(Bangkok Post (Thailand) Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) Oct. 07--More than 90% of Thai companies plan to increase spending on customer service next year amid intensified competition and rising consumer expectations across Asia, a regional survey released yesterday shows.
Thai companies' awareness of these greater expectations and measures taken to address them are higher than the regional average of 83% from 10 markets surveyed, says the Economist Intelligence Unit, which compiled the report.
"Thai firms are aware of rising expectations and have done their best to keep pace with greater customer demand. Still, there is room for improvement, as demand has risen so much," said Sudhir Vadaketh, senior editor at the EIU.
Most Thai companies said they placed greater priority on overall customer service than they did five years ago, with a focus on customer analytical systems and loyalty programmes, he said.
Commissioned by the global logistics leader DHL, the survey found that demand for service is rising across the board in Asia. Consumer spending on the continent is expected to surge from US$4.3 trillion annually in 2008 to $32 trillion by 2030, amounting to 43% of global consumer spending.
For Thailand, customer service is the most important factor for consumers in the sectors of financial services, travel and transport, and hospitality, said Mr Vadaketh.
The research, conducted between June and September, involved 764 consumers in 10 Asian countries, with at least 70 consumers in each country, along with 313 senior executives of companies from sectors such as manufacturing, telecommunications, services and retail.
Mr Vadaketh said customer satisfaction was low across Asia even in high-profile industries such as consumer electronics. Rising expectations are driven mainly by consumers' greater access to information, market competition and increasing online activities.
"Price is no longer the only factor in purchasing decisions. Many consumers are willing to pay for better services, but some Asian companies don't seem to understand customer needs," he said.
"The gap between what companies are providing and what consumers want is an opportunity. As competition in the region intensifies, those companies who put more emphasis on customer services should gain an edge." Chananyarak Phetcharat, the managing director of DHL Express Thailand and Indochina, said the subsidiary planned to excel at customer service and use this study as a guide to a better understanding of expectations and managing client needs.
Operating in 220 markets around the world, DHL handled 3.5 million shipments in Thailand last year for more than 20,000 customers.
This year, DHL has opened three new service points including one in Hat Yai for greater reach to tourists and the hospitality industry in the South, said Ms Chananyarak.
She said despite the impact of strong baht appreciation on Thai exports, import shipments have risen. The growth prospect is positive for DHL's allies, given the economic growth being seen in Asia.
To see more of the Bangkok Post, or to subscribe to the newspaper, go to http://www.bangkokpost.com/.
Copyright (c) 2010, Bangkok Post, Thailand Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services.
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Thursday, October 7, 2010
Bangkok Post : Thailand faces challenge from rivals
Bangkok Post : Thailand faces challenge from rivals
Political instability and sharp gains in the baht are having a profound effect on the medical tourism industry, turning regional competitors into a major challenge, say international experts.
They said the sector must develop a focused strategy and especially public-private partnerships, an area in which Thailand still lags neighbouring countries, especially Singapore.
Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia and India have emerged as the four major medical tourism players in Asia. Even though Thailand has the highest number of foreign patient arrivals, Singapore has a very fast growth rate, said Paul Tiffany, a business consultant.
He said despite Thailand's competitive advantages over its rivals, political uncertainty is prompting foreign patients to have second thoughts about coming here for treatment.
Research also suggests this to be a market that is highly influenced by perceptions of political unrest. Once problems develop, demand declines very rapidly and takes a long time to recover.
"For example, medical tourism [in the US] collapsed after 9/11 and took a minimum of five years to recover to where it had been in 2000," said Dr Tiffany.
The strengthening baht has made Thailand's medical tourism industry less competitive in terms of costs, especially compared with India.
"With the baht now trading above 30 to the dollar, the cost of medical treatment in Thailand has risen substantially over the past couple of years," said Dr Tiffany, a visiting professor at Chulalongkorn University's Sasin Graduate Institute of Business Administration.
"As rival nations ratchet up programmes to participate in the expanding medical tourism market, Thailand cannot simply rely on current advantages, but rather you need to create a united national effort that leverages the strengths."
The Tourism Authority of Thailand and other agencies are being urged to play a more active role in promoting medical tourism, such as by advertising and easing regulatory constraints.
The Singapore Tourism Board is very proactive in helping private operators, helping to create a perception of high-quality standards and ease of access to services, said Dr Tiffany.
Private operators must find and develop their niches. Malaysia is a good example in that the sector's focused strategy on Muslim patients has attracted a high number of patients from Indonesia.
"You need to define your niche in the market you serve well, in terms of both quality and costs," said Dr Tiffany. "For example, this country is famous for elective surgery treatments."
He said public hospitals would be pressured to upgrade their services once the sector is liberalised under the Asean Economic Community in 2015, which will allow foreign investors to acquire up to 70% ownership of private hospitals.
Political instability and sharp gains in the baht are having a profound effect on the medical tourism industry, turning regional competitors into a major challenge, say international experts.
They said the sector must develop a focused strategy and especially public-private partnerships, an area in which Thailand still lags neighbouring countries, especially Singapore.
Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia and India have emerged as the four major medical tourism players in Asia. Even though Thailand has the highest number of foreign patient arrivals, Singapore has a very fast growth rate, said Paul Tiffany, a business consultant.
He said despite Thailand's competitive advantages over its rivals, political uncertainty is prompting foreign patients to have second thoughts about coming here for treatment.
Research also suggests this to be a market that is highly influenced by perceptions of political unrest. Once problems develop, demand declines very rapidly and takes a long time to recover.
"For example, medical tourism [in the US] collapsed after 9/11 and took a minimum of five years to recover to where it had been in 2000," said Dr Tiffany.
The strengthening baht has made Thailand's medical tourism industry less competitive in terms of costs, especially compared with India.
"With the baht now trading above 30 to the dollar, the cost of medical treatment in Thailand has risen substantially over the past couple of years," said Dr Tiffany, a visiting professor at Chulalongkorn University's Sasin Graduate Institute of Business Administration.
"As rival nations ratchet up programmes to participate in the expanding medical tourism market, Thailand cannot simply rely on current advantages, but rather you need to create a united national effort that leverages the strengths."
The Tourism Authority of Thailand and other agencies are being urged to play a more active role in promoting medical tourism, such as by advertising and easing regulatory constraints.
The Singapore Tourism Board is very proactive in helping private operators, helping to create a perception of high-quality standards and ease of access to services, said Dr Tiffany.
Private operators must find and develop their niches. Malaysia is a good example in that the sector's focused strategy on Muslim patients has attracted a high number of patients from Indonesia.
"You need to define your niche in the market you serve well, in terms of both quality and costs," said Dr Tiffany. "For example, this country is famous for elective surgery treatments."
He said public hospitals would be pressured to upgrade their services once the sector is liberalised under the Asean Economic Community in 2015, which will allow foreign investors to acquire up to 70% ownership of private hospitals.
Press Release: Chartis Rolls out Aggressive Travel Insurance Market Strategy Introducing New Brand Ambassador and Travel Guard Campaign Aiming to Win the Mind of Thai Travelers
Press Release: Chartis Rolls out Aggressive Travel Insurance Market Strategy Introducing New Brand Ambassador and Travel Guard Campaign Aiming to Win the Mind of Thai Travelers
Chartis Thailand, an affiliate of Chartis Inc, a global leading insurance company, launches their latest campaign, alongside the brand ambassador “Nawat Issarakraisri” the travel guru, to stress its leading position in the travel insurance industry. The brand “Travel Guard” is being campaigned aggressively to become the number one brand in the mind of travelers.
Mr. Isorasak Thesratanavong, Vice President, New Hampshire Insurance says, “Chartis is preparing to carry out a plan to extend the size of travel insurance market by focusing on providing knowledge for the public to be aware of benefits from travel insurance. The true experience from our new brand ambassador will be told to the public to realize the benefits. Our studies showed that 85% of Thai travelers who went abroad last year did not have travel insurance, while only 15% purchased travel insurance and had got protection. In this number, 50% of purchase travelers bought travel insurance because it was a prerequisite for visa approval, and travelers didn’t realize the advantages of being insured. However, some studies showed results that almost 100% of the respondents admitted that they did not know before that travel insurance would have so many benefits when they were informed of the coverage conditions.
However, Mr. Isorasak shares his view, “the company doesn’t think that it is competing with other counterparts of the business, but with itself. Today, Chartis is already a leader of travel insurance in the global, regional and domestic markets. There are only market limitations that lie among the consumers in terms of understanding and behavior. In retrospect, as we are one of the companies that operates travel business, we have often heard anecdotes about travelers who encounter problems in a foreign country while having no insurance coverage, which leads to other difficulties. Therefore, the company’s strategy at this time is to answer all clients’ and companies’ needs.”
For domestic traveling, there are only some groups of people who have coverage from their life insurance or individual accident insurance, but travel insurance has specific benefits of coverage and is suitable for people who travel. Those who have no insurance at all can purchase the travel insurance to get coverage during their travels, which also covers accidents no matter where they are; shopping or falling down in a restaurant. This kind of insurance costs only a few tens of baht per week.
Mr. Isorasak adds that, “The Travel Guard brand is a global insurance service that confers beneficial coverage for travelers, especially those who are traveling aboard and for unexpected incidents that cause problems each time of the traveling. In some cases, these cases become big issues; including the whole treatment bills and high costs of moving the patients back to Thailand. And in many cases, these expenses can total up to several million baht. In addition, the travel insurance will also take care of the coverage on delays of the travel and delays of luggage.
For the speedy brand building of Travel Guard by Chartis to capture public’s instant recognition, the company has chosen Khun Nawat Issarakraisri, TV host and renowned travel expert, to be brand ambassador. For his extensive experience as a leading travel guru of the country, coupled with his personal experiences about the benefits of travel insurance, Khun Nawat is in the most suitable position to recommend the travel insurance to travelers, especially Travel Guard itself has always been the brand in his mind over the whole time. This can help build confidence on Travel Guard as well.
A big campaign is also launched for the upcoming high season. Interested participants can send an SMS to the sweepstakes award in a special "Travel Guard Travel Gang with Guru" program, which will take lucky winners on a special guided tour trip to Taipei by Khun Nawat. The trip includes visits to many beautiful attractions, delicious cuisine and guided information about the trip by the guru. The lucky participants will be divided into two groups; interested public who are not yet customers of Travel Guard insurance, and Travel Guard Insurance customers who purchase the coverage during the months of October through December. All names of insurance buyers will be drawn automatically. Also, for the customer group, a double-bill bonus of a free international phone card worth up to one hour call time will be distributed to all.
The company is preparing to roll out advertising through all means of media with an allocated budget of several 10 million baht. The online viral channel will also be carried out for interested prospects to have better access to the information through www.travelguard.in.th and www.dreamdestination.in.th, which are collaborative websites for the company’s tourism promotion activities that have organized many travel photo contests.
Khun Charnpol Ratanaporn, Travel Insurance Manager, Chartis Thailand, says, “The Company is expecting to make growth in the travel insurance business of at least a double digit within the next three years. This depends on whether the consumers’ perception and behavior will change through time because these are the elements that result in success of the market rather than competing for the market share among companies.” Mr. Isorasak also adds more information, “For the market of travel insurance to foreign countries, we are very confident that we have greater potential than our competitors. This is because Chartis has global operation network of in 160 countries worldwide and we have emergency service centers of Travel Guard all over America, Europe and Asia. More importantly, the Travel Guard centers are equipped with medical professionals; doctors, nurses, interpreters and specialists, who can assist our Thai clients especially on issues regarding travel insurance. We carry out international assistance for Thai travelers up to transferring patients back to Thailand in both normal and emergency cases. The centers are owned by the company so we do not share the facilities with other companies and can focus more on our mission and development of the system to connect with all major travel information. This enables more promptness in information searching services than our counterparts.”
"We are confident that the market strategy of Chartis and Travel Guard is truly beneficial for all sectors, from public, traveling business, travel insurance to Chartis itself. We believe that it will be successful. As Chartis is the leader with comprehensive potential, as well as the first travel insurance company to aggressively compete in the market to gain widespread awareness from the general public. We have conducted research and many preparations to fulfill our goal to provide information to our prospects effectively. This is to lead us in our initiative to be a part of support for the sustainability of the Thai travel industry, like the slogan of Travel Guard that goes ‘TRAVEL MORE. WORRY LESS’”
Media inquiry and further information please contact:
Khun Leenata Cheawvej, New Hampshire Insurances Tel. (02) 649-1594
Chartis Thailand, an affiliate of Chartis Inc, a global leading insurance company, launches their latest campaign, alongside the brand ambassador “Nawat Issarakraisri” the travel guru, to stress its leading position in the travel insurance industry. The brand “Travel Guard” is being campaigned aggressively to become the number one brand in the mind of travelers.
Mr. Isorasak Thesratanavong, Vice President, New Hampshire Insurance says, “Chartis is preparing to carry out a plan to extend the size of travel insurance market by focusing on providing knowledge for the public to be aware of benefits from travel insurance. The true experience from our new brand ambassador will be told to the public to realize the benefits. Our studies showed that 85% of Thai travelers who went abroad last year did not have travel insurance, while only 15% purchased travel insurance and had got protection. In this number, 50% of purchase travelers bought travel insurance because it was a prerequisite for visa approval, and travelers didn’t realize the advantages of being insured. However, some studies showed results that almost 100% of the respondents admitted that they did not know before that travel insurance would have so many benefits when they were informed of the coverage conditions.
However, Mr. Isorasak shares his view, “the company doesn’t think that it is competing with other counterparts of the business, but with itself. Today, Chartis is already a leader of travel insurance in the global, regional and domestic markets. There are only market limitations that lie among the consumers in terms of understanding and behavior. In retrospect, as we are one of the companies that operates travel business, we have often heard anecdotes about travelers who encounter problems in a foreign country while having no insurance coverage, which leads to other difficulties. Therefore, the company’s strategy at this time is to answer all clients’ and companies’ needs.”
For domestic traveling, there are only some groups of people who have coverage from their life insurance or individual accident insurance, but travel insurance has specific benefits of coverage and is suitable for people who travel. Those who have no insurance at all can purchase the travel insurance to get coverage during their travels, which also covers accidents no matter where they are; shopping or falling down in a restaurant. This kind of insurance costs only a few tens of baht per week.
Mr. Isorasak adds that, “The Travel Guard brand is a global insurance service that confers beneficial coverage for travelers, especially those who are traveling aboard and for unexpected incidents that cause problems each time of the traveling. In some cases, these cases become big issues; including the whole treatment bills and high costs of moving the patients back to Thailand. And in many cases, these expenses can total up to several million baht. In addition, the travel insurance will also take care of the coverage on delays of the travel and delays of luggage.
For the speedy brand building of Travel Guard by Chartis to capture public’s instant recognition, the company has chosen Khun Nawat Issarakraisri, TV host and renowned travel expert, to be brand ambassador. For his extensive experience as a leading travel guru of the country, coupled with his personal experiences about the benefits of travel insurance, Khun Nawat is in the most suitable position to recommend the travel insurance to travelers, especially Travel Guard itself has always been the brand in his mind over the whole time. This can help build confidence on Travel Guard as well.
A big campaign is also launched for the upcoming high season. Interested participants can send an SMS to the sweepstakes award in a special "Travel Guard Travel Gang with Guru" program, which will take lucky winners on a special guided tour trip to Taipei by Khun Nawat. The trip includes visits to many beautiful attractions, delicious cuisine and guided information about the trip by the guru. The lucky participants will be divided into two groups; interested public who are not yet customers of Travel Guard insurance, and Travel Guard Insurance customers who purchase the coverage during the months of October through December. All names of insurance buyers will be drawn automatically. Also, for the customer group, a double-bill bonus of a free international phone card worth up to one hour call time will be distributed to all.
The company is preparing to roll out advertising through all means of media with an allocated budget of several 10 million baht. The online viral channel will also be carried out for interested prospects to have better access to the information through www.travelguard.in.th and www.dreamdestination.in.th, which are collaborative websites for the company’s tourism promotion activities that have organized many travel photo contests.
Khun Charnpol Ratanaporn, Travel Insurance Manager, Chartis Thailand, says, “The Company is expecting to make growth in the travel insurance business of at least a double digit within the next three years. This depends on whether the consumers’ perception and behavior will change through time because these are the elements that result in success of the market rather than competing for the market share among companies.” Mr. Isorasak also adds more information, “For the market of travel insurance to foreign countries, we are very confident that we have greater potential than our competitors. This is because Chartis has global operation network of in 160 countries worldwide and we have emergency service centers of Travel Guard all over America, Europe and Asia. More importantly, the Travel Guard centers are equipped with medical professionals; doctors, nurses, interpreters and specialists, who can assist our Thai clients especially on issues regarding travel insurance. We carry out international assistance for Thai travelers up to transferring patients back to Thailand in both normal and emergency cases. The centers are owned by the company so we do not share the facilities with other companies and can focus more on our mission and development of the system to connect with all major travel information. This enables more promptness in information searching services than our counterparts.”
"We are confident that the market strategy of Chartis and Travel Guard is truly beneficial for all sectors, from public, traveling business, travel insurance to Chartis itself. We believe that it will be successful. As Chartis is the leader with comprehensive potential, as well as the first travel insurance company to aggressively compete in the market to gain widespread awareness from the general public. We have conducted research and many preparations to fulfill our goal to provide information to our prospects effectively. This is to lead us in our initiative to be a part of support for the sustainability of the Thai travel industry, like the slogan of Travel Guard that goes ‘TRAVEL MORE. WORRY LESS’”
Media inquiry and further information please contact:
Khun Leenata Cheawvej, New Hampshire Insurances Tel. (02) 649-1594
More than half of travelers share vacation info on social media sites
More than half of travelers share vacation info on social media sites
Travelocity’s most recent poll shows more than half of all travellers share vacation information through social media. Nearly 30 percent of travellers have either never thought about precautions or do not take any precautions when posting about vacation on social media websites.
With summer vacations in full swing, many travelers are looking forward to sharing the details of their trips with friends and family. In today’s world, the easiest way to share is through social media, but people should be conscious of when and what they share to avoid giving away too much information about when they’ll be away from home.
Nearly 30 percent of travelers have either never thought about precautions or do not take any precautions when posting about vacation on social media web sites. Twenty-seven percent post limited vacation information; the rest do not allow any vacation posts.
“It’s only natural to want to share your excitement about an upcoming trip on social media sites,” said Genevieve Shaw Brown, Travelocity’s senior editor. “But it’s probably safest to wait until you return to share the details of the trip.”
Travelocity’s tips for safe sharing on social media sites:
- Establish rules about how much you’ll share and make sure everyone in your household is on the same page.
- Never share details about dates you’ll be away or children who will be left home alone.
- Switch off the ‘add location to your tweets’ function if you’re tweeting from vacation.
- Deactivate Foursquare from your Twitter and Facebook accounts so it doesn’t update those sites when you check in.
Tips for sharing upon your return from vacation:
- Upon return – post away! Travel sites like IgoUgo.com make it very easy to share photos and reviews of your travels with the world.
- Upload your vacation videos to YouTube and post the link on Twitter or embed on Facebook so friends and family can watch.
- Use the geotag function on photo sharing sites like Flickr to show the world where you’ve been.
Travelocity’s most recent poll shows more than half of all travellers share vacation information through social media. Nearly 30 percent of travellers have either never thought about precautions or do not take any precautions when posting about vacation on social media websites.
With summer vacations in full swing, many travelers are looking forward to sharing the details of their trips with friends and family. In today’s world, the easiest way to share is through social media, but people should be conscious of when and what they share to avoid giving away too much information about when they’ll be away from home.
Nearly 30 percent of travelers have either never thought about precautions or do not take any precautions when posting about vacation on social media web sites. Twenty-seven percent post limited vacation information; the rest do not allow any vacation posts.
“It’s only natural to want to share your excitement about an upcoming trip on social media sites,” said Genevieve Shaw Brown, Travelocity’s senior editor. “But it’s probably safest to wait until you return to share the details of the trip.”
Travelocity’s tips for safe sharing on social media sites:
- Establish rules about how much you’ll share and make sure everyone in your household is on the same page.
- Never share details about dates you’ll be away or children who will be left home alone.
- Switch off the ‘add location to your tweets’ function if you’re tweeting from vacation.
- Deactivate Foursquare from your Twitter and Facebook accounts so it doesn’t update those sites when you check in.
Tips for sharing upon your return from vacation:
- Upon return – post away! Travel sites like IgoUgo.com make it very easy to share photos and reviews of your travels with the world.
- Upload your vacation videos to YouTube and post the link on Twitter or embed on Facebook so friends and family can watch.
- Use the geotag function on photo sharing sites like Flickr to show the world where you’ve been.
Nelon’s photos on exhibit at Sherborn Library - Sherborn, MA - Wicked Local Sherborn
Nelon’s photos on exhibit at Sherborn Library - Sherborn, MA - Wicked Local Sherborn
The Friends of the Sherborn Library are pleased to announce their October art exhibit — works by photographer and longtime Sherborn resident James R. Nelon.
Nelon’s adventure travel collection displays beautifully captured, culturally rich photographs of exotic landscapes, individuals and relics taken in locations such as Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines and Burma.
His photographs will be on exhibit throughout the first floor of the Sherborn Library, as well as in the second-floor conference room, during library business hours between Oct. 1 and the end of November. Admission is free. All photographs will be for sale.
The Friends of the Sherborn Library are pleased to announce their October art exhibit — works by photographer and longtime Sherborn resident James R. Nelon.
Nelon’s adventure travel collection displays beautifully captured, culturally rich photographs of exotic landscapes, individuals and relics taken in locations such as Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines and Burma.
His photographs will be on exhibit throughout the first floor of the Sherborn Library, as well as in the second-floor conference room, during library business hours between Oct. 1 and the end of November. Admission is free. All photographs will be for sale.
Thailand News. Travel Situation Update | Nican Mopohua | News and Finance
The tourism industry in Thailand truly took off when US soldiers started to arrive in the 1960s for Rest and Recuperation (R&R) during the Vietnam War period. Coinciding, international mass tourism sharply increased during the same period due to the rising standard of living, more people acquiring more free time and due to improvements in technology making it possible to travel further, faster, cheaper and in greater numbers, epitomized by the Boeing 747 which first flew commercially in 1970. Thailand was one of the major players in Asia to capitalize on this then-new trend. Tourist numbers have grown from 336,000 foreign visitors and 54,000 R&R soldiers in 1967 to over 14 million international guests visiting Thailand in 2007. The average duration of their stay in 2007 was 9.19 days, generating an estimated 547,782 million Thai baht, around 11 billion Euros. In 2006, Thailand was the 18th most visited country in the World Tourism rankings with 13.9 million visitors. France, comparable to Thailand in size and population, led the list with over 79 million foreign tourists. According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand, 55% of the tourists in 2007 came from the Asia Pacific region, Japanese and Malaysians forming the two biggest groups. The largest groups of Western tourists come from Britain, Germany, Scandinavia and the United States. The number of tourists arriving from the Middle East and Russia is on the rise. Around 55% of Thailand’s tourists are return visitors. The peak period is during the Christmas and New Year holidays when Western tourists flee the cold conditions back home Laboratory tests conducted on a 42-year-old Thai woman who was quarantined on Tuesday for possible swine-flu infection showed that she is free from the deadly virus, a hospital official said on Wednesday. Two tests were made on samples from the woman. She was found to be suffering from Ordinary human flu, Chulalongkorn Hospital virus specialist Dr Yong Pooworawan said at a press conference. The woman was admitted to Chulalongkorn hospital on Tuesday after having developed a fever last Thursday on arriving back from Singapore. Her trip had earlier taken her to Mexico and the USA between April 3 and 19. On Tuesday, the Public Health Ministry issued a warning that travelers should avoid going to Mexico or the US if possible. Public Health Minister Witthaya Kaewparadai confirmed in parliament on Wednesday that the swine flu virusstrain responsible for the global alert has not spread to Thailand. He said he had ordered provincial health units throughout the country to stock medicines used to treat influenza and to be ready in case the deadly variant of the virus spreads to Asia. Democrat MP Somboon Uthaiwienkul urged the government to register migrants coming to work in Thailand because they could easily become a burden on society whenever a disease spreads. Health official’s overseas treating people who have been infected with swine fever confirm that the generic antiviral drug oseltamivir, sold commercially as Tami flu, is effective against the virus. CNN International today announced the results of its Online Consumer Survey (OCS) on Travel and Tourism which reveals that Thailand was chosen as representing the best value for money for travelers in the Asia Pacific region. The survey conducted across CNN English websites had more than 5,000 respondents globally. Thailand came out as the best value in Asia-Pacific for respondents over China in second place and India in third. The comprehensive survey also revealed that although times are tough, the recession hasn’t reduced people’s desire to travel. On the contrary — people are trading down, not trading out — but not compromising their experience. In addition, more business leaders are likely to travel over the next 12 months than in the past year. * Overall the survey indicated that more people would travel for holiday over the next 12 months than last year, but 1 in 5 would make fewer trips. * 46% of business travelers in Asia Pacific claim the economic environment has had no impact on their business travel plans. 79% of Asia-Pac respondents feel they are likely to take a vacation in the region within the next 12 months. And the economic downturn isn’t affecting everyone’s travel plans. Asia-Pacific holidaymakers spent an average of just over US$4,000 on their last vacation, – ahead of the global average of $3,700. 71% of CNN’s audience of global travelers flies long-haul for leisure. Respondents take an average of 14 days vacation a year and holiday an average of three times a year. Brand image and reputation also remains a critical factor for air travel, and survey respondents clearly feel that preferred, trusted airlines are able to command a premium. Respondents are also more likely to do fewer trips than look for cheaper hotels or discounted flights with budget airlines. 58% of Asia Pacific respondents are ‘willing to pay more to travel with my preferred airline’ (vs. 50% globally and just 41% of North American respondents). 61% of these Asia Pacific air travelers ‘prefer to fly with a trusted brand regardless of cost’. Furthermore, in difficult financial times, there is value for advertisers in targeting premium audiences. 83% of business travelers influence the choice of airlines and hotels when it comes to corporate travel. 40% of those who travel for work fly business or first class, make an average of five business trips per year and are away for an average of 19 days per year. William Hsu, VP Advertising Sales, CNN International added “These results send a strong message to tourism boards that smart destination branding is critical for country differentiation and return on investment.” The survey comes as the latest PAX research for the full year 2008 once again reconfirms CNN as the leading channel in its genre for reaching each of the 3 main PAX groups: Affluent Adults, Business Decision Makers and Top Management. Among the Top Management group CNN is the leading international channel regardless of genre, while CNN.com continues to generate substantially higher reach than all other measured media sites.
Bangkok Post : Langham sees China properties helping Thailand
Bangkok Post : Langham sees China properties helping Thailand
The European hotel management company Langham Hotels International hopes its aggressive expansion in China will support its properties in Thailand.
China is an important market for Langham, said Bob van den Oord, the company's vice-president for sales and marketing. It strongly believes that Langham will be well received in China where people like European brands. Langham expects to add 10 to 20 new hotels in China by 2015.
"We can see people lining up to buy Louis Vuitton or Prada bags in China. Its economy has been growing rapidly. Therefore, a dramatic number of Chinese tourists will travel abroad and one of their preferred destinations is Thailand," he said.
Langham is now operating its first Thai hotel, Langham Place Samui on Lamai Beach, which was introduced last December. It plans to open three more hotels by 2013: the 400-room Langham Place Phayathai, Bangkok; the 78-villa Langham Place Miora Resort + Spa, Kalim Bay, Phuket; and the 230-room Langham Place Sukhumvit, Bangkok.
The company is looking to open another four-star hotel under its Eaton brand soon, but details could not be disclosed.
After opening all of the new hotels, the company projects that around 15% of the guests at each hotel will be Chinese tourists. Its main customers are corporate and leisure guests, both local and international.Mr van den Oord said he felt optimistic about the Thai economy and its GDP would show positive growth this year. The company believes Thailand is always a popular destination among foreigners and is confident that tourism will clearly pick up next year.
It will use local, international, and regional campaigns to promote its hotels. Each property will also use different media that match its positioning.
Mr van den Oord said the company planned to use social media to introduce the hotels among local people as well.
Langham Hotel International has three brands: the luxurious and traditional European Langham Hotels and Resorts; the modern and chic Langham Place; and the four-star Eaton.
Langham now operates 23 properties, 12 of which are under construction. Fifteen hotels are under negotiation. Langham Hotel International is owned by Great Eagle Holdings, which was established in 1963 and is listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.
The European hotel management company Langham Hotels International hopes its aggressive expansion in China will support its properties in Thailand.
China is an important market for Langham, said Bob van den Oord, the company's vice-president for sales and marketing. It strongly believes that Langham will be well received in China where people like European brands. Langham expects to add 10 to 20 new hotels in China by 2015.
"We can see people lining up to buy Louis Vuitton or Prada bags in China. Its economy has been growing rapidly. Therefore, a dramatic number of Chinese tourists will travel abroad and one of their preferred destinations is Thailand," he said.
Langham is now operating its first Thai hotel, Langham Place Samui on Lamai Beach, which was introduced last December. It plans to open three more hotels by 2013: the 400-room Langham Place Phayathai, Bangkok; the 78-villa Langham Place Miora Resort + Spa, Kalim Bay, Phuket; and the 230-room Langham Place Sukhumvit, Bangkok.
The company is looking to open another four-star hotel under its Eaton brand soon, but details could not be disclosed.
After opening all of the new hotels, the company projects that around 15% of the guests at each hotel will be Chinese tourists. Its main customers are corporate and leisure guests, both local and international.Mr van den Oord said he felt optimistic about the Thai economy and its GDP would show positive growth this year. The company believes Thailand is always a popular destination among foreigners and is confident that tourism will clearly pick up next year.
It will use local, international, and regional campaigns to promote its hotels. Each property will also use different media that match its positioning.
Mr van den Oord said the company planned to use social media to introduce the hotels among local people as well.
Langham Hotel International has three brands: the luxurious and traditional European Langham Hotels and Resorts; the modern and chic Langham Place; and the four-star Eaton.
Langham now operates 23 properties, 12 of which are under construction. Fifteen hotels are under negotiation. Langham Hotel International is owned by Great Eagle Holdings, which was established in 1963 and is listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.
Review of "Jan Gossart's Renaissance" at the Met - NorthJersey.com
MAN, MYTH, AND SENSUAL PLEASURES: JAN GOSSART'S RENAISSANCE
Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1000 Fifth Ave., at 82nd Street; 212-535-7710 or metmuseum.org.
Through Jan. 17. Schedule: 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday and Tuesday through Thursday, to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
Recommended admission: $20, students and senior citizens, $10.
Anyone who's done the European museum circuit knows the feeling. After you've seen your umpteenth "Holy Family," or "Virgin and Child," or "Adam and Eve," with their stylized poses and gestures, your eyes glaze over and the emotions shut down.
Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1000 Fifth Ave., at 82nd Street; 212-535-7710 or metmuseum.org.
Through Jan. 17. Schedule: 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday and Tuesday through Thursday, to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
Recommended admission: $20, students and senior citizens, $10.
Anyone who's done the European museum circuit knows the feeling. After you've seen your umpteenth "Holy Family," or "Virgin and Child," or "Adam and Eve," with their stylized poses and gestures, your eyes glaze over and the emotions shut down.
Dusit Thani Pattaya receives Best City Hotel recognition at Thailand Tourism Awards 2010 - Photo Gallery - etravelblackboard.com
Dusit Thani Pattaya receives Best City Hotel recognition at Thailand Tourism Awards 2010 - Photo Gallery - etravelblackboard.com
::Dusit Thani Pattaya receives Best City Hotel recognition at Thailand Tourism Awards 2010::
Dusit Thani Pattaya was one of the 75 organisations that received their respective accolades at the Thailand Tourism Awards 2010 hosted by the Tourism Authority of Thailand and held in Bangkok on 27 September. The awards were divided into five categories: tourist attraction, tourist accommodation, tourism development and promotion organizations, tour programs, and health tourism. Twenty nine countries were given recognition for their continued contribution towards the advancement of Thai tourism as well as their support to Thailand’s green objectives. The recognitions honoured the winners’ finest achievements and contributions to sustainable Thai tourism, conservation and environmental protection efforts. The event, which is held every two years, is Thailand’s ‘Hallmark of Excellence’, a symbol of assurance in the outstanding quality and reliability of tourism products and services offered by a particular organisation or operator.
Hotel general manager Mr. Chatchawal Supachayanont accepted the Best City Hotel (with over 80 rooms) Award under the Tourist Accommodation category and shared the achievement with hotel staff and management. He emphasized the need to be passionate in their environmental efforts and encouraged everyone to continue doing their share in the hotel’s ongoing initiatives. The five-star resort also won in the same category in 2008.
::Dusit Thani Pattaya receives Best City Hotel recognition at Thailand Tourism Awards 2010::
Dusit Thani Pattaya was one of the 75 organisations that received their respective accolades at the Thailand Tourism Awards 2010 hosted by the Tourism Authority of Thailand and held in Bangkok on 27 September. The awards were divided into five categories: tourist attraction, tourist accommodation, tourism development and promotion organizations, tour programs, and health tourism. Twenty nine countries were given recognition for their continued contribution towards the advancement of Thai tourism as well as their support to Thailand’s green objectives. The recognitions honoured the winners’ finest achievements and contributions to sustainable Thai tourism, conservation and environmental protection efforts. The event, which is held every two years, is Thailand’s ‘Hallmark of Excellence’, a symbol of assurance in the outstanding quality and reliability of tourism products and services offered by a particular organisation or operator.
Hotel general manager Mr. Chatchawal Supachayanont accepted the Best City Hotel (with over 80 rooms) Award under the Tourist Accommodation category and shared the achievement with hotel staff and management. He emphasized the need to be passionate in their environmental efforts and encouraged everyone to continue doing their share in the hotel’s ongoing initiatives. The five-star resort also won in the same category in 2008.
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