Often in this column I write about what readers will find in
that issue’s cover story. In this case, I want to point out
something that you won’t find.
The story “Thailand: Fit for Kings” (page 12) covers several
different properties in different parts of Thailand, but you won’t
find any mention of the 2004 tsunami. This is not an oversight. The
happy fact of the situation is that the country has recovered
sufficiently from the disaster so that it is possible to write a
story about Thailand and not feel compelled to address that
horrible event.
While there are still some areas that are rebuilding, overall
tourists visiting the country will be hard pressed to notice any
damage beyond a few unremarkable construction sites. Almost as
important as the tsunami’s physical devastation, however, is the
perception of your clients. Fortunately, that seems to have
improved as well. The media focus has moved on to other hot spots
and issues, and tourism numbers in the country are near pre-tsunami
levels.
This year in particular is a great time to visit Thailand because
of the country’s year-long national celebration, Thailand Grand
Invitation. The Grand Invitation consists of a series of cultural
and sporting events held throughout the country in honor of the
60th anniversary of the king’s accession to the throne. Some of the
events include concerts, festivals, boat races and much more. One
event not to be missed is the Royal Flora Ratchaphruek in Chiang
Mai. This is an ambitious project to create an immense
horticultural exposition, with rare flowers, fruits, vegetables,
herbs and spices from over 30 countries. The Royal Flora
Ratchaphruek (meaning “royal tree”) will take place on a 185-acre
site that is being built specifically for this exposition, and
organizers expect 2 million visitors to attend what will be one of
the most unique events in the country’s history. The exposition
runs Nov. 1-Jan. 31.
Whatever your clients’ interests, in Thailand they will find a
friendly welcome, luxury accommodations, pampering spas and a wide
variety of cultural activities, plus some of the most beautiful
beaches in the world. It truly is a land fit for kings.
K.S.
