Full Version: Achievements of Thailand's Tourism
Let's post some good news about Thailand's tourism here.
http://enews.mcot.net/view.php?id=12630
by Aubrey Stoll
QUOTE
Bangkok voted No. 1 'most attractive city' in Asia
BANGKOK, Nov 4 (TNA) - Foreign tourists voted Bangkok the most attractive city to visit among 10 of 11 member cities of the Asian Network of Major Cities 21 (ANMC 21).
Following a Bangkok University ‘Bangkok Poll’ ranking 10 cities, minus Myanmar’s Yangon, whose representatives joined the eighth meeting of ANMC 21 recently in Bangkok, the Thai capital was voted the most attractive city to visit by foreign travellers by receiving a score of 7.19 out of 10.
The survey was conducted from 31 October to 1 November 2009 among some 500 foreign tourists visiting Bangkok. Among the five factors that draw tourists to Bangkok, Thai food counted as around 20 per cent as being of interest of foreigners the most, while the city’s historical sites and ancient remains came second at 19 per cent.
Thai hospitality rated 16 per cent, while local culture placed fourth and the capital’s shopping centres placed last at 15 per cent.
The most impressive tourist attractions in Bangkok are the Grand Palace and the Emerald Buddha Temple, while shopping malls in city centre received 11 per cent.
According to the poll, the average tourists’ satisfaction score out of 10 for their trip to Bangkok was around 7. Food and drinks were the most satisfactory items, given the score of 8.56. Travelling to Bangkok was considered the best value for money, coming second at 8.41, while Bangkok weather scored lowest at 4.62.
Above all, some 77 per cent of the respondents said they would revisit Bangkok, 3 per cent said they would not, while 19 per cent were uncertain.
However, 91 per cent of the tourists said they would advise their families and friends to travel to Bangkok.
Meanwhile, nearly two-thirds --63 per cent -- were confident that Bangkok could cope with the pandemic Influenza A(H1N1), while some 80 per cent said that Thailand’s internal politics had only a slight effect on their decisions to travel to Thailand.
Of the other cities in the ANMC 21 group, Japan’s Tokyo was voted the second most attractive city at the score of 3.12.
The 8th Plenary Meeting of the Asian Network of Major Cities 21 (ANMC 21) concerned sustainable tourism policy dialogue and a report on measures against Influenza A(H1N1). The 11 member cities comprise Bangkok, Delhi, Hanoi, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Seoul, Singapore, Taipei, Tokyo, and Yangon. (TNA)
BANGKOK, Nov 4 (TNA) - Foreign tourists voted Bangkok the most attractive city to visit among 10 of 11 member cities of the Asian Network of Major Cities 21 (ANMC 21).
Following a Bangkok University ‘Bangkok Poll’ ranking 10 cities, minus Myanmar’s Yangon, whose representatives joined the eighth meeting of ANMC 21 recently in Bangkok, the Thai capital was voted the most attractive city to visit by foreign travellers by receiving a score of 7.19 out of 10.
The survey was conducted from 31 October to 1 November 2009 among some 500 foreign tourists visiting Bangkok. Among the five factors that draw tourists to Bangkok, Thai food counted as around 20 per cent as being of interest of foreigners the most, while the city’s historical sites and ancient remains came second at 19 per cent.
Thai hospitality rated 16 per cent, while local culture placed fourth and the capital’s shopping centres placed last at 15 per cent.
The most impressive tourist attractions in Bangkok are the Grand Palace and the Emerald Buddha Temple, while shopping malls in city centre received 11 per cent.
According to the poll, the average tourists’ satisfaction score out of 10 for their trip to Bangkok was around 7. Food and drinks were the most satisfactory items, given the score of 8.56. Travelling to Bangkok was considered the best value for money, coming second at 8.41, while Bangkok weather scored lowest at 4.62.
Above all, some 77 per cent of the respondents said they would revisit Bangkok, 3 per cent said they would not, while 19 per cent were uncertain.
However, 91 per cent of the tourists said they would advise their families and friends to travel to Bangkok.
Meanwhile, nearly two-thirds --63 per cent -- were confident that Bangkok could cope with the pandemic Influenza A(H1N1), while some 80 per cent said that Thailand’s internal politics had only a slight effect on their decisions to travel to Thailand.
Of the other cities in the ANMC 21 group, Japan’s Tokyo was voted the second most attractive city at the score of 3.12.
The 8th Plenary Meeting of the Asian Network of Major Cities 21 (ANMC 21) concerned sustainable tourism policy dialogue and a report on measures against Influenza A(H1N1). The 11 member cities comprise Bangkok, Delhi, Hanoi, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Seoul, Singapore, Taipei, Tokyo, and Yangon. (TNA)
by Aubrey Stoll
http://www.bangkokpost.com/breakingnews/15...d-in-best-value
by gva_pix
QUOTE
Thailand second best-value destination
Published: 3/11/2009 at 11:10 AM
Online news: Travel News
Thailand is the world's second best-value destination according to Lonely Planet's 'Best in Travel 2010' guide. Iceland tops the best-value list.
The renowned travel guide firm said Thailand remained "perennially good value". Thailand was one of the least expensive long-haul holidays for European tourists and there were many accommodation choices in the country.
The world's best-value destination for next year went to Iceland.
Lonely Planet said exploring ice caps and volcanoes and bathing in hot springs in Iceland would be significantly less expensive, thanks to the global economic downturn.
London, South Africa, India, Malaysia, Mexico, Bulgaria, Kenya and Las Vegas are other destinations in the most affordable list.
Published: 3/11/2009 at 11:10 AM
Online news: Travel News
Thailand is the world's second best-value destination according to Lonely Planet's 'Best in Travel 2010' guide. Iceland tops the best-value list.
The renowned travel guide firm said Thailand remained "perennially good value". Thailand was one of the least expensive long-haul holidays for European tourists and there were many accommodation choices in the country.
The world's best-value destination for next year went to Iceland.
Lonely Planet said exploring ice caps and volcanoes and bathing in hot springs in Iceland would be significantly less expensive, thanks to the global economic downturn.
London, South Africa, India, Malaysia, Mexico, Bulgaria, Kenya and Las Vegas are other destinations in the most affordable list.
by gva_pix
Thailand's tourism achievement from www.smarttravelasia.com
QUOTE
Best Holiday Destinations, Asia
1. Bali, Indonesia
2. Maldives
Phuket, Thailand
3. Kerala, India
4. Hong Kong
5. Bangkok, Thailand
Hoi An, Vietnam
6. Boracay, Philippines
Goa, India
Langkawi, Malaysia
7. Chiang Mai, Thailand
Palawan, Philippines
8. Angkor (Siem Reap), Cambodia
Shanghai, China
Tokyo, Japan 9
9. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Koh Samui, Thailand
10. Penang, Malaysia
Rajasthan, India
Polling holiday destinations is always fun, but tricky. Dreams are peculiar to countries and communities. Just as the westernised Japanese race to the beach to revel in the sun, Indians head for shade and cool hill resorts. Shopping-mad Hongkongers head for the malls, Australians chase the surf and Brits sip Singapore slings in musty colonial retreats.
There were few surprises in the 2009 Top Three. Ranked first as the Best Holiday Destination in Asia with 24 percent of the vote (compared with 14 percent in 2008) is the other worldly “Island of the Gods”, Bali, Indonesia. The island ranked first on our poll in 2006 and 2007 too. Bali has retained its disarmingly honest and simple charm. It remains a peaceful ritual-minded Hindu enclave in a bustling Muslim country. Above all, despite the burgeoning ranks of the t-shirt vendors and temple touts, Bali still retains a great deal of authenticity.
Voted the second best destination for an Asian holiday was the eternally popular Thai island of Phuket, which garnered 12.3% of the vote. This island (linked by a bridge) was voted in second position in 2006, 2007, and 2008 as well. It held its position easily despite troubles in south Thailand and political uncertainties. Clearly, its string of wonderful beaches, fine food, nightlife and that special Thai can-do hospitality, remain a big draw for travellers. In general, Thailand remains a big favourite as our Top Ten List suggests.
Co-ranked second and climbing up two hard-fought positions was the islands-in-the-sun Maldives. This continued rise to prominence underscored discerning travellers’ desire for authentic, “pure”, and secluded escapes with a focus on eco-friendly establishments. Said one voter, “The purity of the Maldives is breathtaking – the water, the sea, the people. My only complaint was the food, which could have been better given the prices.” Said another: “This is a jewel of a destination, no matter you visit for a honeymoon or with the entire family in tow.” As one European voter put it: “Forget the Caribbean. This is the most perfect place on earth.”
Ranked third best Asian holiday destination (as in 2006, 2007, and 2008) is the South Indian idyll of Kerala, long a favourite of the get-away-from-it-all crowd. Known for its verdant rice paddy fields, cool mountains clad in mist-wreathed tea estates, beaches, and welcoming, literate, head-nodding population, Kerala is one of three Indian destinations in the 2009 Top Ten. Said one voter: “After the chaos of Indian airports and the bedlam on the roads, Kerala is as a nourishing oasis of green.”
Following closely in fourth position is the picture-postcard neon-powered city of Hong Kong with six percent of the vote. Hong Kong ranked fifth in 2008. Doubtless, shopping was a major draw as underlined by the results for the “best cities for shopping” category.
Ranked in fifth place (climbing up one notch) is Bangkok, co-ranked in this position with Hoi An, Vietnam. Then in sixth were Boracay, Goa, and Langkawi. In seventh spot are Palawan and Chiang Mai (they shared eighth in 2008). In eighth position is Angkor (Siem Reap, Cambodia) along with Shanghai, and Tokyo. Dubai and Koh Samui jointly held ninth; and tenth spot went to Penang and Rajasthan. Said one voter of Penang: “This is food heaven and the prices are unbeatable.”
Our poll revealed the continued dominance of Thailand as a "holiday brand" with four destinations in this Top Ten, and the emergence of India as a destination on traveller wish-lists. Bali held top spot demonstrating that integrity can attract visitor votes, and dollars.
1. Bali, Indonesia
2. Maldives
Phuket, Thailand
3. Kerala, India
4. Hong Kong
5. Bangkok, Thailand
Hoi An, Vietnam
6. Boracay, Philippines
Goa, India
Langkawi, Malaysia
7. Chiang Mai, Thailand
Palawan, Philippines
8. Angkor (Siem Reap), Cambodia
Shanghai, China
Tokyo, Japan 9
9. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Koh Samui, Thailand
10. Penang, Malaysia
Rajasthan, India
Polling holiday destinations is always fun, but tricky. Dreams are peculiar to countries and communities. Just as the westernised Japanese race to the beach to revel in the sun, Indians head for shade and cool hill resorts. Shopping-mad Hongkongers head for the malls, Australians chase the surf and Brits sip Singapore slings in musty colonial retreats.
There were few surprises in the 2009 Top Three. Ranked first as the Best Holiday Destination in Asia with 24 percent of the vote (compared with 14 percent in 2008) is the other worldly “Island of the Gods”, Bali, Indonesia. The island ranked first on our poll in 2006 and 2007 too. Bali has retained its disarmingly honest and simple charm. It remains a peaceful ritual-minded Hindu enclave in a bustling Muslim country. Above all, despite the burgeoning ranks of the t-shirt vendors and temple touts, Bali still retains a great deal of authenticity.
Voted the second best destination for an Asian holiday was the eternally popular Thai island of Phuket, which garnered 12.3% of the vote. This island (linked by a bridge) was voted in second position in 2006, 2007, and 2008 as well. It held its position easily despite troubles in south Thailand and political uncertainties. Clearly, its string of wonderful beaches, fine food, nightlife and that special Thai can-do hospitality, remain a big draw for travellers. In general, Thailand remains a big favourite as our Top Ten List suggests.
Co-ranked second and climbing up two hard-fought positions was the islands-in-the-sun Maldives. This continued rise to prominence underscored discerning travellers’ desire for authentic, “pure”, and secluded escapes with a focus on eco-friendly establishments. Said one voter, “The purity of the Maldives is breathtaking – the water, the sea, the people. My only complaint was the food, which could have been better given the prices.” Said another: “This is a jewel of a destination, no matter you visit for a honeymoon or with the entire family in tow.” As one European voter put it: “Forget the Caribbean. This is the most perfect place on earth.”
Ranked third best Asian holiday destination (as in 2006, 2007, and 2008) is the South Indian idyll of Kerala, long a favourite of the get-away-from-it-all crowd. Known for its verdant rice paddy fields, cool mountains clad in mist-wreathed tea estates, beaches, and welcoming, literate, head-nodding population, Kerala is one of three Indian destinations in the 2009 Top Ten. Said one voter: “After the chaos of Indian airports and the bedlam on the roads, Kerala is as a nourishing oasis of green.”
Following closely in fourth position is the picture-postcard neon-powered city of Hong Kong with six percent of the vote. Hong Kong ranked fifth in 2008. Doubtless, shopping was a major draw as underlined by the results for the “best cities for shopping” category.
Ranked in fifth place (climbing up one notch) is Bangkok, co-ranked in this position with Hoi An, Vietnam. Then in sixth were Boracay, Goa, and Langkawi. In seventh spot are Palawan and Chiang Mai (they shared eighth in 2008). In eighth position is Angkor (Siem Reap, Cambodia) along with Shanghai, and Tokyo. Dubai and Koh Samui jointly held ninth; and tenth spot went to Penang and Rajasthan. Said one voter of Penang: “This is food heaven and the prices are unbeatable.”
Our poll revealed the continued dominance of Thailand as a "holiday brand" with four destinations in this Top Ten, and the emergence of India as a destination on traveller wish-lists. Bali held top spot demonstrating that integrity can attract visitor votes, and dollars.
ดันกระทู้ ^^
Thailand best value long-haul destination
Survey finds South-East Asia offers most for your money
03/11/2009
Thailand offers the best value for money for UK travellers at the moment, according to new figures.
The Post Office’s Long Haul Report says South-East Asia once again offers more for the pound than anywhere else on the planet.
Indonesia and Malaysia came second and third in the survey, which ranks destinations based on the value of the local currency against sterling and the cost of various items locally, including a cup of coffee and a postcard and stamp.
Kenya, Egypt and South Africa were next cheapest. Meanwhile, Japan, despite its reputation as an expensive destination, was found to be cheaper than the likes of the US, Mexico and Australia.
Australia is currently the most expensive distant destination, closely followed by Antigua, New Zealand, Canada and Brazil.
Survey finds South-East Asia offers most for your money
03/11/2009
Thailand offers the best value for money for UK travellers at the moment, according to new figures.
The Post Office’s Long Haul Report says South-East Asia once again offers more for the pound than anywhere else on the planet.
Indonesia and Malaysia came second and third in the survey, which ranks destinations based on the value of the local currency against sterling and the cost of various items locally, including a cup of coffee and a postcard and stamp.
Kenya, Egypt and South Africa were next cheapest. Meanwhile, Japan, despite its reputation as an expensive destination, was found to be cheaper than the likes of the US, Mexico and Australia.
Australia is currently the most expensive distant destination, closely followed by Antigua, New Zealand, Canada and Brazil.
Top Medical Tourism Destinations
With health-care costs on the rise, more U.S. insurers ponder Asia's hospitals and more patients may visit these popular sites for offshore operations
By Bruce Einhorn
Medical tourism—people going overseas for all sort of operations—has typically been for America's uninsured. Unable to pay the high cost of procedures in the U.S., they have been going to less expensive hospitals in Asia and Latin America for years. Now, with health-care costs continuing to rise at home, more U.S. insurers are starting to look into providing coverage for their members at overseas hospitals.
That means offshoring might be the next big thing in health care. "As the health-care crisis in the U.S. continues, people and corporations are going to start taking a look at other options," says Ruben Toral, CEO of Mednet Asia, a consulting firm that advises hospitals in Thailand, the Philippines, and other countries. "Health care won't be too much different than manufacturing; it's going to start to move to lower-cost areas."
Countries such as India, Singapore, and Thailand are some of the most popular destinations for medical tourists. Just how much cheaper are Asia's hospitals? Here's a look at some of the top hospitals, such as Bangkok Phuket Hospital (pictured), along with a comparison of the costs of checking in. With a growing number of U.S. insurance companies considering adding Asia's hospitals to their coverage, in the next few years more patients from the U.S. might find themselves going to these centers for their next operation.
Data from Thailand Ministry of Public Health, KGI Securities
With health-care costs on the rise, more U.S. insurers ponder Asia's hospitals and more patients may visit these popular sites for offshore operations
By Bruce Einhorn
Medical tourism—people going overseas for all sort of operations—has typically been for America's uninsured. Unable to pay the high cost of procedures in the U.S., they have been going to less expensive hospitals in Asia and Latin America for years. Now, with health-care costs continuing to rise at home, more U.S. insurers are starting to look into providing coverage for their members at overseas hospitals.
That means offshoring might be the next big thing in health care. "As the health-care crisis in the U.S. continues, people and corporations are going to start taking a look at other options," says Ruben Toral, CEO of Mednet Asia, a consulting firm that advises hospitals in Thailand, the Philippines, and other countries. "Health care won't be too much different than manufacturing; it's going to start to move to lower-cost areas."
Countries such as India, Singapore, and Thailand are some of the most popular destinations for medical tourists. Just how much cheaper are Asia's hospitals? Here's a look at some of the top hospitals, such as Bangkok Phuket Hospital (pictured), along with a comparison of the costs of checking in. With a growing number of U.S. insurance companies considering adding Asia's hospitals to their coverage, in the next few years more patients from the U.S. might find themselves going to these centers for their next operation.
Data from Thailand Ministry of Public Health, KGI Securities
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/artic...ssing-trip.html
QUOTE
Kate Moss spends another New Year in Thailand... after almost missing the whole trip
By Daily Mail Reporter
Last updated at 12:16 AM on 01st January 2010
Strolling along the golden sands with her boyfriend, Kate Moss was clearly keen to make up for lost time yesterday.
She had been due to fly out to Thailand on Boxing Day for her annual break with rock musician Jamie Hince.
But the word is she was so hung over following her Christmas excesses that Hince refused to let her travel, and they eventually left two days later.
Living the Thai life: Kate Moss and Jamie Hince stroll down the beach in Thailand to take a boat out for the day
Miss Moss, 35, wore a sheer gold and black T-shirt over a black bikini as she and 40-year-old Hince boarded a speedboat which took them out to a larger launch for a sightseeing tour of the coast.
The supermodel spent last New Year with Hince in Thailand, and used to holiday there with her former lover Pete Doherty.
Costly break: On top of the costs of the holiday, Kate had to pay out for another four flights after missing the original Boxing Day flights because of a hangover
She was said to have been devastated when Hince, guitarist with The Kills, ruled that she was not fit to fly on the 26th.
Missing their first-class flights reportedly cost her at least £20,000. But given her multi-million-pound fortune, this will hardly trouble the girl from Croydon.
Messing about in boats: The couple took a fast boat to a larger vessel
By Daily Mail Reporter
Last updated at 12:16 AM on 01st January 2010
Strolling along the golden sands with her boyfriend, Kate Moss was clearly keen to make up for lost time yesterday.
She had been due to fly out to Thailand on Boxing Day for her annual break with rock musician Jamie Hince.
But the word is she was so hung over following her Christmas excesses that Hince refused to let her travel, and they eventually left two days later.
Living the Thai life: Kate Moss and Jamie Hince stroll down the beach in Thailand to take a boat out for the day
Miss Moss, 35, wore a sheer gold and black T-shirt over a black bikini as she and 40-year-old Hince boarded a speedboat which took them out to a larger launch for a sightseeing tour of the coast.
The supermodel spent last New Year with Hince in Thailand, and used to holiday there with her former lover Pete Doherty.
Costly break: On top of the costs of the holiday, Kate had to pay out for another four flights after missing the original Boxing Day flights because of a hangover
She was said to have been devastated when Hince, guitarist with The Kills, ruled that she was not fit to fly on the 26th.
Missing their first-class flights reportedly cost her at least £20,000. But given her multi-million-pound fortune, this will hardly trouble the girl from Croydon.
Messing about in boats: The couple took a fast boat to a larger vessel
Naomi Cambell is here in Phuket too with Kate Moss.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/artic...l#ixzz0cGDhkLyL
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/artic...l#ixzz0cGDhkLyL
QUOTE
Brrr... You think it's cold in Thailand Kate Moss? Wait until you get back to England
By Chris Johnson
Last updated at 10:28 AM on 07th January 2010
It's a sensation which has become all too familiar in recent weeks.
Shivering with the cold, Kate Moss wrapped her arms around her for warmth.
But the supermodel isn't dodging the snow drifts here in England. Instead she's feeling the chill on an idyllic beach in Thailand, where she is staying in a £3,000 a night villa.
Feeling the chill: Kate Moss shivers after a dip in the sea with daughter Lila Grace during their family holiday in Thailand
Warming up: Kate slipped into a loose white shirt while boyfriend Jamie Hince hit the waters in a pair of denim shorts
Wearing a black bikini, Kate shivered as she dipped her toes into the sea with daughter Lila Grace. Temperatures on the holiday island of Phuket were 30C yesterday - in contrast to the icy weather back home.
Kate and her family were joined by her old catwalk friend, Naomi Campbell.
But it appears Naomi is managing to maintain a decidedly perter figure than Kate.
Their varying forms were brought into stark contrast as the pair took to the beach in Thailand in skimpy bikinis, which left little to the imagination.
Toned: Kate was joined by her catwalk pal Naomi Campbell, who wore a sexy animal print bikini
Leggy: The pair enjoyed lounging around and catching-up
At 39, Naomi still boasts an enviably flat stomach and toned peachy derrière - but 35-year-old Kate is starting to show signs of going on the slide.
Earlier in the week, she was spotted on the beach in Phuket in an unflattering bikini which showed off her saggy bottom and dimply thighs.
But it seems Kate, who was pictured yesterday soaking up the sun with Naomi, is determined to do something about it.
Lighting up: Naomi, with Russian boyfriend Vladislav Doronin, enjoyed a crafty cigarette as she relaxed on the sun lounger
While she may not have quit the drink and booze for her New Year's resolution, she has taken up a new hobby which should help her get into shape - synchronised swimming.
Kate has roped her fellow supermodel friend Naomi into the water ballet sport too.
Earlier this week they put on an swim show for friends back at Kate's Phuket hotel with some other model friends.
Let's go for a splash: She cooled off as they went for a dip in the sea
That's enough for me: The pair head back to continue their sunbathing
A hotel source told the Daily Mirror that she had spent five days preparing for the display, working on her 'eggbeater', 'skull thrust' and 'crane'.
The source said: 'Underwater music was piped through her hotel pool, allowing her to practise her moves to refine the art of water ballet.'
She wore a floral swimming cap and nose clip and had a hotel worker download an online handbook so she could learn all the moves.
Firming up: Kate has started synchronised swimming in a bid to tone up, perhaps inspired by her modelling pal Naomi's enviably sculpted figure
The former catwalk stars are both holidaying in Thailand with Kate showing off her saggy derrière (right), which is in stark contrast to Naomi's peachy behind
The source added: 'Kate has perfected all the basic sculling moves and twirls, plus the eggbeater - basically treading water - but has really struggled with the crane which requires a great deal of core strength.'
Last night she invited a group of models, including Naomi, to her £3,000-a-night villa to join in the fun.
'Kate reckons it's been really amazing for her bum and tum, and has really firmed her up,' the insider said.
Both Kate and Naomi have been making full use of the gorgeous beaches and warm weather in beautiful Thailand.
Meeting up: Naomi joined Kate and her boyfriend Jamie Hince, left, on the beach yesterday as they lapped up the gorgeous weather
Unhealthy: But it seems Kate is not ready to give up the drink and cigarettes
Yesterday Kate was spotted looking relaxed as she sauntered across the beach in a white bikini and check shirt.
The mother-of-one, who is holidaying with her boyfriend Jamie Hince, was later joined by Naomi and the pair were pictured having a chat on their sun loungers.
On Monday, Naomi lapped up the sunshine in an animal print bikini as she enjoyed some quality time with Russian businessman boyfriend Vladislav Doronin.
The loved-up pair topped up their tans between bouts of frolicking in the sea and were joined by friends, Oscar-winning producer Brian Grazer and his girlfriend, Vietnamese pianist Chosan Nguyen.
By Chris Johnson
Last updated at 10:28 AM on 07th January 2010
It's a sensation which has become all too familiar in recent weeks.
Shivering with the cold, Kate Moss wrapped her arms around her for warmth.
But the supermodel isn't dodging the snow drifts here in England. Instead she's feeling the chill on an idyllic beach in Thailand, where she is staying in a £3,000 a night villa.
Feeling the chill: Kate Moss shivers after a dip in the sea with daughter Lila Grace during their family holiday in Thailand
Warming up: Kate slipped into a loose white shirt while boyfriend Jamie Hince hit the waters in a pair of denim shorts
Wearing a black bikini, Kate shivered as she dipped her toes into the sea with daughter Lila Grace. Temperatures on the holiday island of Phuket were 30C yesterday - in contrast to the icy weather back home.
Kate and her family were joined by her old catwalk friend, Naomi Campbell.
But it appears Naomi is managing to maintain a decidedly perter figure than Kate.
Their varying forms were brought into stark contrast as the pair took to the beach in Thailand in skimpy bikinis, which left little to the imagination.
Toned: Kate was joined by her catwalk pal Naomi Campbell, who wore a sexy animal print bikini
Leggy: The pair enjoyed lounging around and catching-up
At 39, Naomi still boasts an enviably flat stomach and toned peachy derrière - but 35-year-old Kate is starting to show signs of going on the slide.
Earlier in the week, she was spotted on the beach in Phuket in an unflattering bikini which showed off her saggy bottom and dimply thighs.
But it seems Kate, who was pictured yesterday soaking up the sun with Naomi, is determined to do something about it.
Lighting up: Naomi, with Russian boyfriend Vladislav Doronin, enjoyed a crafty cigarette as she relaxed on the sun lounger
While she may not have quit the drink and booze for her New Year's resolution, she has taken up a new hobby which should help her get into shape - synchronised swimming.
Kate has roped her fellow supermodel friend Naomi into the water ballet sport too.
Earlier this week they put on an swim show for friends back at Kate's Phuket hotel with some other model friends.
Let's go for a splash: She cooled off as they went for a dip in the sea
That's enough for me: The pair head back to continue their sunbathing
A hotel source told the Daily Mirror that she had spent five days preparing for the display, working on her 'eggbeater', 'skull thrust' and 'crane'.
The source said: 'Underwater music was piped through her hotel pool, allowing her to practise her moves to refine the art of water ballet.'
She wore a floral swimming cap and nose clip and had a hotel worker download an online handbook so she could learn all the moves.
Firming up: Kate has started synchronised swimming in a bid to tone up, perhaps inspired by her modelling pal Naomi's enviably sculpted figure
The former catwalk stars are both holidaying in Thailand with Kate showing off her saggy derrière (right), which is in stark contrast to Naomi's peachy behind
The source added: 'Kate has perfected all the basic sculling moves and twirls, plus the eggbeater - basically treading water - but has really struggled with the crane which requires a great deal of core strength.'
Last night she invited a group of models, including Naomi, to her £3,000-a-night villa to join in the fun.
'Kate reckons it's been really amazing for her bum and tum, and has really firmed her up,' the insider said.
Both Kate and Naomi have been making full use of the gorgeous beaches and warm weather in beautiful Thailand.
Meeting up: Naomi joined Kate and her boyfriend Jamie Hince, left, on the beach yesterday as they lapped up the gorgeous weather
Unhealthy: But it seems Kate is not ready to give up the drink and cigarettes
Yesterday Kate was spotted looking relaxed as she sauntered across the beach in a white bikini and check shirt.
The mother-of-one, who is holidaying with her boyfriend Jamie Hince, was later joined by Naomi and the pair were pictured having a chat on their sun loungers.
On Monday, Naomi lapped up the sunshine in an animal print bikini as she enjoyed some quality time with Russian businessman boyfriend Vladislav Doronin.
The loved-up pair topped up their tans between bouts of frolicking in the sea and were joined by friends, Oscar-winning producer Brian Grazer and his girlfriend, Vietnamese pianist Chosan Nguyen.
Without make up this people look pale like ghost 
Maybe it's more appropriate to post it in this thread, just to avoid confusion.
QUOTE (Marrykate @ Feb 17 2010, 08:59 PM) 
Thailand has once again been voted the ‘World’s Best Tourist Country’ in the 2010 Norwegian Grand Travel Award making this the seventh consecutive year that the Thai kingdom has won the award.
Source : http://www.tatnews.org/tat_inter/detail_inter.asp?id=4686
Source : http://www.tatnews.org/tat_inter/detail_inter.asp?id=4686
http://namnewsnetwork.org/v2/read.php?id=122604
by curreyuk
QUOTE
400 INDIAN COUPLES TO MARRY AT PHUKET; BT1 BILLION EXPECTED
PHUKET, Thailand June 4 (NNN-TNA) -- More than Bt1 billion is expected to be circulation here when over 400 Indian couples to fly to this resort island dubbed the Andaman Pearl' for their marriage and honeymoon, according to Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)'s Phuket Office.
Wanprapa Suksomboon, TAT Phuket deputy director, said if the wedding event is held as planned, it will help boost the province's tourism and promote its tourist attractions.
Ms Wanprapa disclosed at a seminar in the provincial seat to promote Phuket tourism that India's TAT Mumbai -- formerly known as Bombay -- together with an Indian wedding company are cooperating with TAT Phuket to bring in and host a big event for 400 Indian couples to marry on the island.
She said TAT is now dealing with local hotels as a possible venue for the ceremony and for guestrooms.
As TAT has opened its office in Mumbai, the market of Indian tourists is considered new to Phuket, which in return is eye-catching to Indians. In addition, the province has been one of the famous destinations for foreigners from other countries to marry, especially Koreans, which makes it more attractive to Indians.
She added this group of travellers prefers to travel to Thailand in the 'green' or rainy season in the country, which benefits local tourism, especially when it is a low season in the province.
Phuket is one of 100 places for couples to pledge their love and one of the 20 places for them to propose to their loved ones, according to Ms Wanprapa.
She also believed the province has the possibility to become a main venue for weddings and honeymoons in the future.
Laem Promthep in the provincial seat and Surin Beach in Thalang district are among the places here getting a reputation for celebrating romance and marriage proposals.
PHUKET, Thailand June 4 (NNN-TNA) -- More than Bt1 billion is expected to be circulation here when over 400 Indian couples to fly to this resort island dubbed the Andaman Pearl' for their marriage and honeymoon, according to Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)'s Phuket Office.
Wanprapa Suksomboon, TAT Phuket deputy director, said if the wedding event is held as planned, it will help boost the province's tourism and promote its tourist attractions.
Ms Wanprapa disclosed at a seminar in the provincial seat to promote Phuket tourism that India's TAT Mumbai -- formerly known as Bombay -- together with an Indian wedding company are cooperating with TAT Phuket to bring in and host a big event for 400 Indian couples to marry on the island.
She said TAT is now dealing with local hotels as a possible venue for the ceremony and for guestrooms.
As TAT has opened its office in Mumbai, the market of Indian tourists is considered new to Phuket, which in return is eye-catching to Indians. In addition, the province has been one of the famous destinations for foreigners from other countries to marry, especially Koreans, which makes it more attractive to Indians.
She added this group of travellers prefers to travel to Thailand in the 'green' or rainy season in the country, which benefits local tourism, especially when it is a low season in the province.
Phuket is one of 100 places for couples to pledge their love and one of the 20 places for them to propose to their loved ones, according to Ms Wanprapa.
She also believed the province has the possibility to become a main venue for weddings and honeymoons in the future.
Laem Promthep in the provincial seat and Surin Beach in Thalang district are among the places here getting a reputation for celebrating romance and marriage proposals.
by curreyuk
Where them Whores at? LOL
QUOTE (SuperLanxan @ Jun 22 2010, 03:29 PM)
Where them Whores at? LOL
Here is where they work.
If you don't know where it is, ask BD, he knows this place well.
QUOTE (SuperLanxan @ Jun 22 2010, 03:29 PM)
Where them Whores at? LOL
Ask your mom, boy. Maybe she still could remember the place where's she at ... before she moved to America.
QUOTE (SuperLanxan @ Jun 22 2010, 03:29 PM)
Where them Whores at? LOL
back in laos to have "family time", you should knoww there is always a big pack travelling back and forth, in and out, oh that reminds me of what you do for a living LOL
"Ja, I like Bangkok very much. It's the last place in the world where you can still be a white man." - a German Bar Owner
http://www.links.net/vita/swat/course/prosthai.html
http://www.links.net/vita/swat/course/prosthai.html
QUOTE (SuperLanxan @ Jun 24 2010, 03:22 AM)
"Ja, I like Bangkok very much. It's the last place in the world where you can still be a white man." - a German Bar Owner
Are you trying to say something, Lanxang
QUOTE (sawan @ Jun 24 2010, 03:31 AM)
Are you trying to say something, Lanxang
Yeah, BangCock. LOL
QUOTE (SuperLanxan @ Jun 24 2010, 02:22 AM)
"Ja, I like Bangkok very much. It's the last place in the world where you can still be a white man." - a German Bar Owner
http://www.links.net/vita/swat/course/prosthai.html
http://www.links.net/vita/swat/course/prosthai.html
Yo dawg, you lick white @$$ for a living, you speak there language, you went to there school, you eat their food, our Lao sis krazy about them white men.
dawg, your not in a place to say Thai people look up to white believe me.
QUOTE (MFofLanxan @ Jun 24 2010, 04:38 AM)
Yo dawg, you lick white @$$ for a living, you speak there language, you went to there school, you eat their food, our Lao sis krazy about them white men.
dawg, your not in a place to say Thai people look up to white believe me.
dawg, your not in a place to say Thai people look up to white believe me.
Dude, you created a new account just to diss me?
QUOTE (SuperLanxan @ Jun 24 2010, 03:40 AM)
Dude, you created a new account just to diss me?
Ya huh .... ya love my screen name ?
QUOTE
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/10/travel/10places.html
The New York Times : The 31 Places to Go in 2010
Published: January 10, 2010
1. Sri Lanka
2. Patagonia Wine Country
3. Seoul
4. Mysore
5. Copenhagen
6. Koh Kood
Is this the next Koh Samui? The Trat islands are emerging as Thailand’s new luxury outpost. Inaccessible for many years because of tensions with neighboring Cambodia and a poor transportation infrastructure, islands like Koh Kood are starting to draw venturesome paradise seekers, thanks in part to new direct flights to the port city of Trat. The recent opening of Soneva Kiri, a 42-villa suite retreat by the Six Senses brand (www.sixsenses.com/Soneva-Kiri), definitely ratchets up the high-end quotient on this Robinson Crusoe-like island. Coming soon: X2 Koh Kood (www.x2resorts.com), a designer eco-resort with 14 pool villas. — Gisela Williams
7. Damascus
8. Cesme
9. Antarctica
10. Leipzig
11. Los Angeles
12. Shanghai
13. Mumbai
14. Minorca
15. Costa Rica
16. Marrakesh
17. Las Vegas
18. Bahia
19. Istanbul
20. Shenzhen
21. Macedonia
22. South Africa
23. Breckenridge
24. Montenegro
25. Vancouver Island
26. Colombia
27. Kitzbühel
28. Norway
29. Gargano
30. Kuala Lumpur
31. Nepal
The New York Times : The 31 Places to Go in 2010
Published: January 10, 2010
1. Sri Lanka
2. Patagonia Wine Country
3. Seoul
4. Mysore
5. Copenhagen
6. Koh Kood
Is this the next Koh Samui? The Trat islands are emerging as Thailand’s new luxury outpost. Inaccessible for many years because of tensions with neighboring Cambodia and a poor transportation infrastructure, islands like Koh Kood are starting to draw venturesome paradise seekers, thanks in part to new direct flights to the port city of Trat. The recent opening of Soneva Kiri, a 42-villa suite retreat by the Six Senses brand (www.sixsenses.com/Soneva-Kiri), definitely ratchets up the high-end quotient on this Robinson Crusoe-like island. Coming soon: X2 Koh Kood (www.x2resorts.com), a designer eco-resort with 14 pool villas. — Gisela Williams
7. Damascus
8. Cesme
9. Antarctica
10. Leipzig
11. Los Angeles
12. Shanghai
13. Mumbai
14. Minorca
15. Costa Rica
16. Marrakesh
17. Las Vegas
18. Bahia
19. Istanbul
20. Shenzhen
21. Macedonia
22. South Africa
23. Breckenridge
24. Montenegro
25. Vancouver Island
26. Colombia
27. Kitzbühel
28. Norway
29. Gargano
30. Kuala Lumpur
31. Nepal
by kohkut
QUOTE
Voters don’t lie! Bangkok named 'World’s Best City' by Travel + Leisure magazine
And as an added bonus for Thailand's embattled tourism industry, Chiang Mai has grabbed the number two spot in the annual reader poll
9 July, 2010
Travel + Leisure Magazine has released its 2010 “World’s Best” list, with Bangkok voted as the top city in the world, followed by Chiang Mai, in the annual poll voted on by the American luxury travel magazine's readers.
We’re quite certain there has to be a bit of celebrating going on in the offices of Thailand’s Tourism Authority, which has been battling hard to bring back the tourists following the recent unrest in Bangkok. (Though it must be noted the Travel + Leisure survey was completed before this year's mass protests.)
Rounding out the top 10 on the "World's Best City" list are Florence, San Miguel de Allende (Mexico), Rome, Sydney, Buenos Aires, Oaxaca (Mexico), Barcelona and New York City.
Thailand’s hotels did well too, with the Peninsula Bangkok rising from No. 66 in 2009 to No. 7 in 2010, while Thai Airways was voted the world’s eighth best international airline. Check out Travelandleisure.com for the full list of 2010 winners.
Read more: Bangkok named 'World’s Best City' by Travel + Leisure magazine | CNNGo.com http://www.cnngo.com/bangkok/visit/bangkok...9#ixzz0tJOAfmUh
And as an added bonus for Thailand's embattled tourism industry, Chiang Mai has grabbed the number two spot in the annual reader poll
9 July, 2010
Travel + Leisure Magazine has released its 2010 “World’s Best” list, with Bangkok voted as the top city in the world, followed by Chiang Mai, in the annual poll voted on by the American luxury travel magazine's readers.
We’re quite certain there has to be a bit of celebrating going on in the offices of Thailand’s Tourism Authority, which has been battling hard to bring back the tourists following the recent unrest in Bangkok. (Though it must be noted the Travel + Leisure survey was completed before this year's mass protests.)
Rounding out the top 10 on the "World's Best City" list are Florence, San Miguel de Allende (Mexico), Rome, Sydney, Buenos Aires, Oaxaca (Mexico), Barcelona and New York City.
Thailand’s hotels did well too, with the Peninsula Bangkok rising from No. 66 in 2009 to No. 7 in 2010, while Thai Airways was voted the world’s eighth best international airline. Check out Travelandleisure.com for the full list of 2010 winners.
Read more: Bangkok named 'World’s Best City' by Travel + Leisure magazine | CNNGo.com http://www.cnngo.com/bangkok/visit/bangkok...9#ixzz0tJOAfmUh
QUOTE
World'sBest Cities 2010 by Travel + Leisure Magazine
1 - Bangkok 90.30
2 - Chiang Mai, Thailand 89.35
4 - San Miguel de Allende, Mexico 89.09
5 - Rome 88.60
6 - Sydney 87.99
7 - Buenos Aires 87.98
8 - Oaxaca, Mexico 87.78
9 - Barcelona 87.71
10 - New York City 87.68
Credit : http://www.travelandleisure.com/worldsbest/2010/cities
1 - Bangkok 90.30
2 - Chiang Mai, Thailand 89.35
4 - San Miguel de Allende, Mexico 89.09
5 - Rome 88.60
6 - Sydney 87.99
7 - Buenos Aires 87.98
8 - Oaxaca, Mexico 87.78
9 - Barcelona 87.71
10 - New York City 87.68
Credit : http://www.travelandleisure.com/worldsbest/2010/cities
Bangkok by Hartmut Bardtke
Chiangmai by bestarns
QUOTE
Thailand Wins Four Out of 10 Tripadvisor Awards for Top Asian Beach Destinations
Published date:June 09, 2010
New York, May 10, 2010 — The results of the TripAdvisor Traveler's Choice 2010 awards are in, and the beautiful islands of Thailand brought home four out of 10 awards for beach destinations in Asia.
The islands of Ko Lanta, Khao Lak, Koh Phangan and Koh Samui were ranked #3, #4, #5 and #6, respectively, on the list of "Top 10 Beach & Sun Destinations in Asia." With these honors, Thailand became the most-awarded Asian country in the category, besting Vietnam, the Maldives and the Philippines.
In other award categories voted on by TripAdvisor users, Thailand fared equally well. In "Top 10 Culture & Sightseeing Destinations in Asia," the Thai cities of Chiang Mai, Bangkok and Ayutthaya all made the list-with Bangkok also being named to the "Top 10 Food & Wine Destinations in Asia." And the islands of Koh Lanta and Koh Samui were both named the "Top 10 Romance Destinations in Asia" and the "Top 10 Relaxation & Spa Destinations in Asia," with Chiang Mai also awarded the latter.
"We are immensely proud to have Thailand recognized so extensively in such diverse categories by the members of the TripAdvisor community," says Srisuda Wanapinyosak, Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) - New York. "It is particularly gratifying for Thailand to be awarded for its many facets, including beaches, cultural sites, food and spas."
TripAdvisor, which features traveler reviews, advice and opinions of vacation destinations around the world, attracts more than 9 million unique visitors per month.
http://www.tourismthailand.org/home/whats-...Hash=5ce4874351
Published date:June 09, 2010
New York, May 10, 2010 — The results of the TripAdvisor Traveler's Choice 2010 awards are in, and the beautiful islands of Thailand brought home four out of 10 awards for beach destinations in Asia.
The islands of Ko Lanta, Khao Lak, Koh Phangan and Koh Samui were ranked #3, #4, #5 and #6, respectively, on the list of "Top 10 Beach & Sun Destinations in Asia." With these honors, Thailand became the most-awarded Asian country in the category, besting Vietnam, the Maldives and the Philippines.
In other award categories voted on by TripAdvisor users, Thailand fared equally well. In "Top 10 Culture & Sightseeing Destinations in Asia," the Thai cities of Chiang Mai, Bangkok and Ayutthaya all made the list-with Bangkok also being named to the "Top 10 Food & Wine Destinations in Asia." And the islands of Koh Lanta and Koh Samui were both named the "Top 10 Romance Destinations in Asia" and the "Top 10 Relaxation & Spa Destinations in Asia," with Chiang Mai also awarded the latter.
"We are immensely proud to have Thailand recognized so extensively in such diverse categories by the members of the TripAdvisor community," says Srisuda Wanapinyosak, Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) - New York. "It is particularly gratifying for Thailand to be awarded for its many facets, including beaches, cultural sites, food and spas."
TripAdvisor, which features traveler reviews, advice and opinions of vacation destinations around the world, attracts more than 9 million unique visitors per month.
http://www.tourismthailand.org/home/whats-...Hash=5ce4874351
QUOTE
Traveler's Choice 2010: Top Ten Beach and Sun Destinations in Asia
http://www.tripadvis...ns-cBeachSun-g2
#1 - Boracay, Philippines
#2 - Maldives
#3 - Koh Lanta, Thailand
#4 - Khao Lak, Thailand
#5 - Koh Phangan, Thailand
#6 - Koh Samui, Thailand
#7 - Miyakojima, Japan
#8 - El Nido, Philippines
#9 - Ishigaki, Japan
#10 - Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam
http://www.tripadvis...ns-cBeachSun-g2
#1 - Boracay, Philippines
#2 - Maldives
#3 - Koh Lanta, Thailand
#4 - Khao Lak, Thailand
#5 - Koh Phangan, Thailand
#6 - Koh Samui, Thailand
#7 - Miyakojima, Japan
#8 - El Nido, Philippines
#9 - Ishigaki, Japan
#10 - Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam
Koh Lanta by patrikmloeff
Khao Lak by gnedge
Koh Phangan by DocAdvert
Koh Samui
The Philippines and Vietnam are on the list too. Congratulations. 
QUOTE
TOTAL VISITOR ARRIVALS IN FIRST HALF OF 2010 STILL UP 13%
Bangkok, July 22, 2010 — In spite of the sharp declines in arrivals during the political crisis months of May and June 2010, international visitor arrivals in the first four months of this year were still high enough to allow the country to enjoy a 13.70% increase in total arrivals in the first half.
Figures tabulated by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports in January-June 2010, showed total arrivals by nationality of 7,515,025 up from 6,609,313 or up 13.70% over the same period of 2009.
This is because arrivals in the first half of 2009 had been hit by the impact of the global financial and economic crisis prevailing at the time, making this year’s rate of increase relatively high over a low base figure. It also reflects the fact that while arrivals to Bangkok were significantly affected, arrivals to Phuket remained relatively buoyant.
As the arrivals in June and July 2010 have picked up significantly, thanks to the launch of recovery programmes and a broad range of promotional packages, the Tourism Authority of Thailand officials are optimistic that it will still be possible to meet the year’s total arrivals target of 14.5 million arrivals.
On each of the markets, the following performance analysis, based on the figures tabulated so far:
EAST ASIA: East Asian visitor arrivals to Thailand comprise the biggest market share of all visitors. Of the 7.5 million arrivals in January-June 2010, a total of 3.67 million were from the East Asia region. Malaysia topped the list with 930,660 arrivals, followed by Japan 475,386, China 471,462, and Korea 382,394.
EUROPE: The January-June period saw a good growth rate of 15.86% to 2.27 million. The United Kingdom is the largest source market out of Europe, with arrivals of 412,035, up 2.28%. Germany is Thailand’s second highest source market from Europe with a total of 320,368 arrivals, up 15.89% over the January-June 2009.
Visitors from Russia to Thailand have been growing steadily over the past few years. In the early days, Russian visitors began flocking on charters to Pattaya to escape the harsh winters. Today, they have become mainstream travellers. In January – June 2010, Russian visitors to Thailand totalled 305,415, up 102.28% over the same period of 2009.
THE AMERICAS: Arrivals in January-June 2010 saw an increase of 3.64% to 431,381. The main market, the US, increased by 1.95% to 310,454. Arrivals from both Brazil and Canada showed positive growth of 17.29% and 3.88%. Thailand’s image of good value for money remains a powerful magnet that continues to attract tourists.
SOUTH ASIA: Arrivals in January-June 2010 grew by a strong 15.99% to 446,935 with all markets doing well. India has become a primary market with arrivals up by 18.39% to 344,063, making it the region’s fastest growing market. Thailand is enjoying huge popularity among Indian niche markets; such as, weddings and honeymooners.
OCEANIA: Arrivals in January-June 2010 grew by 11.87% to 367,540 visitors. Australian visitors were up 13.00% to 326,084 and New Zealand +3.00% to 40,255. This is largely due to the influx of low-cost airlines like Jetstar into Phuket.
MIDDLE EAST: Arrivals in January-June 2010 grew by a strong 22.20% to 261,657 with all markets showing a positive growth. One of the most promising is Iran with arrival only at Suvarnnabhumi airport up by 51.86%.
AFRICA: Arrivals in January-June 2010 were up by 21.71% to 56,908. South Africa is a major market and has showed significant growth of 39.09% to 23,434. It is expected to perform strongly in the year ahead in the wake of relaunch of Thai Airways’ flights to Johannesburg.
According to the TAT Governor Suraphon Svetsreni, the strong market recovery efforts being exerted by the Thai tourism private sector, Thai Airways International, as well as the high-profile promotions such as the “Thailand Today” mega-fam trip should make it possible to make up lost ground in the second half of this year.
Asian economies have showed steady economic improvements and the short-haul markets such as India, China and Indonesia are showing great promise. At the same time, the airline industry is adding more flights from key markets; such as, Australia, Japan, and Singapore. Many countries are also relaxing or withdrawing their travel warnings to Thailand, and new markets such as China, Russia and India are showing significant growth, Mr Suraphon noted.
http://www.tatnews.org/tat_release/detail.asp?id=4983
Bangkok, July 22, 2010 — In spite of the sharp declines in arrivals during the political crisis months of May and June 2010, international visitor arrivals in the first four months of this year were still high enough to allow the country to enjoy a 13.70% increase in total arrivals in the first half.
Figures tabulated by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports in January-June 2010, showed total arrivals by nationality of 7,515,025 up from 6,609,313 or up 13.70% over the same period of 2009.
This is because arrivals in the first half of 2009 had been hit by the impact of the global financial and economic crisis prevailing at the time, making this year’s rate of increase relatively high over a low base figure. It also reflects the fact that while arrivals to Bangkok were significantly affected, arrivals to Phuket remained relatively buoyant.
As the arrivals in June and July 2010 have picked up significantly, thanks to the launch of recovery programmes and a broad range of promotional packages, the Tourism Authority of Thailand officials are optimistic that it will still be possible to meet the year’s total arrivals target of 14.5 million arrivals.
On each of the markets, the following performance analysis, based on the figures tabulated so far:
EAST ASIA: East Asian visitor arrivals to Thailand comprise the biggest market share of all visitors. Of the 7.5 million arrivals in January-June 2010, a total of 3.67 million were from the East Asia region. Malaysia topped the list with 930,660 arrivals, followed by Japan 475,386, China 471,462, and Korea 382,394.
EUROPE: The January-June period saw a good growth rate of 15.86% to 2.27 million. The United Kingdom is the largest source market out of Europe, with arrivals of 412,035, up 2.28%. Germany is Thailand’s second highest source market from Europe with a total of 320,368 arrivals, up 15.89% over the January-June 2009.
Visitors from Russia to Thailand have been growing steadily over the past few years. In the early days, Russian visitors began flocking on charters to Pattaya to escape the harsh winters. Today, they have become mainstream travellers. In January – June 2010, Russian visitors to Thailand totalled 305,415, up 102.28% over the same period of 2009.
THE AMERICAS: Arrivals in January-June 2010 saw an increase of 3.64% to 431,381. The main market, the US, increased by 1.95% to 310,454. Arrivals from both Brazil and Canada showed positive growth of 17.29% and 3.88%. Thailand’s image of good value for money remains a powerful magnet that continues to attract tourists.
SOUTH ASIA: Arrivals in January-June 2010 grew by a strong 15.99% to 446,935 with all markets doing well. India has become a primary market with arrivals up by 18.39% to 344,063, making it the region’s fastest growing market. Thailand is enjoying huge popularity among Indian niche markets; such as, weddings and honeymooners.
OCEANIA: Arrivals in January-June 2010 grew by 11.87% to 367,540 visitors. Australian visitors were up 13.00% to 326,084 and New Zealand +3.00% to 40,255. This is largely due to the influx of low-cost airlines like Jetstar into Phuket.
MIDDLE EAST: Arrivals in January-June 2010 grew by a strong 22.20% to 261,657 with all markets showing a positive growth. One of the most promising is Iran with arrival only at Suvarnnabhumi airport up by 51.86%.
AFRICA: Arrivals in January-June 2010 were up by 21.71% to 56,908. South Africa is a major market and has showed significant growth of 39.09% to 23,434. It is expected to perform strongly in the year ahead in the wake of relaunch of Thai Airways’ flights to Johannesburg.
According to the TAT Governor Suraphon Svetsreni, the strong market recovery efforts being exerted by the Thai tourism private sector, Thai Airways International, as well as the high-profile promotions such as the “Thailand Today” mega-fam trip should make it possible to make up lost ground in the second half of this year.
Asian economies have showed steady economic improvements and the short-haul markets such as India, China and Indonesia are showing great promise. At the same time, the airline industry is adding more flights from key markets; such as, Australia, Japan, and Singapore. Many countries are also relaxing or withdrawing their travel warnings to Thailand, and new markets such as China, Russia and India are showing significant growth, Mr Suraphon noted.
http://www.tatnews.org/tat_release/detail.asp?id=4983
QUOTE
2010 ASIA BOATING AWARDS
PHUKET, THAILAND IS VOTED ASIAN MARITIME CAPITAL OF THE YEAR
The island of Phuket in Thailand was voted Asian Maritime Capital of the Year during the sixth edition of the Asia Boating Awards. The lavish awards presentation ceremony was held in Hong Kong, at the Gold Coast Yacht and Country Club’s terrace on May 8, 2010. The event coincided with the Hong Kong Gold Coast Boat Show, and was one of the highlights of the three-day show.
The Asia Boating Awards, organized by Blu Inc Media, publisher of Asia-Pacific Boating and China Boating magazines, is widely known as the region’s premier event for recognizing the efforts of boat builders, marinas, clubs and individuals in creating a diverse and exciting boating community in the region. It has also become a must-attend event for Asia’s jet set. The Asia Boating Awards were the first event to recognize the efforts of quality yacht builders working in Asia.
“This sixth edition of the Asia Boating Awards has been a tremendous success, and I’m really pleased to see the way in which these awards have evolved, and how they’ve become an important touchstone for the growing community of yacht owners, operators and industry insiders in Hong Kong and throughout Asia,” said Mr. Olivier Burlot, managing director of Blu Inc Media, the organiser of the Asia Boating Awards and publisher of Asia-Pacific Boating and China Boating magazines.
“This is the chance for Asia to celebrate its achievements, and a great opportunity for Asian-based yacht builders to be noticed worldwide,” said Ryan Swift, editor-in-chief of Asia-Pacific Boating.
http://www.tatnews.org/AWARDS_WON_BY_THAILAND/4907.asp
PHUKET, THAILAND IS VOTED ASIAN MARITIME CAPITAL OF THE YEAR
The island of Phuket in Thailand was voted Asian Maritime Capital of the Year during the sixth edition of the Asia Boating Awards. The lavish awards presentation ceremony was held in Hong Kong, at the Gold Coast Yacht and Country Club’s terrace on May 8, 2010. The event coincided with the Hong Kong Gold Coast Boat Show, and was one of the highlights of the three-day show.
The Asia Boating Awards, organized by Blu Inc Media, publisher of Asia-Pacific Boating and China Boating magazines, is widely known as the region’s premier event for recognizing the efforts of boat builders, marinas, clubs and individuals in creating a diverse and exciting boating community in the region. It has also become a must-attend event for Asia’s jet set. The Asia Boating Awards were the first event to recognize the efforts of quality yacht builders working in Asia.
“This sixth edition of the Asia Boating Awards has been a tremendous success, and I’m really pleased to see the way in which these awards have evolved, and how they’ve become an important touchstone for the growing community of yacht owners, operators and industry insiders in Hong Kong and throughout Asia,” said Mr. Olivier Burlot, managing director of Blu Inc Media, the organiser of the Asia Boating Awards and publisher of Asia-Pacific Boating and China Boating magazines.
“This is the chance for Asia to celebrate its achievements, and a great opportunity for Asian-based yacht builders to be noticed worldwide,” said Ryan Swift, editor-in-chief of Asia-Pacific Boating.
http://www.tatnews.org/AWARDS_WON_BY_THAILAND/4907.asp
QUOTE
PATA GOLD AWARDS 2010
OUTRIGGER LAGUNA PHUKET RESORT AND VILLAS WINS PATA GOLD AWARD IN MARKETING CAMPAIGN-HOSPITALITY CATEGORY
Each year, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) recognizes travel industry leaders who have contributed to the development and promotion of travel and tourism across the Asia Pacific region. PATA announced its 2010 winners on 28 July. The 2010 PATA Gold Awards attracted 200 entries from 80 companies and individuals. Twenty-four entrants won an award.
Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort and Villas in Thailand won a prestigious PATA Gold Award in the Marketing Campaign-Hospitality category for its highly successful, fully integrated opening campaign for the resort.
The property, which opened in December 2009, partnered with Keen Media Bangkok to implement a multi-faceted launch campaign comprising social media, online advertising, display advertising in consumer and trade media, the creation of a new website (www.outriggerphuket.com), a promotional video and the production of brochures and fact sheets.
"Outrigger Laguna Phuket is proud to have its opening campaign recognized for excellence by such a respected travel institution as PATA," said Outrigger's Phuket-based Senior Vice President for Asia, Mr Darren Edmonstone. "Especially in the competitive category of hospitality marketing."
The very modern campaign connected to Outrigger's 60 years' of hospitality heritage in the Pacific and Asia.
"The opening campaign was built upon Outrigger's core values of respect for the individual, family and the destination, and a firm belief that people and guests should instantly feel at ease when experiencing the brand," said Edmonstone.
The demand created by Outrigger's award winning opening campaign is still being felt. Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort and Villas is currently experiencing occupancy of over 90% for July and August only eight months after opening.
"In the opening campaign we worked hard to really understand the various segments of our markets and their needs," said Pieter van der Hoeven, Outrigger's Director of Sales and Marketing for Asia.
"Our messaging used the latest digital distribution channels to reach key segments such as winter sun seekers from Europe, short-stay Asians, and the Thai domestic market."
Van der Hoeven said the campaign was not shy about promoting spacious villa accommodation from 229 to 604 square meters at prices usually associated with a 40 sqm hotel room.
"A strong value proposition allied to firm understanding of Outrigger's brand essence underpinned the whole campaign," he said.
The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is a membership association acting as a catalyst for the responsible development of the Asia Pacific travel and tourism industry. PATA was founded in Hawaii in 1951.
Outrigger was founded in Hawaii in 1947. It now operates, or has under development, nearly 50 properties with close to 12,000 rooms located in Hawaii, Australia, Guam, Fiji, Bali, Thailand, Hainan, China, and Vietnam.
http://www.tatnews.org/AWARDS_WON_BY_THAILAND/4992.asp
OUTRIGGER LAGUNA PHUKET RESORT AND VILLAS WINS PATA GOLD AWARD IN MARKETING CAMPAIGN-HOSPITALITY CATEGORY
Each year, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) recognizes travel industry leaders who have contributed to the development and promotion of travel and tourism across the Asia Pacific region. PATA announced its 2010 winners on 28 July. The 2010 PATA Gold Awards attracted 200 entries from 80 companies and individuals. Twenty-four entrants won an award.
Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort and Villas in Thailand won a prestigious PATA Gold Award in the Marketing Campaign-Hospitality category for its highly successful, fully integrated opening campaign for the resort.
The property, which opened in December 2009, partnered with Keen Media Bangkok to implement a multi-faceted launch campaign comprising social media, online advertising, display advertising in consumer and trade media, the creation of a new website (www.outriggerphuket.com), a promotional video and the production of brochures and fact sheets.
"Outrigger Laguna Phuket is proud to have its opening campaign recognized for excellence by such a respected travel institution as PATA," said Outrigger's Phuket-based Senior Vice President for Asia, Mr Darren Edmonstone. "Especially in the competitive category of hospitality marketing."
The very modern campaign connected to Outrigger's 60 years' of hospitality heritage in the Pacific and Asia.
"The opening campaign was built upon Outrigger's core values of respect for the individual, family and the destination, and a firm belief that people and guests should instantly feel at ease when experiencing the brand," said Edmonstone.
The demand created by Outrigger's award winning opening campaign is still being felt. Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort and Villas is currently experiencing occupancy of over 90% for July and August only eight months after opening.
"In the opening campaign we worked hard to really understand the various segments of our markets and their needs," said Pieter van der Hoeven, Outrigger's Director of Sales and Marketing for Asia.
"Our messaging used the latest digital distribution channels to reach key segments such as winter sun seekers from Europe, short-stay Asians, and the Thai domestic market."
Van der Hoeven said the campaign was not shy about promoting spacious villa accommodation from 229 to 604 square meters at prices usually associated with a 40 sqm hotel room.
"A strong value proposition allied to firm understanding of Outrigger's brand essence underpinned the whole campaign," he said.
The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is a membership association acting as a catalyst for the responsible development of the Asia Pacific travel and tourism industry. PATA was founded in Hawaii in 1951.
Outrigger was founded in Hawaii in 1947. It now operates, or has under development, nearly 50 properties with close to 12,000 rooms located in Hawaii, Australia, Guam, Fiji, Bali, Thailand, Hainan, China, and Vietnam.
http://www.tatnews.org/AWARDS_WON_BY_THAILAND/4992.asp
by shade_thinker
QUOTE
THAILAND WINS PATA GOLD AWARDS IN 3 CATEGORIES —
Marketing Media - Travel Advertisement Broadcast Media, Culture, Marketing - Hospitality
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) won the prestigious PATA Gold Award for its TV commercial, "Thailand Talks to the World" in the Marketing Media - Travel Advertisement Broadcast Media category and also for Baan Mae Kampong, a picturesque Northern Thai village located approximately 50 kilometres from Chiang Mai city.
Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort and Villas in Thailand won the PATA Gold Award in the Marketing Campaign-Hospitality category in recognition of its highly successful, fully integrated opening campaign for the resort.
Marketing - Primary Government Destination
Eco Tourism Marketing Campaign
Ministry of Tourism, Government of India
Marketing - Secondary Government Destination
Hong Kong Food and Wine Year Destination Campaign
Hong Kong Tourism Board
Marketing - Hospitality
Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort and Villas Opening Campaign
Outrigger Hotels and Resorts, Asia
Marketing - Industry
Let your Mind Travel
Kuoni Travel India, India
Ecotourism Project
ABS-CBN Foundation-Bantay Kalikasan
Iwahig River Community- Based Ecotourism Project, Philippines
Corporate Environmental Programme
Promote Ecology and Conservation on Lantau
Ngong Ping 360 Limited, Hong Kong SAR
Environmental Education Programme
Qantas Award for Excellence in Sustainable Tourism
Qantas Airways Ltd, Australia
Heritage
The Launch of Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi
Sofitel Luxury Hotels Asia Pacific, Thailand
Culture
Baan Mae Kampong, Chiang Mai
Tourism Authority of Thailand
Education and Training
Child Protection Workshop
Kuoni Destination Management, India
Marketing Media - Consumer Travel Brochure
Revamping Consumer Travel Brochures of Sri Lanka Tourism
Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, Sri Lanka
Marketing Media - Travel Advertisement Broadcast Media
Thailand Talks to the World
Tourism Authority of Thailand
Marketing Media - Travel Advertisement Print Media
Mahatma Gandhi Creative
Ministry of Tourism, Government of India
Marketing Media - Travel Poster
LIVE LOVE Campaign Poster and Quick Screen Series
Hong Kong Tourism Board
Marketing Media - Promotional Travel Video
A Trip to the Heart-Warming Country of Korea
Korea Tourism Organization
Marketing Media - Public Relations Campaign
How to Launch a Large Hotel in a Challenged Market and New Brand ibis
Accor Asia Pacific and ibis Singapore on Bencoolen
Marketing Media - Web site
www.keralatourism.org: The Best Tourism Website in India
Kerala Tourism, India
Travel Journalism – Destination Article
Feasts of Hong Kong
Christian Kerber
Travel +Leisure Magazine, September 2009, USA
Travel Journalism - Travel Photograph
Whale Shark, Ningaloo Reef
Rolex Awards/Jurgen Freund
Qatar Airways In-Flight magazine Oryx, December 2009
Agency Fish, United Kingdom
Travel Journalism - Travel Guidebook
Kayak Philippines
Primer Group of Companies and Philippines Department of Tourism
http://www.tatnews.org/AWARDS_WON_BY_THAILAND/4997.asp
Marketing Media - Travel Advertisement Broadcast Media, Culture, Marketing - Hospitality
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) won the prestigious PATA Gold Award for its TV commercial, "Thailand Talks to the World" in the Marketing Media - Travel Advertisement Broadcast Media category and also for Baan Mae Kampong, a picturesque Northern Thai village located approximately 50 kilometres from Chiang Mai city.
Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort and Villas in Thailand won the PATA Gold Award in the Marketing Campaign-Hospitality category in recognition of its highly successful, fully integrated opening campaign for the resort.
Marketing - Primary Government Destination
Eco Tourism Marketing Campaign
Ministry of Tourism, Government of India
Marketing - Secondary Government Destination
Hong Kong Food and Wine Year Destination Campaign
Hong Kong Tourism Board
Marketing - Hospitality
Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort and Villas Opening Campaign
Outrigger Hotels and Resorts, Asia
Marketing - Industry
Let your Mind Travel
Kuoni Travel India, India
Ecotourism Project
ABS-CBN Foundation-Bantay Kalikasan
Iwahig River Community- Based Ecotourism Project, Philippines
Corporate Environmental Programme
Promote Ecology and Conservation on Lantau
Ngong Ping 360 Limited, Hong Kong SAR
Environmental Education Programme
Qantas Award for Excellence in Sustainable Tourism
Qantas Airways Ltd, Australia
Heritage
The Launch of Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi
Sofitel Luxury Hotels Asia Pacific, Thailand
Culture
Baan Mae Kampong, Chiang Mai
Tourism Authority of Thailand
Education and Training
Child Protection Workshop
Kuoni Destination Management, India
Marketing Media - Consumer Travel Brochure
Revamping Consumer Travel Brochures of Sri Lanka Tourism
Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, Sri Lanka
Marketing Media - Travel Advertisement Broadcast Media
Thailand Talks to the World
Tourism Authority of Thailand
Marketing Media - Travel Advertisement Print Media
Mahatma Gandhi Creative
Ministry of Tourism, Government of India
Marketing Media - Travel Poster
LIVE LOVE Campaign Poster and Quick Screen Series
Hong Kong Tourism Board
Marketing Media - Promotional Travel Video
A Trip to the Heart-Warming Country of Korea
Korea Tourism Organization
Marketing Media - Public Relations Campaign
How to Launch a Large Hotel in a Challenged Market and New Brand ibis
Accor Asia Pacific and ibis Singapore on Bencoolen
Marketing Media - Web site
www.keralatourism.org: The Best Tourism Website in India
Kerala Tourism, India
Travel Journalism – Destination Article
Feasts of Hong Kong
Christian Kerber
Travel +Leisure Magazine, September 2009, USA
Travel Journalism - Travel Photograph
Whale Shark, Ningaloo Reef
Rolex Awards/Jurgen Freund
Qatar Airways In-Flight magazine Oryx, December 2009
Agency Fish, United Kingdom
Travel Journalism - Travel Guidebook
Kayak Philippines
Primer Group of Companies and Philippines Department of Tourism
http://www.tatnews.org/AWARDS_WON_BY_THAILAND/4997.asp
Credit : http://www.chiangmai-chiangrai.com/nationa...ae_kampong.html
QUOTE
THE 2010 SUNDAY TIMES TRAVEL MAGAZINE ANNUAL VALUE FOR MONEY AWARDS
SHANGHAI MANSION BANGKOK IS NAMED ‘BEST VALUE HOTEL, ASIA AND AUSTRALASIA’
Shanghai Mansion Bangkok now ranks among the winners of the 2010 Sunday Times Travel Magazine Annual Value for Money Awards featured in the March 2010 issue of The Sunday Times Travel Magazine.
In a preview of the award winners, TimesOnline.co.uk offers the following commentary on the property.
Once you’ve got over the mind-melt of being in Shanghai in Bangkok, this place is irresistible. In the heart of Chinatown, and done up in mustards and clarets as a Shanghainese merchant’s house, with big canopied beds and lots of lanterns, it’s indisputably cool, in a vintage way.
http://www.tatnews.org/AWARDS_WON_BY_THAILAND/4853.asp
SHANGHAI MANSION BANGKOK IS NAMED ‘BEST VALUE HOTEL, ASIA AND AUSTRALASIA’
Shanghai Mansion Bangkok now ranks among the winners of the 2010 Sunday Times Travel Magazine Annual Value for Money Awards featured in the March 2010 issue of The Sunday Times Travel Magazine.
In a preview of the award winners, TimesOnline.co.uk offers the following commentary on the property.
Once you’ve got over the mind-melt of being in Shanghai in Bangkok, this place is irresistible. In the heart of Chinatown, and done up in mustards and clarets as a Shanghainese merchant’s house, with big canopied beds and lots of lanterns, it’s indisputably cool, in a vintage way.
http://www.tatnews.org/AWARDS_WON_BY_THAILAND/4853.asp
http://www.outboundholidays.com/?p=2113
QUOTE (Budhalove @ Jan 10 2010, 07:44 PM)
Without make up this people look pale like ghost
they look like a typical garlee.
QUOTE
THE ROYAL CLIFF BEACH RESORT IS VOTED ‘THAILAND’S BEST BEACH RESORT’
The Royal Cliff Beach Resort recently won a prestigious ‘Travel.ru Star’ consumer tourism award as the ‘Thailand’s Best Beach Resort’. The award is highly regarded as the winners are selected through online voting by thousands of Russian travelers and tourists.
Since 2006 when the Royal Cliff Beach Resort first won the award for ‘Asia’s Best Resort in 2005’, Russian travelers have continually voted the Resort as the best in Asia.
Mr. Victor Kriventsov, the Director of Sales & Marketing for the Royal Cliff Beach Resort, personally accepted this acclaimed award at a special ceremony in Moscow.
The Royal Cliff Beach Resort features first in Asia Pacific round the clock and year-round , native Russian Guest Relations Officer’s assistance, Russian Consulate on the premises, Russian language menus in all resort’s food outlet, several free of charge Russian TV channels as well as grand celebrations and Russian Orthodox church services for Russian events.
It is for such reasons that this unrivalled destination resort has been so highly acclaimed internationally having won close to 100 international awards, the most recent being the most prestigious “Best Beach Hotel in Thailand” by Zvezda Travel.ru.
http://www.tatnews.org/AWARDS_WON_BY_THAILAND/4840.asp
The Royal Cliff Beach Resort recently won a prestigious ‘Travel.ru Star’ consumer tourism award as the ‘Thailand’s Best Beach Resort’. The award is highly regarded as the winners are selected through online voting by thousands of Russian travelers and tourists.
Since 2006 when the Royal Cliff Beach Resort first won the award for ‘Asia’s Best Resort in 2005’, Russian travelers have continually voted the Resort as the best in Asia.
Mr. Victor Kriventsov, the Director of Sales & Marketing for the Royal Cliff Beach Resort, personally accepted this acclaimed award at a special ceremony in Moscow.
The Royal Cliff Beach Resort features first in Asia Pacific round the clock and year-round , native Russian Guest Relations Officer’s assistance, Russian Consulate on the premises, Russian language menus in all resort’s food outlet, several free of charge Russian TV channels as well as grand celebrations and Russian Orthodox church services for Russian events.
It is for such reasons that this unrivalled destination resort has been so highly acclaimed internationally having won close to 100 international awards, the most recent being the most prestigious “Best Beach Hotel in Thailand” by Zvezda Travel.ru.
http://www.tatnews.org/AWARDS_WON_BY_THAILAND/4840.asp
by royalmice
Nice place, ready to serve farang only.
QUOTE (Buddhalove @ Aug 26 2010, 08:50 AM)
Nice place, ready to serve farang only.
I've been there many times. But of course it's not for school bus driver who get minimum wage like u.
Farang mainly are looking for cheap garlee only.
QUOTE (Buddhalove @ Aug 26 2010, 08:50 AM)
Nice place, ready to serve farang only.
Do not mistaken Thailand for Lao, Middle class in Thailand can afford to go to any hotel in their country. Unlike high end resorts in Lao that only Farang can afford to go.
What so sad is the revenue from those farang tourist goes to Farang resort owners. And nothing left for Local people since no high end resorts in Lao are owned by Laotian.
Pattaya and Soi Cowboy are located in the land of fake smile. If you don't believe me ask farang. 
พวกลาวขี้อิจฉาเข้ามากันเพียบเลย มีทะเลสวยๆเหมือนไทยป่าววะบ้านมึงอ่ะ
QUOTE
WORLD NUMBER ONE RAFAEL NADAL PERFORMS BUDDHIST CEREMONY AT LUXURIOUS HUA HIN RESORT
World number one tennis player and three-time 2010 grand slam winner, Rafael Nadal, participated in an ancient Thai Buddhist ritual by presenting alms to monks on the beach during his recent stay at the luxurious InterContinental Hua Hin Resort.
Nadal elected to stay in the resort's La Résidence Royale Hua Hin presidential villa and happily led the ceremony on the beach right outside his room in the lead up to the property's official opening in November.
The champion player is in the country for the Thailand Open and took the time in Hua Hin to rest and recuperate in a relaxing, yet opulent, environment after a stellar year that has so far yielded the US and French Opens and Wimbledon.
"Thailand is a beautiful country and taking part in this ceremony on the beach in Hua Hin with the monks has been a special part of my trip so far," Mr Nadal said.
"Taking the time to come here after winning the US Open was a great decision while learning more about Hua Hin and Thailand's hospitable culture and the importance of these ceremonies."
La Résidence Royale Hua Hin is a restored 19th century period standalone house set on half an acre personifying elegance and regal living. The building has two stylish bedrooms furnished with local art and Thai design with large en-suite marble-finished bathrooms, separate living and dining areas, a spacious garden, infinity pool and full-time live in personal butler on call 24-hours a day.
The luxurious 119-room InterContinental Hua Hin Resort is located two and a half hours by road from Bangkok, or 35-minutes by the property's private aircraft.
http://www.tatnews.org/tourism_news/5070.asp
World number one tennis player and three-time 2010 grand slam winner, Rafael Nadal, participated in an ancient Thai Buddhist ritual by presenting alms to monks on the beach during his recent stay at the luxurious InterContinental Hua Hin Resort.
Nadal elected to stay in the resort's La Résidence Royale Hua Hin presidential villa and happily led the ceremony on the beach right outside his room in the lead up to the property's official opening in November.
The champion player is in the country for the Thailand Open and took the time in Hua Hin to rest and recuperate in a relaxing, yet opulent, environment after a stellar year that has so far yielded the US and French Opens and Wimbledon.
"Thailand is a beautiful country and taking part in this ceremony on the beach in Hua Hin with the monks has been a special part of my trip so far," Mr Nadal said.
"Taking the time to come here after winning the US Open was a great decision while learning more about Hua Hin and Thailand's hospitable culture and the importance of these ceremonies."
La Résidence Royale Hua Hin is a restored 19th century period standalone house set on half an acre personifying elegance and regal living. The building has two stylish bedrooms furnished with local art and Thai design with large en-suite marble-finished bathrooms, separate living and dining areas, a spacious garden, infinity pool and full-time live in personal butler on call 24-hours a day.
The luxurious 119-room InterContinental Hua Hin Resort is located two and a half hours by road from Bangkok, or 35-minutes by the property's private aircraft.
http://www.tatnews.org/tourism_news/5070.asp
by Vidar2010
QUOTE (SouthernThai @ Aug 26 2010, 11:12 AM)
Do not mistaken Thailand for Lao, Middle class in Thailand can afford to go to any hotel in their country. Unlike high end resorts in Lao that only Farang can afford to go.
What so sad is the revenue from those farang tourist goes to Farang resort owners. And nothing left for Local people since no high end resorts in Lao are owned by Laotian.
What so sad is the revenue from those farang tourist goes to Farang resort owners. And nothing left for Local people since no high end resorts in Lao are owned by Laotian.
How many resorts of 5 star standard are owned by Thais and how many are owned by Jek Thais??? Please enlighten me??? Thai middle class?? Whats the average wage for thai middle class? Yep about 10 and if lucky 15000 baht per month. Oh yeah about one night in a top notch hotel. An Australian bricklayer earns this money in 2 days. I dont want to even speculate how much Jek building bosses pay their poor Thai Burmese bricklayers.
QUOTE (kong1991 @ Sep 16 2010, 09:59 PM)
พวกลาวขี้อิจฉาเข้ามากันเพียบเลย มีทะเลสวยๆเหมือนไทยป่าววะบ้านมึงอ่ะ
Thailand is a disgusting whore infested cheap sex tourist destination
QUOTE (krmerst @ Oct 9 2010, 02:28 PM)
Thailand is a disgusting whore infested cheap sex tourist destination
บ้านเกิดเมิงโครตโสโครกเลยว่ะ
QUOTE
SMART TRAVEL ASIA 2010 BEST IN TRAVEL POLL
THE CONRAD BANGKOK IS VOTED BEST CONFERENCE HOTEL IN ASIA
The Conrad Bangkok Director of Human Resources and Director of Human Resources Projects — Conrad Brand, Asia Pacific Ms Lourdes H. Yuvanasiri(left), recently received “Best Business Hotel in Asia” award from Mr Vijay Verghese(right), Editor and Director of Smart Travel Asia, ranked by Smart Travel Asia online magazine. The awards include Top 25 Best Conference Hotels in Asia, Top 25 Business Hotels in Asia, and Top 25 Spa Hotels & Resorts in Asia, recently at the hotel’s executive lounge.
**Smart Travel Asia is the region’s only dedicated online travel magazine with over one million readers worldwide.
Results of Smart Travel Asia.com Best in Travel Poll 2010 include Asia's best business hotels spa hotels & resort, conference hotel, holiday destinations, cities for business and the world's best airlines and airports.
http://www.tatnews.org/AWARDS_WON_BY_THAILAND/5050.asp
THE CONRAD BANGKOK IS VOTED BEST CONFERENCE HOTEL IN ASIA
The Conrad Bangkok Director of Human Resources and Director of Human Resources Projects — Conrad Brand, Asia Pacific Ms Lourdes H. Yuvanasiri(left), recently received “Best Business Hotel in Asia” award from Mr Vijay Verghese(right), Editor and Director of Smart Travel Asia, ranked by Smart Travel Asia online magazine. The awards include Top 25 Best Conference Hotels in Asia, Top 25 Business Hotels in Asia, and Top 25 Spa Hotels & Resorts in Asia, recently at the hotel’s executive lounge.
**Smart Travel Asia is the region’s only dedicated online travel magazine with over one million readers worldwide.
Results of Smart Travel Asia.com Best in Travel Poll 2010 include Asia's best business hotels spa hotels & resort, conference hotel, holiday destinations, cities for business and the world's best airlines and airports.
http://www.tatnews.org/AWARDS_WON_BY_THAILAND/5050.asp
by Lichtfänger
Travel and Leisure Magazine's world best cities 2010.
Bangkok named World’s Best City 2010 by leading travel magazine
NEW YORK, July 22 (TNA) - Representing Thailand’s capital and receiving an award naming the Thai capital by Travel + Leisure magazine as the World’s Best City 2010 in a survey conducted among its readers, Bangkok Governor Sukhumbhand Paribatra is the highest profile ambassador for normality to have hit the Big Apple since the Big Mango’s days of blazes and bombs in May.
Ranked top in both the World and Asia, scoring 90.30, Bangkok shot to the top of the reader survey based on an earlier time frame, followed by Thailand’s northern city of Chiang Mai.
Thailand’s Samui Island and Phuket Island in the South were ranked fourth and the fifth respectively among Best Islands in Asia.
At a glittering ceremony at Manhattan’s Trump Soho Hotel, Bangkok Governor Sukhumbhand met Travel + Leisure editor-in-chief Nancy Novgorod, which carried out the survey.
Ms Novgorod praised the beauty of Bangkok and Thailand in their natural and cultural aspects.
She expressed sorrow over the recent turmoil but recovery would come soon and that she would visit Bangkok again.
Gov Sukhumbhand was delighted on behalf of Bangkok residents and the Thai people for the award as they put their efforts together to continue to make Bangkok the world’s best city for living and travelling.
The Bangkok governor called for the City of Angels citizenry to continue its traditional hospitality in welcoming tourists and said he would push forward to develop the city to be the World’s best city for tourism.
“Tourists are our guests. We must help them to enjoy staying in Bangkok safely,” he said.
QUOTE (BestRice @ Sep 16 2010, 04:17 AM)
1. Bangkok
2. Chiangmai
3. Florence
4. San Miguel de Allende
5. Rome
6. Sydney
7. Buenos Aires
8. Oaxaca
9. Barcelona
10. New York
http://www.travelandleisure.com/worldsbest/2010/cities
2. Chiangmai
3. Florence
4. San Miguel de Allende
5. Rome
6. Sydney
7. Buenos Aires
8. Oaxaca
9. Barcelona
10. New York
http://www.travelandleisure.com/worldsbest/2010/cities
Bangkok named World’s Best City 2010 by leading travel magazine
NEW YORK, July 22 (TNA) - Representing Thailand’s capital and receiving an award naming the Thai capital by Travel + Leisure magazine as the World’s Best City 2010 in a survey conducted among its readers, Bangkok Governor Sukhumbhand Paribatra is the highest profile ambassador for normality to have hit the Big Apple since the Big Mango’s days of blazes and bombs in May.
Ranked top in both the World and Asia, scoring 90.30, Bangkok shot to the top of the reader survey based on an earlier time frame, followed by Thailand’s northern city of Chiang Mai.
Thailand’s Samui Island and Phuket Island in the South were ranked fourth and the fifth respectively among Best Islands in Asia.
At a glittering ceremony at Manhattan’s Trump Soho Hotel, Bangkok Governor Sukhumbhand met Travel + Leisure editor-in-chief Nancy Novgorod, which carried out the survey.
Ms Novgorod praised the beauty of Bangkok and Thailand in their natural and cultural aspects.
She expressed sorrow over the recent turmoil but recovery would come soon and that she would visit Bangkok again.
Gov Sukhumbhand was delighted on behalf of Bangkok residents and the Thai people for the award as they put their efforts together to continue to make Bangkok the world’s best city for living and travelling.
The Bangkok governor called for the City of Angels citizenry to continue its traditional hospitality in welcoming tourists and said he would push forward to develop the city to be the World’s best city for tourism.
“Tourists are our guests. We must help them to enjoy staying in Bangkok safely,” he said.
QUOTE (Marrykate @ Oct 7 2010, 07:28 AM)
Travel + Leisure has been conducting survey with their readers around the world for 15 years and the results are just in for Travel + Leisure’s 15th-annual reader survey of the absolute best hotels in the world. http://www.travelandleisure.com/articles/w...t-hotels-2010/1
Among 100 best hotels in the world, 4 Thailand Hotels are on the list.
# 7 The Peninsula Bangkok
# 27 Four Seasons Resort, Chiang Mai
# 45 Oriental Dhara Dhevi, Chiang Mai
# 57 Oriental Bangkok
Among 100 best hotels in the world, 4 Thailand Hotels are on the list.
# 7 The Peninsula Bangkok
# 27 Four Seasons Resort, Chiang Mai
# 45 Oriental Dhara Dhevi, Chiang Mai
# 57 Oriental Bangkok
มาดูการพัฒนาในเชียงใหม่เมืองทองเที่ยวทางภาคเหนือของไทยครับ(อยากบอกให้พวกลาวๆรู้ว่าประเทศไทยไม่ได้มีดีแค่ในกรุงเทพ)
ECC Group is pumping vigor and confidence in Northern Thailand by officially announcing the launch of Promenada Chiang Mai, the future shopping and entertainment landmark in the region.
Representing an investment of Baht 3.1 Billion (USD 88.5 Million) and expected to open in the second half of 2011, Promenada Chiang Mai will feature 75,000 sqm of retail and entertainment space, offering residents and tourists alike an innovative mix of international and local brands in fashion, food and beverage, as well as leisure and entertainment.
Caption (from left to right): Dion L.J. Heijmans, Founder and Chairman of ECC Group Supervisory Board, Dutch Senator Hans Hillen, Member of ECC Group Supervisory Board and Tjeert Kwant, Chief Executive Officer and Partner of ECC Group, at the press conference to announce the launch of Promenada Chiang Mai.
ECC Group ลงทุนเชียงใหม่อีกชนกาดสวนแก้ว
หลังจากมีข่าวการลงทุนในล็อตแรกกับศูนย์การค้า “พรอเมนาดา” ล่าสุดกองทุน ECC Polish Residential Fund 1 ได้เจรจาซื้อที่ดินซึ่งปัจจุบันเป็นที่ตั้งโรงเรียนวรเชษฐ์อนุสรณ์ ถ.มณีนพรัตน์ ใกล้ศูนย์การค้ากาดสวนแก้ว ในราคากว่า 100 ล้านบาท เพื่อจะสร้างเป็นศูนย์การค้าท้าชนกาดสวนแก้ว[/B] อีซีซี กรุ๊ป เป็นกลุ่มบริษัทพัฒนาอสังหาริมทรัพย์และการลงทุน โดยก่อตั้งขึ้นในปีพ.ศ. 2534 อีซีซี กรุ๊ป มีความเชี่ยวชาญในการพัฒนาและบริหารงานศูนย์การค้าขนาดใหญ่ภายใต้แบรนด์ โพรเมนาดา และมีพนักงานที่มีความเชี่ยวชาญในธุรกิจอสังหาริมทรัพย์มากกว่า 65 คน ซึ่งดูแลการดำเนินงานและปฏิบัติงานในทวีปยุโรปและเอเชียได้แก่ ประเทศโปแลนด์ ฮังการี สาธารณรัฐเชค เวียดนามและไทย อีซีซี กรุ๊ปใช้เงินลงทุนกว่า 350 ล้านเหรียญสหรัฐสำหรับโครงการที่เสร็จสิ้นแล้ว และได้เตรียมงบลงทุนกว่า 500 ล้านเหรียญสหรัฐสำหรับโครงการในอนาคต ตั้งแต่ปีพ.ศ. 2549 อีซีซี กรุ๊ป เริ่มลงทุนในตลาดอสังหาริมทรัพย์เพื่อการค้าปลีกในเอเชียตะวันออกเฉียงใต้
Name: Chiang Mai Promenade
Location: Chiang Mai
Developer: ECC Group
Project: 75,000 m2 shopping mall & 10,000 m2 office space
Construction starts: Q1 2009
Construction Finishes: 2011-2012
PROMENADA เชียงใหม่
Company อีซีซี อินเตอร์เนชั่นแนล เรียลเอสเตท ในเครือ อีซีซี กรุ๊ป
Project detail 2 ชั้น พื้นที่ใช้สอย 62,300 ตร.ม. จำนวนร้านค้า 250 ร้าน แบ่งเป็นสัดส่วนที่เท่าๆ กัน ระหว่าง Local Brand และ Inter Brand รวมถึงฟิตเนส โรงภาพยนตร์ โบว์ลิ่ง และอื่นๆ ตั้งอยู่บน ถ.บ้านสหกรณ์ ติดกับซูเปอร์ไฮเวย์และถนนวงแหวนรอบ 2 คาดว่าจะแล้วเสร็จ ไตรมาส 4 ปี 2554
Target 1.4 ล้านคน ในเชียงใหม่ ลำพูน และลำปาง รวมถึงนักท่องเที่ยวทั้งชาวไทยและชาวต่างชาติ
Strategy นิตยสารเพื่อ PR & CRM และบัตรเครดิต บัตรสมาชิก
เปรียบเทียบจำนวนประชากรแต่ละประเทศที่อีซีซี กรุ๊ปลงทุน (หน่วย : ล้านคน
โปแลนด์ 38
เชค 10
บัลแกเรีย 7.2
โมร็อกโก 34
สหรัฐอาหรับเอมิเรตส์ 4.6
ไทย 65
Design:
ECC Group is pumping vigor and confidence in Northern Thailand by officially announcing the launch of Promenada Chiang Mai, the future shopping and entertainment landmark in the region.
Representing an investment of Baht 3.1 Billion (USD 88.5 Million) and expected to open in the second half of 2011, Promenada Chiang Mai will feature 75,000 sqm of retail and entertainment space, offering residents and tourists alike an innovative mix of international and local brands in fashion, food and beverage, as well as leisure and entertainment.
Caption (from left to right): Dion L.J. Heijmans, Founder and Chairman of ECC Group Supervisory Board, Dutch Senator Hans Hillen, Member of ECC Group Supervisory Board and Tjeert Kwant, Chief Executive Officer and Partner of ECC Group, at the press conference to announce the launch of Promenada Chiang Mai.
ECC Group ลงทุนเชียงใหม่อีกชนกาดสวนแก้ว
หลังจากมีข่าวการลงทุนในล็อตแรกกับศูนย์การค้า “พรอเมนาดา” ล่าสุดกองทุน ECC Polish Residential Fund 1 ได้เจรจาซื้อที่ดินซึ่งปัจจุบันเป็นที่ตั้งโรงเรียนวรเชษฐ์อนุสรณ์ ถ.มณีนพรัตน์ ใกล้ศูนย์การค้ากาดสวนแก้ว ในราคากว่า 100 ล้านบาท เพื่อจะสร้างเป็นศูนย์การค้าท้าชนกาดสวนแก้ว[/B] อีซีซี กรุ๊ป เป็นกลุ่มบริษัทพัฒนาอสังหาริมทรัพย์และการลงทุน โดยก่อตั้งขึ้นในปีพ.ศ. 2534 อีซีซี กรุ๊ป มีความเชี่ยวชาญในการพัฒนาและบริหารงานศูนย์การค้าขนาดใหญ่ภายใต้แบรนด์ โพรเมนาดา และมีพนักงานที่มีความเชี่ยวชาญในธุรกิจอสังหาริมทรัพย์มากกว่า 65 คน ซึ่งดูแลการดำเนินงานและปฏิบัติงานในทวีปยุโรปและเอเชียได้แก่ ประเทศโปแลนด์ ฮังการี สาธารณรัฐเชค เวียดนามและไทย อีซีซี กรุ๊ปใช้เงินลงทุนกว่า 350 ล้านเหรียญสหรัฐสำหรับโครงการที่เสร็จสิ้นแล้ว และได้เตรียมงบลงทุนกว่า 500 ล้านเหรียญสหรัฐสำหรับโครงการในอนาคต ตั้งแต่ปีพ.ศ. 2549 อีซีซี กรุ๊ป เริ่มลงทุนในตลาดอสังหาริมทรัพย์เพื่อการค้าปลีกในเอเชียตะวันออกเฉียงใต้
Name: Chiang Mai Promenade
Location: Chiang Mai
Developer: ECC Group
Project: 75,000 m2 shopping mall & 10,000 m2 office space
Construction starts: Q1 2009
Construction Finishes: 2011-2012
PROMENADA เชียงใหม่
Company อีซีซี อินเตอร์เนชั่นแนล เรียลเอสเตท ในเครือ อีซีซี กรุ๊ป
Project detail 2 ชั้น พื้นที่ใช้สอย 62,300 ตร.ม. จำนวนร้านค้า 250 ร้าน แบ่งเป็นสัดส่วนที่เท่าๆ กัน ระหว่าง Local Brand และ Inter Brand รวมถึงฟิตเนส โรงภาพยนตร์ โบว์ลิ่ง และอื่นๆ ตั้งอยู่บน ถ.บ้านสหกรณ์ ติดกับซูเปอร์ไฮเวย์และถนนวงแหวนรอบ 2 คาดว่าจะแล้วเสร็จ ไตรมาส 4 ปี 2554
Target 1.4 ล้านคน ในเชียงใหม่ ลำพูน และลำปาง รวมถึงนักท่องเที่ยวทั้งชาวไทยและชาวต่างชาติ
Strategy นิตยสารเพื่อ PR & CRM และบัตรเครดิต บัตรสมาชิก
เปรียบเทียบจำนวนประชากรแต่ละประเทศที่อีซีซี กรุ๊ปลงทุน (หน่วย : ล้านคน
โปแลนด์ 38
เชค 10
บัลแกเรีย 7.2
โมร็อกโก 34
สหรัฐอาหรับเอมิเรตส์ 4.6
ไทย 65
Design:
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