Lisu Lodge

Passenger numbers to Thailand have rebounded, according to Australia’s leading Asia travel specialist, Travel Indochina. Results for January 2012 have shown a 55% growth over the same period last year.

Travel Indochina Managing Director, Paul Hole, says that there has been a very quick return to ‘business as usual’ for the destination since the floods.

“Recent demand for Thailand has been up significantly over 2011 levels,” confirmed Paul.

“Our January results clearly indicate Australians have recognised that Thailand is still a highly attractive destination.”

“It’s important to note, however, that the interest in the destination has not been solely for traditional beachside deals, but for experience based and responsible tourism focussed products. We’ve seen a considerable increase in booking activity for products such as Lisu Lodge – a community based project near Chiang Mai, and Elephant Hills, a luxury tented camp in Khao Sok National Park near Phuket.

“Booking trends also indicate clients want to stay in more distinctive hotels, preferring our boutique range to the typical 500-room hotel.”

Hotels within the Travel Indochina Handmade Holidays range that have proven popular include Ariyasom Vilas Bangkok, Ping Nakara and Banthai Village Chiang Mai, Legend Boutique Resort Chiang Rai and Akyra Chura Samui in the south.

“We have even seen strong booking requests for some of the worst hit areas, such as Ayuthaya, in recent weeks.”

Travel Indochina’s 10-day Thailand Discovery Small Group Journey incorporates Ayuthaya, as well as other historical focal points Kanchanaburi and Sukhothai.