Qantas Holidays & Viva! Holidays have today announced Laguna Phuket, Thailand as the location for the 2012 Global Achievers Industry Gala Event to be held from 9-11 November this year. The usually ‘secret location’ was announced this morning in conjunction with major partner, the Tourism Authority of Thailand in a special ceremony at the TAT Sydney offices.

In its 18th year, the Global Achievers program recognizes the achievements of the top domestic and international Qantas Holidays & Viva! Holidays travel agents nationally. Michael Londregan, General Manager JTG Wholesale says “The Global Achievers program is the pinnacle of recognition for our agents and always an exciting time of the year. We are thrilled to be able to recognize 200 of our top performing agents, all of whom remain a very important channel in our business.”

Both the wholesalers and the Tourism Authority of Thailand look forward to showcasing the natural beauty of Bang Tao Beach and continuing to support tourism in South-East Asia after what has been a devastating year for the Australian travel industry within the region. Michael Londregan goes on to say “It is important we acknowledge and respect the sensitivity around recent events and continue to balance this with the ever-strong consumer demand for Thailand within the market”.  Australian visitor numbers to Thailand increased 23% in 2011, Khun Numfhon Boonyawat, Director Australia & NZ, TAT says “We are delighted that Thailand has been chosen as the destination for the 2012 Global Achievers. I would also like to take this opportunity to personally thank our partners and travel agents for their continued support in the promotion of Thailand.”

The Qantas Holidays & Viva! Holidays sales team will be contacting all successful agents this week to congratulate them on their achievement. For more Qantas Holidays news or products visit www.qhv.com.au/agents or speak with your local sales representative.