TTGasia.com, Jun 15-21, 2007

INTRA-REGIONAL and cross-border traffic make up a substantial share of visitor arrivals in Asia and a drop in the contribution from these markets is cause for concern. Thailand knows this all too well. Although it is still a popular destination, there is no denying Thailand’s image has been dented by the political situation in the country, and security and safety issues which continue to plague it.
Coupled with this is the less-than-glowing report card of the capital’s new Suvarnabhumi Airport, and the perception it is much harder to access compared to its predecessor at Don Muang. Asian travellers who would not hesitate to fly to Bangkok for a weekend of eating, shopping, spa treatments and entertainment – made possible by the entry of a number of low-cost carriers – are now thinking twice.

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