Time for Thailand!

In just under two weeks I will be heading to Thailand to participate in the Thailand Travel Mart Plus. This event is the largest B2B travel show in the greater Mekong sub region. I will have the opportunity to reconnect with our preferred local operators and hotels as well learn what is new and exciting for this region. I expect it to be fun, busy and hot with lots of activities planned for the days and nights. The first half of my trip will be spent in the Thailand's lively capital, Bangkok. After that we will fly 1 hour south for a change of scenery to the beautiful island of Koh Samui. Nice!

If you have a special group request for Thailand or have something you would like for me to investigate on your behalf, do not hesitate to drop me a line.

Chok dee (Bye in Thai)!

Otis Ashby
Sales & Operations

Happy National Tourism Day!

Today, China is celebrating its first National Tourism Day to mark the growing importance of tourism in China. I applaud China for recognizing how important it is to appreciate visiting tourists and offering them additional incentives to visit. Unlike some countries, states and provinces, which will slap you with some type of visitation tax upon arrival, China has opted to offer free entry into the country's public museums, memorial halls, patriotic education bases, stadiums and arenas. If only Vancouver had a similar offer, I might be able to see the Canucks live.

Nucks in 4!

Otis Ashby
Sales & Operations

China to develop Hello Kitty theme park

The cult like hero Hello Kitty will be opening a new park in the city of Anji which is about 65km from Hangzhou. The development is expected to begin in the second half of next year and the completion is planned in 2013. Upon immediate completion it is safe to say that I will be there with my wife and all her 30 something friends who are Hello Kitty Fans. All those interested in more information about the Hello Kitty China Invasion tour, feel free to drop me a line.

Go Nucks!

Otis Ashby
Sales & Operations

China’s smoking ban in effect

CHINA’s smoking ban came into effect Sunday, May 1. No smoking is allowed in all bars, restaurants, hospitals and other public places, reportedly inside and out. The ban reportedly does not include offices or factories.
There is a fine of 30 000 yuan (about US$4 600) for owners of establishments that do not comply but it is still unclear who will enforce the ban.

- Story provided by Travelinfo.ca