Tourists Start Making A Comeback To Thailand

[ThaiEye]

Just goes to show then that the originally believed huge drop in numbers, was in the end, just total exaggeration.

Airports and trains etc... get closed down all the time in Western countries, but i dont read of Asians all cancelling their holidays.

A great safe country like Thailand will always get hoardes of tourists regardless to any slight political hassles.

Dont believe sensationalist foreign media reporting on big cuts in tourism stats next time.

Edited December 29, 2008 by ThaiEye

[Chaimai]

Just goes to show then that the originally believed huge drop in numbers, was in the end, just total exaggeration.

Airports and trains etc... get closed down all the time in Western countries, NO THEY DON'T but i dont read of Asians all cancelling their holidays.

A great safe country like Thailand will always get hoardes of tourists regardless to any slight political hassles.

Dont believe sensationalist foreign media reporting on big cuts in tourism stats next time.

Or the Phuket Tourist Association ?

High-season tourism outlook bleak: PTA

PHUKET CITY: -- Despite a large drop in fuel prices internationally, the outlook for this year’s high season for tourism remains bleak, a top tourism industry leader has said.

Phuket Tourist Association (PTA) Vice-President Bhuritt Maswongsa told the Gazette that current occupancy rates and advanced bookings from now until the end of the year should result in an island-wide average occupancy rate of about 55% compared to 80% for the same period last year.

Mr Bhuritt, who is General Manager of the Patong Beach Resort, said the main cause for the downturn was a drop in the number of arrivals from Phuket’s traditional “bread-and-butter” market: Europe.

Security fears resulting from the ongoing political turmoil in the capital and global economics have combined to keep the Europeans away, he said.

[mrtoad]

Just goes to show then that the originally believed huge drop in numbers, was in the end, just total exaggeration.

Airports and trains etc... get closed down all the time in Western countries, but i dont read of Asians all cancelling their holidays.

A great safe country like Thailand will always get hoardes of tourists regardless to any slight political hassles.

Dont believe sensationalist foreign media reporting on big cuts in tourism stats next time.

What credible information do you have to back this up?

[mrtoad]

Just goes to show then that the originally believed huge drop in numbers, was in the end, just total exaggeration.

Airports and trains etc... get closed down all the time in Western countries, but i dont read of Asians all cancelling their holidays.

A great safe country like Thailand will always get hoardes of tourists regardless to any slight political hassles.

Dont believe sensationalist foreign media reporting on big cuts in tourism stats next time.

Total saffron tinted nonsense.

HOTELS

minor sees hard months ahead

By Achara Deboonme,

Suchat Sritama

Published on December 29, 2008

Heinecke frowns on discounts to offset difficulties; vows no lay-offs

The Nation

Minor International has revised its 2008 profit growth rate from the hotel business from 25 per cent to 10 per cent due to the drop in the hotel

business, which last year contributed 42 per cent of the company's revenue.

In the fourth quarter alone, the hotel profit is expected to drop 40 per cent on a year ago, said chairman and chief executive officer William Heinecke.

He noted that maintaining the company's growth were strong sales in the food business, which in 2007 contributed 49 per cent of revenue. Heinecke said that this year the revenue ratio from the food business would certainly be higher.

In 2007 the company's net profit was Bt1.6 billion. In the first nine-months of this year, the net profit was Bt1.48 billion.

Still, despite the drop in the hotel business, the company vowed not to lay off any of its 8,000 workers, though their work days are cut and other cost-cutting measures like energy-saving will be enforced more seriously. An early retirement programme is on the cards if the situation does not improve.

It is expected that the Bangkok airport closures will drive 3 million tourists away from Thailand during December and March, and this could affect the employment of 1 million workers.

Shaken by the instability, tourists from several key markets such as the UK, the US and Japan have disappeared. For Heinecke, China is the only hope for Thai tourism. To cope with the situation, hotels are focusing on more short-haul markets like South Korea and Taiwan. Promotions are also offered, for instance a free night for three-night stays. Still, room rates are being maintained, despite news that some overseas agents have pressured for discounts.

Despite the calamity, Heinecke insisted that hotels should not survive through discounts, as Thailand's position as one of the world's best destinations would be compromised.

Low rates will not draw back tourists so long as the factors of concern are not cleared up, he said, adding that Thai hotels in the South suffered from low occupancy rate after The Tsunami in 2004 even with low room rates. Moreover, the average hotel room rate in Thailand is already cheaper than in neighbouring countries: 50 per cent lower than in Singapore and Hong Kong for instance.

"Thailand is not the place for bargains," insisted Heinecke.

Heinecke urged the Board of Investment to extend tax incentives to existing hotel operators who are suffering extraordinarily low occupancy rates despite the high tourist season. The Finance Ministry could also offer tax allowances to employers who decide to retain their existing workforce or recruit new employees. Meanwhile, to reduce their operating costs, suspending social contributions for three years is recommended.

Tax incentives should also be offered to existing hotels with renovation plans, and small operators also need soft loans, while Airports of Thailand should reduce fees levied on airlines so that more flights could be operated in and out of Thailand, and Thai Airways International, as the national carrier, should take the lead in lowering fares.

Edited December 29, 2008 by mrtoad

[Thai at Heart]

Just goes to show then that the originally believed huge drop in numbers, was in the end, just total exaggeration.

Airports and trains etc... get closed down all the time in Western countries, but i dont read of Asians all cancelling their holidays.

A great safe country like Thailand will always get hoardes of tourists regardless to any slight political hassles.

Dont believe sensationalist foreign media reporting on big cuts in tourism stats next time.

The stats are mainly coming from the Tourism Authority of THAILAND.

And yes the rest of the world will have its drop in tourism also, but is unlikely to have to put up with LAX, Heathrow or Charles de Gaulle being closed off because of a political protest and the police stand back and do nothing to prevent it happening.

[Ulysses G.]

Just goes to show then that the originally believed huge drop in numbers, was in the end, just total exaggeration.

A great safe country like Thailand will always get hoardes of tourists regardless to any slight political hassles.

Huh?

Well, where are they all at then?

[Mosha]

They haven't heard that the PAD have gone home to make way for the other group.

Edited December 29, 2008 by Mosha

[dumball]

Just goes to show then that the originally believed huge drop in numbers, was in the end, just total exaggeration.

A great safe country like Thailand will always get hoardes of tourists regardless to any slight political hassles.

Huh?

Well, where are they all at then?

Visiting the neighbours for a refreshing 'Cuppa '

[Ulysses G.]

The neighbours in Cambodia!

[baht&sold]

Festive season helps THAI fill more seats

Bangkok Post Dec 29, 2008

Bigger test will come after holidays

Air travel demand in the festive season has temporarily eased Thai Airways International's worries about filling aircraft seats by bringing a moderate-to-high cabin factor.

But the national carrier remains concerned about demand in the period after Christmas and New Year, given the double impact of worsening global economic turmoil and the crisis in travel confidence in Thailand sparked by anti-government protesters' occupation of Bangkok's two airports.

THAI's international traffic has slowly come back from a near shutdown of operations between Nov 26 and Dec 5, when Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports were seized by the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD).

The cabin factor on international routes during the holidays season is more than 60%, close to the 70% recorded in the same period last year, as the airline has recovered most bookings, mainly from long-haul travellers, suspended during the airport shutdowns.

"It [international passenger traffic] could be worse. It is much better than we feared," said a senior THAI executive.

Demand for domestic routes in the holidays has clearly bounced back from the airport shutdown aftermath with THAI's cabin factor of 75% being "just as good" as last year.

The recovery of the airline's international traffic has been helped by a campaign to boost image and confidence and by fare incentives launched in the international market.

Domestic passenger demand, especially during the holidays, is easier to revive as most travellers are Thais, who understand the political situation and want to spend holidays in the provinces as they traditionally have done.

THAI's " Follow Your Dreams" fare promotion, launched in October and specifically targeting outbound travellers, has helped it buck the market downturn.

But the true test will come after the festive season ends in the second week of January. A slump has been anticipated as the worst of the worldwide economic crisis begins to be felt.

THAI is preparing to counter the threatened traffic slowdown by following up in January with a further promotion campaign, known as "Loving Thailand", featuring reduced fares, according to the airline.

Net fares in the campaign, lasting from January to March 2009, are about 15% lower than the current promotion, or 30% below regular net fares.

For instance, a round-trip from Bangkok to Hong Kong will cost just 5,265 baht, excluding airport taxes and fuel surcharge. A Bangkok-Singapore flight would be 3,545 baht, while flights to Europe start from 24,730 baht.

Article link

Edited December 29, 2008 by baht&sold

[Kerryd]

The cabin factor on international routes during the holidays season is more than 60%, close to the 70% recorded in the same period last year, as the airline has recovered most bookings, mainly from long-haul travellers, suspended during the airport shutdowns.

Net fares in the campaign, lasting from January to March 2009, are about 15% lower than the current promotion, or 30% below regular net fares.

For instance, a round-trip from Bangkok to Hong Kong will cost just 5,265 baht, excluding airport taxes and fuel surcharge. A Bangkok-Singapore flight would be 3,545 baht, while flights to Europe start from 24,730 baht.

So just over 3 weeks after the airport shut down ended, and Thai is back to 60% of what they were averaging compared to last year. How much of the 10% drop can be attributed to the global economic crisis, and how much to PAD ?

And considering that it seems the airline industry is expecting the financial crisis to be the reason for a slump in the New Year, it would seem that PAD's actions are no where near as devastating to the industry as some would have us believe.

And here was me planning on buying a cheap ticket on Thai (best deal I've found for the Dubai-Bangkok trip), only to hear that the fare could be even lower in a few days or so ! Guess I'll wait a little longer and see how low they go !

[mrtoad]

The cabin factor on international routes during the holidays season is more than 60%, close to the 70% recorded in the same period last year, as the airline has recovered most bookings, mainly from long-haul travellers, suspended during the airport shutdowns.

Net fares in the campaign, lasting from January to March 2009, are about 15% lower than the current promotion, or 30% below regular net fares.

For instance, a round-trip from Bangkok to Hong Kong will cost just 5,265 baht, excluding airport taxes and fuel surcharge. A Bangkok-Singapore flight would be 3,545 baht, while flights to Europe start from 24,730 baht.

So just over 3 weeks after the airport shut down ended, and Thai is back to 60% of what they were averaging compared to last year. How much of the 10% drop can be attributed to the global economic crisis, and how much to PAD ?

And considering that it seems the airline industry is expecting the financial crisis to be the reason for a slump in the New Year, it would seem that PAD's actions are no where near as devastating to the industry as some would have us believe.

And here was me planning on buying a cheap ticket on Thai (best deal I've found for the Dubai-Bangkok trip), only to hear that the fare could be even lower in a few days or so ! Guess I'll wait a little longer and see how low they go !

Whilst the figures quoted by THAI are encouraging, it also suggest that it could be misleading. The real effect will be seen in the coming months after the Christmas/ New Year period. Certainly people that I have spoken to in the Industry are quite fearful of the impensing months, and and have a large number of cancellations. I hope that it get's better, but really the mix of political unstability, airport closures, strong baht and a struggling globasl economy will not help Thialand for the foreseeable, and already the high end hotels are feeling the pinch.

[tartempion]

With all the problems the Land of Smiles(LOS) has seen as of late it is STILL the best bargain in this South East Asia, no ifs and or buts" about it, just stop for a moment and think of the countries nearby, Viet-nam, Laos, Burma, Cambodia, China, India, yeah right. Who really want to spend a lot of time and money in these places, beside that fifteen day(??) or is it seven now, what ever a visa on arrival is a BIG OLD PLUS for the Land of Smile. Seven or fifteen days is plenty of time for the tourist to add a bit of cash to the Nation bank account.

I was in Vietnam 15-25 Nov, lots of tourists there, hotels full, lots of farangs in the streets, shops, not so same period Bangkok, but Oh! someone said here, Nov is NOT high season in LOS, yeah, anything goes as argument

[henryalleman]

but is unlikely to have to put up with LAX, Heathrow or Charles de Gaulle being closed off because of a political protest and the police stand back and do nothing to prevent it happening.

For your information,Charles De Gaulle and other French airports where already closed a few times in the past, in fact all air traffic passing France was closed a few times due to labour actions of Euro air traffic controllers. The same for all French domestic and international HST trains. Road and port blockades by angry fisherman, lorry drivers and farmers happens frequently in France and Spain.

At a certain moment all Channel ports where closed for more than 2 weeks.

And who don't remember the strikes at Heathrow a few years ago

http://news.airwise.com/story/view/1123849847.html

[mrtoad]

but is unlikely to have to put up with LAX, Heathrow or Charles de Gaulle being closed off because of a political protest and the police stand back and do nothing to prevent it happening.

For your information,Charles De Gaulle and other French airports where already closed a few times in the past, in fact all air traffic passing France was closed a few times due to labour actions of Euro air traffic controllers. The same for all French domestic and international HST trains. Road and port blockades by angry fisherman, lorry drivers and farmers happens frequently in France and Spain.

At a certain moment all Channel ports where closed for more than 2 weeks.

And who don't remember the strikes at Heathrow a few years ago

http://news.airwise.com/story/view/1123849847.html

You have a point, but the problem in Thailand is that if the Airport is closed, it is very difficult to get out or into the country. Places like the UK, France and the UK have much better infastructure, so if one was closed there are alternatives. I can remeber getting caught by a ligtning strike on the ports in France, so just got on the train and went back. No big problem.

I don't think there have been any significant blockades for a number of yeras, and to be honest comparing a strike at Heathrow, with a political occupation of Swammpy is pretty ridiculous.

[henryalleman]

but is unlikely to have to put up with LAX, Heathrow or Charles de Gaulle being closed off because of a political protest and the police stand back and do nothing to prevent it happening.

For your information,Charles De Gaulle and other French airports where already closed a few times in the past, in fact all air traffic passing France was closed a few times due to labour actions of Euro air traffic controllers. The same for all French domestic and international HST trains. Road and port blockades by angry fisherman, lorry drivers and farmers happens frequently in France and Spain.

At a certain moment all Channel ports where closed for more than 2 weeks.

And who don't remember the strikes at Heathrow a few years ago

http://news.airwise.com/story/view/1123849847.html

You have a point, but the problem in Thailand is that if the Airport is closed, it is very difficult to get out or into the country. Places like the UK, France and the UK have much better infastructure, so if one was closed there are alternatives. I can remeber getting caught by a ligtning strike on the ports in France, so just got on the train and went back. No big problem.

I don't think there have been any significant blockades for a number of yeras, and to be honest comparing a strike at Heathrow, with a political occupation of Swammpy is pretty ridiculous.

Why this is ridiculous? in both cases the airport was closed, do you think it make any difference for a stranded passenger who is responsible, the effects are the same.

[MyphuketLife]

Seems PAD must be a world-wide force...

"Last December I remember being in a very buoyant mood, telling you all that the airline was in excellent shape and the overall picture was very healthy," Hong Kong's Cathay Pacific Airways Chief Executive Tony Tyler said in a recent company newsletter. "Now, as 2008 draws to a close, we are facing very uncertain times and the mood has turned decidedly somber."

While the drop in fuel prices has provided some reprieve, air traffic demand has fallen as companies and tourists cut back on travel. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has warned that the aviation industry faces its worst revenue environment in 50 years.

- Associated Press / 2008-12-29

Good spin as always.... But you can't deny that the airport closers did not effect at least the short term.

I think you could have a bright career in journalism, it seems to be a passion.... this company is hiring seems like a good fit http://careers.foxnews.com/

Edited December 30, 2008 by MyphuketLife

[Ulysses G.]

Seems PAD must be a world-wide force...

"Last December I remember being in a very buoyant mood, telling you all that the airline was in excellent shape and the overall picture was very healthy," Hong Kong's Cathay Pacific Airways Chief Executive Tony Tyler said in a recent company newsletter. "Now, as 2008 draws to a close, we are facing very uncertain times and the mood has turned decidedly somber."

While the drop in fuel prices has provided some reprieve, air traffic demand has fallen as companies and tourists cut back on travel. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has warned that the aviation industry faces its worst revenue environment in 50 years.

- Associated Press / 2008-12-29

Good spin as always.... But you can't deny that the airport closers did not effect at least the short term.

All spin, no substance!

[midas]

Thai PM switches venue for speech

Protesters outside parliament

Protesters have blocked parliament for a second day

Thailand's new Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva has begun delivering his maiden policy speech, after protesters forced him to switch venue.

After parliament was blockaded for two days running, Mr Abhisit assembled a quorum of MPs at the foreign ministry.

His speech outlined "urgent measures" for "stimulating the economy".

Demonstrators loyal to the ousted former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra had massed outside the gates to parliament

( taken from the BBC World wesite today 30th Dec 2008 )

When tourists see this again on BBC World television today , do you think that there

is even the slighest chance that they will start equating Thailand with having a permanent

chance of " protestors blocking " somewhere or something ? Last time with the airport

we thought it was making Thailand look silly - now it is making it look sad

Edited December 30, 2008 by midas

[mrtoad]

Why this is ridiculous? in both cases the airport was closed, do you think it make any difference for a stranded passenger who is responsible, the effects are the same.

Because you are comparing apples and oranges. Industrial action, for better working conditions and pay are common - THOSE PEOPLE PROTESTING ACTUALLY WORK AT THE AIRPORT. In general, in places such as Heathrow, it did not lead to a full closure of the Airport, but some delays. Very bad, but Heathrow is an a different position to say Bangkok in that it is a major internation aviation hub - AIR TRAFFIC VOLUME WILL REMAIN HIGH. I don't recall seeing peopele suffering delays of over a week, trying to get in and out of the country. I had to cancel 3 incoming meetings, along with an outbound trip to Singapore because of those morons. I would have at least been able to get out of other countries much easier.

The other point being, that this particular incident had nothing to do with the Airport, there was no reason for thiose people to be there protesting, and they should never have been allowed to get there in the first place. I know that you are a big fan of the PAD, but as far as I'm concerned they are a disgrace to the country, and their actions will be felt for many months to come in respect of the economy. Hopefully, a few of thos organisers will be collared for it at some point.

In the end, the figures for Tourism are poor, and after visiting another one of my clients this morning, who has a significant volume of International clients, he reiterated excatly what I was told by two other Major Hospitals here in Bangkok, international patient numbers are significantly down, and a lot through cancellatiion. It's all to conveneint to hide behind the global recession, but this has compounded that.

TAT and the Saffron tinted brigade can talk it up as much as they want, but the figures they are releasing are misleading and more than likely doctored.

[ThaiEye]

Thailand's tales of recovery

http://www.eturbonews.com/6926/thailands-tales-recovery

Thailand authorities’ vision of collapsing tourism might be finally too gloomy. It seems that recovery from long-haul markets already started and is getting steadier than expected. Thai Airways and XL Airways set two examples of Thailand’s recovery.

Beside the launching of “Smiling Thailand” campaign by the new Thai government of Abhisit Vejjajivato to boost foreign confidence into the kingdom, aviation and tourism authorities start to get their smile back by looking at the evolution of the demand.

“There is more confidence about us as the government seems to be stable for the time being and is really committed to have the situation back to normal. The fact that our Prime Minister apologizes for the recent inconvenience caused by airports closure and his promise to b sure that this will not happen again are positive and encouraging signs,” said Natwut Amornvivat, president of Thailand’s Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB).

And it does not look as bad as expected- at least for this Christmas holiday. Heavy last minute discounts helped to fill up hotels again with pssengers flying also on last-minute discounted packages. “We even heard from Thai Airways that booking from Europe are getting back to normal,” added Amornvivat.

This is in fact a pleasant surprise. “We start indeed to see a recovery in demand from our long-haul markets. We already took consequence of it by reinstating 90 percent of our winter timetable, being even at 95 percent of our full program on our long-haul network,” said Pandit Chanapai, executive vice president Commercial at Thai Airways International. Europe and Australia are back to their full schedules. Just Johannesburg is now under review as the route is underperforming.

However, Chanapai already thinks of expansion: Thai Airways will strengthen its presence in India from February, doubling its daily flights to New Delhi and Mumbai and being back to daily flights to Kolkata and Chennai. As the demand remains sustained from the Middle East, Chanapai is looking to boost capacity by the summer. Thai Airways will offer a double daily frequency to Dubai, set up four non-stop weekly flights to Kuwait (instead of via Dubai).

“We look in priority to open a new route with Jeddah, once diplomatic relations are re-established with Saudi Arabia and we consider also seriously to add Amman and Abu Dhabi,” added Chanapai.

The markets still remain depressed to Korea, Japan, China and some neighbouring countries of ASEAN such as Singapore. “We will adjust accordingly capacities. However, we also think to provide more intra-orient flights within a time frame of six hours flight. I believe we could operate more flights to destinations beyond China as well as adding more capacities between Japan or Korea and Thailand via Manila or Taipei,” he added.

Chanapai estimates that Bangkok’s airports closure translated by a loss of Baht 500 million per day. The airline is now targeting a load factor of 70 percent for the whole 2008 –compared to 77 percent in 2007- and of 73 percent for 2009.

“We completely review our growth strategy. We do not target only revenues anymore. We look at cost reduction and will drive our development from this point of view. It means for example, that we will just put the right number of aircraft to stick to the demand. If we have to reduce capacities and retire aircraft, we will now do it. Even if we ultimately have to look also at ways to reduce our working force. But it would be the last solution to remain competitive,” added Chanapai.

Thai Airways is still lucky to rely on a relatively solid overseas market. This is also the same reasons that gave enough confidence for French holiday-airline XL Airways to start new regular flights from Brussels and Paris to Phuket. The first flights touched down just prior to Christmas and French tour operators programming those flights are exhilarated.

“We see demand for Thailand picking up again following a return to normality in Thailand. We have again a lot of enquiries for the Kingdom from France,” said Stéphane Gréhalle, from Toorism, a travel agency in Paris.

“Flights to Phuket are full over the holiday season and XL Airways has already announced to have this flights all-year around,” said Thierry Maillet, sales director for Tour Operator Best Tours.

XL Airways got the support from Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), which helped to promote the new flights at various travel shows in Europe. “It is an excellent way to see how we can cooperate with some of the biggest names of the travel industry in Europe such as Club med, Thomas Cook, Jet Voyage, Nouvelles Frontières or Look Voyages,” said TAT Governor Phornsiri Manoharn.

Look Voyages –which represents some 100 passengers on the weekly frequency Paris-Phuket- has even rent out for the season Apsaras Beach Resort and Spa in Khao Lak, a first for the four-star property hotel. “It will help us to boost our occupancy to over 70 percent and we are delighted,” said a confident Kantima Sanglee, deputy managing director of the property.

[mrtoad]

Thailand's tales of recovery

http://www.eturbonews.com/6926/thailands-tales-recovery

Thailand authorities’ vision of collapsing tourism might be finally too gloomy. It seems that recovery from long-haul markets already started and is getting steadier than expected. Thai Airways and XL Airways set two examples of Thailand’s recovery.

Beside the launching of “Smiling Thailand” campaign by the new Thai government of Abhisit Vejjajivato to boost foreign confidence into the kingdom, aviation and tourism authorities start to get their smile back by looking at the evolution of the demand.

“There is more confidence about us as the government seems to be stable for the time being and is really committed to have the situation back to normal. The fact that our Prime Minister apologizes for the recent inconvenience caused by airports closure and his promise to b sure that this will not happen again are positive and encouraging signs,” said Natwut Amornvivat, president of Thailand’s Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB).

And it does not look as bad as expected- at least for this Christmas holiday. Heavy last minute discounts helped to fill up hotels again with pssengers flying also on last-minute discounted packages. “We even heard from Thai Airways that booking from Europe are getting back to normal,” added Amornvivat.

This is in fact a pleasant surprise. “We start indeed to see a recovery in demand from our long-haul markets. We already took consequence of it by reinstating 90 percent of our winter timetable, being even at 95 percent of our full program on our long-haul network,” said Pandit Chanapai, executive vice president Commercial at Thai Airways International. Europe and Australia are back to their full schedules. Just Johannesburg is now under review as the route is underperforming.

However, Chanapai already thinks of expansion: Thai Airways will strengthen its presence in India from February, doubling its daily flights to New Delhi and Mumbai and being back to daily flights to Kolkata and Chennai. As the demand remains sustained from the Middle East, Chanapai is looking to boost capacity by the summer. Thai Airways will offer a double daily frequency to Dubai, set up four non-stop weekly flights to Kuwait (instead of via Dubai).

“We look in priority to open a new route with Jeddah, once diplomatic relations are re-established with Saudi Arabia and we consider also seriously to add Amman and Abu Dhabi,” added Chanapai.

The markets still remain depressed to Korea, Japan, China and some neighbouring countries of ASEAN such as Singapore. “We will adjust accordingly capacities. However, we also think to provide more intra-orient flights within a time frame of six hours flight. I believe we could operate more flights to destinations beyond China as well as adding more capacities between Japan or Korea and Thailand via Manila or Taipei,” he added.

Chanapai estimates that Bangkok’s airports closure translated by a loss of Baht 500 million per day. The airline is now targeting a load factor of 70 percent for the whole 2008 –compared to 77 percent in 2007- and of 73 percent for 2009.

“We completely review our growth strategy. We do not target only revenues anymore. We look at cost reduction and will drive our development from this point of view. It means for example, that we will just put the right number of aircraft to stick to the demand. If we have to reduce capacities and retire aircraft, we will now do it. Even if we ultimately have to look also at ways to reduce our working force. But it would be the last solution to remain competitive,” added Chanapai.

Thai Airways is still lucky to rely on a relatively solid overseas market. This is also the same reasons that gave enough confidence for French holiday-airline XL Airways to start new regular flights from Brussels and Paris to Phuket. The first flights touched down just prior to Christmas and French tour operators programming those flights are exhilarated.

“We see demand for Thailand picking up again following a return to normality in Thailand. We have again a lot of enquiries for the Kingdom from France,” said Stéphane Gréhalle, from Toorism, a travel agency in Paris.

“Flights to Phuket are full over the holiday season and XL Airways has already announced to have this flights all-year around,” said Thierry Maillet, sales director for Tour Operator Best Tours.

XL Airways got the support from Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), which helped to promote the new flights at various travel shows in Europe. “It is an excellent way to see how we can cooperate with some of the biggest names of the travel industry in Europe such as Club med, Thomas Cook, Jet Voyage, Nouvelles Frontières or Look Voyages,” said TAT Governor Phornsiri Manoharn.

Look Voyages –which represents some 100 passengers on the weekly frequency Paris-Phuket- has even rent out for the season Apsaras Beach Resort and Spa in Khao Lak, a first for the four-star property hotel. “It will help us to boost our occupancy to over 70 percent and we are delighted,” said a confident Kantima Sanglee, deputy managing director of the property.

Excellent, I am sure that XL with 5 planes in it's fleet and a budget carrier too boot will save the Thai Tourist Industry.

[desi]

I flew in from the UK yesterday morning. I didn't get a peek into cattle class, but business was about 60% full.

Tired after leaving at 4am to drive 4 hours to get to London, then the wait at the car rental, then the wait at the airport, then two flights with a stopover, I was looking forward to an empty immigration.

It was full. One of those sweet/sour moments.

I was glad it was full for the Thai economy. Not so glad about waiting a half an hour plus to get to the taxi stand.

Got my taxi slip. Stood in line for a taxi. Got my taxi. The taxi driver drove about 15 feet before shouting 500 baht!

I was tired and totally forgot the warnings about getting into a confrontation with BKK taxi drivers and yelled back that there was NO BLOODY WAY I was going to pay 500 baht when I stood in line for a proper taxi!!

He started yelling about BAD FARANG!! And how he'd been waiting four hours!! And that if he was going to drive all the way to the airport, I was going to pay 500 baht!!

Miffed, I explained that I KNEW THE LAW!! And that I stood for my ticket and was NOT GOING TO PAY 500 baht! I was going to pay the going rate with taxi meter!

Ok, I was tired... I'm not even sure the law comes into it but it seemed to make a difference. That and me ignoring him the rest of the way.

He sped up, muttered again about BAD FARANG!! Then calmed down.

At my condo, gave him 300 baht and he gave back the proper change. That was it. No more comments. Nothing.

Then today, doing back in town grocery shopping, I got another desperate taxi driver. In between his favourite English phrase (Happy New Year!) he explained the dire straights his family is now under due to the yellow shirts. It wasn't a I'm going to scew the farang type of voice. It was a shaky, desperation voice. Two kids. He's living on the edge anyway, and now the yellow shirts.

So two taxi drivers. Both desperate. And except for the last time I posted my experiences about taxi drivers (where I got a weeks worth of crappy drivers shortly after) I usually get pretty decent guys. I'm now hoping this doesn't turn into the norm.

ps: Yeah, yeah, I did tip the second taxi driver extra, so apologies if one of you get done by him too...

Edited December 30, 2008 by desi

[ballpoint]

Why this is ridiculous? in both cases the airport was closed, do you think it make any difference for a stranded passenger who is responsible, the effects are the same.

Because you are comparing apples and oranges. Industrial action, for better working conditions and pay are common - THOSE PEOPLE PROTESTING ACTUALLY WORK AT THE AIRPORT. In general, in places such as Heathrow, it did not lead to a full closure of the Airport, but some delays. Very bad, but Heathrow is an a different position to say Bangkok in that it is a major internation aviation hub - AIR TRAFFIC VOLUME WILL REMAIN HIGH. I don't recall seeing peopele suffering delays of over a week, trying to get in and out of the country. I had to cancel 3 incoming meetings, along with an outbound trip to Singapore because of those morons. I would have at least been able to get out of other countries much easier.

The other point being, that this particular incident had nothing to do with the Airport, there was no reason for thiose people to be there protesting, and they should never have been allowed to get there in the first place. I know that you are a big fan of the PAD, but as far as I'm concerned they are a disgrace to the country, and their actions will be felt for many months to come in respect of the economy. Hopefully, a few of thos organisers will be collared for it at some point.

In the end, the figures for Tourism are poor, and after visiting another one of my clients this morning, who has a significant volume of International clients, he reiterated excatly what I was told by two other Major Hospitals here in Bangkok, international patient numbers are significantly down, and a lot through cancellatiion. It's all to conveneint to hide behind the global recession, but this has compounded that.

TAT and the Saffron tinted brigade can talk it up as much as they want, but the figures they are releasing are misleading and more than likely doctored.

I'm currently on holiday in Australia and the lead story on the news tonight was the fact that the number of international tourists here is the lowest its been for 20 years. That's funny, I don't remember reading about any protesters shutting down Sydney airport, yet according to some of the posters here that is the only possible reason for a drop. Wake up guys, the world is in recession, the greenies are still spreading their climate change rubbish, people are staying at home. Have you been through KL and Singapore airports recently? Very quiet, but they're not advertising it. I'd say many of those who normally come to Thailand stop over on their way to and from Australia. No trip to Australia means no stopover in Thailand. No stopover in Thailand means tourist numbers are down. Tourist numbers being down means a bunch of people start crying over what the "morons" at the PAD have done.

[Ulysses G.]

yet according to some of the posters here that is the only possible reason for a drop.

Actually, no one has said that. The general feeling is that the protests AND the economy are why things are so bad. Get some reading glasses old feller!

[mrtoad]

Why this is ridiculous? in both cases the airport was closed, do you think it make any difference for a stranded passenger who is responsible, the effects are the same.

Because you are comparing apples and oranges. Industrial action, for better working conditions and pay are common - THOSE PEOPLE PROTESTING ACTUALLY WORK AT THE AIRPORT. In general, in places such as Heathrow, it did not lead to a full closure of the Airport, but some delays. Very bad, but Heathrow is an a different position to say Bangkok in that it is a major internation aviation hub - AIR TRAFFIC VOLUME WILL REMAIN HIGH. I don't recall seeing peopele suffering delays of over a week, trying to get in and out of the country. I had to cancel 3 incoming meetings, along with an outbound trip to Singapore because of those morons. I would have at least been able to get out of other countries much easier.

The other point being, that this particular incident had nothing to do with the Airport, there was no reason for thiose people to be there protesting, and they should never have been allowed to get there in the first place. I know that you are a big fan of the PAD, but as far as I'm concerned they are a disgrace to the country, and their actions will be felt for many months to come in respect of the economy. Hopefully, a few of thos organisers will be collared for it at some point.

In the end, the figures for Tourism are poor, and after visiting another one of my clients this morning, who has a significant volume of International clients, he reiterated excatly what I was told by two other Major Hospitals here in Bangkok, international patient numbers are significantly down, and a lot through cancellatiion. It's all to conveneint to hide behind the global recession, but this has compounded that.

TAT and the Saffron tinted brigade can talk it up as much as they want, but the figures they are releasing are misleading and more than likely doctored.

I'm currently on holiday in Australia and the lead story on the news tonight was the fact that the number of international tourists here is the lowest its been for 20 years. That's funny, I don't remember reading about any protesters shutting down Sydney airport, yet according to some of the posters here that is the only possible reason for a drop. Wake up guys, the world is in recession, the greenies are still spreading their climate change rubbish, people are staying at home. Have you been through KL and Singapore airports recently? Very quiet, but they're not advertising it. I'd say many of those who normally come to Thailand stop over on their way to and from Australia. No trip to Australia means no stopover in Thailand. No stopover in Thailand means tourist numbers are down. Tourist numbers being down means a bunch of people start crying over what the "morons" at the PAD have done.

Why can't people read?

Hang on mate, I did not specificaly say that it was the PAD is solely to blame for the drop in number, however, their moronic behaviour has compounded the problems. Have a look in yesterdays Nation, even people like Bill Heinicke (Minor Group) is saying as much. I've been in the three major international hospitals within the last week, they are saying the same, the disruptions have caused a drop in visits from overseas tourists (Medical tourism hospitals). There will be abit of a bounce over the next few weeks, and then it's going to drop again. It's not helped by the continuing political uncertainty which has been widely and grossy exaggerated by the world press, but burying heads in the sand is not going to help the Thai economy.

Is the global recession having an impact? Yes

Is the ongoing political uncertainity having an impact? Yes

Have the Airport closure's had an affect on tourist numbers? Yes.

Does the strong Baht have an impact? Yes

So, as you can see in a clearer format for someone who can't comprehend what is being written, this is what people are generally saying. Understand?

[plachon]

And if, maybe for your own peace of mind keep on believing that the drop of tourism is due the closings for 1 week of some airport is the reason for the downfall of tourism in Thailand keep on doing so.

But the world is in an economical crisis who just started, prepare yourself for his effects on tourism in Thailand. The figures will drop dramatically.

The reason that THIS tourist season was ruined was mostly because of the illegal antics of PAD that went on for months and topped off with highjacking the two most important airports in the country. No one knew how long it would last so almpst everyone canceled their travel plans.

Now we have to deal with the economical crisis without any savings from this year. PAD should be put on the rack!

Getting a bit forgetful are we Ullysses? First signs of dementia setting in?

Main reason was PAD in your book, and not the economic downturn. Only PAD should be "put on the rack" and not 8 years of total and utter economic mismanagement by GWB and his willing cohorts in Washington and Wall Street who will be hitting many peoples' savings and pensions for many years to come, causing them to cancel their planned holidays to Thailand and elsewhere. Not even an iota of stocks treatment for those crooks as well? Admit it, your blame has been squarely placed at one group and one group alone for your own personal woes. Mr Forgetful.

[sriracha john]

Seems PAD must be a world-wide force...

"Last December I remember being in a very buoyant mood, telling you all that the airline was in excellent shape and the overall picture was very healthy," Hong Kong's Cathay Pacific Airways Chief Executive Tony Tyler said in a recent company newsletter. "Now, as 2008 draws to a close, we are facing very uncertain times and the mood has turned decidedly somber."

While the drop in fuel prices has provided some reprieve, air traffic demand has fallen as companies and tourists cut back on travel. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has warned that the aviation industry faces its worst revenue environment in 50 years.

- Associated Press / 2008-12-29

Good spin as always.... But you can't deny that the airport closers did not effect at least the short term.

I think you could have a bright career in journalism, it seems to be a passion.... this company is hiring seems like a good fit http://careers.foxnews.com/

What spin? I was responding in context to the preceding post which lamely insinuated that the vast majority of tourism woes for Thailand was overwhelmingly due to the airport closure. I, among others, have never denied it had an effect to some degree, despite attempts by others to falsify that reality.

But then again, trolling seems to be your passion, so I guess one should expect that.

Edited December 30, 2008 by sriracha john

[Ulysses G.]

plachon Posted Today, 2008-12-30 16:10:21

Getting a bit forgetful are we Ullysses? First signs of dementia setting in?

Main reason was PAD in your book, and not the economic downturn.

As Mr Toad says, "Why can't people read"? Do you not understand the word "mostly"?

I've said in quite a few posts that both the economy and the Airport takeover have contributed to a lousy "high season", but that things were still going pretty good up until the day that the airpost was closed and then everything went into a nose dive.

The economy hurt sales for many businesses, but the PAD Airport Highjacking destroyed them for weeks and they are still way down from normal. The economy is resposible for slowing things down. The PAD are responsible for almost ruining high season. PAD are the main reason in the short term, but they are not the only reason. Get it?

Now get yourself some reading glasses, study the meaning of the word, "mostly" and don't bug the big guy!

Edited December 30, 2008 by Ulysses G.

[Ulysses G.]

Seems PAD must be a world-wide force...

"Last December I remember being in a very buoyant mood, telling you all that the airline was in excellent shape and the overall picture was very healthy," Hong Kong's Cathay Pacific Airways Chief Executive Tony Tyler said in a recent company newsletter. "Now, as 2008 draws to a close, we are facing very uncertain times and the mood has turned decidedly somber."

While the drop in fuel prices has provided some reprieve, air traffic demand has fallen as companies and tourists cut back on travel. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has warned that the aviation industry faces its worst revenue environment in 50 years.

- Associated Press / 2008-12-29

Good spin as always.... But you can't deny that the airport closers did not effect at least the short term.

I think you could have a bright career in journalism, it seems to be a passion.... this company is hiring seems like a good fit http://careers.foxnews.com/

What spin?

All Spin, no Substance.