"Opening Isan (NE Thailand) to the Australian market" and "Incentives in Laos" were two important themes for North by North East at the Thailand Travel Mart (TTM) held last month (September) in Bangkok. While critics of the regional mart maintained that the number of qualified buyers from worldwide markets decreased this year, and complained of "Post-SARS effects," North by North East Thailand and Laos was able to parlay the event into both immediate and long term business.
Long-standing relationships in the Australian market made possible the planning of what we expect to be a very effective TAT familiarization trip to "Isan" (NE Thailand). Group General Manager Mr. Yves Berton commented enthusiastically: "The TAT has never done any of their excellent promotion in target markets for Isan. In past they have felt that Isan services were underdeveloped and so did not promote. This FAM trip of carefully chosen wholesalers and retailers will inaugurate Isan destination promotion and a new era of cooperation in the Australian market; a classical example of private & public sector cooperation".
North by North East was able to fully promote Laos destinations for groups, FITs and incentives as we've been legally established and fully operational (with a full compliment of trained personnel) for nearly a year. The TTM gave us the chance to work with several new companies planning incentives in Laos. This is an important and positive 'sign of the times' for us. "GOING LAOS" - our corporate image - was unveiled for the first time at this show to excellent effect. We also showcased a range of distinctive new Laos travel products only operated by North by North East.
Ian Garritt of Venture Holidays Australia Smiles for the Camera
The above developments are very new in Laos. Any agent experienced in selling Laos will tell you of past negative experiences with Lao counterparts not fulfilling their contracted obligations...such notorious behavior is a huge barrier to developing the destination. Such inexcusable oversights elsewhere meant our GUARANTEED SERVICES were well received by this industry which survives only on trust and accurate delivery of services. Many thanks to the TAT for their hard work in making this mart possible! But most of all, many thanks to YOU - our VIP clients & agents - for your support to date.