Thai Hotels Association vows to boost Thai tourism

BANGKOK, 31 March 2010 (NNT) – The prolonged political threats have hugely affected the tourism industry in Thailand, according to Prakit Shinamornpong, President of the Thai Hotels Association.

Mr Prakit, who is starting his second term as President of the association, pointed out that the tourism industry certainly would not reach the targeted 15 million visitors in time of high season as hotel business in Bangkok has dropped to 40% from the usual 75% occupation.

The highest drop rate of 70% was seen at hotels around Rattanakosin Island, while Krabi and Samui were slightly affected as the sales rate still remained at 70%.

He stressed that Songkran Festival will be another critical time for tourism industry in Thailand. Cancellations were recently made in the Meeting, Incentive, Convention and Exhibition (MICE) industry, and 20 Charter flights have also been cancelled.

Mr Prakit vowed to carry on the goals of launching a tourism institute and courses for tourism personnel in order to prepare for the launch of ASEAN Free Trade Area in 2015. Sessions of football broadcasting rights will be regularly organized for hotel operators