New Business registration in Thailand is rocketing

Image via WikipediaBANGKOK: -- New company registrations are expected to grow by more than 22 per cent this year on an influx of investment to Asia, especially to Asean, amid slow economic growth in the United States and the euro zone.


The Business Development Department yesterday reported that new registered companies grew sharply by 23 per cent from 2009 to 50,776 firms last year, the highest in 99 years. Combined investment capital rose 20 per cent to Bt263.82 billion.

The investment capital for existing firms also increased sharply last year, by 37 per cent to Bt603 billion, while the number of businesses shutting down operations dropped by 6 per cent to 16,004.

Deputy Commerce Minister Alongkorn Ponlaboot attributed increasing new-business growth to strong economic fundamentals, despite Thailand facing three negative factors: a fragile global economy, political unrest, and natural disasters.

Image via Wikipedia

He said new company registrations should increase continuously this year on strong economic expansion. Investments from South Korea, Japan and China will benefit Thailand and other Asean countries, as the region has high potential to serve as a centre of manufacturing and trading.

Other factors that contributed to the growth of new businesses last year included recovering investment in the stock market, strong export growth, the government's investment under the Thai Khem Khaeng Project, and an increase in foreign direct investment.

However, six negative factors will affect new-business expansion this year, including a stronger baht, high interest rates, political uncertainty and the lead-up to the general election, the fragile global economy, higher inflation, and an increasing oil price.

Alongkorn said those factors would affect all business transactions, capital investment, and the establishment of new companies, as well as the collapse of others.

Image via Wikipedia

New businesses that were registered last year were mostly involved in construction and property development, financial service, electricity supply, and hotels.

In December alone, new registered businesses rose 26 per cent to 3,112 companies with an initial investment worth Bt11.18 billion.

Salute to the Majestic Malai a Skal Skipper

Tourism Thailand salutes Khun Malai

His Tourism journey spands more than 50 years.

Mr. Malai Sakolviphak started his career with Pan American World Airways on July 1, 1949. There were about 9 international airlines operating to/from Bangkok at that time. He worked through various departments, until the last position as Director for Thailand, Laos and Myanmar from 1982 to 1985.

Tourism Thailand shares a vision with the Skal Titans

Skal International Bangkok members were honored by special guest Governor for Tourism Authority of Thailand, Khun Suraphon Svetasreni with his brief on TATs planning and goals.

Picture: Collage photos of the event

September 14 luncheon was a SELL OUT.  If I was not so anxious to see TAT’s vision and hear 1st hand from the Governor I would have seriously considered the scalpers offer for my ticket.

I’m glad I resisted the Scalpers offer! The presentation was impressive, but none more than the Governor by his Hospitable character; at the close of the event his team had to wait another hour or so while Khun Suraphon gave  an individual goodbye to all that sort his audience.  I know because I was waiting to catch a photo and my impatience was overcome by respect as I observed his "Jai yen" fellowship, a genuine wiliness to chat with people. I did get the photo, several in fact, and more conversation with this gentleman than I bargained for. He has my vote as an Icon of Thai Hospitality.

About the Governor Tourism of Thailand

As veteran of the travel and tourism industry, Mr. Suraphon Svetasreni joined the organisation in 1977 contributing to the success of the kingdom’s notable global destination marketing campaigns, strategic and tactical marketing campaigns.

Picture: Suraphon Svetasreni

His appointment to Governor  earlier this year was a natural progression having conquered many  charters in his illustrious career, in undertaking all of these roles. Mr. Svetasreni has always endeavored to meet the needs and expectations of the Thailand tourism industry with dedication, Professionalism, and finesse.

Over 20 years of experience in marketing communications, advertising, and public relations, both in Thailand and overseas, have proved a tremendous asset in Mr. Svetasreni’s role in spearheading Thailand’s tourism achievements.

Image by vtveen via Flickr Thailand is now recovering from a turbulent year and Mr Svetasreni has good reasons to be optimist. Once again, Thailand is bouncing back from a gloomy time, and quicker than expected. Mr. Svetasreni indicated international arrivals to Thailand had a positive growth from January to July totaling 8.7 million travelers. All markets are recovering strongly except but a few.

Aussie Expats trying Thailand excel at Expo Bangkok

For more than a decade Bumrungrad International Hospital has been home for the “Living in Bangkok Expo for Expats”. In the early weeks of Sept the Hospital reception (it’s so big) and their pavilion is the champion of hospitality.

Reporter: Arwee

Our winner: Aust-NZ Womens Group with their Publication "Bangkok Guide"

Pic: Expat volunteer Julienne displays the "Bangkok Guide" to visitor Phill Smith.

"It's awesome, we bought it" (a follow up report in production)

Living in Bangkok is a one stop service for expatriates to learn about the community's local products and services. With annual attendance exceeding 3,000 it’s a major attraction for new settlers to see everything on display.

Discover resources and activities that can help you reinvent yourself, at Bangkok's famous annual event for expatriates.

There are activities and discussions promoting key areas in the life of a new resident.

These include target sectors such as discovering the many aspects of Thai culture and adventure, basic "survival" needs like banking, schools, etc., contributing to the community, and developing social networks.

The Directory of Services and resources is extensive and gaining so hand contact with so many competent and experienced expat service providers makes it a must do event.

Even frequent visitors to Thailand will gain from this excursion, discounted memberships and promotional incentives are offered during expo so everyone can win.

To see the Video News report and Photo Gallery click here to visit our Forum

We bought the latest edition of Bangkok Guide, published by "Aus-NZ" women's group. The book is some 400+ pages filled with high quality content, invaluable for expat and travellers. The publication includes 2 smaller books (a phone director and Map).  See our forum article for a Photo of the book and link to more about Bangkok Guide.



Links
Aussie Community Thailand try auswathai

Bangkok's Burning Question - howz our Risk Management and Insurance

AustCham Thailand event

Landmark Hotel, Bangkok

July 6th 2010

Guest Speakers:

KHUN SORACHON BOONSONG, Principal of Baker & McKenzie

and

ROBIN ARMSTRONG - Chief Executive Officer, Marsh PB Co., Ltd.

AusWaThai reporter Janis

Recent events in Thailand have demonstrated the  significance of robust risk management and insurance programs in helping your business get back on its feet quickly. They have also highlighted the importance of considering the events that your insurance will cover. It is then paramount to understand the implications regarding insurance contracts and how they operate in such events.

The Guests speakers delivered an overview of insurance contracts and how you can best protect your business for the future. Khun Sorachon Boonsong covered the significant legal issues, whilst Robin Armstrong cover gave intricate insight into the relevant business issues. 

Khun Sorachon is a Principal at Baker & McKenzie Bangkok.

Khun Sorachon has become well-recognised for providing advice and legal assistance to a variety of clients, wide ranging from domestic clients to large multinational corporations. His vast array of expertise has served clients in a broad range of commercial transactions, including mergers & acquisitions, with numerous high profile and landmark insurance company; in his portfolio; power/renewable energy projects; real estate, hotel/resort and property development; environmental law; as well as his foremost specialty, being insurance law and insurance regulatory matters. Khun Sorachon kindly provides a PDF version of his slide presentation at this page.  The PDF provides the fundamentals from prospective of law where Khun Robin sliced and diced the Insurance policy.

Photo right  .. 
May 19 Bangkok

The photo is from a collection from
our forum article about

"Together We care".

The article incldues a video showing the genuine character of Community.. the article is detailed here 

THAI HOSPITALITY SECTOR REMAINS POSITIVE IN THE FACE OF CHALLENGES

Among the many businesses and individuals affected by the recent protests in Thailand, the hospitality sector, especially in Bangkok, was one of the hardest hit. A number of major hotels close to the turmoil were even forced to close for a period while others remained open albeit with extremely low occupancies. Travel warnings issued by some countries led tourists to cancel their trips while some companies doing business in Thailand instructed their staff to avoid visiting the Kingdom as their insurance did not cover travel during periods of civil unrest.

Report courtesy of AustCham Thailand

The Tourism Council of Thailand cut its forecast for foreign tourist arrivals in 2010 from 16 million to between 12.7 million and 14 million and the Rajprasong Square Trade Association estimated losses to 2088 businesses in the area of Bt 11.275 billion affecting some 30,661workers.

Thailand and her people have always been regarded as peaceful and welcoming so to most potential tourists and previous visitors, the recent events came as a surprise and has certainly affected Thailand’s image among this core market.

Overcoming this wave of negative publicity presents a formidable challenge to the hospitality industry in the short term, however most key players contacted for this article expressed optimism that, in the medium to long term, the sector will bounce back from this latest setback as it has done before.

 Gathering together comments from major hotel operators in Thailand, particularly Bangkok which was most affected, the predictions and actions undertaken generally concur. In the face of these challenges it is encouraging to note that for the most part hoteliers present a united front together with the strategic efforts of the Government, Tourism Authority of Thailand, Thai Convention and Exhibition Bureau, Thai Hotels Association and various other bodies such as PATA.

Let’s try to keep this positive. We know that tourism in Thailand is resilient and will definitely bounce back but let’s look at what actions need to be taken to lessen the damage. First off, the good news is that a number of major city hotels say that their “on the books” business for the traditional peak winter period, is still looking very healthy, for some even better than for the same period last year. They say there have been no major cancellations so far for later in the year. Clearly visitors expect the situation to calm down and still want to come to Thailand, so they are not being hasty in their actions. Excellent news indeed!

A necessary short term action taken by hotels is to offer Destination Management Companies discounted rates for a limited period, primarily in order to encourage people to return. However, it is to be stressed that this is a merely a short term action plan. As Thailand has traditionally been an inexpensive destination, hopefully these initiatives are a stop gap measure until the expected bounce back occurs. In the meantime hoteliers have to be creative to make sure their staff does not suffer too much during this lull, or worse still lose valuable trained employees due to retrenchments.

A couple of hotels cleverly went ahead with their planned Wedding Fairs, and one hotel in particular did extremely well, taking more bookings and deposits on the spot than they had done in previous buoyant years. Others are conducting strong food and beverage promotions with attractively priced menus.

On the other hand, there have been a couple of hasty moves, including one prominent hotel deciding to dramatically slash its rates. It is questionable what this will achieve except putting pressure on other hotels to follow suite for limited short term gains. Most will resist this knee jerk reaction as they know that although it may bring in a few locals to stay for a night or two there will be no substantial benefit. Actions like these have the potential to create animosity between hotels at the very moment they need to pull together and focus on combined efforts to revitalize the sector with the help of the TAT and other associations.

More positive efforts are being initiated to bring Travel Agents and International/Regional Media, into the country and to re-ignite the efforts of TCEB to encourage Conference and Incentive business.

Taking a long term view it is encouraging to note that many international hotel groups still intend to proceed with their plans to open new hotels in Bangkok and are will complete those that are presently under construction.

Wayne Buckingham, Regional Vice President Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia and Singapore for Starwood Hotels and Resorts is of the opinion that stability and security is the greatest challenge of all as this is what is required get tourism and business to return to the country.

 “The result of the difficulties we are facing is creating downward pressure for pricing in the hospitality sector, especially in wholesale markets,” he says. “As business demand declines there is a tendency towards price cutting to generate cash flow and this will put downward pressure on yields, which will take some time to return to pre crisis levels.” In addition he believes that over the next two years there will be a surplus supply of rooms due to new hotels being opened in Bangkok which will exacerbate the problem.

The growth of Starwood is still strong, with 16 hotels currently under development across the region, Wayne is still positive about the future. Admittedly he acknowledges that future development will unfortunately slow down somewhat in Thailand after recent events. However they are still keen to look for opportunities within Thailand such as Phuket and Samui or strengthen their brand in places like Vietnam and developing resort areas.

In the short-term he says they are looking at India, the Middle East and China to replace business lost from traditional markets and putting greater emphasis on driving domestic business from Thais and expatriates living in Thailand.

 

Duncan Webb, Executive Vice President, Chief Marketing Officer, ONYX Hospitality Group echoes many of these sentiments. He says that Thailand as a destination has weathered many storms in the past, both domestic and international and is confident it will do so again. “Thailand's hospitality industry must now evaluate the damage caused to the reputation of the country and specifically Bangkok as a result of the recent civil unrest,” he said. “In the eyes of the international media, it seemed the entire country was impacted but the situation is more complex. The resort destinations in the south continued to welcome clients who bypassed Bangkok, flying directly to their chosen beach. Whilst many nations issued the highest level of travel advisory against Thailand, some markets such as India and Russia continued to generate business even during the most critical period of the troubles.”

He anticipates the recovery will vary by segment and market. “A critical challenge for all of us in the hospitality industry is how to re-activate the MICE segment as international corporations planning an overseas meeting later this year may be hesitant to consider Bangkok as an option. As an industry we need to work together with the relevant industry bodies to project positive messages about Bangkok,” he said.

 ONYX has activated a series of initiatives aiming at creating positive messages about the destination and the Amari brand in key source markets. In the last week, we have already welcomed media groups from UK and Germany and the sales team is seeking out short term business opportunities in order to maintain occupancy.

Tosten Pinter, GM of Swisshotel Nailert Park estimates that recovery will take a bit longer than from the last political unrest, probably 6-9 months this time if there are no further incidents. In the meantime he is focusing on promotions for Asia Pacific and local guests to replace those from traditional markets.

“With seven restaurants in the hotel we are making F&B a focus of our activity rather than cutting rates,” he says. In his opinion reducing prices will not automatically increase occupancy rates and may even have a negative impact on regular guests as the customer segmentation changes with lower rates.

Francis Zimmerman, General Manager of Marriot Resort and Spa also expressed the belief that Thailand will bounce back although it may take a bit longer this time. “It is very important right now to make direct communications to guests, partners and other parties that Thailand remains very safe, stable and a great destination to visit,” he said. In his opinion, offering big discounts across the board is very counter productive as Thailand is already rated as one of the top tourist destinations globally for value for money.

Ken Scott, Managing Director, ScottAsia Communications and PR Chairman of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Thailand Chapter says that although the fiscal cost of the damage is high it is the reputation of Thailand as a destination that has taken a knock. “Leisure tourists' decision making is very sensitive and they cancel or switch their destinations quickly. The Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Singaporean and Hong Kong markets tend to react fastest and pay more attention to their government's travel advisories,” he noted.

“On a more positive note, during the unrest, places such as Phuket and Samui and Krabi were operating as normal. The challenge is to get that message across to travel agents and consumers overseas,” he added.

Samir Wildemann, General Manager, Radisson Hotel Bangkok, Sathorn also feels that the sector will bounce back as it has in the past but he feels that the recent situation calls for a unique joint action between the Government and the private sector. “There should be a short term immediate recovery plan as well as a long term sustainable development plan that will aid hotel properties foresee a positive future for our business,” he said.

Radisson Hotels are focusing their efforts on key markets who can quickly decide re a trip to Thailand as well as those planning for the high season later this year. “Fortunately, we didn't have to close our (Sathorn) hotel at the time of the protests, instead, our team used that time for additional training, strategic planning and collaborative actions re-adjusting our sales, marketing and public relation activities while we continued to develop and polish our hotel operations, amenities and facilities.” he said.

All in all the vast majority of comments reflect the same positive attitude and all agree that we have to be focused and work strategically in order to see short and long term goals fulfilled. There is no doubt, that unless we have another dramatic incident, we should soon see this bustling metropolis active again with both tourists and corporate visitors from all over the world. As a result, not only will the hospitality and tourism industry recover, but businesses reliant on the continuing support of both regional and international guests will see the return of their valued customers.

Ms Anne Lewinski is Managing Director for AL Consultancy Hotel Solutions Ltd. www.alconsultancy.com

Contact: anne@alconsultancy.com.

Anne has worked in the Travel, International Airline and Hospitality industries for over 37 years during which time she has specialized in Sales and Marketing. Her responsibilities have included both property/product specific and also regional roles, in the Asia/Pacific region. Her last role in Thailand was with The Sukhothai Bangkok where she spent 4.5 years as Director of Marketing and Sales.

She formed her company late 2008 and now provides small and large hotels and hotel management companies with support services - specializing in sales and marketing strategies, planning, training, audits, advertising, website and creative assistance. She served on the Board of Directors for AustCham Thailand in 2008 and 2009.

Business Overview Thailand

by Peter Melzer

ECONOMY. Thailand has a pro-business market economy driven by strong foreign investments and export oriented manufacturing especially in electronics, foods and automobiles. Thailand’s exports account for 60% of the country’s GDP. Thailand experienced strong economic growth prior to the Asian economic crisis of 1997 with GDP growth averaging 9.4% annually. However, the crisis adversely affected businesses in Thailand and saw the value of the Thai Baht decline by more than 50% against the US dollar. Since the crisis, the economy has grown on a growth path.

DEMOGRAPHY. Ethnic Thais account for 75% of Thailand’s 65 million population and another 11% are Chinese or Sino-Thais who have assimilated into the Thai culture or are from mixed marriages. Minorities include Malays who lived mainly in southern Thailand and account for 4% of the population.

 Others include the Mon, Lao, Khmers, Puan and Karen minorities and immigrants from India. Nearly 95% of the country’s population are Buddhists while Malays in Thailand are predominantly Muslims. Thai is the national language while languages used by the minorities include Malay, Isan and Khmer. Schools teach English but proficiency is low and generally, the educated elite are more proficient with the language.

Nearly 60% of Thailand’s workforce is involved in the agriculture industry but contributed to only 9.8% of the country’s GDP in 2004. The services industry contributed towards 46.1% of Thailand’s GDP and manufacturing 44.1% during the period. Major industries include tourism, electronics, textiles and garments, processed foods, beverages, agriculture produce, jewellery, furniture, plastics, vehicles and vehicle parts and mining of tungsten and tin. Major agriculture products include rice, tapioca, rubber, corn, sugarcane, coconuts, soybean and milk.

Thailand’s GDP was US$163.5 billion with a GDP per capita of US$2,537 in 2004. Thailand’s GDP grew by an average of 4.6% annually from 2000 to 2004 driven mainly by exports of high technology products mainly electronics. Inflation remained below 2.0% from 2000 to 2003 but increased to 2.8% by 2004. However, unemployment showed a declining trend from 3.6% in 2000 to 1.8% by 2004.

The majority of the Thai population still live in the rural communities though the proportion of the urban population is increasing. Thailand’s urban population increased from 22% of the total population in 2000 to 31% by 2004. Thailand’s capital and major city Bangkok accounts for nearly 8% of the country’s total population. Other major cities include Nonthaburi, Pak Kret, Hat Yai, Nakhon Ratchasima, Chiang Mai and Udon Thani.

Thailand successfully reduced the poverty level from 27% in 1990 to 10% by 2004. The proportion of the population categorised belonging in the low-income household is estimated at 60% while middle and high-income households account for 30%. The average household income in Bangkok is twice than the national average.

INTERNATIONAL TRADE. Thailand’s major trading partners include Japan, US, China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia and Taiwan. Main exports from Thailand include electronics, vehicle and vehicle parts, textiles, garments, footwear, seafood, processed foods, rice, rubber, jewellery, electrical appliances including computers. Main imports include machineries and equipments, raw materials and finished products, consumer goods and fuels.

  

INFRASTRUCTURE. Telecommunication services to the general public are overall adequate. Internet broadband services are mostly concentrated in Bangkok. Cities and towns are well connected by roads but lacks super highways connecting Thailand’s cities and major towns. Cities the major towns are served by airports and well connected by buses and rail system.

CONSUMER USAGE OF TECHNOLOGY. There were nearly 17.3 million installed fixed-line telephones in 2004 giving a penetration of 40% of all Thai homes installed with telephones.

The penetration of mobile phones increased from just 7% of the population in 2001 to 42% or 27 million mobile phones by 2004. The penetration of computers is still low but increased from 5.1% of the households in 2001 to nearly 12% by 2004. The number of internet users reached an estimated 8 million in 2004 but most of the internet users are concentrated in Bangkok and the major cities and towns. The penetration of television in homes in 93% indicating many low-income homes have televisions.

 

RETAIL MARKET. The retail industry in Thailand totalled an estimated US$24.5 billion in 2004. There are nearly 300,000 traditional “mom and pop” stores in Thailand accounting for 65% of the total retail sales. However, there are 4,500 modern retail establishments (hypermarkets, supermarkets, department stores and convenience stores) accounting for 35% of the total retail sales. Most of the modern retail establishments are located in Bangkok. Shopping in modern retail establishments is increasingly popular and more establishments expected in the near future.

FOOD CULTURE. Rice is the staple food but while those in central and southern Thailand prefer white fragrant rice those in northern Thailand prefer the glutinous variety. Thai dishes are generally hot and spicy but foods from the northern region are generally milder.

Thais are less adapting to western foods even if they could afford it compared to consumers in Singapore and Malaysia. However, bakery and coffer shop chains are gaining popularity among young professionals who have adapted to western culture.

Recommended Links

Best Bilateral Networks: Thailand and Australia

AustCham Members populate Thailand

We have embarked on a Major Service to promote Australian Business Community in Thailand to Business Community World Wide.

The project would not be possible if not for the enormous enthusiasm by the creators of Longdo Map Thailand

Soon you will see all AustCham Members populated across the face of Thailand's most popular mapping Service "Longdo Maps"


The benefits are significant for Bilateral Business, Community and Travel. At a glance you can see all the members, search by Members, members names or their Product or Business category, view their location details or link directly to their website.

We are very Grateful to the enthusiam and flexible work ehthic of our Joint venture friends at Longdo Maps.We have placed a lot of pressure on the Management and the developemt Team at Longdo and they have stepped up to every request and shown they have the synergy of a winning Team.

The Project started in September 2009 with the initial expression fo interest and visions concepts.

The overwhelming interest shown by the JV team made it an easy challenge.  Within a few meetings the infrastructure was in draft and tests were under way.

The next obstacle was Communication challenges between our vision and their technology which is most friendly in Thai. Losts of phone calls and supporting emails have moved us to the next stage.

The current obstacle is the training the staff. In December 2009 AusWaThai decided to fund the cost of bringing our Thai employee to Perth WA for training on the process and assist in the development of a manual that can be used for new staff as they are introduced to the system.

Unfortunately the Australian Immigration office in Bangkok has blocked the visa siting they are not satsified there is a need for the employee to visit in regard to this project. Ironcially we are trying to Promote Australian Business in Thailand and our Australian Immigration office has stalled the process. The Thailand employee is also requried to help promote other Australian icons but is fell on deaf ears.. we will continue the struggle

Our Projects to Promote Australia in Thailand are displayed on this Page
We see great opportunity to introduce this model to SME business that do no have a website, Longdo have modified the system to allow the Registered business to pay a nominal cost to Lock their page and claim Name rights. The concept has been designed to include other Australian Business ie.., Non AustCham Members so that we can get all of Australia in Thailand on display to the World.

If you are not an AustCham Member... you should be, there Network Culture is second to none and the staff are enthusiastic and well guided by the Executive Brett Gannaway (from WA)

If your an Aussie Venue in Thailand (and not in the AustCham Directory) please let us know so we can register you in Longdo Map

Recent Media articlesLongdo Maps JV with AusWaThai

AustCham - Brett Gannaway

The Ultimate Golf Facilitator in Thailand

It's easy to rely on the Neon sign


Quality Care and Convenience
if only it was true, if they only understood it means all day every day.

Well, good news our search for the "Holy Grail" has discovered yet another Amazing Thailand Experience "Golf in a Kingdom"


They are the Premier golf facilitator and backed their sister company GolfAsian connecting golfers to the most popular Asian golfing regions - Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam.

So what’s “oil” on GolfAsian

In business for over 12 years

American owned & managed, 25 full time staff

Customer base of 17,361 satisfied golfers
Publish Thailand golf book and Asia golf directory
Operations in all Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia golf destinations
Endorsement and licenses from Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Association of Thai
Travel Agents (ATTA), International
Association of Golf Tour Organizations (IAGTO)
First hand experience and knowledge golfing at all Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia premier golf resorts

Tailor‐made and group golf packages in Thailand, Vietnam, & Cambodia

Experienced golf and travel advice and expert golf travel tips Invaluable Services

Why Golf in Thailand? The People, Culture, & Customs

The Places: Beaches, Mountains, Cities, Countryside Quite Towns & Bustling Centers Something For Everyone!!!

The courses: 260 Golf Courses
Bangkok ‐ Over 30 excellent courses, bustling city with superb dining and entertainment, hub for Southeast Asia
Phuket –Island beach resort, 8 top courses including world famous Blue Canyon, direct overseas flights
Pattaya ‐ Beach & golf destination with vibrant nightlife, over 20 fine courses
Hua Hin – Beach resort town well suited for families and couples, 2 hours from Bangkok, 8 golf courses
Chiang Mai / Chiang Rai – 7 top courses all with unique scenery, famous for hill tribes and the Golden Triangle
Koh Samui –Tropical island, one of the most challenging and spectacular courses, also good for couples
River Kwai –Rich in nature and history, Bridge Over The River Kwai, 10 golf courses –all remote
Khao Yai –Largest national park with waterfalls, vineyards, and pleasant surroundings, 9 golf courses

Don’t forget: the Caddies – the are polite, patient.. they don’t carry a compass but they will find your ball.

and the Tourism: Shopping, Golf Shopping, Spa, Massage, Food, Nightlife Non



History of Golf in Thailand

Image via Wikipedia

1906: played at the Royal Bangkok Sports Club
1924: His Majesty King of Thailand Vajiravudh granted permission for the construction of the Royal Hua Hin Golf Course
1964-1975: Thailand Golf Association formed;1st Thailand Open (1964), World Golf Championship
(1975), Siam CC opens
1985-1995: Over 200 courses open for play
2009: Banyan GC, Thailand’s 260th course opens

And how about the History of Mark Segel
My background is Engineering, I visited Thailand for a golf trip some 5 years ago, and like so many wanted to be part of it.
Picture Phill Smith AusWaThai and Mark Segal CEO AsianGolf.


The opportunity to buy GolfAsian came up, at that time the company's focus was Golf Publications with a handful of staff and a humble client base, around 100 golfers per year.

"We saw the gaps in the market and decided to deliver a facility that meets the needs of the golfer". "I’m a golfer, so I regularly play the courses in Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam to experience all aspects of our tours and test our infrastructure to ensure it suits the end user". Now 7 years later we have 25 full time staff and recognised as Thailand’s premiere golfing facilitator.

How does “Golf in a Kingdom” add value for the golfer

With our volume and buying power we can get you on the Premier and private member golf clubs , value‐for‐money and boutique resorts. We have reliable transportation backup up with 24/7 service by knowledgeable staff. Our experienced travel consultants are focused on delivering Golf arrangements, Itinerary and activity suggestions – we guarantee the service satisfaction. We co ordinate more than 4,000 flights per year, the flights range from a single golfer for a single game to large groups, tours, tournaments and all aspects complimenting the experience.

People are welcome to DIY and save but when it goes wrong and it can and does in a foreign country it means disaster to your holiday.

We really exist for the upper market customer that is committed to enjoying themself, when you consider how much they already saved (compared to home) on accommodation, food and great shopping bargains there is not much to haggle over a green fee, but boy try to overcome the costs of “damage control” and you’ll wish to thought about quality rather than price.

Image via Wikipedia

We regularly have tried and tested tours within Thailand and cross Boarders Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia, they are quite spectacular and offer unique memories.

We recognise the significant benefits available at “Golf in a Kingdom”. They are now prominently featured in our “Business Exec Tours - Golf” Bangkok website. This site is a display of Value added features of Thailand,. the toll fee to access the Network is - up to you.

==============================================================

Dr. Golf has a resolution “play without Pain”

Dr. Golf aka Dr Nanthadej is an experienced orthopaedic specialist and himself an excellent golfer. He coordinates Bumrungrad's Doctor Golf services.

Bumrungrad International is Asia’s Leading Hospital with in excess of 430,000 international patients ..

Just ask anyone who has been to Bumrungrad Hospital, I don’t mean for treatment, I mean simply just visited, they will tell you it’s “out of this world”.


It’s out of this world because it’s more like a 5 star hotel and 1/3rd of the price and twice the level comfort and can Convenience. Their Logo does get it right “World Class Care”.

Most visitors (patients) become addicted (to the care) and find themselves going back for more (rather than suffer in silence).

I admit, I’m addicted so I keep going back. As I had nothing wrong with I find the resolution Dr. Golf.

Now I’ve had my “hit” I’m smiling and keen to share the wellness. I recently visited Bumrungrad International seeking an audience with Dr. Golf aka Dr. Dr Nanthadej

In fine Thai style I was greeted by Khun Palmy, Public Relations Coordinator. By chance we also meet with Khun Siti Survo, Expat Marketing Executive for brief chat about the recent Expat expo at the Hospital. Details of that event are covered in another media article at this link.

Khun Palmy kindly provided a brief tour of the hospital (5 star hotel). The more we toured the more I was questioning the theme of a Hospital. There is a soft harmony about the place, it has that “vibe” thing we talk about when we become attracted to the place and feel at ease.

They, the genius behind the scenes have created a culture that is very special, the U.S. Management team have infused their intel with the smiles of Thai to create a truly remarkable environment.

Picture left

International Patient consultation and language translation

Our tour lasted for about 30 mins ( I could have just sat down somewhere and enjoyed the passing smiles for the afternoon) we made our way to orthopaedic section, it’s Dr. Golf’s other home.

I should add that I (like most people) don’t like hospitals as a rule, but Bumrungrad is a worthy exception.

Picture left:

one of many reception areas in the Hospital

Dr. Nanthadej (Dr. Golf) was quick to receive me in the waiting room, drats I was just starting to enjoy the surrounds. Khun Palmy escorted me to the Dr. Examination room where I was welcomed by the man and rebuilds broken golfers.

Dr. Nanthadej is well versed at his trade, that was clear, but more he as a passion about his art of wellness and a keen golfer as well so he has prospective.

Image via Wikipedia

We shared our common knowledge aspects of golf which lead us to and more intricate elements of golf motor mechanics and what causes those nagging injuries and worse how simple they are to treat but can’t because we don’t have his knowledge “everything is easy once you know how”

I learnt so much in such a short conversation. I could see Dr. Nanthadej was enjoying my attention but the increasing frequency of visitors meant I was running out of time. Khun Palmy showed remarkable patience, I dare say it’s not much fun watching 2 guys gorge themselves on golf swing and muscle ache revelations, nonetheless she was not letting the team down.

Did I mention Dr. N is a keen golfer (keep that in mind if you find yourself in a round of golf, his knowledge of your ailments might be the source of mind games).

We synchronised watches and rationialised we have limited time for an inspection of the golf clinic so I should come back another day. I agreed but noted I’m out of days so t must be next month and then it was decided no it shall be now!

Dr. Golf co ordinated instructions to Khun Palmy and I was led to the elevator while Dr. G delivered instructions to about 10 support staff that were queued and waiting. A few moments later we were across the driveway an entering an auxlliary building. The building is infact the residence facilities for patients (5 start private hotel) , what a great place to house a golf clinic.

The customary Wai received by fine tailored wait staff to the private apartments and through a side door on the ground floor and you enter something that looks like a fitness club.

The unique golfing clinic is well established and very very well appointed. It’s probably just as well the golf clinic is not in the hospital because when you go there it’s hard to get past all the care and smiles. The worst part must be the outpatient section because they know they are suppose to leave, I dare say many contemplate a slip and fall, not to sue but for the addiction of smiles and care.

Picture below: Dr.Nanthadej with Phill Smith from AusWaThai in the Golf Clinic

Now back at the Golf Clinic, as I wondered I was mystified by the various mechanic contraptions. They were neither nor old and dated, more like something from NASA.

The Doctor kindly explained their application and invited me to test (I did ok on the reflex and balance thingo), I really have forgotten the tech terms.

I concluded the array of fancy devices and contraptions would be common place in the worlds leading sporting corporations to ensure the million dollar athletes are fully functional.

The 6 most common golf injuries: causes, symptoms, solutions

Only about 40 percent of amateur golfers are injured while playing the sport. Research on golf-related injuries shows most of these injuries involve the back, elbows, shoulders, wrists/hands, knees or hips.

All golfers, regardless of the level at which they play, should know what causes the most common injuries, what their symptoms are, and when they should seek the help of a physician.
PREVALENCE OF INJURY FOR RECREATIONAL GOLFERS
Lower back 36%
Elbows 32%
Hands and wrists 21%
Shoulders, knees, and other injuries 11%
*Harvard Medical School Study (2004)

Name:
Dr. Nanthadej Hiranyasthiti
Specialty:
Orthopaedics (Bone) - Orthopaedic Surgery, Spine Surgery
Language:
Spoken: English,Thai
Qualifications:
Medical School: - M.D., Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Thailand, 1989Board Certifications:- Diploma of The Thai Board of Orthopaedic Surgery, 1995Fellowships:- Spine Surgery, Chicago, USA, 2001-2003Member of North American Spine SocietyMember of American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons

It goes without saying we recommend you visit the land of smiles, book yourself in for a service at with Dr Golf, The Golf mechanic and extend your driving life

Please enjoy the facilities presented in our Business Executive Tour services Bangkok Thailand

We offer the solution so make a resolution

at http://www.tours.thaibis.com/

on this webpage we offer a special promotion of Dr. Golf as well as many Golf features and tours in Bangkok.

We also offer special features and benefits about Bumrungrad Hospital

=================================================================

HAVE A QUESTION - VISIT THE SAME ARTICLE IN THE FORUM AND POST A QUESTION OR FEEDBACK - CLICK HERE (allow brief delay the forum is always busy).

==================================================================