PHUKET: With the floods gaining massive television coverage internationally, one major luxury resort group in Thailand has issued a statement to reassure visitors that the country is still open for tourism.

Here's what the Anantara Hotels, Resorts and Spas group had to say:

''Dear Valued Guests,

''The management and staff of Anantara Hotels Resorts and Spas and Bangkok Marriott Resort and Spa, would like to confirm that despite recent heavy seasonal rain in parts of Thailand all of our properties have not experienced any disruptions to business and continue to welcome guests.

''Over the past several weeks, seasonal rains that are heavier than usual have resulted in widespread flooding in Thailand. The floods are mainly affecting the provinces in central Thailand and a few provinces in the north and northeast.

''Provinces in the south of Thailand have not been affected by the floods. Ayutthaya has been the only tourist destination widely affected by the floods, while other provinces where tourists generally go have been unaffected.

''The authorities have ordered every available measure to be taken to protect Bangkok's inner-city commercial and residential districts from flooding and the hotel management teams are working closely with the authorities to monitor the situation.

''The Tourism Authority of Thailand has also set up a website with the latest updates on the floods at www.thailandtourismupdate.com [Phuketwan is updating independently, too.]

''All of Anantara's properties in Thailand including Bangkok, Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Phuket, Hua Hin, South of Krabi and Chiang Rai have all been unaffected and are experiencing normal weather conditions.

''Currently all airports in Thailand, including Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok are operating as per usual.

''Anantara Hotels, Resorts and Spas holds all guests' wellbeing and safety in the highest regard and will uphold the stringent safety standards that the company is known for. This potential for flooding is being monitored extremely closely and precautionary measures are being taken.
''Should there be any change in water levels in and around the properties guests will be kept fully informed at all times.

''Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas''