Chiang Mai, 26 January, 2018 – Thailand hoteliers are poised for another good year in 2018 after strong interest from ATF buyers, with sellers generally pleased with the quality and diversity of key account representation at the event.
Thai hotels from around the Kingdom expressed optimism for 2018 as Thailand continues to draw a new generation of travellers who are attracted by the country’s growing reputation as Asia’s ‘capital of cool’.
According to Ms. Judy Holland, Director of Sales and Marketing, JW Marriott Phuket, there was a good selection of buyers at ATF 2018 representing a majority of key accounts for Thailand.
“We are pleasantly surprised to see US, including specialists that only arrange destination weddings, coming to the stand. There was a great mix overall from around Europe, North America and Asia.
“Overall it confirms the need for functions and events like ATF,” she added.
In addition to North America she highlighted productive meetings with buyers from Switzerland, Scandinavia, Germany, France, China, India and the United Kingdom in addition to neighbouring ASEAN countries.
Her colleague, Mr. Samer Alhaj, Director of Sales & Marketing, JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort and Spa, agreed whilst also identifying a generational shift in the hotel’s customer mix.
“Our clientele is generally well travelled and 35 years or age or older. Having said that we are also seeing increased interest from the under 35 crowd as both Khao Lak and Phuket are booming.
“Khao Lak has enjoyed tremendous growth the past two or three years and this is expected to continue in 2018 as there isn’t a low season to speak of anymore,” he added.
Mr. Philippe Le Bourhis, General Manager, Pullman Bangkok Hotel G, is looking forward to a good year in Bangkok as the hotel also has caught the eye of a younger demographic.
“There is a changing dynamic in Thailand and where hotels attracting a younger hipster clientele between 30 to 40 years old. They want cool hotels where they can have a good time.
“Our 25 Degrees ‘burger joint’ offers on street access and creates a great first impression of the hotel that appeals to younger customers, especially millennials.”
