazing Thailand” will be retained for 2011 marketing campaigns and will be underlined with a new slogan “Always Amazes You”. The slogan will reinforce then the emotional value of the country’s brand but also highlights all the assets offered by Thailand to its visitors, from its numerous attractions, sense of welcome to amazing good value offers. However, Mr Svetasreni will also give more emphasis to promote the country to domestic travelers. “We can then reduce the dependence to international markets which are easier affected by events such as recession or natural disasters,” he adds. Of course, political instability would also take its toll on international travelers decisions to come to the Kingdom. International markets identified with a promising potential for Thailand are Eastern Europe, the CIS and North Africa. Thematic activities will also be fostered such as Golf, diving, wellness or luxury wedding and honeymoon. Sustainable tourism as well as eco tourism will be then promoted during the off peak season to turn Thailand into a year-round destination.
Positioning Thailand as a premium luxury destination for honeymooners or medical treatment will help to slowly move away from the period of heavily discounts which were made available following March and April political violences. “Discounting hotel rates is just good for a short time to bring back confidence into our destination. But it is not a long-term solution,” estimates Mr Svetasreni.
The growth of tourism will however only be successful if the country truly embarked into a quality sustainable tourism. “For the first 50 years of Thai tourism, our development largely focused on maximizing economic benefits. However, the next 50 years will require an equivalent focus on minimising the ecological impact of tourism”, adds Mr Svetasreni. Initiatives such as Community-Based tourism or Green tourism have been launched with new awareness campaigns to come over the next months.
Building up an environment-friendly tourism product is probably one of the biggest challenges that Thailand faces. For decades, business practices and political decisions have been closely linked to corruption, most of the time to the detriment of environment protection. However, Mr Svetasreni perceives some positive changes. “ A new way of thinking is emerging and it is very different of what we used to see in the past", he says. “I see more and more investors or public administrations looking at the environmental impact or at the green issue, often under the pressure from local people, foreign visitors and also the media, prompt to point out issues. It is a good and necessary evolution”, adds the Governor.
Travel Agents Association Of India Meets In Phuket Thailand tourism seduces India - eTurboNews.com
Travel Agents Association Of India Meets In Phuket Thailand tourism seduces India - eTurboNews.com
PHUKET (eTN) - The growth of India's economy has been accompanied by the emergence of an new middle class in the country. Some 40 to 50 million people strong, this middle class is now the target of all countries around the world. “Following the partition of India in 1947, people during decades only thought of saving money for better days. However, the empowerment of an affluent young generation has dramatically changed consumption habits. Younger Indians want now to spend their mone,y and travel is definitely part of this consumption boom,” explained Phuket Rajji Rai, president of TAAI, Travel Agents Association of India, the oldest body of this type on the subcontinent.
Between September 23 and 27, some 1,200 Indian nationals (800 TAAI members, 300 spouses and accompanying people, and 100 VIPs) met in Phuket, Southern Thailand, to discuss the evolution of India’s travel industry. But also to (re)discover the Kingdom’s number one resort destination, an opportunity that Thailand did not want to miss. “We see huge potential for development for the Indian market. We found as a good sign that this year the market continues to grow despite the political troubles we experienced earlier in the year. This is indeed a promising sign for the future. We currently receive over 650,000 Indian travelers annually, but we are confident to reach very soon one million Indian visitors,” said Suraphon Svetasreni, governor of TAT (Tourism Authority of Thailand), who specifically flew from Bangkok on Saturday to greet TAAI members.
According to the governor, TAT and its partners in Phuket invested some 8 million Baht [US$260,000] to help organize the event. "It is worth the investment as we welcomed 1,200 people for five days. And both TAAI and TAT see high potential in youth tourism, health tourism, weddings, and honeymoons, as well as golf. Weddings are a huge business in India as between 200 and 500 people can come up to a week and can spend up to US$500,000. So far in the first half of the year, we already organized 50 large wedding ceremonies, translating into some 10,000 visitors,” described Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya, TAT director in New Delhi. For Mr. Svetasreni, there is also a good potential for destinations such as Krabi, Nakhon Sri Tammarat, or Songkhla province to attract more Indian travelers.
For Rajji Rai, any destination hosting TAAI’s annual meeting has seen in return a growth in arrivals from India. “Imagine over 2,500 of our members promoting your destination all around the country. We organized our annual meeting last year in Dubai, which then experienced in return a growth of 8 percent in total Indian arrivals. This was quite an achievement in a year of recession!” explained Mr. Rai. “I can predict that numbers will continue to grow. Thailand is an ideal long weekend destination for Indian travelers and is increasingly popular due to this wonderful sense of service of Thai people, who know what the sense of hospitality is,” he added.
TAAI is not only just about a conference. Thailand can also expect a strong interest in India’s tourism business, which could invest massively into Thailand. According to TAAI, chains like luxury hotel chains such as Leela or Taj are to set foot into the country; the same with airline leaders who are looking to expand their business into Thailand. Kingfisher, Jet Airways, or low-fare airline, Spicejet, representatives could soon add more flights, especially those serving Phuket. This could, at least, be the most visible consequence of TAAI's presence on the southern resort island. "Phuket lacks flight connections to India and this should be an absolute priority if TAT wants to attract more travelers from India to the South,” told Rajji Rai. This wish might turn into reality very quickly.
PHUKET (eTN) - The growth of India's economy has been accompanied by the emergence of an new middle class in the country. Some 40 to 50 million people strong, this middle class is now the target of all countries around the world. “Following the partition of India in 1947, people during decades only thought of saving money for better days. However, the empowerment of an affluent young generation has dramatically changed consumption habits. Younger Indians want now to spend their mone,y and travel is definitely part of this consumption boom,” explained Phuket Rajji Rai, president of TAAI, Travel Agents Association of India, the oldest body of this type on the subcontinent.
Between September 23 and 27, some 1,200 Indian nationals (800 TAAI members, 300 spouses and accompanying people, and 100 VIPs) met in Phuket, Southern Thailand, to discuss the evolution of India’s travel industry. But also to (re)discover the Kingdom’s number one resort destination, an opportunity that Thailand did not want to miss. “We see huge potential for development for the Indian market. We found as a good sign that this year the market continues to grow despite the political troubles we experienced earlier in the year. This is indeed a promising sign for the future. We currently receive over 650,000 Indian travelers annually, but we are confident to reach very soon one million Indian visitors,” said Suraphon Svetasreni, governor of TAT (Tourism Authority of Thailand), who specifically flew from Bangkok on Saturday to greet TAAI members.
According to the governor, TAT and its partners in Phuket invested some 8 million Baht [US$260,000] to help organize the event. "It is worth the investment as we welcomed 1,200 people for five days. And both TAAI and TAT see high potential in youth tourism, health tourism, weddings, and honeymoons, as well as golf. Weddings are a huge business in India as between 200 and 500 people can come up to a week and can spend up to US$500,000. So far in the first half of the year, we already organized 50 large wedding ceremonies, translating into some 10,000 visitors,” described Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya, TAT director in New Delhi. For Mr. Svetasreni, there is also a good potential for destinations such as Krabi, Nakhon Sri Tammarat, or Songkhla province to attract more Indian travelers.
For Rajji Rai, any destination hosting TAAI’s annual meeting has seen in return a growth in arrivals from India. “Imagine over 2,500 of our members promoting your destination all around the country. We organized our annual meeting last year in Dubai, which then experienced in return a growth of 8 percent in total Indian arrivals. This was quite an achievement in a year of recession!” explained Mr. Rai. “I can predict that numbers will continue to grow. Thailand is an ideal long weekend destination for Indian travelers and is increasingly popular due to this wonderful sense of service of Thai people, who know what the sense of hospitality is,” he added.
TAAI is not only just about a conference. Thailand can also expect a strong interest in India’s tourism business, which could invest massively into Thailand. According to TAAI, chains like luxury hotel chains such as Leela or Taj are to set foot into the country; the same with airline leaders who are looking to expand their business into Thailand. Kingfisher, Jet Airways, or low-fare airline, Spicejet, representatives could soon add more flights, especially those serving Phuket. This could, at least, be the most visible consequence of TAAI's presence on the southern resort island. "Phuket lacks flight connections to India and this should be an absolute priority if TAT wants to attract more travelers from India to the South,” told Rajji Rai. This wish might turn into reality very quickly.
The Telegraph - Calcutta (Kolkata) | Metro | Timeout
Recent measures of globalisation have allowed for an intensity of distribution, creating a shared database of ideas, images and location. Yet, they have also strengthened the flow and distribution of iconography from which has developed a visual vernacular and an international language with readings regulated by reference and ethics. Amrita Sher-Gill (1913-1941) was perhaps the first modern artist who employed cross-cultural references in her works. Besides Paris, the ongoing exhibition, brings together the work of 18 artists of Indian origin who currently live and work in Paris. It offers a chance to investigate the language they have developed, its metaphysical resolve and the intensity of the connection that stretches between France and India. It also marks a necessity to address art history and to examine the long and historical art relationships shared between Europe and India. Sacred Modernities (Participants: Narayanan Akkitham, Sujata Bajaj, Anju Chaudhuri, Rajendra Dhawan, Lakshmi Dutt, Bhawani Katoch, S.H. Raza, Inderjeet Sahdev and Viswanandan Velu), the first section of the show, displays a range of making and mark-making that have restrained varieties and hues but are continual visitations to specific notations on abstract and symbolic forms that allude to various philosophical speculations. The works in Celestial Bodies (Participants: Sakti Burman, Maya Burman, Madhu Mangal Basu, Utpal Chakraborty, Debesh Goswami, Gadadhar Ojha, Sharmila Roy, Nitin Shroff and Jiwan Singh) display the development of a terse language that borrows and haunts the Indo-European traditions. Curator: Shaheen Merali.
Monday, September 27, 2010
Thailand Lifts Growth Forecast for Third Time as Export Growth Accelerates - Bloomberg
Thailand Lifts Growth Forecast for Third Time as Export Growth Accelerates - Bloomberg
Thailand’s Finance Ministry raised its 2010 economic growth forecast for the third time in six months after exports surged in the first half of the year and local demand recovered.
Gross domestic product may expand 7.3 percent to 7.8 percent in 2010, with a mid-point forecast of 7.5 percent, Satit Rungkasiri, head of the ministry’s Fiscal Policy Office, said today. The ministry in June raised the estimate to as much as 6 percent from a March projection of as much as 5 percent.
Surging overseas sales of electronics and automobiles helped Thailand’s economy expand 9.1 percent in the second quarter, exceeding economists’ forecasts. Satit warned that growth will slow in the second half as the baht strengthens against the dollar and the economic recovery falters in the U.S. and Europe, Thailand’s biggest export markets.
“The high GDP growth forecast for the full year mainly comes from the excellent performance in the first half,” said Pimonwan Mahujchariyawong, an economist at Kasikorn Research Ltd. in Bangkok. “But, the slowing global economy and the baht strength will weigh on the economy in the second half.”
Thailand’s economy will expand 6 percent in the third quarter and 3.3 percent in the last three months of 2010, Satit said. Exports are expected to expand by 25 percent this year and imports may grow 35.6 percent, the finance ministry estimates.
“Exports remain the key driver for the economy as they account for 60 percent of GDP,” Satit said at a briefing in Bangkok. “If economies of our trading partners slow, we will be affected. But, the effect will be less than before because we have diversified our exports to new markets.”
Export Growth Slows
Thailand’s exports increased 23.9 percent to $16.5 billion in August from a year earlier, after rising 20.6 percent in July and 46.3 percent in June, customs data show.
The baht may strengthen to 30 per dollar by the end of this year, Satit said. The central bank’s benchmark interest rate may rise to 2 percent over the same period and to 3 percent next year, from 1.75 percent now, Satit said.
The baht has advanced 8.8 percent this year against the dollar, the second best-performer among major currencies in Asia excluding the yen, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. The currency gained 0.3 percent to 30.59 as of 12:12 p.m. in Bangkok and touched 30.58, the strongest level since August 1997.
“The impact will be felt in coming months,” Kasikorn Research’s Pimonwan said. “We don’t see it now because export orders are booked in advance, but new orders may suffer from price competitiveness. If the baht strengthens beyond 30 and the global economy remains weak, export growth in the fourth quarter may be lower than 10 percent.”
Rising Local Demand
The Bank of Thailand predicted in July that Southeast Asia’s largest economy after Indonesia will grow as much as 7.5 percent, which would be the fastest pace since 1995. The bank said on Aug. 31 the economy “still has growth momentum” in the second half as improving local demand will help offset slowing export growth.
Thailand’s consumer confidence climbed to a 28-month high in August, signaling a recovery in domestic spending, the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce said this month.
Local consumption will “recover strongly in the fourth quarter and help support growth,” Thanavath Phonvichai, an economist at the university, said on Sept. 9.
Thailand’s Finance Ministry raised its 2010 economic growth forecast for the third time in six months after exports surged in the first half of the year and local demand recovered.
Gross domestic product may expand 7.3 percent to 7.8 percent in 2010, with a mid-point forecast of 7.5 percent, Satit Rungkasiri, head of the ministry’s Fiscal Policy Office, said today. The ministry in June raised the estimate to as much as 6 percent from a March projection of as much as 5 percent.
Surging overseas sales of electronics and automobiles helped Thailand’s economy expand 9.1 percent in the second quarter, exceeding economists’ forecasts. Satit warned that growth will slow in the second half as the baht strengthens against the dollar and the economic recovery falters in the U.S. and Europe, Thailand’s biggest export markets.
“The high GDP growth forecast for the full year mainly comes from the excellent performance in the first half,” said Pimonwan Mahujchariyawong, an economist at Kasikorn Research Ltd. in Bangkok. “But, the slowing global economy and the baht strength will weigh on the economy in the second half.”
Thailand’s economy will expand 6 percent in the third quarter and 3.3 percent in the last three months of 2010, Satit said. Exports are expected to expand by 25 percent this year and imports may grow 35.6 percent, the finance ministry estimates.
“Exports remain the key driver for the economy as they account for 60 percent of GDP,” Satit said at a briefing in Bangkok. “If economies of our trading partners slow, we will be affected. But, the effect will be less than before because we have diversified our exports to new markets.”
Export Growth Slows
Thailand’s exports increased 23.9 percent to $16.5 billion in August from a year earlier, after rising 20.6 percent in July and 46.3 percent in June, customs data show.
The baht may strengthen to 30 per dollar by the end of this year, Satit said. The central bank’s benchmark interest rate may rise to 2 percent over the same period and to 3 percent next year, from 1.75 percent now, Satit said.
The baht has advanced 8.8 percent this year against the dollar, the second best-performer among major currencies in Asia excluding the yen, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. The currency gained 0.3 percent to 30.59 as of 12:12 p.m. in Bangkok and touched 30.58, the strongest level since August 1997.
“The impact will be felt in coming months,” Kasikorn Research’s Pimonwan said. “We don’t see it now because export orders are booked in advance, but new orders may suffer from price competitiveness. If the baht strengthens beyond 30 and the global economy remains weak, export growth in the fourth quarter may be lower than 10 percent.”
Rising Local Demand
The Bank of Thailand predicted in July that Southeast Asia’s largest economy after Indonesia will grow as much as 7.5 percent, which would be the fastest pace since 1995. The bank said on Aug. 31 the economy “still has growth momentum” in the second half as improving local demand will help offset slowing export growth.
Thailand’s consumer confidence climbed to a 28-month high in August, signaling a recovery in domestic spending, the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce said this month.
Local consumption will “recover strongly in the fourth quarter and help support growth,” Thanavath Phonvichai, an economist at the university, said on Sept. 9.
Investment in Thailand explained to US business community | Thailand Business News
Investment in Thailand explained to US business community | Thailand Business News
Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva said he will explain investing in Thailand to a segment of the US businessp community, including the issues of the Map Ta Phut industrial projects and the 3G wireless service.
Mr Abhisit is attending the 65th United Nations General Assembly in New York from September 22-26.
The Thai prime minister was to meet representatives of US-ASEAN Business Council- USABC Thursday afternoon (New York time).
Asked about resolving the long-delayed launch of the 3G, the prime minister said service trials have been conducted by the operators. - Photographer attached to the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand : Peerapat Wimolrungkarat
Prior to the meeting,Mr Abhisit said that investors did not understand the legal problems related to suspending the Map Ta Phut Industries and the delayed 3G licence bidding and that they thought that government should get both plans moving ahead.
However, regarding the 3G bids, he said the Supreme Administrative Court upheld the ruling to suspend the auction and that the Telecommunications Commission (NTC) must comply with the court. In terms of policy, the government must speed up the bill that would eventually lead to forming the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), which will be authorised to allocate the 3G spectrum, by the end of the year.
Asked about resolving the long-delayed launch of the 3G, the prime minister said service trials have been conducted by the operators. He assigned the ministries of finance, and of information and communication technology to review the possibility of more quickly applying the technology and converting the existing 2G concession contracts into 3G agreements pending the ruling of the Constitution Court.
via PM clarifies investment in Thailand with US business community.
In 2009, the Royal Thai Government continued to increase efforts on prevention and suppression of intellectual property violation. The profile of intellectual property has consistently been raised to a new plane as the administration led by Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva commits itself to the vision of turning the country into a creative and knowledge driven economy.
Thailand’s implementation on intellectual property rights in 2009 up to the beginning of 2010, a compilation of initiatives, activities and successes of Thailand in combating intellectual property rights violations is Thailand’s response to the comments by US industries submitted to the USTR regarding the intellectual property rights situation of the country in the past year.
The Proactive Plan on Prevention and Suppression of Intellectual Property Rights Violation,drafted in close consultation with relevant agencies, was endorsed by the Cabinet on 9 July 2009. The Plan prescribes actions to be taken within 2-6 months by different agencies (e.g., Royal Thai Police, Department of Special Investigation, Customs Department) in six areas as follows:
Law enforcement – promoting consistent suppression of rights violation
and integrated coordination between law enforcement agencies;
Enhancement of judicial process;
Improvement of patent registration process;
Curtailing rights infringement over the internet;
Legislative changes; and,
Cooperation with the private sector.
The law enforcement agencies namely the Department of Special Investigation, the Royal Thai Police and Customs Department have pursued aggressive raids, arrests, and seizures of infringing goods at borders and behind borders. The law enforcement agencies submit a daily report to the Chair of the Sub-Committee. The Sub-Committee reports to the Cabinet on a monthly basis. The Customs Department has created an Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Centre in the Investigation and Suppression Bureau to enhance coordination amongst various law enforcement agencies. The Centre and the Department of Special Investigation are establishing a private network linking databases to enable instant access to information to assist the investigations.
The government of Thailand is determined to curb corruption in government services.
A list of 41 police officers who took part or assisted in the violation of intellectual property rights has been submitted to the Deputy Prime Minister responsible for national security affairs. The case is under active investigation by the Royal Thai Police.
In December 2009, the Department of Intellectual Property opened HOT LINE 1368 as a new channel for direct reporting of suspicious activities or problematic situations which could involve IP infringement. Information boards were given to the Royal Thai Police for display in the red zone areas in order to promote public participation in the fight against all forms of IP infringement.
In line with the country’s Creative Economy Policy, promotion and protection of intellectual property have become central to economic policy making. It is believed that protecting theinterests of local and foreign rights holders would promote investor confidence, stimulates invention, innovation and creation of original works.
The Department of Intellectual Property has launched “STOP PIRACY” campaign as part of the efforts in response to the policy initiative by Deputy Minister Alongkorn. The main objective is to raise awareness amongst the general public and youth so that they understand the importance of respect for other people’s rights, by, for example, not selling, buying nor using infringing products.
The Department of Intellectual Property had brooches made to order, with the inscription “STOP PIRACY” in the Thai and the English languages and distributed them during different campaign activities
RESPONSES TO THE US CONCERNS ON COMPULSORY LICENSING, DATA PROTECTION, PATENT LINKAGE AND DELAY IN PATENT EXAMINATION
Since the announcement of the compulsory licensing for four cancer treatment medicines by the Ministry of Public Health in early 2008, only two have been enforced and the list has not been expanded since. The current administration has made it clear in various occasions that Thailand attaches high importance to close dialogue between stakeholders including the pharmaceutical industry, patients and government agencies to identify constructive ways and means to ensure continued supply and access to medicines. Thailand would like to underscore the fact that IP also has a social dimension which sometimes could be less compatible with market principles.
The case of compulsory licensing in Thailand is highly sensitive as it relates to the public health and access to medicines by patients suffering from life threatening diseases such as HIV/AIDS and cancer. The government has been handling this issue with great caution to ensure that any measures taken are in conformity with Thailand’s rights and obligations under the international agreements. In response to this, a four-party meeting was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in September 2009 to discuss a possible confidence building mechanism to enable constructive and regular exchanges between relevant government agencies and the pharmaceutical industry.
The meeting was attended by representatives from the Department of Intellectual Property, the Ministry of Public Health, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and PReMA. The Department of Intellectual Property itself has maintained close dialogue with PReMA. In the recent meeting on 24 December 2009, several issues were discussed such as CL, counterfeit drugs and trademarks, parallel imports.
Incoming search terms for this article:
abhisit vejjajiva - thailand - Tags: united states
Related Stories
Prime Minister not surprised Thailand is on US Priority Watch List
United States condemns Thai violence by pro-Thaksin protesters
American business leader calls on Thailand to facilitate investments
Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva said he will explain investing in Thailand to a segment of the US businessp community, including the issues of the Map Ta Phut industrial projects and the 3G wireless service.
Mr Abhisit is attending the 65th United Nations General Assembly in New York from September 22-26.
The Thai prime minister was to meet representatives of US-ASEAN Business Council- USABC Thursday afternoon (New York time).
Asked about resolving the long-delayed launch of the 3G, the prime minister said service trials have been conducted by the operators. - Photographer attached to the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand : Peerapat Wimolrungkarat
Prior to the meeting,Mr Abhisit said that investors did not understand the legal problems related to suspending the Map Ta Phut Industries and the delayed 3G licence bidding and that they thought that government should get both plans moving ahead.
However, regarding the 3G bids, he said the Supreme Administrative Court upheld the ruling to suspend the auction and that the Telecommunications Commission (NTC) must comply with the court. In terms of policy, the government must speed up the bill that would eventually lead to forming the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), which will be authorised to allocate the 3G spectrum, by the end of the year.
Asked about resolving the long-delayed launch of the 3G, the prime minister said service trials have been conducted by the operators. He assigned the ministries of finance, and of information and communication technology to review the possibility of more quickly applying the technology and converting the existing 2G concession contracts into 3G agreements pending the ruling of the Constitution Court.
via PM clarifies investment in Thailand with US business community.
In 2009, the Royal Thai Government continued to increase efforts on prevention and suppression of intellectual property violation. The profile of intellectual property has consistently been raised to a new plane as the administration led by Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva commits itself to the vision of turning the country into a creative and knowledge driven economy.
Thailand’s implementation on intellectual property rights in 2009 up to the beginning of 2010, a compilation of initiatives, activities and successes of Thailand in combating intellectual property rights violations is Thailand’s response to the comments by US industries submitted to the USTR regarding the intellectual property rights situation of the country in the past year.
The Proactive Plan on Prevention and Suppression of Intellectual Property Rights Violation,drafted in close consultation with relevant agencies, was endorsed by the Cabinet on 9 July 2009. The Plan prescribes actions to be taken within 2-6 months by different agencies (e.g., Royal Thai Police, Department of Special Investigation, Customs Department) in six areas as follows:
Law enforcement – promoting consistent suppression of rights violation
and integrated coordination between law enforcement agencies;
Enhancement of judicial process;
Improvement of patent registration process;
Curtailing rights infringement over the internet;
Legislative changes; and,
Cooperation with the private sector.
The law enforcement agencies namely the Department of Special Investigation, the Royal Thai Police and Customs Department have pursued aggressive raids, arrests, and seizures of infringing goods at borders and behind borders. The law enforcement agencies submit a daily report to the Chair of the Sub-Committee. The Sub-Committee reports to the Cabinet on a monthly basis. The Customs Department has created an Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Centre in the Investigation and Suppression Bureau to enhance coordination amongst various law enforcement agencies. The Centre and the Department of Special Investigation are establishing a private network linking databases to enable instant access to information to assist the investigations.
The government of Thailand is determined to curb corruption in government services.
A list of 41 police officers who took part or assisted in the violation of intellectual property rights has been submitted to the Deputy Prime Minister responsible for national security affairs. The case is under active investigation by the Royal Thai Police.
In December 2009, the Department of Intellectual Property opened HOT LINE 1368 as a new channel for direct reporting of suspicious activities or problematic situations which could involve IP infringement. Information boards were given to the Royal Thai Police for display in the red zone areas in order to promote public participation in the fight against all forms of IP infringement.
In line with the country’s Creative Economy Policy, promotion and protection of intellectual property have become central to economic policy making. It is believed that protecting theinterests of local and foreign rights holders would promote investor confidence, stimulates invention, innovation and creation of original works.
The Department of Intellectual Property has launched “STOP PIRACY” campaign as part of the efforts in response to the policy initiative by Deputy Minister Alongkorn. The main objective is to raise awareness amongst the general public and youth so that they understand the importance of respect for other people’s rights, by, for example, not selling, buying nor using infringing products.
The Department of Intellectual Property had brooches made to order, with the inscription “STOP PIRACY” in the Thai and the English languages and distributed them during different campaign activities
RESPONSES TO THE US CONCERNS ON COMPULSORY LICENSING, DATA PROTECTION, PATENT LINKAGE AND DELAY IN PATENT EXAMINATION
Since the announcement of the compulsory licensing for four cancer treatment medicines by the Ministry of Public Health in early 2008, only two have been enforced and the list has not been expanded since. The current administration has made it clear in various occasions that Thailand attaches high importance to close dialogue between stakeholders including the pharmaceutical industry, patients and government agencies to identify constructive ways and means to ensure continued supply and access to medicines. Thailand would like to underscore the fact that IP also has a social dimension which sometimes could be less compatible with market principles.
The case of compulsory licensing in Thailand is highly sensitive as it relates to the public health and access to medicines by patients suffering from life threatening diseases such as HIV/AIDS and cancer. The government has been handling this issue with great caution to ensure that any measures taken are in conformity with Thailand’s rights and obligations under the international agreements. In response to this, a four-party meeting was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in September 2009 to discuss a possible confidence building mechanism to enable constructive and regular exchanges between relevant government agencies and the pharmaceutical industry.
The meeting was attended by representatives from the Department of Intellectual Property, the Ministry of Public Health, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and PReMA. The Department of Intellectual Property itself has maintained close dialogue with PReMA. In the recent meeting on 24 December 2009, several issues were discussed such as CL, counterfeit drugs and trademarks, parallel imports.
Incoming search terms for this article:
abhisit vejjajiva - thailand - Tags: united states
Related Stories
Prime Minister not surprised Thailand is on US Priority Watch List
United States condemns Thai violence by pro-Thaksin protesters
American business leader calls on Thailand to facilitate investments
Sunday, September 26, 2010
10 Bangkok cooking schools that will turn you into a master chef. Or at least a decent one | CNNGo.com
10 Bangkok cooking schools that will turn you into a master chef. Or at least a decent one | CNNGo.com
It wasn’t that long ago that Bangkok’s cooking-school scene was defined by just a handful of pricey hotel-bound sessions, all of which dealt strictly with Thai food. Today there’s a huge range of prices, locations and cuisines to choose from.
Keep in mind when choosing a school that a typical half-day course should at least include an introduction to fundamental ingredients and techniques and a hands-on chance to prepare and cook at least four dishes.
Most schools offer a revolving cast of dishes, making it possible to study for a week without repeating a lesson and Thai courses often include a visit to a wet market. Nearly all lessons include a set of printed recipes and end with a communal lunch where you get to sample your handiwork.
At the more expensive schools, students are also usually given an apron, a gift box filled with Thai cooking ingredients and a certificate that’s sure to impress your friends, even if it doesn't land you a job at El Bulli.
Ready to learn? Here are 10 great cooking courses in Bangkok that offer a wide range of cuisines and styles.
Bangkok cooking school Amita's canal-side location adds to the learning experience.
Amita Thai Cooking Class
Amita’s lessons are held in an antique canal-side home in Thonburi, making it the homiest of Bangkok’s Thai cookery schools. Classes include an explanatory visit to the resident herb garden and instruction in four dishes, with the fee including transportation.
162/17 Soi Wutthakat 14, Wutthakat Road, Thonburi. Tel: +66 (0)2 466 8966. www.amitathaicooking.com. Lessons: 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Thursday-Tuesday. Price: 2,800 baht/lesson.
Baipai Thai Cooking School
With an army of staff and set in an attractive suburban villa, Baipai offers two daily lessons that each teach you how to make four dishes. See the website find out which ones are on offer on which days.
150/12 Soi Naksuwan, Nonsee Road. Tel: +66 (0)2 294 9029. www.baipai.com. Lessons: 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. & 1:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m., Tuesday-Sunday. Price: 1,800 baht/lesson.
At Beccofino, students have a rare chance to learn how to cook Italian from professional chefs.
Beccofino
This upscale Italian restaurant now offers conference-style classes in Italian cooking. Instruction in three recipes is followed by an executive chef lunch and a wine tasting.
146 Soi 4, Soi Thong Lor. Tel: +66 (0)2 392 1881. www.beccofino.co.th. Lessons 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Thursday & Saturday. Price: 1,500 baht/lesson.
Bo.lan
One of Bangkok’s best upscale Thai restaurants is offering private tuition in Thai cooking, taught by the restaurant’s chefs/owners. Held on Saturdays, courses vary in skill level, with the Fundamental Plus course featuring a visit to a market and the Turn Pro course tacking on an additional Sunday session.
42 Soi Rongnarong Phichai Songkhram, Soi 26, Sukhumvit Road. Tel: +66 (0)2 260 2962. www.bolan.co.th. Lessons: 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Saturday. Price: 3,900-8,200 baht per course.
At Khao Cooking School, lessons are taught by Kobkaew Najphinit, who has been teaching for over 30 years and authored several Thai cookbooks.
Blue Elephant Cooking School
The longstanding Blue Elephant is Bangkok’s best-equipped cooking school. Two courses are offered daily, with the morning session featuring a visit to a local market and the afternoon session including a detailed introduction to Thai ingredients.
233 Sathon Tai Road. Tel: +66 (0)2 673 9353. www.blueelephant.com. Lessons: 8:45 a.m.-1 p.m. & 1:15 p.m.-4.30 p.m. Monday-Saturday. Price: 2,800 baht/lesson.
Face
This attractive restaurant compound recently opened a cooking school with instruction in Thai, Indian and Japanese cooking. Lessons are taught by natives of those countries, and there’s also the option of the chefs teaching private lessons at your home.
Face, 29 Soi 38, Sukhumvit Road. Tel: +66 (0)2 713 6048. www.facebars.com. Lessons: 9 a.m.-noon, Wednesday-Friday. Price: 2,500 baht/lesson.
Students of Mrs. Bablir learn how to make Indian classics like chicken tikka masala and vegetable samosas.
Khao Cooking School
Khao San Road is the least likely place one would expect an authentic Thai cooking school experience, but Khao was started up by an experienced authority on Thai food and features instruction on a wide variety of authentic dishes. Come for regular daily lessons or arrange for private tuition.
D&D Inn, 68-70 Khao San Road. Tel: +66 (0)89 111 0947. www.khaocookingschool.com. Lessons: 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. & 2:30-6:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday. Price: 1,500 baht/lesson.
Mrs Balbir’s
Television personality-slash-restaurant owner Mrs Balbir offers courses in Indian cooking from her Nana-area restaurant. Lessons span three Saturday sessions and a total of 12 Indian dishes, ranging from savory to sweet. There’s even a cooking course for maids, taught in English or Thai.
155/1-2 Soi 11/1, Sukhumvit Road. Tel: +66 (0)81 835 6553. www.mrsbalbir.com. Lessons: 2 p.m.-6 p.m. every Saturday. Price: 6,000 baht/course.
Students at Silom Thai Cooking school learn about the different styles of rice, including how to make the popular sticky version.
Oriental Hotel Thai Cooking School
Bangkok’s poshest and most expensive cooking school is located across the river from the Oriental Hotel in an antique wooden home. Lessons here feature a daily revolving menu of four dishes, with much of the ingredient preparation done in advance and the cooking done in groups.
Oriental Hotel, 48 Oriental Avenue (Soi 38, Charoen Krung Road). Tel: +66 (0)2 659 9000. www.mandarinoriental.com. Lessons: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. & 2 p.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday. Price: 4,000 baht/lesson.
Silom Thai Cooking School
This casual, home-based cooking school crams a visit to a local market and instruction of six dishes into nearly four hours, making it the obvious choice for those on a budget. Transport is available.
Read more: 10 Bangkok cooking schools that will turn you into a master chef. Or at least a decent one | CNNGo.com http://www.cnngo.com/bangkok/eat/10-bangkok-cooking-schools-654075#ixzz10ebZXVYB
It wasn’t that long ago that Bangkok’s cooking-school scene was defined by just a handful of pricey hotel-bound sessions, all of which dealt strictly with Thai food. Today there’s a huge range of prices, locations and cuisines to choose from.
Keep in mind when choosing a school that a typical half-day course should at least include an introduction to fundamental ingredients and techniques and a hands-on chance to prepare and cook at least four dishes.
Most schools offer a revolving cast of dishes, making it possible to study for a week without repeating a lesson and Thai courses often include a visit to a wet market. Nearly all lessons include a set of printed recipes and end with a communal lunch where you get to sample your handiwork.
At the more expensive schools, students are also usually given an apron, a gift box filled with Thai cooking ingredients and a certificate that’s sure to impress your friends, even if it doesn't land you a job at El Bulli.
Ready to learn? Here are 10 great cooking courses in Bangkok that offer a wide range of cuisines and styles.
Bangkok cooking school Amita's canal-side location adds to the learning experience.
Amita Thai Cooking Class
Amita’s lessons are held in an antique canal-side home in Thonburi, making it the homiest of Bangkok’s Thai cookery schools. Classes include an explanatory visit to the resident herb garden and instruction in four dishes, with the fee including transportation.
162/17 Soi Wutthakat 14, Wutthakat Road, Thonburi. Tel: +66 (0)2 466 8966. www.amitathaicooking.com. Lessons: 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Thursday-Tuesday. Price: 2,800 baht/lesson.
Baipai Thai Cooking School
With an army of staff and set in an attractive suburban villa, Baipai offers two daily lessons that each teach you how to make four dishes. See the website find out which ones are on offer on which days.
150/12 Soi Naksuwan, Nonsee Road. Tel: +66 (0)2 294 9029. www.baipai.com. Lessons: 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. & 1:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m., Tuesday-Sunday. Price: 1,800 baht/lesson.
At Beccofino, students have a rare chance to learn how to cook Italian from professional chefs.
Beccofino
This upscale Italian restaurant now offers conference-style classes in Italian cooking. Instruction in three recipes is followed by an executive chef lunch and a wine tasting.
146 Soi 4, Soi Thong Lor. Tel: +66 (0)2 392 1881. www.beccofino.co.th. Lessons 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Thursday & Saturday. Price: 1,500 baht/lesson.
Bo.lan
One of Bangkok’s best upscale Thai restaurants is offering private tuition in Thai cooking, taught by the restaurant’s chefs/owners. Held on Saturdays, courses vary in skill level, with the Fundamental Plus course featuring a visit to a market and the Turn Pro course tacking on an additional Sunday session.
42 Soi Rongnarong Phichai Songkhram, Soi 26, Sukhumvit Road. Tel: +66 (0)2 260 2962. www.bolan.co.th. Lessons: 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Saturday. Price: 3,900-8,200 baht per course.
At Khao Cooking School, lessons are taught by Kobkaew Najphinit, who has been teaching for over 30 years and authored several Thai cookbooks.
Blue Elephant Cooking School
The longstanding Blue Elephant is Bangkok’s best-equipped cooking school. Two courses are offered daily, with the morning session featuring a visit to a local market and the afternoon session including a detailed introduction to Thai ingredients.
233 Sathon Tai Road. Tel: +66 (0)2 673 9353. www.blueelephant.com. Lessons: 8:45 a.m.-1 p.m. & 1:15 p.m.-4.30 p.m. Monday-Saturday. Price: 2,800 baht/lesson.
Face
This attractive restaurant compound recently opened a cooking school with instruction in Thai, Indian and Japanese cooking. Lessons are taught by natives of those countries, and there’s also the option of the chefs teaching private lessons at your home.
Face, 29 Soi 38, Sukhumvit Road. Tel: +66 (0)2 713 6048. www.facebars.com. Lessons: 9 a.m.-noon, Wednesday-Friday. Price: 2,500 baht/lesson.
Students of Mrs. Bablir learn how to make Indian classics like chicken tikka masala and vegetable samosas.
Khao Cooking School
Khao San Road is the least likely place one would expect an authentic Thai cooking school experience, but Khao was started up by an experienced authority on Thai food and features instruction on a wide variety of authentic dishes. Come for regular daily lessons or arrange for private tuition.
D&D Inn, 68-70 Khao San Road. Tel: +66 (0)89 111 0947. www.khaocookingschool.com. Lessons: 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. & 2:30-6:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday. Price: 1,500 baht/lesson.
Mrs Balbir’s
Television personality-slash-restaurant owner Mrs Balbir offers courses in Indian cooking from her Nana-area restaurant. Lessons span three Saturday sessions and a total of 12 Indian dishes, ranging from savory to sweet. There’s even a cooking course for maids, taught in English or Thai.
155/1-2 Soi 11/1, Sukhumvit Road. Tel: +66 (0)81 835 6553. www.mrsbalbir.com. Lessons: 2 p.m.-6 p.m. every Saturday. Price: 6,000 baht/course.
Students at Silom Thai Cooking school learn about the different styles of rice, including how to make the popular sticky version.
Oriental Hotel Thai Cooking School
Bangkok’s poshest and most expensive cooking school is located across the river from the Oriental Hotel in an antique wooden home. Lessons here feature a daily revolving menu of four dishes, with much of the ingredient preparation done in advance and the cooking done in groups.
Oriental Hotel, 48 Oriental Avenue (Soi 38, Charoen Krung Road). Tel: +66 (0)2 659 9000. www.mandarinoriental.com. Lessons: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. & 2 p.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday. Price: 4,000 baht/lesson.
Silom Thai Cooking School
This casual, home-based cooking school crams a visit to a local market and instruction of six dishes into nearly four hours, making it the obvious choice for those on a budget. Transport is available.
Read more: 10 Bangkok cooking schools that will turn you into a master chef. Or at least a decent one | CNNGo.com http://www.cnngo.com/bangkok/eat/10-bangkok-cooking-schools-654075#ixzz10ebZXVYB
NTT opens new office in Ayutthaya, Thailand | TradingMarkets.com
NTT opens new office in Ayutthaya, Thailand | TradingMarkets.com
NTT Communications Corporation (NYSE: NTT | PowerRating), a provider of network, management and IT service solutions, announced today that its subsidiary NTT Communications (Thailand) Co Ltd will be opening a new branch office in Ayutthaya, Thailand at the end of the months.
The company said that the new branch office, due to open on 30 September, will be the companyaEUR(TM)s third branch office in Thailand and will provide multinational companies with ICT solutions including services such as network, data centre and security, systems integration and Internet access services.
Ayutthaya is located 70 km north of the countryaEUR(TM)s capital, Bangkok. It has a large-scale industrial estate which has been developed over the last two decades and some 500 Japanese and other multinational companies are currently located in the region.
The new branch means that NTT common now has a network of subsidiaries and offices in 73 cities in 29 countries or regions around the world.
NTT Communications Corporation (NYSE: NTT | PowerRating), a provider of network, management and IT service solutions, announced today that its subsidiary NTT Communications (Thailand) Co Ltd will be opening a new branch office in Ayutthaya, Thailand at the end of the months.
The company said that the new branch office, due to open on 30 September, will be the companyaEUR(TM)s third branch office in Thailand and will provide multinational companies with ICT solutions including services such as network, data centre and security, systems integration and Internet access services.
Ayutthaya is located 70 km north of the countryaEUR(TM)s capital, Bangkok. It has a large-scale industrial estate which has been developed over the last two decades and some 500 Japanese and other multinational companies are currently located in the region.
The new branch means that NTT common now has a network of subsidiaries and offices in 73 cities in 29 countries or regions around the world.
Bangkok Post : Sanan to push for Kaeng Sua Ten dam
Bangkok Post : Sanan to push for Kaeng Sua Ten dam
Deputy Prime Minister Sanan Kachornprasart on Friday insisted he will again push for cabinet approval for the construction of the long-delayed Kaeng Sua Ten dam in Phrae province.
Maj-Gen Sanan said this in the House meeting in replying to a question by Samphan Tangbenjapol, a Democrat Party MP for Sukhothai, about the management of water resources in the Yom River basin which encompasses Phrae, Sukhothai, Phitsanulok, Phichit and Nakhon Sawan provinces which have suffered from severe drought and flooding.
The question was directed to Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva, who assigned Maj-Gen Sanan to reply on his behalf.
Maj-Gen Sanan said that according to Mahidol University's research on development of water resources in that area the problems of drought and flooding can be solved with either Kaeng Sua Ten or Yom River dam.
By comparison, Kaeng Sua Ten is more viable in terms of engineering and costs, he said.
Maj-Gen Sanan said he would push for the Kaeng Sua Ten dam project, which has been delayed for nearly 20 years, and hopes for cabinet approval within the term of this government.
Deputy Prime Minister Sanan Kachornprasart on Friday insisted he will again push for cabinet approval for the construction of the long-delayed Kaeng Sua Ten dam in Phrae province.
Maj-Gen Sanan said this in the House meeting in replying to a question by Samphan Tangbenjapol, a Democrat Party MP for Sukhothai, about the management of water resources in the Yom River basin which encompasses Phrae, Sukhothai, Phitsanulok, Phichit and Nakhon Sawan provinces which have suffered from severe drought and flooding.
The question was directed to Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva, who assigned Maj-Gen Sanan to reply on his behalf.
Maj-Gen Sanan said that according to Mahidol University's research on development of water resources in that area the problems of drought and flooding can be solved with either Kaeng Sua Ten or Yom River dam.
By comparison, Kaeng Sua Ten is more viable in terms of engineering and costs, he said.
Maj-Gen Sanan said he would push for the Kaeng Sua Ten dam project, which has been delayed for nearly 20 years, and hopes for cabinet approval within the term of this government.
Volunteer in Thailand with Cross-Cultural Solutions
Volunteer in Thailand with Cross-Cultural Solutions
Thailand, a Buddhist country, experienced exponential growth in the late 20th century in economy, industrialization, and population. Progress continued until 1997 when the Thai currency collapsed as a result of overextension and fluctuating worth. This financial crisis led to increasing unemployment, decreasing social services, and a widening socio-economic divide in Thailand, and even affected many other Asian countries.
Since then, the government has been able to make considerable progress in development, and combat health issues such as the HIV/AIDS epidemic. However, even after the country regained its financial footing, education continues to be a challenge. While literacy in the country is high, school enrollment, especially at the secondary level and beyond, is comparatively low and education has a direct link to future employment options. Since Thailand was never colonized, its education system has a unique structure, and therefore may not help students to compete for employment on the global stage.
Thailand, a Buddhist country, experienced exponential growth in the late 20th century in economy, industrialization, and population. Progress continued until 1997 when the Thai currency collapsed as a result of overextension and fluctuating worth. This financial crisis led to increasing unemployment, decreasing social services, and a widening socio-economic divide in Thailand, and even affected many other Asian countries.
Since then, the government has been able to make considerable progress in development, and combat health issues such as the HIV/AIDS epidemic. However, even after the country regained its financial footing, education continues to be a challenge. While literacy in the country is high, school enrollment, especially at the secondary level and beyond, is comparatively low and education has a direct link to future employment options. Since Thailand was never colonized, its education system has a unique structure, and therefore may not help students to compete for employment on the global stage.
Monuments and statues in Bangkok ? a Glimpse of Thailand?s Rich History « Inside Bangkok
Monuments and statues in Bangkok ? a Glimpse of Thailand?s Rich History « Inside Bangkok
The city of Bangkok, apart from being famous for its numerous entertainment and shopping venues, is also home to a considerable number of important statues and monuments. All of them have a rich history to its existence and is revered by many of the Thai people. Much of the statues and monuments are located along busy areas of the city, and still events like parades and celebrations are held at these sites to commemorate them.
Many of the sculptured statues and monuments initially made in Bangkok were influenced by Buddhist culture. Today however, it is easy to see the Western influence on the architectural styles and designs. One of such is the Democracy Monument designed by the Italian Corrado Feroci in remembrance of the military coup in 1932 where democratic constitution had gained first rule. Situated on Ratchadamnoen Avenue, this monument is truly a majestic sight with four 24 meter tall wings that surround its base.
The Victory Monument is also a breathtaking sight with its tall structure that has an obelisk in its center. It was built in 1945 to commemorate the Thai victory over the French colonists in the Indo-China struggle. Located on Phahonyothin Road are many other sculptures dedicated to those who gave their lives up in this conflict can be found here.
An important monument that stands to recall the lives of those that were taken during the 1973 pre democratic protest is the October 14 Memorial. This monument is eye catching with its granite spire that stretches on towards the sky. Tourists upon visiting the memorial should venture into the museum housed in its structure that takes you back into this historical event.
Amid Bangkok’s many statues are many of King Rama from different eras and time periods. The King Rama I statue lies next to the Puttayodfa Memorial Bridge, and is a sculpture that is larger than life of this king. The King Rama V statue is located near the Royal Plaza and continues to be revered and honored by many Thai people as they flock in to pay respect towards it. The sculpture was built here in 1908 and depicts the king in a field marshal outfit. There is also a grand looking statue of King Rama VI set majestically outside the entrance of the Lumpini Park. Built in 1942, the statue is covered in metal plating and much bigger than a normal life size statue.
Tourists holidaying in Bangkok should visit many of these historical monuments and statues which reveal much about the country’s past. If you are looking for Bangkok accommodation which is well placed for exploring the city, the Compass Hospitality complex is great choice. The complex offers luxury apartments in Bangkok that are comfortable and elegant.
Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.
The city of Bangkok, apart from being famous for its numerous entertainment and shopping venues, is also home to a considerable number of important statues and monuments. All of them have a rich history to its existence and is revered by many of the Thai people. Much of the statues and monuments are located along busy areas of the city, and still events like parades and celebrations are held at these sites to commemorate them.
Many of the sculptured statues and monuments initially made in Bangkok were influenced by Buddhist culture. Today however, it is easy to see the Western influence on the architectural styles and designs. One of such is the Democracy Monument designed by the Italian Corrado Feroci in remembrance of the military coup in 1932 where democratic constitution had gained first rule. Situated on Ratchadamnoen Avenue, this monument is truly a majestic sight with four 24 meter tall wings that surround its base.
The Victory Monument is also a breathtaking sight with its tall structure that has an obelisk in its center. It was built in 1945 to commemorate the Thai victory over the French colonists in the Indo-China struggle. Located on Phahonyothin Road are many other sculptures dedicated to those who gave their lives up in this conflict can be found here.
An important monument that stands to recall the lives of those that were taken during the 1973 pre democratic protest is the October 14 Memorial. This monument is eye catching with its granite spire that stretches on towards the sky. Tourists upon visiting the memorial should venture into the museum housed in its structure that takes you back into this historical event.
Amid Bangkok’s many statues are many of King Rama from different eras and time periods. The King Rama I statue lies next to the Puttayodfa Memorial Bridge, and is a sculpture that is larger than life of this king. The King Rama V statue is located near the Royal Plaza and continues to be revered and honored by many Thai people as they flock in to pay respect towards it. The sculpture was built here in 1908 and depicts the king in a field marshal outfit. There is also a grand looking statue of King Rama VI set majestically outside the entrance of the Lumpini Park. Built in 1942, the statue is covered in metal plating and much bigger than a normal life size statue.
Tourists holidaying in Bangkok should visit many of these historical monuments and statues which reveal much about the country’s past. If you are looking for Bangkok accommodation which is well placed for exploring the city, the Compass Hospitality complex is great choice. The complex offers luxury apartments in Bangkok that are comfortable and elegant.
Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.
Budget Travel in Thailand - Thailand Travel Information
Budget Travel in Thailand - Thailand Travel Information
The main reasons for travel are to experience other cultures and to gain an insight to other ways of life. Clearly the best way to do this is to ‘go native’ and try as best you can to experience a country the way it is experienced by locals. This means eating the local food where locals eat it, travelling in the same way locals travel, and going to the same places locals might go for entertainment. If you ‘go native’ in Thailand, your travel experience will certainly be an inexpensive one.
Street and restaurant food in Thailand is some of the best in the world. It’s cheap, and above all, it is Thai – one of the world’s most favoured cuisines. Travel in Thailand is also inexpensive. However, if you hunger for something a bit different, Thailand’s restaurants offer a wealth of culinary experience offering food from almost every part of the world at affordable prices.
Long hauls from one end of the country to the other by bus or train can often cost only a few dollars. The emergence of a number of ‘low cost’ airlines in Thailand now means that air travel is no longer the privilege of a wealthy minority – a number of special promotions advertised on the Internet now mean that aircraft travel can be as cheap as any other form of travel. Imagine flying to the Northeast of Thailand for only 99 Baht – it’s possible if you keep your eyes open!
Depending on what you do, entertainment in Thailand can also be reasonably inexpensive. Cinema tickets are among the cheapest in the world and local and international artists perform concerts at prices substantially cheaper than you will encounter in the west. Look around and you will find bars clubs and other entertainment venues all available at moderate prices. But probably the most enticing aspect of travel in Thailand for the budget traveller is accommodation. Thailand is well equipped for those on limited budgets. Almost every part of Thailand has guesthouses and low-cost hotels available for only a few dollars a night. Look around and you’ll find cheap, clean and safe budget accommodation is plentiful, whatever your budget
The main reasons for travel are to experience other cultures and to gain an insight to other ways of life. Clearly the best way to do this is to ‘go native’ and try as best you can to experience a country the way it is experienced by locals. This means eating the local food where locals eat it, travelling in the same way locals travel, and going to the same places locals might go for entertainment. If you ‘go native’ in Thailand, your travel experience will certainly be an inexpensive one.
Street and restaurant food in Thailand is some of the best in the world. It’s cheap, and above all, it is Thai – one of the world’s most favoured cuisines. Travel in Thailand is also inexpensive. However, if you hunger for something a bit different, Thailand’s restaurants offer a wealth of culinary experience offering food from almost every part of the world at affordable prices.
Long hauls from one end of the country to the other by bus or train can often cost only a few dollars. The emergence of a number of ‘low cost’ airlines in Thailand now means that air travel is no longer the privilege of a wealthy minority – a number of special promotions advertised on the Internet now mean that aircraft travel can be as cheap as any other form of travel. Imagine flying to the Northeast of Thailand for only 99 Baht – it’s possible if you keep your eyes open!
Depending on what you do, entertainment in Thailand can also be reasonably inexpensive. Cinema tickets are among the cheapest in the world and local and international artists perform concerts at prices substantially cheaper than you will encounter in the west. Look around and you will find bars clubs and other entertainment venues all available at moderate prices. But probably the most enticing aspect of travel in Thailand for the budget traveller is accommodation. Thailand is well equipped for those on limited budgets. Almost every part of Thailand has guesthouses and low-cost hotels available for only a few dollars a night. Look around and you’ll find cheap, clean and safe budget accommodation is plentiful, whatever your budget
Steel Guru : Japanese carmakers prefer Thailand to India as small car hub - 167034 - 2010-09-26
Steel Guru : Japanese carmakers prefer Thailand to India as small car hub - 167034 - 2010-09-26
Japanese automakers are veering around to the idea of using Thailand as a global hub for their compact cars in the Asia-Pacific region and parts of Europe. In contrast, India's domestic market will be top priority though exports could be conceived later.
Importing fully built up cars back to Japan from Thailand is also emerging a strong possibility. The Thai eco car plan is a key growth driver of this strategy where the likes of Nissan, Honda, Toyota, Suzuki and Mitsubishi have planned similar models for India. For instance, the Nissan March is the Micra for India while Honda's compact car will debut in both countries by end-2011.
Where Thailand outscores India as an attractive location is the fact that it is part of the ASEAN Free Trade Area, which eliminates tariff barriers between 10 countries in the region. Japanese carmakers have constantly maintained that similar trade pacts would help Indian ancillary suppliers become part of their global sourcing plans.
What is interesting about the Thai eco program is the opportunity of exporting cars back to Japan. Nissan, which launched the March early this year, is a case in point.
Mr Ammar Master senior marketing analyst of JD Power and Associates said that “In a bold move, the company relocated production of its March from Japan to Thailand. Thai shipments to Japan began in end June and we expect volumes to reach 40,000 units this year and 60,000 units in 2011.”
Honda is expected to follow a similar business plan where its small car will be part of the Thai eco project and exported from there to Europe and Asia (and even back to Japan). For India, the company will focus on catering to the large domestic market.
Toyota has the Etios planned for an India debut and reports have been doing the rounds that it will find its way into Thailand's eco car plan too. Suzuki, likewise, is tipped to launch the Swift in Thailand while Mitsubishi is working on an eco car that could also enter India as part of an alliance with PSA Peugeot Citroen.
Has India lost out to Thailand as a hub for compact cars? Not everyone agrees with this view, citing the cases of Ford, General Motors and even Nissan, which exports the Micra to nearly 100 countries in Europe. Sources said that “India offers the best mix of costs and quality even while Thailand has the advantage of free trade pacts and Japanese patronage.”
Japanese automakers are veering around to the idea of using Thailand as a global hub for their compact cars in the Asia-Pacific region and parts of Europe. In contrast, India's domestic market will be top priority though exports could be conceived later.
Importing fully built up cars back to Japan from Thailand is also emerging a strong possibility. The Thai eco car plan is a key growth driver of this strategy where the likes of Nissan, Honda, Toyota, Suzuki and Mitsubishi have planned similar models for India. For instance, the Nissan March is the Micra for India while Honda's compact car will debut in both countries by end-2011.
Where Thailand outscores India as an attractive location is the fact that it is part of the ASEAN Free Trade Area, which eliminates tariff barriers between 10 countries in the region. Japanese carmakers have constantly maintained that similar trade pacts would help Indian ancillary suppliers become part of their global sourcing plans.
What is interesting about the Thai eco program is the opportunity of exporting cars back to Japan. Nissan, which launched the March early this year, is a case in point.
Mr Ammar Master senior marketing analyst of JD Power and Associates said that “In a bold move, the company relocated production of its March from Japan to Thailand. Thai shipments to Japan began in end June and we expect volumes to reach 40,000 units this year and 60,000 units in 2011.”
Honda is expected to follow a similar business plan where its small car will be part of the Thai eco project and exported from there to Europe and Asia (and even back to Japan). For India, the company will focus on catering to the large domestic market.
Toyota has the Etios planned for an India debut and reports have been doing the rounds that it will find its way into Thailand's eco car plan too. Suzuki, likewise, is tipped to launch the Swift in Thailand while Mitsubishi is working on an eco car that could also enter India as part of an alliance with PSA Peugeot Citroen.
Has India lost out to Thailand as a hub for compact cars? Not everyone agrees with this view, citing the cases of Ford, General Motors and even Nissan, which exports the Micra to nearly 100 countries in Europe. Sources said that “India offers the best mix of costs and quality even while Thailand has the advantage of free trade pacts and Japanese patronage.”
A market economy thrives in Bangkok - thestar.com
A market economy thrives in Bangkok - thestar.com
BANGKOK — Shopping at Bangkok’s seemingly endless lists of markets is as much a part of the country’s DNA as spicy tom yum goong soup and the white sand beaches of its southern islands. Residents of Thailand’s capital take to the activity with a tenacity that makes you wonder whether it should be named the country’s official sport. From bulk buys of Hello Kitty nail clippers in Chinatown to near-perfect duplications of famous art on Silom, Bangkok’s markets are everywhere, and offer a variety of goods that will impress even the most jaded shopper.
The granddaddy of this vibrant shopping scene is the 35-acre Chatuchak Weekend Market (On Nut BTS; Chatuchak MRT), which dates to the mid-1900s. Located in Bangkok’s northern Chatuchak district, the open-air expanse of stalls is legendary; indeed, when someone says, “Have you been to the weekend market yet?” there’s no need to ask which one they mean. Chatuchak is only a skeleton of itself during the week, but it comes alive on weekends with bustling masses eager to make that one great find, be it a funny T-shirt or an antique doorknob.
Chatuchak’s energy comes from the roughly 200,000 shoppers that walk through its gates every Saturday and Sunday. Kilometres of compact aisles (called sois in Thai) zig and zag through a dizzying variety of goods as shoppers search for animals, furniture, clothes, art, food, plants and even weapons (bring home a few throwing stars for Mom!). Scattered food stalls whip up $2 bowls of mouth-watering noodles that would cost four times as much in Canada, while wandering vendors offer freshly made coconut ice cream out of a freshly made coconut bowl.
For a shopping experience that’s the exact opposite of Chatuchak, head over to Suan Lum Night Bazaar (corner of Rama IV and Wireless Roads). In fact, do this before you do anything else, because it might not be around for much longer. The comparatively quiet market is slowly closing up one vendor at a time because of a lengthy battle that will eventually see it completely shuttered (this was supposed to happen in 2006), although many vendors still remain. Busy but not packed, it sells everything from boutique furniture to jewelry to Indian incense and is clean and well-lit.
To make a night of it, head a few blocks west to Silom Road where the infamous Pat Pong Night Market spills out of Soi Pat Pong onto Silom for several blocks on either side. Though mostly crammed with tourist tchotchkes and dodgy tuk-tuk drivers, the atmosphere is certainly never boring, and it’s a great place to pick up souvenirs for friends.
To sample a more local market where few tourists ever go, visit the Saphan Phut Night Market (Saphan Phut Road, under the Memorial Bridge), where all manner of new and used clothes, crafts, furnishings, art and general knick-knacks can be found at great prices. Many of the goods here are brought in from the slightly, er, grungier Thai/Cambodian border markets, so you’ll likely run into a few unique finds.
Just around the corner (Chakphet Road) you’ll find yet another market, but one that’s unlike any other in Bangkok. This is Pak Klong Talat, the flower market. You’ll likely be able to smell it before you see it. For three blocks on either side of the road, colours and activity leap out of every space as vendors run to and fro carrying huge sacks of flowers of all sizes and types: chrysanthemums, roses, daisies, orchids, haleconias and dozens more you won’t recognize.
The market is busiest from 11 p.m to 6 a.m, when trucks and boats from farms in surrounding provinces bring huge shipments of flowers into Bangkok for local vendors to buy wholesale. Prices for the public aren’t too bad either — a newspaper-wrapped bundle of 24 roses will set you back about 60 baht ($2), and orchids — much prized and valued in colder climates like Canada — sell for 30 baht ($1) a bunch.
There are many more markets to see, but try these on for size first to get a good idea of what’s available. And remember: bargain hard, but be nice — vendors have to eat too.
BANGKOK — Shopping at Bangkok’s seemingly endless lists of markets is as much a part of the country’s DNA as spicy tom yum goong soup and the white sand beaches of its southern islands. Residents of Thailand’s capital take to the activity with a tenacity that makes you wonder whether it should be named the country’s official sport. From bulk buys of Hello Kitty nail clippers in Chinatown to near-perfect duplications of famous art on Silom, Bangkok’s markets are everywhere, and offer a variety of goods that will impress even the most jaded shopper.
The granddaddy of this vibrant shopping scene is the 35-acre Chatuchak Weekend Market (On Nut BTS; Chatuchak MRT), which dates to the mid-1900s. Located in Bangkok’s northern Chatuchak district, the open-air expanse of stalls is legendary; indeed, when someone says, “Have you been to the weekend market yet?” there’s no need to ask which one they mean. Chatuchak is only a skeleton of itself during the week, but it comes alive on weekends with bustling masses eager to make that one great find, be it a funny T-shirt or an antique doorknob.
Chatuchak’s energy comes from the roughly 200,000 shoppers that walk through its gates every Saturday and Sunday. Kilometres of compact aisles (called sois in Thai) zig and zag through a dizzying variety of goods as shoppers search for animals, furniture, clothes, art, food, plants and even weapons (bring home a few throwing stars for Mom!). Scattered food stalls whip up $2 bowls of mouth-watering noodles that would cost four times as much in Canada, while wandering vendors offer freshly made coconut ice cream out of a freshly made coconut bowl.
For a shopping experience that’s the exact opposite of Chatuchak, head over to Suan Lum Night Bazaar (corner of Rama IV and Wireless Roads). In fact, do this before you do anything else, because it might not be around for much longer. The comparatively quiet market is slowly closing up one vendor at a time because of a lengthy battle that will eventually see it completely shuttered (this was supposed to happen in 2006), although many vendors still remain. Busy but not packed, it sells everything from boutique furniture to jewelry to Indian incense and is clean and well-lit.
To make a night of it, head a few blocks west to Silom Road where the infamous Pat Pong Night Market spills out of Soi Pat Pong onto Silom for several blocks on either side. Though mostly crammed with tourist tchotchkes and dodgy tuk-tuk drivers, the atmosphere is certainly never boring, and it’s a great place to pick up souvenirs for friends.
To sample a more local market where few tourists ever go, visit the Saphan Phut Night Market (Saphan Phut Road, under the Memorial Bridge), where all manner of new and used clothes, crafts, furnishings, art and general knick-knacks can be found at great prices. Many of the goods here are brought in from the slightly, er, grungier Thai/Cambodian border markets, so you’ll likely run into a few unique finds.
Just around the corner (Chakphet Road) you’ll find yet another market, but one that’s unlike any other in Bangkok. This is Pak Klong Talat, the flower market. You’ll likely be able to smell it before you see it. For three blocks on either side of the road, colours and activity leap out of every space as vendors run to and fro carrying huge sacks of flowers of all sizes and types: chrysanthemums, roses, daisies, orchids, haleconias and dozens more you won’t recognize.
The market is busiest from 11 p.m to 6 a.m, when trucks and boats from farms in surrounding provinces bring huge shipments of flowers into Bangkok for local vendors to buy wholesale. Prices for the public aren’t too bad either — a newspaper-wrapped bundle of 24 roses will set you back about 60 baht ($2), and orchids — much prized and valued in colder climates like Canada — sell for 30 baht ($1) a bunch.
There are many more markets to see, but try these on for size first to get a good idea of what’s available. And remember: bargain hard, but be nice — vendors have to eat too.
Art Institute names new curator of Asian and textile arts - Chicago Tribune
On the heels of the opening of the Alsdorf Galleries of Indian, Southeast Asian and Islamic art, and in tandem with the autumn reopening of renovated galleries for textiles and Japanese art, the Art Institute of Chicago has a new curator to head related departments.
Today, the museum made public the appointment of Daniel Walker as its Pritzker Chair and Curator of Asian Art, as well as the Chair and Christa C. Mayer Thurman Curator of Textiles. Walker's dual duties go into effect Oct. 18.
"It's one of the top positions at one of the top institutions," Walker said of his appointment via telephone today, "and it's very difficult to imagine what might be better than that."
Walker joins the Art Institute's curatorial staff following a brief stint as an independent consultant, after heading Washington, D.C.'s Textile Museum from 2005 to 2009, preceded by seven years as head of the Islamic Department at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (1988 to 2005). His curatorial career began at the Cincinnati Art Museum; he left in 1988 as curator of Ancient, Near Eastern and Far Eastern Art.
Today, the museum made public the appointment of Daniel Walker as its Pritzker Chair and Curator of Asian Art, as well as the Chair and Christa C. Mayer Thurman Curator of Textiles. Walker's dual duties go into effect Oct. 18.
"It's one of the top positions at one of the top institutions," Walker said of his appointment via telephone today, "and it's very difficult to imagine what might be better than that."
Walker joins the Art Institute's curatorial staff following a brief stint as an independent consultant, after heading Washington, D.C.'s Textile Museum from 2005 to 2009, preceded by seven years as head of the Islamic Department at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (1988 to 2005). His curatorial career began at the Cincinnati Art Museum; he left in 1988 as curator of Ancient, Near Eastern and Far Eastern Art.
Asian art auctions in NY exceed estimates | Reuters
Asian art auctions this week totaled nearly $50 million, including $3.3 million for an ancient wine vessel that set a new record at Christie's for an item sold to an online buyer.
The vessel dating from the 12th or 11th century BC was the top seller at Christie's where the week-long sales fetched more than $20 million, far exceeding pre-sale estimates.
Sotheby's said their total was more than $27 million.
"This week's sale saw enthusiastic bidding and strong prices across a range of different categories from porcelain and jades, to furniture and paintings," said Dr. Caroline Schulten, Sotheby's head of Chinese works of art.
"Collectors from around the world often raised the bidding to multiples of the high estimate in order to secure the very best works," said added in a statement.
A Christie's spokesman said their online record for the wine vessel adorned with a dragon surpassed the previous record for an item sold in an online sale in 2008 when $1.27 million was paid for a Stradivari violin.
Theow H. Tow, the deputy chairman of Christie's America, said the small vessel still had "residual millet wine solidified in the bottom."
Christie's next highest selling piece, a ritual food vessel from the 10th century BC changed hands for nearly $3 million.
Tow said that bronze pieces are particularly valuable.
"Bronze work is an indispensable section in the development history of ancient China, symbolizing the advanced civilization and embodying the social hierarchy," he explained in an interview. "Bronzes were predominantly made for the wealthier class to begin with, the material being rare and expensive."
The auctions were part of New York Asia Week, which has been held since 1995. The event is also held in March.
In addition to Christie's and Sotheby's, more than a dozen other art galleries held exhibitions and auctions.
According to Tow, the quality of ancient Chinese art makes it unique, even among other notable pieces of ancient art.
"The bronze age in any culture gives one a very good marker for comparison with other early cultures. The fact that China stumbled upon casting bronze around 1900 BC places it behind development in the Euphrates Delta, Luristan and Egypt but in terms of bronze casting skills by 1200 BC it was second to none when judging by form and quality," he said.
Also included in the auctions were antique and contemporary art from Japan, Korea, India and Southeast Asia.
The vessel dating from the 12th or 11th century BC was the top seller at Christie's where the week-long sales fetched more than $20 million, far exceeding pre-sale estimates.
Sotheby's said their total was more than $27 million.
"This week's sale saw enthusiastic bidding and strong prices across a range of different categories from porcelain and jades, to furniture and paintings," said Dr. Caroline Schulten, Sotheby's head of Chinese works of art.
"Collectors from around the world often raised the bidding to multiples of the high estimate in order to secure the very best works," said added in a statement.
A Christie's spokesman said their online record for the wine vessel adorned with a dragon surpassed the previous record for an item sold in an online sale in 2008 when $1.27 million was paid for a Stradivari violin.
Theow H. Tow, the deputy chairman of Christie's America, said the small vessel still had "residual millet wine solidified in the bottom."
Christie's next highest selling piece, a ritual food vessel from the 10th century BC changed hands for nearly $3 million.
Tow said that bronze pieces are particularly valuable.
"Bronze work is an indispensable section in the development history of ancient China, symbolizing the advanced civilization and embodying the social hierarchy," he explained in an interview. "Bronzes were predominantly made for the wealthier class to begin with, the material being rare and expensive."
The auctions were part of New York Asia Week, which has been held since 1995. The event is also held in March.
In addition to Christie's and Sotheby's, more than a dozen other art galleries held exhibitions and auctions.
According to Tow, the quality of ancient Chinese art makes it unique, even among other notable pieces of ancient art.
"The bronze age in any culture gives one a very good marker for comparison with other early cultures. The fact that China stumbled upon casting bronze around 1900 BC places it behind development in the Euphrates Delta, Luristan and Egypt but in terms of bronze casting skills by 1200 BC it was second to none when judging by form and quality," he said.
Also included in the auctions were antique and contemporary art from Japan, Korea, India and Southeast Asia.
Friday, September 24, 2010
Thailand Stock Echanges Closes Above 950 | Live Stock Trading News | Equities, Forex, Gold, Silver and Oil Trading
The Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) composite index went up 4.80 points or 0.51% to close at 951.90 points at the end of trading session on Friday afternoon. The trade value was 28.03 billion baht.
The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (Egat) will build a new 20- billion-baht gas-fired power unit at its existing North Bangkok plant this year to help meet growing demand.
Egat governor Sutat Patmasiriwat said that construction of the 800-megawatt unit could start next year for operation from 2015. The move is aimed at addressing a predicted shortfall in power supplies from the delay of two gas-fired power plants in Chachoengsao province.
The delayed plants were awarded to independent power producers but face strong opposition by local communities.
One of them belongs to Siam Energy with a planned capacity of 1,600 MW, and the other to National Power Supply Co with a capacity of 540 MW, previously scheduled to start up in 2014 and 2015, respectively.
Thai Airways International (THAI) hailed its public offering as a success yesterday with subscription demand from existing shareholders and retail investors exceeding supply.
Most existing shareholders subscribed to their entitlements and beyond, while subscriptions from retail investors were more than twice the amount offered.
THAI president Piyasvasti Amranand said the strong interest reflected investors’ confidence in THAI and its improved performance over the past year.
The flag carrier offered 221.83 million shares to existing shareholders, excluding the Finance Ministry, whose names appeared on the share register book on Aug 30 at the entitlement ratio of one old share to 0.2667 new shares.
The baht’s appreciation has hurt many business sectors, but outbound tourism will probably receive a windfall as expenses of Thais travelling abroad decline.
Charoen Wangananont, president of the Thai Travel Agents Association (TTAA), said that if the baht continues to strengthen for another three to six months, outbound tourism will prosper. However, the local political and economic situation would have to remain positive to help lift travellers’ confidence.
The TTAA expects the stronger baht will cause outbound tourism to grow by 17-18% this year. Air ticket sales for flights abroad will total 4.7 million seats, 60% of them for tourists. Forward bookings for next month are significantly higher than last year, with Japan, China and South Korea the favourite destinations.
Top five most active values were as follows;
TRUE closed at 4.46 baht, up 0.36 baht (8.78%)
SCB closed at 99.00 baht, down 0.25 baht (0.25%)
BANPU closed at 702.00 baht, up 6.00 baht (0.86%)
PTT closed at 290.00 baht, down 1.00 baht (0.34%)
KTB closed at 15.80 baht, up 0.10 baht (0.64%)
The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (Egat) will build a new 20- billion-baht gas-fired power unit at its existing North Bangkok plant this year to help meet growing demand.
Egat governor Sutat Patmasiriwat said that construction of the 800-megawatt unit could start next year for operation from 2015. The move is aimed at addressing a predicted shortfall in power supplies from the delay of two gas-fired power plants in Chachoengsao province.
The delayed plants were awarded to independent power producers but face strong opposition by local communities.
One of them belongs to Siam Energy with a planned capacity of 1,600 MW, and the other to National Power Supply Co with a capacity of 540 MW, previously scheduled to start up in 2014 and 2015, respectively.
Thai Airways International (THAI) hailed its public offering as a success yesterday with subscription demand from existing shareholders and retail investors exceeding supply.
Most existing shareholders subscribed to their entitlements and beyond, while subscriptions from retail investors were more than twice the amount offered.
THAI president Piyasvasti Amranand said the strong interest reflected investors’ confidence in THAI and its improved performance over the past year.
The flag carrier offered 221.83 million shares to existing shareholders, excluding the Finance Ministry, whose names appeared on the share register book on Aug 30 at the entitlement ratio of one old share to 0.2667 new shares.
The baht’s appreciation has hurt many business sectors, but outbound tourism will probably receive a windfall as expenses of Thais travelling abroad decline.
Charoen Wangananont, president of the Thai Travel Agents Association (TTAA), said that if the baht continues to strengthen for another three to six months, outbound tourism will prosper. However, the local political and economic situation would have to remain positive to help lift travellers’ confidence.
The TTAA expects the stronger baht will cause outbound tourism to grow by 17-18% this year. Air ticket sales for flights abroad will total 4.7 million seats, 60% of them for tourists. Forward bookings for next month are significantly higher than last year, with Japan, China and South Korea the favourite destinations.
Top five most active values were as follows;
TRUE closed at 4.46 baht, up 0.36 baht (8.78%)
SCB closed at 99.00 baht, down 0.25 baht (0.25%)
BANPU closed at 702.00 baht, up 6.00 baht (0.86%)
PTT closed at 290.00 baht, down 1.00 baht (0.34%)
KTB closed at 15.80 baht, up 0.10 baht (0.64%)
Japan, Singapore, India, Thailand: Asia Bonds, Currency Preview - BusinessWeek
Sept. 24 (Bloomberg) -- The following events and economic reports may influence trading in Asia’s local bonds and currencies today. Yields and exchange rates are from the previous trading session unless stated otherwise.
Financial markets in South Korea, China and Taiwan are closed today for public holidays.
Japan: Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshito Sengoku and Finance Minister Yoshihiko Noda will hold media briefings after a Cabinet meeting in the morning. Sengoku will have another press briefing at 4 p.m. in Tokyo.
The yield on the 1 percent government bond due September 2020 was at 1.015 percent on Sept. 22, according to Japan Bond Trading Co., the nation’s largest interdealer debt broker.
Japan’s financial markets were closed yesterday for a national holiday.
The yen traded at 84.56 per dollar at 8:40 a.m. in Tokyo.
Taiwan: The government is scheduled to report data on money-supply growth for August today.
The yield on the 1.125 percent bond due September 2020 was 1.20 percent, according to Gretai Securities Market. The Taiwan dollar was at NT$31.60.
Singapore: The Economic Development Board will say today industrial production rose 11.7 percent in August from a year earlier, according to a Bloomberg survey of economists, after an increase of 9.9 percent the month before.
The yield on the 3.25 percent debt due September 2020 was 2.08 percent. The Singapore dollar was at S$1.3268.
India: The government plans to raise as much as 110 billion rupees ($2.4 billion) by selling seven-year, ten-year and 30- year bills.
The yield on the 7.80 percent bond due May 2020 was 7.96 percent. The rupee was at 45.605.
Thailand: Foreign-exchange reserves data for the week ended Sept.17 is due today. The reserves increased by 0.3 percent to $157.6 billion the previous week, according to the central bank.
The yield on the 5.85 percent note maturing March 2021 was 3.09 percent. The baht was at 30.67.
Financial markets in South Korea, China and Taiwan are closed today for public holidays.
Japan: Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshito Sengoku and Finance Minister Yoshihiko Noda will hold media briefings after a Cabinet meeting in the morning. Sengoku will have another press briefing at 4 p.m. in Tokyo.
The yield on the 1 percent government bond due September 2020 was at 1.015 percent on Sept. 22, according to Japan Bond Trading Co., the nation’s largest interdealer debt broker.
Japan’s financial markets were closed yesterday for a national holiday.
The yen traded at 84.56 per dollar at 8:40 a.m. in Tokyo.
Taiwan: The government is scheduled to report data on money-supply growth for August today.
The yield on the 1.125 percent bond due September 2020 was 1.20 percent, according to Gretai Securities Market. The Taiwan dollar was at NT$31.60.
Singapore: The Economic Development Board will say today industrial production rose 11.7 percent in August from a year earlier, according to a Bloomberg survey of economists, after an increase of 9.9 percent the month before.
The yield on the 3.25 percent debt due September 2020 was 2.08 percent. The Singapore dollar was at S$1.3268.
India: The government plans to raise as much as 110 billion rupees ($2.4 billion) by selling seven-year, ten-year and 30- year bills.
The yield on the 7.80 percent bond due May 2020 was 7.96 percent. The rupee was at 45.605.
Thailand: Foreign-exchange reserves data for the week ended Sept.17 is due today. The reserves increased by 0.3 percent to $157.6 billion the previous week, according to the central bank.
The yield on the 5.85 percent note maturing March 2021 was 3.09 percent. The baht was at 30.67.
Phuket NEWS: Hilton deal to boost golf tourism to Phuket
PHUKET: The Hilton hotel chain has joined Golfasian, a leading inbound golf tour operator in Thailand to create the Thai marketing cooperative ‘Golf in a Kingdom: The Thai Golf Experience’.
The initiative will make it easier for visitors looking for a premium golf holiday to book a variety of stay-and-play itineraries. It is also hoped that Hilton’s involvement will help to attract international golfers who recognize the brand and see it as a guarantee of quality.
“Hilton doesn’t throw in with just anyone”, says Mark Siegel, CEO of Bangkok-based Golfasian Tour.
“To have Hilton as a partner is another ringing endorsement of what we’re doing with ‘Golf in a Kingdom’, that is to make Thai golf holidays easier to book and formulate, while guaranteeing international standards of quality with every course and hotel on each itinerary”, he added.
Four Hilton properties across the country, namely The Hilton Pattaya, The Millennium Hilton Bangkok, The Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort and Spa and the Hilton Hua-Hin Resort and Spa are set to join the consortium.
Phuket is already a popular destination for international golfers, with highly ranked golf courses that provide great value for money.
The tropical climate enables the sport to be played all year round. The cooperation of five star hotel brands like the Hilton will hopefully help to further promote the island as a premium golf holiday destination.
The initiative will make it easier for visitors looking for a premium golf holiday to book a variety of stay-and-play itineraries. It is also hoped that Hilton’s involvement will help to attract international golfers who recognize the brand and see it as a guarantee of quality.
“Hilton doesn’t throw in with just anyone”, says Mark Siegel, CEO of Bangkok-based Golfasian Tour.
“To have Hilton as a partner is another ringing endorsement of what we’re doing with ‘Golf in a Kingdom’, that is to make Thai golf holidays easier to book and formulate, while guaranteeing international standards of quality with every course and hotel on each itinerary”, he added.
Four Hilton properties across the country, namely The Hilton Pattaya, The Millennium Hilton Bangkok, The Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort and Spa and the Hilton Hua-Hin Resort and Spa are set to join the consortium.
Phuket is already a popular destination for international golfers, with highly ranked golf courses that provide great value for money.
The tropical climate enables the sport to be played all year round. The cooperation of five star hotel brands like the Hilton will hopefully help to further promote the island as a premium golf holiday destination.
Winning combination (From The Northern Echo)
The North-East has worked its way into the heart of a man poised to save its steelmaking industry as Business Editor Owen McAteer discovered when he met Win Viriyaprapaikit.
AS steelworkers marched to save jobs, they would have been unaware that their campaign had caught the imagination of a potential saviour thousands of miles away.
Win Viriyaprapaikit, president of Sahaviriya Steel Industries (SSI), the Thai company proposing to buy Corus Teesside Cast Products (TCP), who has been in the region this week has already spoken of the passion of the region’s steelworkers being “second to none”.
The 40-year-old, responsible for the Thai steel firm founded by his father and aunt 55 years ago, first encountered that passion last year when 5,000 steelworkers and supporters marched through Redcar to call for the factory to be saved.
Mr Viriyaprapaikit said: “It was July last year, I read the news on the internet back home and I saw the flags and the marches, the Save our Steel campaign, and I thought it was very apparent that the whole town was really behind this.
“I was quietly reading this at home but, with a lot of interest at the time, I never thought we could be part of this.”
He said the marches clearly demonstrated how much pride the people of Teesside took in their steel industry, which was under threat after an international consortium pulled out of a ten-year deal to buy its steel.
Mr Viriyaprapaikit said: “After these marches got our interest, they didn’t really have to explain to me how they feel because the actions speak louder than words and throughout the year I was seeing these marches.”
The same month, a delegation from Corus TCP visited Mr Viriyaprapaikit in Bangkok to strike a deal for steel slabs, of which his company bought 400,000 tonnes, at a time the plant was desperately trying to secure orders.
He said: “We became acquainted with the management, we came to be confident of the quality, the production system and, of course, the people behind it, so we have confidence in the plant and the people running it.
“It makes the job of due dilligence much easier than going in somewhere without such knowledge.”
SSI is a family business and what becomes clear from talking to the married father-of-two is that the quality and attitudes of people he is dealing with is an integral part of any deal, hence his fascination with the steel marches.
He said: “Teesside is passionate about steel and I have become passionate about Teesside, what we can do here will be a lot more because of the goodwill and the support of the community.
“This 150 years of history is actually the history of steelmaking itself. This must be one of the rare places with the full history. We feel really fortunate to be part of this.
An example of the importance in which people’s feelings are held was the appointment last month of David Reid, as interim managing director.
Until September last year, Mr Reid had spent five years as supply chain director at TCP and was one of the steelworkers who marched through Redcar. He is also steel expert but, crucially, he also had a relationship with SSI going back 25 years.
Mr Viriyaprapaikit said: “When the delegation came to see us last July they had a chance to meet my father and my father called him old friend. It didn’t ring a bell at the time, it was only a few weeks ago that I proposed to my father that Dave would be the perfect person to lead this and I asked him what he meant by old friend and he said he had known David for 25 years.
“I think Dave Reid is a person of integrity, that is why all of us feel so much trust in him and I hope this is the right choice not just for us but for Teesside as well.”
Despite rumours of a potential deal with SSI surfacing in May it was only in August that it was finally confirmed with SSI and Corus signing a memorandum of understanding paving the way for a £320m deal and steelmaking restarting at the plant, near Redcar, east Cleveland, by early next year.
It transpired that the two companies had been in discussions for about a year, with Mr Viriyaprapaikit visiting TCP last October.
More than 1,000 employees have left the plant since February’s mothballing, with Mr Viriyaprapaikit confirming at the memorandum of understanding signing that the 700 steelworkers remaining at the factory would be kept on should a deal progress.
Yesterday, Mr Viriyaprapaikit spoke of his desire to create many more jobs at the plant.
He said: “It would be in terms of hundreds more jobs in addition to the 700 people we will offer the opportunity to transfer over.
“I think one of the things we would like to do is have this knowledge of all these skilled people passed on to the next generation.
“That is one thing I would like to do if we get to succeed in acquiring the plant.”
ONE reason he may speak so passionately about the region is that he happily admits that through the course of a number of private visits over the past year he has fallen in love with it. On his last visit he took home 30 pictures of the North-East, taken by professional photographers and many of those are now in the company’s boardroom in Thailand.
He said: “Our board of directors came in and they were delighted because they didn’t realise in addition to buying a steel plant we got all this beauty coming along as well.”
What has struck Mr Viriyaprapaikit on his journey is the genuine warmth and the welcome the people give visitors.
What is sometimes forgotten in the excitement of having found a potential saviour is that the deal to buy TCP is in itself an exciting move for Mr Viriyaprapaikit and SSI, which is known in Thailand’s steel industry for its pioneering spirit.
TCP produces 3.5 million tonnes of steel slab a year and SSI requires four million tonnes.
In addition, both facilities are on deepwater ports, a perfect match in Mr Viriyaprapaikit’s view. He said: “It will be a crucial part of our business, it gives us the platform for where we can grow. It is a very exciting time.”
There is still some work to be done on the final deal but Mr Viriyaprapaikit added: “We hope we can get to the finish line as soon as we can.”
AS steelworkers marched to save jobs, they would have been unaware that their campaign had caught the imagination of a potential saviour thousands of miles away.
Win Viriyaprapaikit, president of Sahaviriya Steel Industries (SSI), the Thai company proposing to buy Corus Teesside Cast Products (TCP), who has been in the region this week has already spoken of the passion of the region’s steelworkers being “second to none”.
The 40-year-old, responsible for the Thai steel firm founded by his father and aunt 55 years ago, first encountered that passion last year when 5,000 steelworkers and supporters marched through Redcar to call for the factory to be saved.
Mr Viriyaprapaikit said: “It was July last year, I read the news on the internet back home and I saw the flags and the marches, the Save our Steel campaign, and I thought it was very apparent that the whole town was really behind this.
“I was quietly reading this at home but, with a lot of interest at the time, I never thought we could be part of this.”
He said the marches clearly demonstrated how much pride the people of Teesside took in their steel industry, which was under threat after an international consortium pulled out of a ten-year deal to buy its steel.
Mr Viriyaprapaikit said: “After these marches got our interest, they didn’t really have to explain to me how they feel because the actions speak louder than words and throughout the year I was seeing these marches.”
The same month, a delegation from Corus TCP visited Mr Viriyaprapaikit in Bangkok to strike a deal for steel slabs, of which his company bought 400,000 tonnes, at a time the plant was desperately trying to secure orders.
He said: “We became acquainted with the management, we came to be confident of the quality, the production system and, of course, the people behind it, so we have confidence in the plant and the people running it.
“It makes the job of due dilligence much easier than going in somewhere without such knowledge.”
SSI is a family business and what becomes clear from talking to the married father-of-two is that the quality and attitudes of people he is dealing with is an integral part of any deal, hence his fascination with the steel marches.
He said: “Teesside is passionate about steel and I have become passionate about Teesside, what we can do here will be a lot more because of the goodwill and the support of the community.
“This 150 years of history is actually the history of steelmaking itself. This must be one of the rare places with the full history. We feel really fortunate to be part of this.
An example of the importance in which people’s feelings are held was the appointment last month of David Reid, as interim managing director.
Until September last year, Mr Reid had spent five years as supply chain director at TCP and was one of the steelworkers who marched through Redcar. He is also steel expert but, crucially, he also had a relationship with SSI going back 25 years.
Mr Viriyaprapaikit said: “When the delegation came to see us last July they had a chance to meet my father and my father called him old friend. It didn’t ring a bell at the time, it was only a few weeks ago that I proposed to my father that Dave would be the perfect person to lead this and I asked him what he meant by old friend and he said he had known David for 25 years.
“I think Dave Reid is a person of integrity, that is why all of us feel so much trust in him and I hope this is the right choice not just for us but for Teesside as well.”
Despite rumours of a potential deal with SSI surfacing in May it was only in August that it was finally confirmed with SSI and Corus signing a memorandum of understanding paving the way for a £320m deal and steelmaking restarting at the plant, near Redcar, east Cleveland, by early next year.
It transpired that the two companies had been in discussions for about a year, with Mr Viriyaprapaikit visiting TCP last October.
More than 1,000 employees have left the plant since February’s mothballing, with Mr Viriyaprapaikit confirming at the memorandum of understanding signing that the 700 steelworkers remaining at the factory would be kept on should a deal progress.
Yesterday, Mr Viriyaprapaikit spoke of his desire to create many more jobs at the plant.
He said: “It would be in terms of hundreds more jobs in addition to the 700 people we will offer the opportunity to transfer over.
“I think one of the things we would like to do is have this knowledge of all these skilled people passed on to the next generation.
“That is one thing I would like to do if we get to succeed in acquiring the plant.”
ONE reason he may speak so passionately about the region is that he happily admits that through the course of a number of private visits over the past year he has fallen in love with it. On his last visit he took home 30 pictures of the North-East, taken by professional photographers and many of those are now in the company’s boardroom in Thailand.
He said: “Our board of directors came in and they were delighted because they didn’t realise in addition to buying a steel plant we got all this beauty coming along as well.”
What has struck Mr Viriyaprapaikit on his journey is the genuine warmth and the welcome the people give visitors.
What is sometimes forgotten in the excitement of having found a potential saviour is that the deal to buy TCP is in itself an exciting move for Mr Viriyaprapaikit and SSI, which is known in Thailand’s steel industry for its pioneering spirit.
TCP produces 3.5 million tonnes of steel slab a year and SSI requires four million tonnes.
In addition, both facilities are on deepwater ports, a perfect match in Mr Viriyaprapaikit’s view. He said: “It will be a crucial part of our business, it gives us the platform for where we can grow. It is a very exciting time.”
There is still some work to be done on the final deal but Mr Viriyaprapaikit added: “We hope we can get to the finish line as soon as we can.”
PM clarifies investment in Thailand with US business community
NEW YORK, Sept 24 – Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva said he will explain investing in Thailand to a segment of the US businessp community, including the issues of the Map Ta Phut industrial projects and the 3G wireless service.
Mr Abhisit is attending the 65th United Nations General Assembly in New York from September 22-26.
The Thai prime minister was to meet representatives of US-ASEAN Business Council- USABC Thursday afternoon (New York time).
Prior to the meeting,Mr Abhisit said that investors did not understand the legal problems related to suspending the Map Ta Phut Industries and the delayed 3G licence bidding and that they thought that government should get both plans moving ahead.
However, regarding the 3G bids, he said the Supreme Administrative Court upheld the ruling to suspend the auction and that the Telecommunications Commission (NTC) must comply with the court. In terms of policy, the government must speed up the bill that would eventually lead to forming the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), which will be authorised to allocate the 3G spectrum, by the end of the year.
Asked about resolving the long-delayed launch of the 3G, the prime minister said service trials have been conducted by the operators. He assigned the ministries of finance, and of information and communication technology to review the possibility of more quickly applying the technology and converting the existing 2G concession contracts into 3G agreements pending the ruling of the Constitution Court.
Thailand's Supreme Administrative Court on Thursday upheld the Central Administrative Court's injunction suspending distribution of the third generation (3G) wireless service licenses, saying the NTC was not authorised to make the awards.
The Supreme Administrative Court reasoned that the NCT's criteria for granting 3G licences was illegal and the auction process, if continued, could cause severe damage tothe country's procedural credibility.
The court ruled that the 3G auction should be held by NBTC which is to be set up soon.
Mr Abhisit is attending the 65th United Nations General Assembly in New York from September 22-26.
The Thai prime minister was to meet representatives of US-ASEAN Business Council- USABC Thursday afternoon (New York time).
Prior to the meeting,Mr Abhisit said that investors did not understand the legal problems related to suspending the Map Ta Phut Industries and the delayed 3G licence bidding and that they thought that government should get both plans moving ahead.
However, regarding the 3G bids, he said the Supreme Administrative Court upheld the ruling to suspend the auction and that the Telecommunications Commission (NTC) must comply with the court. In terms of policy, the government must speed up the bill that would eventually lead to forming the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), which will be authorised to allocate the 3G spectrum, by the end of the year.
Asked about resolving the long-delayed launch of the 3G, the prime minister said service trials have been conducted by the operators. He assigned the ministries of finance, and of information and communication technology to review the possibility of more quickly applying the technology and converting the existing 2G concession contracts into 3G agreements pending the ruling of the Constitution Court.
Thailand's Supreme Administrative Court on Thursday upheld the Central Administrative Court's injunction suspending distribution of the third generation (3G) wireless service licenses, saying the NTC was not authorised to make the awards.
The Supreme Administrative Court reasoned that the NCT's criteria for granting 3G licences was illegal and the auction process, if continued, could cause severe damage tothe country's procedural credibility.
The court ruled that the 3G auction should be held by NBTC which is to be set up soon.
TAAI convention in PHUKET
This is the third time that a convention is being held in South east asia.Last the event was held in Dubai.
The 59th annual convention ‘Indian Travel Congress’ of Travel Agents’ Association of India (TAAI) has been scheduled to start 24th September, until 27 September in Laguna, Phuket. The event is likely to be attended by around 800 delegates apart from the Tourism officials of India and Thailand and also travel industry leaders from both the countries. This is the third time that a convention is being held in South east asia.Last the event was held in Dubai.
The event goes by its theme ‘ Be the game changer’ which is intended at being the prime driving force behind the congress. The event shall also be instrumental in promoting two-way business between the two countries and provide a platform for networking, exchanging views and promoting common goals, while also giving an opportunity to hear from leading luminaries of tourism industries from around the world.
The key highlight issues to be addressed would be those of current challenges, cost reduction and alternative marketing, talent development and retention, harnessing technology, leveraging new business opportunities among others. The convention is also being anticipated to strengthen the existing tourism flux between the two countries. Thailand has been a favourite destination of Indians for a long time now on account of the affordability, geographical proximity and a quality holiday. The historic connect and cultural similarities between the two nations aside; the visibility that the event can render to the participants will enable to develop future business opportunities
It is also interesting to note that the convention coincides with the 60th anniversary of Indo-Thai relations. In terms of economic contribution, Thailand draws its major GDP from Tourism alone. Tourism industry was said to have contributed 6.7% of Thailand’s GDP in 2007.
Up to 2001 Thai investments in India accounted for in terms of amount of FDI approved were 24.40% for hotel and tourism industry alone. Hotel and tourism has been the major contributor from all sectors of Thai investments in India. As per the reports last year Thailand was targeting $10 billion trade with India by 2010 of which tourism and hospitality industry sounded to constitute the largest share owing to the surge of FDI from these sectors into India.
Thailand had also waived visa fees till March 2010 as a measure to boost tourism. It is also reducing take-off and landing charges for aircraft, and has considered lowering entrance fees at national parks by 50% and also providing free travel insurance. Thailand also came up with novel ideas, as arranging quizzes at Indian schools to promote tourism.
In 2008, 5 lakh Indian tourists went to Thailand. Over 614,000 Indians visited Thailand last year. Despite the plunge in tourism since 2008, stability was regained by 10% increase in the inbound tourists from September to 40% in December last year.
By being a ‘game changer’ TAAI is propelling the participants towards taking into stride the various challenges that have been faced by the travel-tourism industry. Improving infrastructure, rising the stature of travel agents, removing deficiencies in quality service, creating employment in tourism and hospitality sectors, emphasizing the significance of role played by a travel consultant in relation to online or internet services, etc. are just some of the key challenges in the pipeline that are to be countered.
=Jagdeep Rikhy, Co-Chairman – TAAI Convention Committee says, “The global economic slowdown and the ever-increasing requirements of the tourism and travel industry have brought about profound changes in travel agents’ attitudes. The industry, to ensure an income to the travel agent, has taken on a new dimension that, looking beyond air matters, focuses on the overall product, the contents of which ranges from the simple to the sophisticated.” He adds that The theme of our Convention " Be ... the Game Changer " , urges TAAI members to set a new benchmark for themselves . The delegates should expect to gain on many fronts from the TAAI Annual Convention at Phuket this year . Besides invigorating business sessions conducted by eminent personalities there will be immense oppurtunities at the Phuket Convention to , network , be delightfully entertained , find solace in the peaceful spas , explore the beautiful paradise island of Phuket and experience the warm hospitality which Thailand is famous the world over
“Innovation in this world is the best way to win – arguably the only way to really win. Innovation is not a separate discrete activity but the job of everyone in a leadership position and the integral, central driving force for any business that wants to grow and succeed on sustained basis. The Indian Travel Congress in Phuket is aimed to helping you be the ‘Game Changer’ become the leader of innovation.,according to Mr. Rajji Rai, President TAAI and Convention Chairman. "The delegates should expect to gain on many fronts from the TAAI Annual Convention at Phuket this year" .
The 59th annual convention ‘Indian Travel Congress’ of Travel Agents’ Association of India (TAAI) has been scheduled to start 24th September, until 27 September in Laguna, Phuket. The event is likely to be attended by around 800 delegates apart from the Tourism officials of India and Thailand and also travel industry leaders from both the countries. This is the third time that a convention is being held in South east asia.Last the event was held in Dubai.
The event goes by its theme ‘ Be the game changer’ which is intended at being the prime driving force behind the congress. The event shall also be instrumental in promoting two-way business between the two countries and provide a platform for networking, exchanging views and promoting common goals, while also giving an opportunity to hear from leading luminaries of tourism industries from around the world.
The key highlight issues to be addressed would be those of current challenges, cost reduction and alternative marketing, talent development and retention, harnessing technology, leveraging new business opportunities among others. The convention is also being anticipated to strengthen the existing tourism flux between the two countries. Thailand has been a favourite destination of Indians for a long time now on account of the affordability, geographical proximity and a quality holiday. The historic connect and cultural similarities between the two nations aside; the visibility that the event can render to the participants will enable to develop future business opportunities
It is also interesting to note that the convention coincides with the 60th anniversary of Indo-Thai relations. In terms of economic contribution, Thailand draws its major GDP from Tourism alone. Tourism industry was said to have contributed 6.7% of Thailand’s GDP in 2007.
Up to 2001 Thai investments in India accounted for in terms of amount of FDI approved were 24.40% for hotel and tourism industry alone. Hotel and tourism has been the major contributor from all sectors of Thai investments in India. As per the reports last year Thailand was targeting $10 billion trade with India by 2010 of which tourism and hospitality industry sounded to constitute the largest share owing to the surge of FDI from these sectors into India.
Thailand had also waived visa fees till March 2010 as a measure to boost tourism. It is also reducing take-off and landing charges for aircraft, and has considered lowering entrance fees at national parks by 50% and also providing free travel insurance. Thailand also came up with novel ideas, as arranging quizzes at Indian schools to promote tourism.
In 2008, 5 lakh Indian tourists went to Thailand. Over 614,000 Indians visited Thailand last year. Despite the plunge in tourism since 2008, stability was regained by 10% increase in the inbound tourists from September to 40% in December last year.
By being a ‘game changer’ TAAI is propelling the participants towards taking into stride the various challenges that have been faced by the travel-tourism industry. Improving infrastructure, rising the stature of travel agents, removing deficiencies in quality service, creating employment in tourism and hospitality sectors, emphasizing the significance of role played by a travel consultant in relation to online or internet services, etc. are just some of the key challenges in the pipeline that are to be countered.
=Jagdeep Rikhy, Co-Chairman – TAAI Convention Committee says, “The global economic slowdown and the ever-increasing requirements of the tourism and travel industry have brought about profound changes in travel agents’ attitudes. The industry, to ensure an income to the travel agent, has taken on a new dimension that, looking beyond air matters, focuses on the overall product, the contents of which ranges from the simple to the sophisticated.” He adds that The theme of our Convention " Be ... the Game Changer " , urges TAAI members to set a new benchmark for themselves . The delegates should expect to gain on many fronts from the TAAI Annual Convention at Phuket this year . Besides invigorating business sessions conducted by eminent personalities there will be immense oppurtunities at the Phuket Convention to , network , be delightfully entertained , find solace in the peaceful spas , explore the beautiful paradise island of Phuket and experience the warm hospitality which Thailand is famous the world over
“Innovation in this world is the best way to win – arguably the only way to really win. Innovation is not a separate discrete activity but the job of everyone in a leadership position and the integral, central driving force for any business that wants to grow and succeed on sustained basis. The Indian Travel Congress in Phuket is aimed to helping you be the ‘Game Changer’ become the leader of innovation.,according to Mr. Rajji Rai, President TAAI and Convention Chairman. "The delegates should expect to gain on many fronts from the TAAI Annual Convention at Phuket this year" .
Marketing a Country: Promotion as a Tool for Attracting Foreign Investment. — HBS Working Knowledge
In examining the way governments choose a structure in which to conduct investment promotion activities we found that most of the organizational issues fell within the realm of the public-private choice of management of certain nontraditional government activities.
Appropriate Organization for Investment Promotion
Like some other activities financed by governments, investment promotion has certain characteristics of tasks typically carried out by the government but others that are normally associated with tasks usually located in the private sector. Activities of this type are often financed by a government because they generate social profits that are greater than the private profits they could provide. When this condition prevails, a government must either finance the activity or risk that it will be underprovided.
In contrast to government organizations, quasi-governmental organizations tended to be created for the purpose of marketing countries as investment sites and not with the primary objectives of screening investment or negotiating with investors.
Governments can adopt two polar positions in their attempts to carry out the nontraditional government activity of investment promotion. A government can carry out investment promotion itself, but this approach has the disadvantage that the government organization may be unable to acquire skills that are required if the activity is to be managed properly. The required skills may reside in the private sector and be difficult to attract to the public sector, especially with the salary constraints typical of civil services. Accordingly, if the government decides to manage the activity, it may also, through various methods, have to take steps to obtain the appropriate skills from the private sector.
An alternative approach is for the government to delegate the management of investment promotion activities to the private sector. This approach often has the disadvantage that the private sector will not handle well the attributes of the task that are more like traditional government tasks, such as servicing investors by acquiring permits and approvals from other government departments. Indeed, neither the wholly public nor the wholly private approach to the management of investment promotion is ideal. Regardless of the approach that is chosen there will be management issues with respect to the way the inherent disadvantages of either approach are to be overcome. In an attempt to overcome these disadvantages, governments may search for the organizational approaches that combine most effectively the skills and resources of both the public and the private sectors.
Indeed, we observed that many governments did avoid these two extreme approaches and, instead, chose an intermediate approach. They conducted investment promotion through quasi-government organizations. These organizations, while reporting to the government, were not enmeshed within the conventional government and civil-service structure. Separation from the conventional apparatus of government gave these organizations certain inherent advantages over government organizations in carrying out the investment promotion function. At the same time these quasi-government organizations had an advantage over private organizations in conducting the tasks of investment promotion that required close contact with the government since they were, in fact, part of the government.
In contrast to government organizations, quasi-government organizations tended to be created for the purpose of marketing countries as investment sites and not with the primary objectives of screening investment or negotiating with investors. These agencies had the flexibility to attract personnel with the marketing expertise successful investment promotion requires. In addition, they were able to obtain sufficient autonomy to design and implement promotion strategies, and to develop integrated management control systems that tied the activities of marketers to particular investments. These management control systems provided sufficient, timely information with which agencies could simultaneously control, evaluate, and motivate marketing representatives. The overseas offices of quasi-government agencies also tended to be staffed by full-time promoters who were directly controlled by, and accountable to, the agencies. These advantages were particularly important when an agency was heavily involved in investment-generating activities.
In contrast to private organizations, however, the quasi-government agencies did not face the problems likely to be faced by a private agency in conducting the investment promotion tasks that are more like typical government tasks, such as servicing investors and cooperating with the government.
These research findings build a strong case for the location of a government's promotion program in a quasi-government organization. Many countries, however, already have promotional programs. If such a program resides in a conventional government organization or in a private organization, change may be difficult. For government organizations, conversion to quasi-government status may be politically unacceptable. Nevertheless, certain management practices may lead to better performance in both government and private organizations.
Appropriate Organization for Investment Promotion
Like some other activities financed by governments, investment promotion has certain characteristics of tasks typically carried out by the government but others that are normally associated with tasks usually located in the private sector. Activities of this type are often financed by a government because they generate social profits that are greater than the private profits they could provide. When this condition prevails, a government must either finance the activity or risk that it will be underprovided.
In contrast to government organizations, quasi-governmental organizations tended to be created for the purpose of marketing countries as investment sites and not with the primary objectives of screening investment or negotiating with investors.
Governments can adopt two polar positions in their attempts to carry out the nontraditional government activity of investment promotion. A government can carry out investment promotion itself, but this approach has the disadvantage that the government organization may be unable to acquire skills that are required if the activity is to be managed properly. The required skills may reside in the private sector and be difficult to attract to the public sector, especially with the salary constraints typical of civil services. Accordingly, if the government decides to manage the activity, it may also, through various methods, have to take steps to obtain the appropriate skills from the private sector.
An alternative approach is for the government to delegate the management of investment promotion activities to the private sector. This approach often has the disadvantage that the private sector will not handle well the attributes of the task that are more like traditional government tasks, such as servicing investors by acquiring permits and approvals from other government departments. Indeed, neither the wholly public nor the wholly private approach to the management of investment promotion is ideal. Regardless of the approach that is chosen there will be management issues with respect to the way the inherent disadvantages of either approach are to be overcome. In an attempt to overcome these disadvantages, governments may search for the organizational approaches that combine most effectively the skills and resources of both the public and the private sectors.
Indeed, we observed that many governments did avoid these two extreme approaches and, instead, chose an intermediate approach. They conducted investment promotion through quasi-government organizations. These organizations, while reporting to the government, were not enmeshed within the conventional government and civil-service structure. Separation from the conventional apparatus of government gave these organizations certain inherent advantages over government organizations in carrying out the investment promotion function. At the same time these quasi-government organizations had an advantage over private organizations in conducting the tasks of investment promotion that required close contact with the government since they were, in fact, part of the government.
In contrast to government organizations, quasi-government organizations tended to be created for the purpose of marketing countries as investment sites and not with the primary objectives of screening investment or negotiating with investors. These agencies had the flexibility to attract personnel with the marketing expertise successful investment promotion requires. In addition, they were able to obtain sufficient autonomy to design and implement promotion strategies, and to develop integrated management control systems that tied the activities of marketers to particular investments. These management control systems provided sufficient, timely information with which agencies could simultaneously control, evaluate, and motivate marketing representatives. The overseas offices of quasi-government agencies also tended to be staffed by full-time promoters who were directly controlled by, and accountable to, the agencies. These advantages were particularly important when an agency was heavily involved in investment-generating activities.
In contrast to private organizations, however, the quasi-government agencies did not face the problems likely to be faced by a private agency in conducting the investment promotion tasks that are more like typical government tasks, such as servicing investors and cooperating with the government.
These research findings build a strong case for the location of a government's promotion program in a quasi-government organization. Many countries, however, already have promotional programs. If such a program resides in a conventional government organization or in a private organization, change may be difficult. For government organizations, conversion to quasi-government status may be politically unacceptable. Nevertheless, certain management practices may lead to better performance in both government and private organizations.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Sailing Adventures & Training with Gulf Charters Thailand | Pattaya Daily News - Pattaya Newspaper, Powerful news at your fingertips
Primarily started as a bareboat yacht charter operator based out of Jomtien’s first-class Ocean Marina, Gulf Charters Thailand also offering landlubbers a chance to experience the majestic beauty that the Gulf of Thailand has to offer through several internationally accredited courses run by the experienced Gulf Charters Sailing School.
Encompassing a fleet of 10 or so keel boats and catamarans from 32-52 feet in length, Gulf Charters Thailand offer sailers of all experience levels the chance to add to their skill set or take the necessary steps to becoming a fully fledged bareboat captain while formulating friendships and memories that will last a life time.
Including a variety of courses for those interested in yacht sailing, chartering, racing and cruising, the Gulf Charters Sailing School provides the tools and training necessary to see you realise your dreams, be it recreational sailing, racing or a circumnavigation on your own yacht.
All sailing/racing courses are all-inclusive training programs and come with international accreditation from the International Yacht Training Inc (IYT). Graduates therefore qualify for the professional operation of yachts in some 29 countries including from the US Coast Guard and British MCA professional licensing bodies. The four IYT certified courses offered are; International Crew, International Watchkeeper, International Bareboat Captain and the International Small Powerboat and RIB Master Certificate.
Along with the individual courses, Gulf Charters Sailing School offers a range of value-for-money package deals including the popular fast-paced 15-day training session “Zero to Hero Program”. Encompassing classroom theory, weather and navigational training with onboard experience, the Zero to Hero Program is a proven and recognised program for teaching sailors the essentials necessary to captain their own yacht.
In addition to their sailing school, Gulf Charters Thailand offers eager sailors the chance to experience the beauty of the southeast coastline and Bangkok bite through a number of charter sailing tours and package deals. Trips encompass islands off the coast of Pattaya, Rayong, the pristine Koh Chang archipelago and Cambodia. Be it with your own vessel or on one of their fully equipped yachts Gulf Charters tours has something to suit your needs.
For more information on all Gulf Charters Thailand tours, packages and the Gulf Charters Sailing School please visit their website at www.yachtmasterthailand.com or contact their Jomtien Offices on; +6638237752 or +66845399689 to make an enquiry and/or booking.
Encompassing a fleet of 10 or so keel boats and catamarans from 32-52 feet in length, Gulf Charters Thailand offer sailers of all experience levels the chance to add to their skill set or take the necessary steps to becoming a fully fledged bareboat captain while formulating friendships and memories that will last a life time.
Including a variety of courses for those interested in yacht sailing, chartering, racing and cruising, the Gulf Charters Sailing School provides the tools and training necessary to see you realise your dreams, be it recreational sailing, racing or a circumnavigation on your own yacht.
All sailing/racing courses are all-inclusive training programs and come with international accreditation from the International Yacht Training Inc (IYT). Graduates therefore qualify for the professional operation of yachts in some 29 countries including from the US Coast Guard and British MCA professional licensing bodies. The four IYT certified courses offered are; International Crew, International Watchkeeper, International Bareboat Captain and the International Small Powerboat and RIB Master Certificate.
Along with the individual courses, Gulf Charters Sailing School offers a range of value-for-money package deals including the popular fast-paced 15-day training session “Zero to Hero Program”. Encompassing classroom theory, weather and navigational training with onboard experience, the Zero to Hero Program is a proven and recognised program for teaching sailors the essentials necessary to captain their own yacht.
In addition to their sailing school, Gulf Charters Thailand offers eager sailors the chance to experience the beauty of the southeast coastline and Bangkok bite through a number of charter sailing tours and package deals. Trips encompass islands off the coast of Pattaya, Rayong, the pristine Koh Chang archipelago and Cambodia. Be it with your own vessel or on one of their fully equipped yachts Gulf Charters tours has something to suit your needs.
For more information on all Gulf Charters Thailand tours, packages and the Gulf Charters Sailing School please visit their website at www.yachtmasterthailand.com or contact their Jomtien Offices on; +6638237752 or +66845399689 to make an enquiry and/or booking.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
pattayadailynews.com • View topic - Tradition being a part of modernism.
Today even in each and every country we could see houses being built in a water frontage location. Today certain houses are also laying the clay and mud made tiles on the slanting roofs of their houses. The interior designers are also suggesting the wooden materials, though the substitutes are available in every slot of the same. The kitchen do have a chimney and to be more specific a fashionable chimney from all angles. The portrayals by Raja Ravi Verma, Leonardo da vinci and Picasso are being some of the probable portrayals beautifying the walls of the modern houses. What does all this suggest? Is man being more and more traditional or is he trying to bring back the tradition in the modern era and making it one of the features too is rather unanswerable yet.
It is always good to have a traditional approach towards many things but not everything also. It is indeed a good sign which suggest that man still have a remembrance of his past and more or less he does respect his tradition. The features which he is trying to bring back through his homes and are being considered to be modern are traditional as such. Today if we take a new home, the best part we like would be built in a traditional style. It is still an aching truth to know that we might have a substitute for the traditional, in the modern era but modernism could never surpass or even match the beauty of the tradition.
To tackle the same man is merging the old beauty and the modern tactics into the design of his new home as such. Most of the features thus adopted are from the custom homes, and if we search for those it might extend to the custom house of Dublin. The specifications and the spaciousness are kept intact in the designs and thus the New Custom Built Homes will bear both the features existing under the same roof in harmony. Thus custom homes which were the glory of the past, has been renovated to be the glory of the present as well. But as we all know, no home theatre can give the peace of mind and the beauty to the interiors which a mere gramophone can give, even today. Past is always past and to an extent a bit more beautiful too.
It is always good to have a traditional approach towards many things but not everything also. It is indeed a good sign which suggest that man still have a remembrance of his past and more or less he does respect his tradition. The features which he is trying to bring back through his homes and are being considered to be modern are traditional as such. Today if we take a new home, the best part we like would be built in a traditional style. It is still an aching truth to know that we might have a substitute for the traditional, in the modern era but modernism could never surpass or even match the beauty of the tradition.
To tackle the same man is merging the old beauty and the modern tactics into the design of his new home as such. Most of the features thus adopted are from the custom homes, and if we search for those it might extend to the custom house of Dublin. The specifications and the spaciousness are kept intact in the designs and thus the New Custom Built Homes will bear both the features existing under the same roof in harmony. Thus custom homes which were the glory of the past, has been renovated to be the glory of the present as well. But as we all know, no home theatre can give the peace of mind and the beauty to the interiors which a mere gramophone can give, even today. Past is always past and to an extent a bit more beautiful too.
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