Samui Villas & Homes News

Samui Villas & Homes News Copyright (c) 2008 Samui Villas & Homes. All rights reserved. http://www.samuivillasandhomes.com Samui Villas & Homes News and Press Release en-us Thu, 2 Jul 2009 06:07:42 EDT AT sticks to its guns on tourism forecasts Wed, 1 Jul 2009 04:38:47 EDT http://www.samuivillasandhomes.com/news/news_419.html AT sticks to its guns on tourism forecasts TAT believes it can hit the 2010 target despite all external factors. Tourism Authority of Thailand told the private sector, yesterday, it is keeping faith with its 2010 target of 14 million arrivals and 90 million domestic trips generating a revenue of Bt960 billion. It made the announcement at its marketing plan presentation to the travel industry, yesterday afternoon at the Queen Sirikit Convention Centre. The agency projects an increase of 5.6% in 2010 over this year’s arrivals which it claims will reach 13.2 million. Most private sector executives were cynical claiming the estimates were based on inaccurate research and failed to recognise that tourist arrivals this year could fall to 11 or 12 million visitors. They blame the inaccuracies in forecasting on political agendas, the need to justify bigger budgets and a reckless attitude that places marketing before the desperate need to renovate, redevelop and reposition a tired travel product. International tourists are expected to generated revenue at Bt53 billion, next year, representing a 6.4% increase in revenue over its Bt49 billion estimate for 2009. Domestic trips will increase 3.38% with a circulating revenue of Bt430,000 million and representing a 5.5% increase. TAT acting governor and deputy governor for administration, Pensuda Priaram, and TAT deputy governor for policy and planning, Suraphon Svetasreni, outlined a 2010 marketing plan saying the agency would continue to use the “Amazing Thailand Amazing Value” to reinforce the country’s position as a cost-effective destination. It promised travel executives it would continue to expand market coverage, in spite of decreasing arrivals this year. Two new offices will be opened this year in Kunming, China, and Mumbai, India. In 2010, it will open an office in Jakarta, Indonesia. TAT covers 45 to 50 markets through its overseas offices and representatives. According to Ms Pensuda, authority will focus on two potential markets next year – South Asia and the Middle East – that have proved more resilient. The objective is to draw 823,000 tourists from South Asia, representing a 13% increase and revenue of Bt25 billion, or 15.4% growth. It is also forecasting 450,000 tourists from the Middle East countries with a spending of Bt19 billion. Asia market should grow 3.8% with 6.9 million visitors and bring in a revenue of Bt162 billion. Europe should generate 4.7 million visits and a revenue of Bt237 billion. Tourists from the Americas and Oceania should grow by 4.9 and 4.2% respectively, with revenue of Bt46 billion and Bt37 billion. However, some markets such as East Asia particularly Japan, South Korea, China and Hong Kong are expected to drop by 14.9% to 6.7 million visitors. Revenue from this market will fall by 21.7% to Bt156 billion. Africa will also to plunge by 17% to 90,000 tourists. PG and AF codeshare Wed, 1 Jul 2009 04:37:12 EDT http://www.samuivillasandhomes.com/news/news_418.html PG and AF codeshare Bangkok Airways and Air France codeshare. Bangkok Airways and Air France signed a code-share agreement on six routes in Thailand, Cambodia and Laos ensuring seamless connections with AF’s long-haul flights from Paris. The destinations are Phuket, Chiang Mai, Samui, Trat, Phnom Penh and Luang Prabang and will be available from 1 July. Bangkok Airways has been a partner of Air France and KLM’s frequent flyer programme, Flying Blue, since June 2005. And, Air France’s passenger and ramp operations are handled by Bangkok Flight Services, a subsidiary of Bangkok Airways. KLM launches new fares Tue, 23 Jun 2009 04:17:11 EDT http://www.samuivillasandhomes.com/news/news_415.html KLM launches new fares KLM offers bargain fares for two people who travel together. KLM rolls out more promotional fares; this time for travel to Europe two people travelling together. Applicable to all European destinations, the fare, exclusive of taxes and surcharges, is Bt18,500, V-class and Bt20,000, T-class. Minimum stay is four day and maximum of three months. Outbound sector is allowed on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday from 16 July to 23 October. Sales period has started and will end 15 October. Call 02 635 2244. Hotel Update Tue, 16 Jun 2009 03:44:29 EDT http://www.samuivillasandhomes.com/news/news_414.html Hotel Update Management deals on new Thai properties. • Radisson Hotel Bangkok Sathorn is set to open mid October. Located in downtown Bangkok, it will have 436 guest rooms in contemporary Thai style and three new restaurants – 100°East, The Crust and Zin. • Accor takes on the management of two beachfront Mercure resorts on Samui namely Mercure Samui Buri and Mercure Samui Fenix. Mercure Samui Buri Resort marks Accor’s first mid-scale hotel situated at northern Maenam Beach. The resort comprises of 56 deluxe rooms and 29 private villas. Mercure Samui Fenix which has 52 contemporary rooms and eight villas is situated on the east coast at Lamai Beach. • Outrigger Enterprises Group will manage a new collection of residences, villas, town homes and apartments being developed by Laguna Resorts and Hotels at Laguna Phuket. The project is located on Bang Tao Bay on the northwestern coast of Phuket. The new collection will be named "Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort and Villas". When completed it will consist of 309 two, three and four-bedroom units, many with their own private swimming pools. The first units will be ready for occupancy in the fourth quarter of this year. Vacation ownership set to grow Tue, 16 Jun 2009 03:41:49 EDT http://www.samuivillasandhomes.com/news/news_411.html Vacation ownership set to grow Thailand is potential for vacation ownership to grow. Thailand is high on Absolute Group’s agenda for vacation home ownership. It is selling the concept to wealthy Thais through its subsidiary, Absolute Vacation Club, and reckons Thai customers could be in the top rank in three years. The group, announced, last week, it has invested in six properties due to open by 2011. In addition it will seek joint ventures with hotel partners to draw additional real estate into its vacation ownership programme. This year, Thai Absolute Vacation Club offers 22 resorts, but it has joint ventures with 2,000 resorts, worldwide. It will open Absolute Bangla Suites and Absolute Nakalay Beach Resort both in Phuket, this year. Then in 2010, Absolute Sansabai Resort and Spa in Phuket, Yoo Samui and Platinum Jomtien will open followed in 2011, with Yoophuket. Its initial investment is in Pattaya, Samui and Phuket, but the group will also expand to Chiang Mai, Kanchanaburi, Hua Hin, Khao Yai and Saraburi. Bangkok hotels are no strangers to time-share. They were a popular target in the late 1990s for vacation club operators, who convinced owners to put whole floors of their underperforming real estate under the club’s management during a slump in business to the capital. Absolute Group is the latest to join the trend with its Thai Absolute Vacation Club that opened in April. Since its debut it claims to have sold 250 memberships to Thais and expects to achieve 2,000 by the end of the year, representing Bt500 million worth. Thai customers pay into the club to own time at a variety of resorts worldwide. By 2011, it hopes to raise Thai membership to represent 22% of its membership, followed by Europeans (21%), Russian (19%), Australian (17%), Chinese (16%), American (4%) and Middle East (1%). Absolute group chairman, Bryan Lunt, believes Thais are ready to pay huge sums to be part of time-share: “Thais buy condominium or houses in resort destinations. Each time they go for holiday, they have to spend time and energy cleaning them. But buying into a ownership programme, means they always have a clean room, well maintained and they can change their holiday locations to other resorts in the network .” Mr Lunt ha, apparently, overlooked the fact that wealthy Thais have servants who clean and maintain their properties. Vacation ownership packages vary according to the room type, length of annual stay, length of contract starting from Bt250,000 Each year, customers have to pay an annual maintenance fee. Membership can always be sold or transferred. Target groups are age between 30 to 62 years old, from senior management up, with families. Suralai Private Resort On Koh Samui Thu, 11 Jun 2009 00:04:27 EDT http://www.samuivillasandhomes.com/news/news_409.html Suralai Private Resort On Koh Samui SURALAI, a stunning new private villa which takes it name from the ‘residence of the angels’ in Thai mythology, is now open for private rentals in the scenic northern hills of Bophut in Koh Samui. The private six-bedroom tropical paradise (www.suralai.com ) is designed to accommodate parties, families or groups of up to a dozen people, with only one rental at a time taking over the whole mini resort. Created by international architects MAP Design & Planning Limited and Grebstad Hicks Communications, a leading PR firm specialisiing in luxury hotels and resorts, it is styled along the lines of an ultra-exclusive boutique resort, and commands breathtaking panoramic vistas of Thailand’s popular island destination and a myriad of palm-fringed islands to the far horizons. The luxury residence features an expansive sun-terrace, 20-metre infinity swimming pool, private gym and lush landscaped gardens. The six spacious contemporary bedrooms are all with elegant en suite bathrooms. Suralai is an exclusive ‘Signature Collection’ member of Samui Villas and Homes (www.samuivillasandhomes.com) , which manages a portfolio of Koh Samui private residences which are available for holiday rental. Services for guests include a resident manager and housekeepers, with continental or full international-style breakfast including plenty of fruit, pastries, cereals and yoghurt served daily. The residence also comes with a private chef, skilled at both Thai and western cuisine, and an optional driver for exploring the idyllic island, browsing local markets or experiencing the eclectic nightlife and popular tourist spots. For guests who prefer to arrange their own catering, a shopping list is sent well ahead of their arrival for pre-ordering groceries and drinks. Wireless high speed internet is available throughout, and an Imac is set up for guests use. For home entertainment, the house is equipped with a state of the art Bose surround-sound system which can be piped to all the main public areas and offers remote control access to thousands of pre programmed songs and playlists. There are also separate surround sound systems and ipod docking stations in each of the rooms. Each room also features the latest flat-screen TVs – complete with satellite system featuring countless live sports, news and movie channels from across the globe. Yogaaccessories - Great Products - Low PricesSuralai was created with fabulous parties and events in mind, with its imposing living and dining area and expansive terrace overlooking the infinity pool and 180-degree backdrop of the Bay of Siam. Spectacular by day or night, it is a sublime venue for large gatherings – whether a significant birthday, anniversary celebration, wedding or even corporate social event. The upper level of the villa can seat up to 80 to 100 guests, with a central counter ideal for presenting lavish buffets, and the lower pool terrace can seat 60-80. Together, the residence can easily accommodate 200+ guests for cocktail style events with satellite bars and food stations. Suralai is owned by Samui Concepts, a joint venture company comprising Paul Hicks and Lynn Grebstad, founders and partners of Hong Kong-based public relations agency Grebstad Hicks Communications; and the villa architects, Hong Kong architectural firm MAP Architecture and Planning (www.maphk.com); and their Thai partners. For organising events at Suralai, Samui Villas & Homes offers a 5-star event planning service which includes everything from developing a concept for the event to full catering including equipment and staff, bar service, menus, entertainment and transportation. Details of the company’s new ‘Signature Weddings & Events’ service are at: www.thesignatureweddings.com Suralai is just 15 minutes from the main shopping and entertainment area of Koh Samui, Chaweng – with its stunning white sand beach and busy, mile-long strip of beachfront resorts, countless restaurants, bars, shopping arcades, open-air markets and eclectic nightlife. Koh Samui is also one of Thailand’s newest golf destinations with two championship courses, Santiburi Samui Country Club and Royal Samui Golf & Country Club, plus the fun 9 hole, par 3 Bophut Hills Country Club which is just minutes walk from the residence. Koh Samui is easily accessible via daily direct flights on Bangkok Airways from Hong Kong or Singapore, as well as frequent direct flights from Bangkok. Samui Regatta sailed on strong Mon, 8 Jun 2009 23:57:13 EDT http://www.samuivillasandhomes.com/news/news_408.html Samui Regatta sailed on strong The 2009 Koh Samui Regatta was another successful lifestyle event with 32 boats competing in 5 different racing classes from countries as diverse as Hong Kong, Malaysia and Australia. Entries and spectators from all across the region have arrived on the island to enjoy a week of top flight sailing, with extravagant parties planned at various locations after each race. As the final event on the AYGP calendar, the Samui Regatta is seen as one of the seasons highlights with close races and plenty of action. This year Neil Pryde and his Welbourne 52 Hi Fi arrived having already claimed the AYGP Skipper and Yacht of the Year awards, but another eight top racing class yachts remain keen to make their mark and claim the coveted Waterford Crystal trophy. Samui Villas and Homes along with Dhevatara Properties are proud to support this years Koh Samui Regatta as Island Partners. SVH has been involved with the event since its foundation in 2002 and continues to support a range of initiatives that promote the island on an international level. We would like to congratulate the organizing committee and thank the skippers and crews for their continued support of this ever growing event, said Marc Ribail, SVH Chief Operating Officer. The regatta definitely is the islands biggest sporting event and it also fits well with our corporate responsibility program as a green activity. Samui Villas and Homes are Koh Samuis largest and most reputed villa management and estate agent agency and along with Dhevatara Properties have won several awards for their achievements in the resort property sector in Thailand. About Samui Villas and Homes About Samui Villas and Homes Co., Ltd. has grown into Koh Samuis market leader in the luxury property services sector since our inception in 2001. We work in all aspects of the property market, from the brokerage of raw land, off -plan and completed residences, to project and rental management, our knowledge and understanding of the industry is comprehensive. About Dhevatara Properties Dhevatara Properties is synonymous with elegance and fine hospitality. Creating exclusive contemporary spaces inspired by stunning surroundings. Dhevatara has designed and build villas in prime beachfront locations on the island of Koh Samui, either for purchase or rental. For more information visit www.samuivillasandhomes.com and www.dhevatara.com The Launch of a new brand - Real Estate Website Mon, 8 Jun 2009 23:54:56 EDT http://www.samuivillasandhomes.com/news/news_406.html The Launch of a new brand - Real Estate Website Exclusive Properties - Luxury Real Estate Professionals Samui Villas & Homes is proud to announce the launch of Exclusive Properties as a new brand for our multi award winning Estate Agency division. Exclusive Properties has evolved naturally, in a similar manner to our other branded services, out of a need to target our clientele more effectively and to offer those clients specific and tailored services to suit their requirements. Exclusive Properties only features properties that offer the very best in value, location and finish quality at each price point. Our name has changed, but the same high level of service and client satisfaction remains. We would like to thank all of our current and past clientele for their continued support, and look forward to continuing to serve you in the future. – Your EP Team For further information, please contact : Mr.Japhy Goldman General Manager Samui Villas & Homes Co., Ltd. Mob: +66 (0) 8196 86501 Tel: +66(0) 77 430 326 Email: sales@epsamui.com, japhy@epsamui.com www.epsamui.com About Samui Villas and Homes Co., Ltd. has grown into Koh Samui's market leader in the luxury property services sector since our inception in 2001. We work in all aspects of the property market, from the brokerage of raw land, off -plan and completed residences, to project and rental management, our knowledge and understanding of the industry is comprehensive. Lift off for luxury villa rentals Mon, 8 Jun 2009 00:19:08 EDT http://www.samuivillasandhomes.com/news/news_404.html Lift off for luxury villa rentals Over the last 10 years in places like Koh Samui, Phuket and Bali, luxury properties have been replacing coconut trees faster than the tourists can rent them. The luxury holiday market has not only expanded, but also shifted to Asia from the Caribbean, while private regional investment has increased sharply as rental yields from second homes offer opportunities for owners to enjoy an income at the same time as their property appreciates. Although recent economic concerns have certainly cooled new investment in resort markets across Asia, on the rental side the downturn has prompted a concentrated effort to increase yields while investors wait for sales to recover. When compared to a 4 or 5 star resort, the construction of a luxury villa is both cost-effective and swift. Consequently, in Southeast Asia potential rental clients can now choose from an impressive stock of high quality beach and hillside properties that offer as much, if not more, than hotel accommodation in similar price ranges. With hundreds of standalone properties now available for long and short term holiday rental in Thailand alone, the range of designs, sizes and locations already rivals those offered by hotels and resorts. In fact, branded hotel chains such as Four Seasons and W have already launched their own private residences, in order to capture a share of what many industry voices say will continue to be a growing market. "Private villas offer greater value for money and privacy compared to a hotel," explained Terry Blackburn, long time property publisher and the founder of the Elite Collection, a fast-growing luxury villa agency. "They are perfect for families who don't want babysitting hassles every night, groups of friends looking to party in private or people just looking for a relaxing break. The only demographic they don't have a considerable advantage for is probably couples travelling alone. Villas in Asia are also the best quality in the world, which helps." The Elite Collection is significant because of its luxury focus and comprehensive regional coverage. The company's target market is primarily regional expatriate residents, which means it has to watch the changing economy closely in order to match expectations. "Expats on short term contracts who have just arrived in Asia are perhaps not on as generous a package as previously, so they are a lot more cost conscious – especially if they have families, " explained Blackburn. "A typical 5-bed villa can accommodate either two families staying together with 1 or 2 kids each or a single family with nannies etc. However, there's also groups of financial industry workers – even now – in Hong Kong and Singapore who take a villa for a lads’ weekend and people travelling from the US and Europe checking in for a week or two as their main annual holiday, so there's plenty of variation." According to those within the industry, the wider market for villa rentals is still growing fast. Over the last 3-5 years, several agencies have been transforming tourism in Thailand's top destinations, steering international visitors toward private rentals by adding ever more sophisticated options and services. Firms like Samui Villa and Homes have brought luxury villas to the fore with targeted marketing campaigns, comprehensive online descriptions and reviews, photo galleries and video tours. Easy online booking systems, promotional offers and bespoke services now make private villas just as accessible and appealing as hotel accommodation. "The key is to offer more privacy, more personalised services, more facilities, and to match the design aspirations of each guest thanks to the variety of styles offered." said Marc Ribail, Chief Operating Officer at SVH. "Sharing a villa is certainly cheaper than staying at 4-5 star hotels despite their best deals, especially when you consider the low daily cost of living. Guests can source their food and beverage at local market prices and additional services such as a private chef or driver can be enjoyed without adding considerable cost to the holiday." Thanks largely to Samui Villas and Homes, Koh Samui leads the field in Thailand when it comes to rental villas and the company has now also expanded to Phuket and Krabi with a full suite of added services. Beyond the land of smiles, it's Bali that has taken up the rental mantle with a huge choice of properties on offer in several price categories, generally situated in stunning tropical locations. The island's unique atmosphere and stunning scenery now consistently draws rental clients from around the globe. "On Bali, we like to say it's a cottage industry which has grown up," said Ian Macaulay, President Director of Elite Havens Group, Bali's best known rental firm. "There are probably about 500 villas on the island worthy of being rented. New ones are being added every day." Macaulay believes it is personalization that gives villa rentals a major advantage over hotels and the flexibility to define your own special needs. "If you want to have a breakfast buffet laid out for 10 people at three in the afternoon every day - a villa can do it easily," he added. "You can do all kinds of things in the swimming pool at any time and in any state you choose." Of course, as well as personal service, cost also comes in to play in today's climate, and for those considering renting a villa on Bali, even at the high-end, prices remain highly competitive. A five-bedroom villa on two acres of grounds with 700sqm of living space, 14 dedicated staff and a 20m private swimming pool costs around US$800-1200 per night in low season. That's US$165 per bedroom, or US$83 per person, per night. But choosing the right property to suit is not always easy and the most successful agencies also have to carefully guide their clients beyond price. "In our experience, first-hand knowledge is essential," said Blackburn. "A lot of Australian guests for example are very concerned about swimming pool safety for toddlers. So being able to provide accurate answers to their questions can make a big difference to their booking decisions." By providing such choices and freedoms, villa rental agencies across Asia are increasingly challenging the hotel and resort market, while at the same time helping redefine the Asian holiday experience. PG up Phuket frequency Thu, 4 Jun 2009 05:51:38 EDT http://www.samuivillasandhomes.com/news/news_402.html PG up Phuket frequency Bangkok Airways adds an extra flight on Phuket route. Bangkok Airways increases frequency on its Bangkok-Phuket route from three to four daily, starting 1 July. The additional service will depart Bangkok at 1355 and return from Phuket at 1610. The current three flights depart Bangkok at 0915, 1150 and 1730 and return from Phuket at 1005, 1400 and 1945. Happy all the way Tue, 2 Jun 2009 01:46:48 EDT http://www.samuivillasandhomes.com/news/news_399.html Happy all the way THAI offers happy fares to boost intra-Asia travel. Thai Airways International's latest online bargains should stimulate travel in Asia. The new promotion has a sales and outbound travel deadline of 31 July with ticket validity of 14 days. No mileage accrual. Exclusive of taxes and surcharges, Happy All the Way to Asia fares are: Bt33,900 to Hong Kong; Bt4,000 to Guangzhou; Bt1,900 to Kuala Lumpur; Bt2,000 to Penang; Bt5,305 to Denpasar, Bali; Bt4,200 to Jakarta; Bt2,700 to Hanoi and Phnom Penh ; Bt2,500 to Singapore, Yangon and Ho Chi Minh City. PG hands out rooms Tue, 26 May 2009 05:52:45 EDT http://www.samuivillasandhomes.com/news/news_398.html PG hands out rooms PG offers a two-night stay when you buy two tickets to Siem Reap or Samui. Bangkok Airways offers a two-night stay at hotels in Siem Reap and Samui, when passengers buy two return tickets. The promotion is valid for travel by 15 July. A Samui fare costs Bt7,900 per person, inclusive of taxes and surcharges. With two tickets it is packaged with a two-night stay at Samui Palm Beach in a deluxe room with breakfast and a roundtrip airport transfer. A Siem Reap fare sells for Bt9,900 inclusive of Thai airport tax, insurance fee and fuel surcharges, but excluding the Siem Reap airport tax of US$25 and a US$20 visa fee. For two tickets it is packaged with a superior room at City Royal Hotel for two nights with daily breakfasts, a dinner and roundtrip airport transfer. Reservations must be made 14 working days in advance. For more information, call 02 270 6699 or 1771. Bangkok Airways plays safe Fri, 22 May 2009 00:24:25 EDT http://www.samuivillasandhomes.com/news/news_395.html Bangkok Airways plays safe Bangkok Airways focuses on upgrading aircraft to sustain traffic on the current network. Bangkok Airways says it has no definite long-term plans on expansion or new destinations, except for the possible resumption of its Macau service in Q4. The airline cancelled its Macau service, late last year, in the face of unrelenting competition from Thai Air Asia, which operates three daily flights to the casino destination. Faced by declining bookings in Europe -- its main source market for lucrative Samui and Siem Reap services -- Bangkok Airways is now concentrating on building local and regional business. A long-term and ambitious plan to acquire the A350XWB for services to Europe is in the freezer and is unlikely to be back on the table until 2015. However, it continues to take delivery of new aircraft that can be used in the current network. This month, the fifth of six new A319s will arrive. The aircraft has a two-class configuration , while the last one, due next year, will have a single-class. Overall, Bangkok Airways has ordered four dual-class A319s and two single-class versions. The airline is going to return its two Boeing 717s — one in September and another in October. Also, it still has to decide whether to keep three A320s to cater for winter season traffic, instead of decommissioning two of them as earlier planned. Bangkok Airways vice president – corporate communications, Nandhika Varavarn, told TTR Weekly: “We can no longer plan long-term because of a volatile environment, whammies coming up one after another. Also, long- term bookings are in decline. Our business plan is threatened by instability in Thailand, economic recession and the recent influenza threat. People tighten their belts and research more for value. We have to monitor trends closely.” Ms Nandhika admits the performance is weak across the network. “All routes are affected. This year is the worst year on record. We have to work really hard to promote even Samui, which previously, sold itself.” The airline’s management uses a network management tool that tags a warning to a route if it is not performing well. “ If routes are hanging on the edge, we’ll see what we can do to save them such as introducing fare promotions or advertisements. We try best to maintain a service through a season.” Marketing strategies have changed to pay more attention to Thais, rather than relying mostly on foreign markets. And Ms Nandhika said that the more aggressive online promotions have proved effective. “We are happy with average load factor, though that didn’t mean yield. We can not get everything, we have to understand that.” During Q1, load factor of domestic routes was average at 75.33% compared to 69.33% of the same period last year and international routes, 60.98% against 55.77%. Internet sales contributes 20.83% from total passenger revenue. Also from statistics of the airline, Thais still travel domestic and outbound but inbound traffic is less. From January to March, Thai passenger number increased as much 53.71% from 34,778 to 53,456; whereas, international passenger number dropped 25.71% to 199,790. In total, Bangkok Airways carried 298,136 passengers during Q1 comparing to 350,393 of 2008’s Q1 (67% international clients, 17.79%, Thais and 15.1%, unidentified). Ms Nandhika commented that Thais travel more, domestically and regionally, not only because airlines’ promotions but hotels and tourism related business also handing out bargains as economic recession impacted and Thailand double whammy with political turmoil. In term of international tourists, she thinks although other countries are giving deals as well but Thailand is still a preferred choice; only our politics are stabilized. Moreover, the political problem has impacted the airline as a feeder to neighboring country too. She cautions that if this last long, it surely affect Thailand as a gateway to Mekong region. Vietnam is a potential competitor because it is not far away from Thailand. Furthermore, politics and pandemic have made it hard to organize events to stimulate travel. “It is not only pricing but people need reasons to travel so we have to create events. However, I have to postpone several events that were initiated with partners because when it was close to the date, something happened that caused cancellations.” On the last note concerning the future of Siem Riep Airways, Bangkok Airways continues to serve Phnom Penh-Siem Riep route until Cambodia’s aviation standards are certified by EU, Siem Riep Airways would return to the sky. Thai AirAsia talks expansion Fri, 22 May 2009 00:22:09 EDT http://www.samuivillasandhomes.com/news/news_393.html Thai AirAsia talks expansion There appears to be no finishing line for Thai AirAsia as plans expansion in China. Thai AirAsia is planning to new services to Hangzhou, China, this December and may fly to India next year. Thai AirAsia CEO, Tassapon Bijleveld, confirmed, last week, the airline had filed an application to fly to Hangzhou, to tap airport incentives for the airline that operate direct flight from Bangkok. He said a service to Hangzhou had strong potential for two-way traffic, due a steady economic growth in the city and province, and a demand in the Thai outbound travel market. Mr Tassapon made the comments during the Retrieving Thai Tourism Industry – The National Agenda seminar, held at the Swissotel Le Concorde, Bangkok. In addition, Mr Tassapon said, he has also scheduled a meeting with Chendu authorities next month, to discuss the possibility for AirAsia to operate the service to Chendu in China’s Sichuan province. Mr Tassapon affirmed that Thai AirAsia would continue to open new markets, and by next year, the airline was planning a service to India. Low-cost airlines appear to have increased market share during the current economic crisis. Booking trends show web related bookings have expanded 35% in the first quarter of 2009. In contrast, traditional distribution channel bookings, mainly on full-service airlines booked through travel agencies declined 15%, according to Amadeus Asia Pacific’s evaluations. The increase in web bookings could be attributed to a shift to low-cost airlines, as travellers cut their budgets. Besides the expansion of its network, the airline will continue its sponsorship of different events that could boost awareness such as football and music fan clubs. “We’ve gained awareness from our sponsorship in the English Premier League, and will support Formula 1, and possibly a major baseball league in Japan or the Super Bowl in the US.” Air Asia is a big supporter of the English champions Manchester United. On distribution, Mr Tassapon claims over 80% of the airline’s bookings are now through the internet. He gave no details of where the remaining 20% of the bookings were sourced. Phuket Villas & Homes See Strong Rental Demand Mon, 18 May 2009 00:55:58 EDT http://www.samuivillasandhomes.com/news/news_391.html Phuket Villas & Homes See Strong Rental Demand Speaking to Andrew Craig General Manager of Phuket Villas & Homes it is interesting to see how the non traditional villa and condo product is now becoming a keen competitor of hotels. Currently the group manages Jivana and The Natai just over the bridge in the up market Natai beach area, while on the island there is Kata Gardens, Coolwater and Lakewood Hills. Interesting enough by November of this year the breach front Amatapura will open under their management as well. Grown from Koh Samui where Samui Villas& Homes has been a well established market leader, they have quickly expanded their internet booking sites with www.thesignaturecollection.com and www.theboutiquevillas.com Certainly being able to reach out to a global marketplace for clients has been helpful in getting premium rental rates and even large overseas wholesalers and agents are now looking at offering their clients vacations utilizing private villas and resort style condos. In some coming stories we will be talking to other specialist agents on the island who are seeing the rental game grow and how they are reaching out to the world to bring visitors to Phuket. Firefly focuses on Phuket Thu, 14 May 2009 02:38:36 EDT http://www.samuivillasandhomes.com/news/news_389.html Firefly focuses on Phuket Firefly adds a second service to Phuket from its Kuala Lumpur base. Firefly, a fully owned subsidiary of Malaysia Airlines started a new service from Kuala Lumpur (Subang Airport) to Phuket, earlier this month. The airline already operates a service to Phuket from Penang that was launched in April 2007. The airline’s head of marketing and communications, Angelina Fernandez, said new services would probably be introduced in the Indonesia-Malaysia-Thailand Growth Triangle region before the fourth quarter of this year. Firefly’s FY3652 departs Kuala Lumpur (Subang) daily at 1440 and arrives in Phuket 1510. The return flight, FY3653, departs Phuket 1530 and arrives at Subang Airport 1800. The airline uses an ATR72-500 on the route. The airline announced inclusive promotional fares of Bt1,170 one-way from Phuket to Kuala Lumpur and RM88 from Kuala Lumpur to Phuket. An introductory holiday package with Firefly Holidays starts from Bt1,990 (RM199.00) per person to Genting Highlands for a three-day/two-night twin-share stay, inclusive of breakfast, hotel and airport transfers. See www.fireflyz.com.my PG NEW Web Saver fare Thu, 14 May 2009 02:36:01 EDT http://www.samuivillasandhomes.com/news/news_387.html PG NEW Web Saver fare PG brings back its low season web bargains. Bangkok Airways recently launched new Web Saver fares. Ticket validity is 14 days from the first travel date The roundtrip domestic deals are Bt1,800 to Chiang Mai; Bt2,200 to Phuket; Bt5,200 to Samui; Bt1,700 to Sukhothai and Bt3,600 to Trat. Taxes and surcharges for domestic routes are approximately Bt1,100. Regional trips, inclusive of taxes and surcharges, are Bt11,990 to Guilin; Bt18,270 to Hiroshima; Bt8,405 to Ho Chi Minh City; Bt9,765 to Luang Prabang; Bt21,025 to Maldives; Bt7,110 to Phnom Penh; Bt16,450 to Xi-an and Bt6,610 to Yangon. Currently, Bangkok Airways serves domestic routes daily as well to Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam and Luang Prabang in Laos. Meanwhile, it serves Guilin with three weekly services. Hiroshima, Maldives and Xian are served by twice weekly services and Yangon, four weekly flights. Visit www.bangkokair.com JLL looks to new software to spur growth Wed, 13 May 2009 04:10:11 EDT http://www.samuivillasandhomes.com/news/news_386.html JLL looks to new software to spur growth International property management firm Jones Lang LaSalle has introduced a new property management software system as part of efforts to achieve 15 percent growth this year. The new online tool OneView allows comprehensive reporting from a central source which can be easily accessed by clients whose property is managed by Jones Lang LaSalle. It also provides a range of reporting features including up-to-date financial statements, budget analyses, inventory and spend information, monthly maintenance reports, and an e-ticketing system to track work requests. Dexter Norville, Head of Estate Management, a subdivision of Jones Lang LaSalle’s Property Management division focusing on luxury condominiums and villas in Phuket, said: “The fact that OneView allows our clients to access a central source of reports online helps provide transparency which is an increasingly important factor for long term successful business relationships. “This system is not only good for our clients but also good for ourselves as we have the ability to monitor works progress and expenditures from an easy central data file. This allows us to make educated management decisions into efficiencies and effectiveness of certain procedure and initiatives we may be implementing at certain properties.” Hotelcorp takes over Bel Air Panwa Resort, Phuket Mon, 11 May 2009 02:25:52 EDT http://www.samuivillasandhomes.com/news/news_383.html Hotelcorp takes over Bel Air Panwa Resort, Phuket Thai hospitality management company Hotelcorp has announced its takeover of the management, operations, sales and marketing and full condominium rental program of The Bel Air Resort & Spa, Panwa, Phuket. Hotelcorp acquired Bel Air Panwa Resort Co., Ltd. including the management rights to the rental program and the juristic condominium management from the Perth-based Watson Property Group. Mr. Roy E. Olsson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Hotelcorp said: “The Bel Air Resort & Spa, Panwa, Phuket has an amazing potential to be refurbished and redeveloped as Phuket’s new upscale family resort destination. The Panwa beach is now recognized as the latest and newest elite beach community in Phuket. HCL will redevelop The Bel Air Resort & Spa, Panwa, Phuket as an ideal family retreat and a spectacular tropical cliff side property featuring stunning & spaciously appointed luxury suites on the quieter side of the renowned island of Phuket.” Situated on the Cape of Panwa on the islands Southeast corner, The Bel Air Resort & Spa, Panwa, Phuket offers luxury sea view suites with a minimum size of 106sqm. Some suites feature a private plunge pool. Mr. Bernhard Ollmann, Director and COO of Hotelcorp said: “Since our take over, we have been focused on redeveloping the resorts’ finest assets and features. A new team will be installed to manage the resort into a truly unique and premier family resort in Phuket. Much attention is given to renewing the food and beverage experience, expanding the Kids club and the redevelopment of the beach club into a premier place to be. HCL is proud to represent, manage and operate another unique resort property in the south of Thailand and re-affirms our expertise and commitment in delivering the finest resort experience to our guests.” Promotional rates are currently being offered at Bt2,800 per night for a 2-bedroom Suite, including breakfast and round-trip transfer to and from Phuket International Airport. THAI revamps website Fri, 8 May 2009 01:29:01 EDT http://www.samuivillasandhomes.com/news/news_382.html THAI rolls up its sleeves to improve sales and services via the internet. After a slow start, Thai Airways International is now getting up to speed on website sales in order to stay competitive. The airline has set up a new sales group within the management to look after online sales with a target to grow sales from 5% to 8% an improvement from 3% achieved in 2008. THAI vice president, information technology department, Sopit Pokasoowan, runs technical support. He argued the airline’s webpage was too formal for a sales site and too slow when making bookings, resulting in a decision to upgrade and streamline the system. “With the new look, customers will see fare bargains on the front page with a faster booking process that has been simplified. The speed of booking is has doubled, but there is still room for improvement.” There are other components that need to be revamped to deliver better services, he said. Inventory is one of them to ensure that the online sales site has the same data that is available to travel agents so as to avoid duplicate bookings. At the moment, inventory on the site, what is provided by the GDS, Amadeus, is not compatible. The two systems link only periodically, which leaves room for mistakes during the down time. Verification of Royal Orchid Plus members and credit cards is now handled by Amadeus and this needs to be revamped to speed up the booking process.