Thailand travel trade

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This page was last updated on Friday, October 31, 2008 02:52 (Thailand time)

	Demonstrations must end, Thai travel trade warns Sirima Eamtako, Bangkok (2008-05-26) TTGTravelHub.net THE Thai travel trade says tourists' confidence will be shaken if demonstrations in Bangkok, such as yesterday's clash between two opposing groups that injured about 20 people, were to continue and turn violent. However, they said at the moment there was no immediate impact on the country's tourism industry. Thai Hotels Association president, Mr Prakit Chinamourpong, said: "Member hotels have reported no cancellations." He added prolonged demonstrations would affect travellers' confidence, especially when the country would be hosting Thailand Travel Mart (TTM) from June 5 to 8, followed by two large conventions - the 91st Lions Clubs International from June 23 to 27 and ITU Telecom Asia from September 2 to 5. Chaophya Park Hotel and Resorts general manager, Mr Andrew Wood, said the demonstrations would create challenges for conference organisers, particularly those from sensitive markets such as the US and Japan. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) said TTM expected 487 buyers from 62 countries. Meanwhile, TAT governor, Ms Phornsiri Manoharn, said the NTO planned to spend 150 million baht (US$4.6 million) on promotions to entice more Thais to travel domestically. She said rising fuel and commodity prices might cause Thais to travel less and result in TAT missing its domestic tourism target of 74 million trips.
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