Thaim to head back

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The shopping offering is fantastic.

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Food lovers will not be disappointed.

Thai authorities are putting the past behind them and are incentivising planners to send them meetings business — smiles all around.

The Middle East market was doing particularly well for Thailand.

In 2007 visitors from the region reached 426,721, an increase of 11.34% compared to 2006.

And the first half of 2008 witnessed a 22.7% increase compared to the same period in 2007.

However, political incidents at the end of 2008 that forced the closure of two of its airports left visitors and delegates stranded - not good for the stranded or the reputation of Thailand as a meetings destination.

MIME spoke to a number of delegates and insurance companies at the time and found that there were a wide range of cancelled events.

However, the Thai government and Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) have worked hard to quickly eradicate the blot on Thailand's otherwise excellent checklist for meetings planners.

At a time when money talks, Thailand was judged as the number one destination in the world for ‘Value for Money' by the Country Branding Index (CBI).

It also came third in both the ‘Authenticity' and ‘Friendly Locals' (even if sat in your airport) categories.

Importantly for Middle Eastern travellers it ranked fourth in the ‘Shopping' category.

However, the most important change since the political problems is the decision to drop fees for three month visas.

This added bonus for a planner can only make the Thai option sweeter.

TICA and TCEB

There are two organisations who offer a fantastic range of information and assistance if you are considering or are in the process of booking a conference, meeting or incentive in Thailand.

The Thailand Incentive and Convention Association (TICA) is a high-level body formed by the government and the private sector committed to serving decision-makers, organisers and planners throughout the process of conceiving an event to its completion.

Visit www.tica.or.th

The Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) is another government body and can offer assistance with any aspect of your meeting, convention incentive, or exhibition, TCEB will be able to put you in touch with the industry professionals.

Visit www.tceb.or.th

Golf

The Kingdom of Thailand is renowned as Asia's most popular golfing destination.

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