Chiang Mai sets out its stall
CHIANG MAI – The first Chiang Mai Tourism Forum (CTM), attended last weekend by Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) governor, Khun Phornsiri Manoharn, provided a showcase for the region’s new products and services.
Travelmole’s attention was caught by one exhibit: The Chiang Mai German Microbrewery that offers bathing and swimming in a beer tub and pool.
Perfect, of course, for your next incentive idea.
Marc Bruenjes, a MICE travel consultant based in Chiang Mai, said that support from overseas travel agents was an absolute necessity to maintain Chiang Mai’s strong inbound market.
He added, “The delegation from Malaysia complained that there was not enough information available, especially at sightseeing places such as Wiang Kum Kam, the drowned city of Chiang Mai.
“Also, an obvious lack of infrastructure and direct air access between Chiang Mai and Japan or Australia is deplorable.”
Said Reinhard Hohler, Greater Mekong Sub-region (GMS) media travel consultant, “If Chiang Mai is really gearing up to become a luxury holiday destination and a transport hub within the GMS, more must be done to facilitate cross-border travel. Good intentions are not enough.”
Ian Jarrett
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