What does the future hold for Thai tourism?

?It?s important to note Thailand?s strong fundamentals as a tourist destination and, in the past, the destination bounced back strongly and quickly from instabilities.  But each time an abnormal political situation arises, it takes longer for the country ? and our hotels ? to recover.?

?It?s devastating on all levels. Rates ? I?m against discounting as it will only prolong the agony, especially since coming out of last year?s crises ? were on the rebound. Based on my 15-year experience in Asia, Thailand will always be a desirable destination. Trust me, Thailand will rebound.?

?We?re the company that looks to the future, having been here 45 years. We?ve seen good and bad times. We have a clear growth strategy and will stick to our strategic roadmap. The first Amari Residences Bangkok  ? an important milestone after our rebranding ? will open in September as scheduled.?

?My strategy is to be patient, patient and patient. I don?t want to talk about occupancy anymore. Last year was the lowest ever but this year is even worse. March and April are gone. The Russian market is gone. In the short- to long-term, there is absolutely no business. At least, 2011 is not affected yet.?

?Last year, I managed costs while suffering a 30 per cent drop in business. This year, I mortgaged my office while trying to maintain business at 2009 levels. Next year? Well, it?ll take at least a year to win incentives back. I hope it?ll be business as usual by 2012 at the earliest. Hopefully, the pent-up demand would create a phenomenal surge.??