THE NEW regional travel show, ITB ASIA, held over three days last week in Singapore, attracted world-wide interest and some five-star Phuket exhibitors.
It was the second year an ITB Asia (based on the widely acclaimed International Travel Berlin exhibition) has been held in Singapore.
As well as the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Phuket was represented at the Suntec complex by Twin Palms, Burasari and The Chava.
There were two surprises among the big exhibitors: Burma (Myanmar) and Cambodia.
Cambodia is busy building on the success of Angkor Wat as a unique attraction and now developing its seaside destinations, while Burma, oppressively ruled by a junta of generals, remains subject to international boycotts.
Larry Cunningham of The Chava residential apartments at Surin was only too happy with 42 appointments, mostly with European travel agents, across the three days.
''Their knowledge of Phuket as a destination was very sound,'' he said. ''They don't need much encouragement to consider sending people here.''
Air Asia and India appeared to be strong exhibitors, too.
Singapore was the exhibition's heavyweight as the island state moves towards leisure, with two huge casinos scheduled to open shortly.
More cruise ships are destined to visit, too, with Phuket likely to benefit as a frequent and popular port of call.
One issue for Singapore/Phuket will be whether the region can compete next year with Macau/Hong Kong for China's casino hordes and their families, who may bet on a destination closer to home.
Singapore's economic recovery has been slow and the casino punters are an important new ingredient. Investors will be expecting speedy returns.
ITB Berlin, generally regarded as the world's leading travel show, is set for March 10-14.
Marriott's march across Phuket is now extending north to Khao Lak with a large and quite remarkable resort becoming the latest in the global chain.
Two Australian men have died on Phuket in similar circumstances. But we may never know the whole truth, or learn what killed them. Is the diplomatic system failing expats?
With time running out, the parades come thick and fast in the dying days of the Phuket Vegetarian Festival. Eyes and ears are ready now for the final charge of the white brigade.
The notorious stretch of road that winds over the hill between Patong and central Phuket developed another hole today, perhaps in anticipation of the proposed tunnel.
A school project with lasting benefit has seen a village in north Phuket resurrected by the boys from Phuket Technical College. They have hammered their way into local folklore.
What is the source of this article? There were many other Phuket hotels exhibiting at ITB Asia, including Cape Panwa, Thavorn, The Bell.
Posted by Anton on October 28, 2009 12:08