Northeast Thailand gets a tourism boost
THAILAND’S north-eastern region, called “Isan”, is being given a major boost with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) with the recently held Amazing I-San Fair 2013 from January 24-27, 2013. With over 60 operators participating in the fair including travel agents, airlines, accommodations, and producers of local handicrafts, the travel fair aimed to increase tourist traffic from Bangkok and other provinces to Isan.
In recent years, the Northeast has seen an influx of domestic and foreign travellers going for its unspoiled nature and chic resorts. It is also the main gateway to the many wonders of the neighbouring countries of Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam. In 2011, there were more than 26 million visitors to the Northeast, more than 95 per cent of whom were Thai tourists. In 2013, TAT expects the number of domestic trips will increase to 115.36 million trips and generate THB 537,800 million ($18,000 million).
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Royal Carribbean orders for new vessel
ROYAL Caribbean Cruises Ltd. recently announced that it has executed a contract with STX France to construct a third Oasis-class vessel for delivery in mid-2016. This order is consistent with the plan announced by the company in October to build a sister-ship to the very successful Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas.
Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas are the largest and most revolutionary cruise ships in the world. Architectural marvels at sea, they span 16 decks, encompass 225,282 gross registered tons, carrying 5,400 guests at double occupancy, and feature 2,700 staterooms. With the success of the Oasis-class ships, Royal Caribbean International is currently undergoing a fleet wide revitalization program to bring the latest innovations and the highest guest-rated programs from Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas to the cruise line’s ships across the fleet.
Monaco inks new deal with Marta Consulting
GAA Marta Consulting, an established and influential, Dubai-based tourism and investment development consultancy has been appointed by Monaco Government Tourist Bureau as its Middle East representative office.
Nour Aridi, senior account manager said: “We are really pleased to receive this appointment from the Principality of Monaco, as Monaco is a permanent entertainment destination in itself, and it offers a wealth of tourist attractions concentrated in an area of just several hundred metres.”