Chateau de Bangkok, a leading Bangkok boutique hotel, expects profits to soar with the introduction of a new government plan to scrap visa fees.
Ms. Somrudee Nooner, the hotel's director of sales and marketing, says that "We should see visitor numbers increase significantly with a scrapping of the visa fee. A substantial number of our visitors are business related, and
they will save up to US$150 on a tourist, multiple entry visa."
The visa rates were increased by the previous Thai government in 2007, to US$60 for a single tourist entry, US$150 for multiple tourist entries or APEC multiple entries, and US$300 for a non-immigrant Business and Work visa.
"The savings would allow several extra nights stay in Thailand, and should help boost our occupancy rates", Mr Nooner continued.
The government plan to waive visa fees is part of a tourism stimulus package, which also includes discounted aircraft landing fees. These and other incentives are part of a one billion Thai baht stimulus package. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is projecting 14.8 million visitors will land in Thailand this year.
Mr Nooner believes the global financial crisis will actually be of benefit to countries like Thailand: "Our cost of living is much lower than in Western countries, and luxury Bangkok hotels cost the same amount as low-end hotels in Western cities. I believe Thailand will have a greater share of global tourism, even if numbers are down."
"This will help Chateau de Bangkok grow its base of customers that return to our boutique Bangkok hotel again and again", he continued. The visa fee will be waived for nationals of 41 countries, identified by the government as key source markets. It is these nationals which realize the greatest savings by vacationing in Thailand, according to Mr Nooner.
About Chateau de Bangkok:
Chateau de Bangkok is a 4-star boutique hotel, conveniently located only minutes from the Skytrain, Sukhumvit Road and some of Thailand's best shopping, dining, and nature reserves. It is described as 'an oasis of continental luxury, spacious relaxation and attentive service, all within minutes of Bangkok's world-fmaous attractions'. Room facilities at Chateau de Bangkok include Jacuzzis, fully equipped kitchens, separate living and sleeping areas, and state of the art technology. A fitness center, pool, steam room and sauna ensure that guests feel as invigorated as they do relaxed. Chateau de Bangkok consistently exceeds visitor expectations.
For more information contact Somrudee Nooner, Director of Sales & Marketing, Chateau de Bangkok
Email: dos@chateaubkk.com
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