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Dear Friends!Past year 2011 has brought a lot of real challenges to Thailand tourism industry. Various natural disasters as well as political disorders have urged knock-kneed agencies to quit tourism market whereas solid high-end, and smart marketing policy companies acquired inestimable experience and managed to enhance their positions. We are pleased to inform you that CORUS ASIA is one of the tourist companies not only to preserve its competitive position but to expand services scope, and to move to a new level of high-quality travel arranging.

The lessons of the past years have also been mastered well by Thai government. Thus this magnificent country has set a course for tourism quality raise and, as a result, increase in income. This is what Thailand prime-minister Abhisit Vejjajiva reported at national tourist forum which took place in March 2011.

Our company might not impress with a longstanding evolution history, still a tight-knit team, high qualification of the staff, and talented management allows to consider us a perspective and sustainably progressing team which proved in its short period of co-working to be a reliable partner ensuring high quality of services provided. We dare to claim that we guarantee quality and stability of our work. Not only our success can be treated as quality assurance but also participation in such famous organizations as Tourism Authority of Thailand – TAT, and Association of Thai Travel Agents – АТТА.

Thanks to our partners we have significantly expanded the range of tour proposals and are able to offer our customers unique experience options striking with their remarkability and leaving unforgettable emotions. Understanding importance and value of

partnership relation development and looking forward to opening company local agencies in different points of the world we consider partnership one of the high prioritised trends, and contemplate a possibility to establish new agencies while cooperating with our current and future business partners.

We are going to have started up a new online booking system by the next tourist season both for hosting and sending companies. The system is of wide functionality allowing integrity with other tourism software solutions and XML. The booking system serves as a simplification tool for our partners enabling timely follow-up of requests and any request changes made.

We are also proud of launching an individual tourism project in the new tourist season. The project provides a possibility of rental villas and apartments comprising all-inclusive service (if desired). The project may become a beneficial investment piece for our partners.

Our major objective is delivery of high quality travel service, expanding of travel routes in South-East Asia and Thailand in particular, promotion of local sightseeings and tourist flow increase.

Relationship with our partners is one of our priorities as well. We are looking to be judged by our partners according to our work effectiveness and the opportunities we provide. Building the policy of mutual beneficial cooperation we leave no stone unturned to keep partnership interrelations for years.

We are always eager to form effective collaboration and strengthen partnership on the terms winning for both sides. With our support you are able to offer your clients brand new products which might engage fresh customers and become a principal income item of your company.

1. 1. COMPANY FOUNDERS AND GENERAL DIRECTOR WELCOME SPEECH

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CORUS ASIA has been founded in year 2010. It is a young tour operator with good ambitions endeavoring to present uniqueness and mind-bending beauty of Thailand and South-East Asia. Despite of being so young CORUS ASIA may be treated as an experienced company as its founders and manager have been working in travel business since long (starting in 90ies) including more than 11-year-long experience directly in sunny and cordial Thailand. They studied thoroughly all travel business aspects first-hand while having a guide job, being in a managing position, or welcoming officials. Using their skills and knowledge gained through the period of work our leadership team managed to find an appropriate marketing tool which allowed the company to not only have occupied its respective position at Thailand tourism market but securely keep it by constant building up tourist flow and improving service quality.

Highly qualified staff and eagerness to expand the range of services to a maximum are the factors allowing the company’s steady growth and to fix reliable and professional travel agency partnership network both in post-Soviet and other world countries. Within the period of the company existence the leadership has never taken loans and

is using only company own assets for travel business investments and increasing service quality.

Company leadership is permanently following up skill level of the team and tracking performance niveau of the guides, transfermen and drivers. Moreover, the more experienced employees are always ready to provide necessary support and coach the colleagues. Our management model enables to treat each team member as an individual possessing his/her own talents and preferences and able to provide innovative ideas. Each employee suggestion is reviewed, while the most colourful and extraordinary are brought into life.

Currently CORUS ASIA has several offices in different regions of Thailand. This makes it possible to provide various offers of a wide range. The company is able to propose its customers both huge variety of tours and excursions, superb service niveau, and careful support and individual approach to every client. Transportation is carried out exclusively with new comfortable buses and vans.

The principle advantage of CORUA ASIA travel company lies in a tight-knit team of fellow-thinkers and enthusiasts providing individual approach to each customer and delivering services of the highest quality.

2. ABOUT US

2.1. CORUS ASIA CORPORATE STRUCTURE

The Management

Information & Technologies

Finance

Sales and Marketing

Contracting & Product

Operation Ground Service Operations

President & CEO – Anton KonovalovVice President and General Director – Mikhail TyurinAssociate Director – Preeda Chaiyo

Director of Information and Technologies – Alexander Tyurin

Accountant Manager – Aree Kaewprajak

Business Development Manager / Russia and CIS – Olga LazarevaBusiness Development Manager / Middle East – Ahmed Laribi

Country Marketing Manager – Panticha GunnutContracting Manager – Kritthiwat Kajohnpun

Area Manager / Pattaya – Ekaterina KhaykonenkoArea Manager / Phuket – Tanakorn PaewsriArea Manager / Bangkok – Jittaporn Tanghoo

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CORUS ASIA is not a big company maintaining environment of trust between its employees and special attitude to every tourist. This is the reason why company leadership is not chasing the aim to put customer support on conveyer sacrificing service quality, or hire much more employees at the expense of credibility loss and team spirit forfeit.

Most of the companies having considerable staff are urged to fire the majority of employees in shoulder seasons to increase efficiency and eliminate losses on cost. CORUS ASIA proceeds in a different manner and prefers working within a small solidated team where number of regular members is not depending on a season. Due to such scheme all the employees are motivated for service quality and esteem their job.

CORUS ASIA employees rolled in the company with their own rich experience in travel business. Most of them had been working in tourism field for around 10 years. Company staff is multinational as it comprises representatives from Russia, Ukraine, Turkey, Morocco, Thailand, etc. Naturally, each colleague contributes into company his/her own know-hows and numerous both business and social contacts matured in their work process. This provides a possibility for CORUS ASIA to

establish reliable cooperation schemes with business partners and travel industry colleagues, and find best solutions in most challenging issues.

Company personnel includes both local Thai guides willing to share interesting and unique knowledge about their home country, and multilingual customer care managers having explored Thailand not from promotional booklets or travel guide manuals but residing in the Kingdom of Thailand and perceiving it as their second home. This is why excursions arranged by our company not merely disclose outer glory of the country but also help sink into the ancient Kingdom’s culture. There are Russian speaking guides working for the company (Russian is a mother language for them) as well as guides speaking fluent Arabic, Turkish or English.

Apart from guides company staff also comprises skilled drivers who are familiar with every street or area of Thailand. Highly experienced drivers will at short notice bring a tourist to any point of the Kingdom with the help of comfortable transport means.

Vast experience and well-developed infrastructure offers the possibility to deliver qualified services to both private tourists and companies disposing medium and substantial tourist volumes.

2.2. CORUS ASIA STAFF

The company opened in September 2010 and at that time it had a general office located in the downtown of Thailand capital, Bangkok, and an operational office in Sukhumvit street in a marvellous city of Pattaya which is the most popular resort of the Land of Smiles. Currently, aside of Pattaya and Bangkok offices, CORUS ASIA disposes an office on Phuket island as well which has deserved the name of a real jewel in the crown.Moreover, our company is officially represented in nearly all significant areas of the country:• North–citiesofChiangMai, the formercapitalofThe Kingdom of Lanna, and Chiang Rai, the cradle of Thai civilization;• Centralregion–HuaHinandCha-amProvinces.Inthese resorts you will find fashionable shelter places for your full relaxation reserving despite of modern civilization development true Thai zest. You may also find our offices on Koh Chang and Koh Samet islands famous for their tropical national parks.• South–Krabiprovincedazzlingwithitsbeauteoussea and seashore landscapes. One of our offices locates on Samui island which is often called Paradise on Earth.As the amount of tourists coming to Thailand is constantly growing CORUS ASIA is actively designing new tourism experiences interesting for our customers. This is the reason why we are planning to open new official representative offices in Southern provinces such as Khao Lak region, which is one of the most exotic places at Andaman seashore, and Trang

province, which has a reputation not only for plenty of beauteous islands but also for waterfalls, caves and virgin jungle woods. Aside of these, we are devoting attention to regions glorious of their history and culture as well, such as Ayutthaya and Sukhothai.

All of company offices are comfortable and homely, and equipped with the up-to-date computers and high-speed internet connection. This allows our managers to effectively reply to customers’ claims and respond the requests, and keep in touch with other offices around-the-clock to coordinate and synchronize shared work stages.

2.3. CORUS ASIA OFFICES

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Investments in technologies is CORUS ASIA’s another priority which gives a possibility to be up-to-date in online booking system implementation and timely comply with different market trends. CORUS ASIA uses software which is represented by permanently updated high technologies. The software admits integration with any toolkit applied in booking process with the help of booking lists export / import options in Excel format or by means of XML.

Our company is actively developing own online booking system B2B (detailed information in ‘Further company growth objectives’ chapter), and is constantly searching for new concepts on forthbringing of CORUS ASIA services and offers into open internet space (including launch of a website similar to such high-standing branded sites as booking.com, agoda, etc.).

Online-booking system supports White label & Back Office solutions, as well as Google maps, and provides integration between services and products offered by the company and various distribution channels (e.g. websites, booking systems) by means

of XML in real-time mode for all company partners. The data at our website is completely analytical (based on OTA standards) and is enchained through hyperlinks. Thus, CORUS ASIA operators are able to easily and fast send any product or service informations (with detailed data on hotels and pictures attached) directly from company’s server. This enables our partners to get access to all company offers and services in a practical, effective and cost efficient way.

Back Office of the company is fully automated which allows all structural departments (respon-sible for booking, contract signing, operations, accounting, etc.) and company branches to have the possibility to share information content and receive (depending on the type of user’s access) necessary data for higher efficiency. Thereby manual operation is not applied at all which both saves time and reduces cost for efficiency wages, and contributes into error elimination. Moreover, it provides a possibility for our leadership team to be admitted to the whole database, retrieve im-portant statistical data and analyse it in decision-making process in future.

Up-to-date technologies and online interoffice connection between organizations, departments and operations are of vital importance for the company, contributing to its growth, expanded branch network creation, and strengthening of mutually advantageous partnership relations.

2.4. TECHNOLOGIES WE USE

« Our company is actively developing own online booking system B2B (Business to Business)

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CORUS ASIA company is on the point of providing full range of services specified for large tourist flow volume companies, and online-seller organizations, and boutique tourist firms interested in highly qualified service for their customers.

For our customers’ comfortable accommodation CORUS ASIA has signed contracts practically with all hotels of the Land of Smiles and masters rated rooms there (allotments), and, if necessary, sets quotas on narrow terms (commitments). Aside of our own contracts, CORUS ASIA is bound with other tourist companies in a reliable partner relationship.

Company’s operators are systematically analyzing room rate offers and examining competitive proposals. To improve quality of service our managers of interrelations with hotels and tourist services supplier departments are accurately analyzing competitiveness of price offers, and in close cooperation with internal marketing manager are effectively working on providing the best price and conditions. Not resting on its laurels, CORUS ASIA is constantly searching for new hotels and offers and permanently following up new resorts uprising and new hotels appearance.

Standard solutions in contracting between CORUS ASIA and hotels are the following:

• Setting room quotas on flexible terms, fixing arelease period appropriate in time;

• Mandatoryconditionisavailabilityofspecialoffers,such as early booking and extra early booking;

• CORUSASIAconfirmsbestconditionsforchildren,such as free additional beds, free meals; age limit is to be 12-16 years old;

• HavinginitsbaseallroomcategoriesCORUSASIAis taking thorough control over rated rooms distribution which ensures accurate and on-the-spot data on hotel rooms availability;

• InsituationwhenCORUSASIApartnersaresellingtours differently from what was scheduled the company is always ready to provide special service conditions.

We cannot but tell about our other special offers which may arise customer’s interest to certain hotel products. Such offers as Value Added are discussed and

confirmed by hotel partners and other customer service supply affiliates of CORUS ASIA.

Fast confirmation of requests in CORUS ASIA, as well as actual and authoritative responding to agents’ queries is an apparent advantage of work with the company. All requests are being confirmed next to immediately, within two hour period of time. Sophisticated requests, or complicated room demands and claims are being confirmed within a day. Such work efficiency of the booking department is possible due to highly skilled managers’ engagement knowing their job all the way from A to Z. The managers are highly experienced and are able to respond quickly to various issues and requests satisfying completely all demands and wishes of our partners. Company’s own software contributes to timely request execution as well, with the toolkit ensuring 100% in-process correctness of the company booking department.

Reservatiom department of CORUS ASIA is at service 365 days a year, 24 hous a day, independing of the season. Around-the-clock service enables processing of all of the incoming requests at any time of the year and day using modern communication forms (like skype, icq, blackberry, online-messengers, hotlines). Responding to clients’ claims the booking department provides a detailed information (with comprehensive description), which enables customers of the company receive on-the-spot and to the uttermost instructive knowledge.

Sightseeing service which is offered by the company is not limited to simple excursions along the country. Company product manager is continually searching for new ideas and trends, developing new routes, and making competitive bargains.

Tourists wishing not only to enjoy beach vacations are proposed a wide range of tours and excursions including cultural and historical ones, event attending, seatours, active rest experience, etc. Thanks to sightseeing services our tourists have an opportunity to ride elephants, study traditional Thai massage, or try and cook courses of exotic Thai cuisine, or enjoy beauty of exceptional flora and fauna of the Land of Smiles, or become familiar with unique Thai culture.

2.5. HOTELS AND SIGHTSEEING

2.6. CORUS ASIA TRANSPORTCORUS ASIA scope of transport consists of cosy cars and buses of upgraded comfort. Part of them belongs to the company, and the other part is provided by licensed transporting companies certified for passenger transportation execution. As a rule, minivans Toyota Commuter are used for comfortable conveyance of customers visiting Thailand and employing CORUS ASIA services. These minivans find room for up to nine people and their luggage and enable easy and comfortable travelling across the country. Moreover, arrangement of conveyance with big buses with

passenger capacity up to 45 people is also possible in case of necessity.

Individual transportation is carried out by means of such cars as Toyota Camry. VIP tourists who appreciate not only comfort but also luxury are serviced by premium and lux class cars, from Mercedes to Porsche.

Upon customer’s demand charter flights can be arranged by our company operators being experienced in plane accepting arrangements, and having matured contacts with Thai organizations which are in charge of charter flights acceptance.

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During the period of CORUS ASIA business activity the company managed to reach essential outcomes in promoting Thailand as one of the most appropriate places for having a vacation, arranging important events, excursions and studies. We have also taken steps for expanding the geographical area of tourist flow and involving clients not only from post-Soviet countries but also from the whole world. Compared to the year 2010 when the company has been working in Russia only currently we are progressing close cooperation with such countries as Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaidjan, Arabic countries, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. We must say that partners and customers never feel uneasy because of insufficient language knowledge, as our operators are always able to provide service in customer’s mother language. CORUS ASIA company values and respects each customer and does its best to deliver highly-qualified service. Also, company leadership team has projected CORUS ASIA forthbringing to international market.

Such fast development of the company became possible not only thanks to our staff experience and upright leadership management but also changes in Thailand tourist market, including the fact that from the year 1999 tourism in Thailand gained the status of mass trend. Government and tourist associations of Thailand are doing their best to attract as many tourists as possible to this incredible country which dares to compete with recognized tourist centres like Turkey or Egypt in its beauty, uniqueness, and variety of proposed tourist experiences.

In the statistical data of tourist flow shared by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports of Thailand we can see that in the year 2009 tourist flow has decreased but during 2010-2011 Thailand has been steadily increasing it.

Russian tourist volume increase is outstanding. Thailand highly qualified service and great variety of travel experiences have essentially contributed to this fact. Among the offers there are clean sandbeaches, hundreds of magnificent islands, archeological and architectural significances, museums, abounding nightlife, exuberant flora and fauna for prices quite affordable for Russian citizens.

Middle East tourist flow is also increasing. Attractive for Middle East tourists are attending Thailand in rainfall season as well as excellent service niveau in the Kingdom, high quality of the offered products and of course warmth and traditional Thai hospitality. Middle East customers are interested here in shopping, entertainment, resort visitations, and recreation vacations.

It’s being expected that in the year 2012 Thailand will be visited by around 20,4-20,9 mln of tourists, which is by 8-10% more than last year.

3. ACHIEVEMENTS AND GOALS

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Funding of all CORUS ASIA company projects is being executed exclusively from its own assets. Within two years of its business activity the company has sponsored and launched such projects as:

1. Arrangement and carrying out advertisement and get-to-know tours for our partners held at low season as this time suits best for learning at ease all Thailand benefits to the maximum. Get-to-know tours are serviced by professional guides who not only know the peculiarities of this fabulous country but also love it passionately treating it as their home. In the process of exploring the country our partners gain the opportunity to get all the actual information about excursion capacities and hotels of Thailand and South-East Asia.

2. Arranging and carrying out of get-to-know offsite and internet workshops, and masterclasses for our partners where all participants may share their knowledge and blueprint new routes and tours.

3. Creation of Client’s Club consisting of loyal customers of the company. Every member of the club obtains extra discounts and benefits for all CORUS ASIA services.

4. Creation and expanding of own scope of apartments, houses and villas for individual tourism which provides abandonment of hotel room options.

5. Opening of a receiving company in one of the most perspective areas of South-East Asia, Cambodia, as well as development of an exciting tour to Cambodia Kingdom glorious for its Angkor Wat temple complex. A trip to Cambodia includes accomodation in premium-class 4 and 5 star hotels, excursions in the Kingdom’s capital, Pnom Pen, and luxurious vacations on Sihanoukville resort beaches.

6. Development of franchising brand for day spa and Thai massage centres setting up in Russian Federation.

3.1. FUNDING

To reserve its success, and keep forthcoming into the international tourism market, CORUS ASIA company leadership team has undertaken the following steps on infrastructure development.• First of all a personal site has been createdwhich is constantly updated enabling our potential customers get acknowledged with both company offers and news of Thailand and South-East Asia.• As most of the people prefer searching and

receiving information via internet, a video-channel on you-tube has been created. Due to it those who wish may ascertain themselves in all Thailand benefits and tourism variety.• Popular social networks are also not neglected.We have our own profile in such social media as facebook, twitter, flickr.com, google+ and linkedin.• Company own offices and agencies have beenopened in different parts of the country which made it possible to essentially increase number of interesting and exciting routes, and offer various travel experience to our customers.• A call-centre and a tourist support service havebeen started up. They work 24/7 for quick responding to all incoming requests, bookings and questions.

3.2. INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT

« We work 24/7 for quick responding to all incoming requests, bookings and questions

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As any other dynamically growing company CORUS ASIA is trying to increase quality of service and expand its activity area. For a full-scale and comfortable work between our company and our current and potential partners we are launching our own online booking В2В (Business to Business) system in the coming tourist season 2012. Thanks to this system companies looking for appropriate online technologies will have the possibility to apply our product in order to increase efficiency of their business and enlarge sales volume. Companies which are using similar technologies in their offices are provided with XML data integration channel.

These technologies will substantially ease our partners’ work and enable to quickly respond to all requests and request changes. Currently the system is being tested for the customers to be able to see

the true value of the high quality software, and all advantages of the searched service online booking from the very first moment of using it.

Understanding the importance of commercial opportunities of mass media the company leadership is planning in the nearest future to promote actively our offers and benefits of vacations in South-East Asia including the Land of Smiles, Thailand, via our existing personal profiles on facebook, twitter, flickr.com, google+ and linkedin social platforms. Moreover, the functioning company site is to be adapted for foreign tourists (that is, there will be site versions in English, Arabic and other languages).

We are working thoroughly on bringing the company into international market and involving new clients interested in high-quality serviced holidays. For this reason the company is promoting cultural traditions, sightseeings and advantages of vacations in South-East Asia and namely in Thailand as one of the most important tourism centers of the region. To promote Thailand as the most perspective area for vacations of a high quality the company leadership is planning to take part in various promo-actions, exhibitions, workshops, and discussions. So much the more Thailand can be proud as plenty of hotels of the country were awarded in the last three years with a prestige World Travel Awards prize.

3.3. FURTHER COMPANY GROWTH OBJECTIVES

Award 2009 2010 2011

Thailand’s Leading Beach Resort

Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket

Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket

Thailand’s Leading Business Hotel

The Landmark BangkokSheraton Grande Sukhumvit

Dusit Thani Bangkok

Thailand’s Leading City ResortSwissôtel Nai Lert Park, Bangkok

Thailand’s Leading Golf ResortBlue Canyon Country Club

Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket

Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket

Thailand’s Leading HotelThe Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, Thailand

InterContinental Bangkok

The Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, Thailand

Thailand’s Leading Lifestyle Hotel

Lebua at State Tower

Thailand’s Leading ResortFour Seasons Resort Chiang Mai

The Evason Hua Hin Resort & Spa

Anantara Golden Triangle Resort & Spa

Thailand’s Leading Romantic Resort

U Inchantree Kanchanaburi

Thailand’s Leading Serviced Apartments

Fraser Suites Sukhumvit

Thailand’s Leading Spa ResortThe Evason Hua Hin Resort & Spa

Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket

Le Meridien Khao Lak Beach & Spa Resort

As we can see, every year the quality of service in Thailand is consistently uprising. That is the reason why a number of hotels honoured with World Travel Awards prize has essentially grown in the last three years.

« Thanks to the system B2B companies looking for appropriate online technolo-gies will have the possibility to apply our product in order to increase efficiency of their business and enlarge sales volume

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Having enough experience and knowledge in hotel business area, and applying matured contacts in tourist industry CORUS ASIA company is able to propose profitable investment projects for arranging a mini-network of home hotels. This will enable the company to welcome guests from its own agencies, as well as long-term and potential partners in Thailand.

Popularity of All-inclusive system in Turkey and Egypt, as well as growing interest to such system in Thailand encouraged company personnel to implement an adequate system in Thailand vacation planning. That is why tourists wishing to enjoy all benefits of All-inclusive travel package will be able to order such service via CORUS ASIA or its representatives in the next season.

In the year 2012 the company is planning to expand its business activity in service area by opening a day spa and Thai massage centre in Russia, together with own spa products sales network (oils, creams, etc.). This will give a possibility to our potential customers to touch miraculous Thai traditions and arts remaining

within Russian Federation borders. Russian businessmen motivated for delivering such services to Russian citizens will be involved in day spa and Thai massage centre network distribution as well.

Similar to past years, the company leadership’s plans contain projects for further development by means of company’s own assets. This statement is of crucial importance, as the refusal from external financing is an objective indicator of reliability and cost-effectiveness of a company. Moreover, availability of company’s own floating fund enables the company to execute consistent finance and investment policy independing on current situation on world finance market.

Within the two years of its business activity CORUA ASIA has managed not only to cover almost all travel trends in Thailand tourist sphere but also offers its customers exclusive vacation types which have no counterparts in South-East Asia.

At the moment main tour arrangement offers of the company comprise: • Touristexcursions;• Eventtourism;• Weddingtourism;• Healthandfitnesstours;• SPAtours;• Sportstourism;• Educationaltours;• Expotourismandbusinesstravel;• Corporatetourism;• Individualtours;• Welcomingofficials.

4. COMPANY BUSINESS TRENDS

« CORUS ASIA company is able to pro-pose profitable investment projects for arranging a mini-network of home hotels

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CORUS ASIA offers its customers several basic excursion programms which cover the most interesting Thailand areas. When designing each route company operators purposed to evidentiate to the full extent peculiarities of one or another country region. That is why we propose our tourists exotic hotels for accomodation stylized according to local architectural traditions, and located in jungle

woods on the banks of tropical rivers. Naturally, meals during the excursion is also represented by cuisine distinctive for a certain area.

For those who prefer unconventional solutions the company offers combined, and uncommon and exotic routes which are winningly extraordinary and provide an exclusive possibility to choose sightseeings to visit by customers themselves.

4.1. TOURIST EXCURSIONSSouth-East Asia in general and Thailand particularly may easily be treated as the most exotic regions of our planet. Each thing is here really amazing: hospitable, constantly smiling people, and fabulously delicious cuisine, however unusual for Europeans, and out-of-the-way architecture, rich in gold and glass, and dazzling tropical nature. That’s the reason

why Thailand may be visited every year even, but all of the beauty and sightseeings of the marvellous Kingdom may be unseen. By the way, there are not only interesting places to be seen, but also UNESCO objects. As of the year 2009 UNESCO World Heritage list includes five Thai sighseeings, and applications for another two objects are being reviewed.

Sightseeing Location Creation time

Inclusioninto

UNESCO list

Criteria

The historical city of Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya province 14th cent. 1991 iii

The historical city of Sukhothai and other historical towns located nearby:• Sukhothai Historical park;• Si Satchnalai Historical Park;• Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park

Sukhothai and Kamphaeng Phet Provinces

13th – 14th cent.

1991 i, iii(«i» criterion represent a masterpiece of human creative genius)

Thungyai-Huai Wildlife Sanctuaries

Kanchanaburi, Tak and Uthai Thani Provinces

1991 vii, ix, x(«vii» criterion is to contain superlative natural phenomena or areas of exceptional natural beauty and aesthetic importance)

Ban Chiang Archaeological Site

Udon Thani Province

The Bronze Age

1992 iii

Dong Phaya Yen–Khao Yai Forest Complex:• Khao Yai National Park;• Thap Lan National Park;• Pang Sida National Park;• Dong Yai Wildlife Sanctuary

Several provinces of Isaan region

2005 х

Phimai and nearby temples; Phanom Rung and Muang Tam

Nathon Ratchasima and Buriram Provinces

10th – 12th cent.

Application lodged in the year 2004

i, ii, iii, iv, vi

Phuphrabat Historical Park Udon Thani Province

The Stone Age – the Middle Ages

Application lodged in the year 2004

ii, iii, iv, vi

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Event tourism is not only relaxation and travel but also a participation in an essential event leaving unforgettable emotions for the rest of the life. All the more so as the Kingdom of Thailand is glorious for its bright and peculiar holidays and festivals since long. Thai citizens are a rather sentimental and cheerful people that’s why annual notable days, festivals, and holidays are of great value in Thai life. Most of Thai festivals are very joyful and picturesque, and the natives always invite tourists to take part in them. Besides, there are both national and regional holidays celebrated in each of the 72 Thailand provinces.

Most of the festivals and holidays of the Land of Smiles are connected with memorable dates of Thai kings’ life, Buddhism, or full-year cycle of rice ripening. Some of them are held on certain days, the others, Buddhism-bound, as a rule, are celebrated according to the moon calender. Anyway the experienced CORUS ASIA staff is able both to give advice or arrange event tour due to which tourists going to visit Thailand gain an opportunity to combine pleasant rest and participation in an exotic, outstanding and inerasible merrymaking.

4.2. EVENT TOURISM

MOST VIVID AND IMPORTANT THAI HOLIDAYS Dates Event Description

April 13-15The Songkran festival (Thai New Year’s Day)

Cheerful feast, a real water fairy show. During this period carnavals, parades, and street processions are being held throughout the country. People at the streets drench each other with water wishing herewith health and wealth.

May-JuneVisakha Bucha Day

National holiday, one of the most holy days in Buddhism which is being held in May in the full-moon. Plenty of ceremonies are carried out during this day, and in the evening a huge candle procession is moving along the streets, and the sky above Thailand is filled up with hundreds of lights as people unhand lightsome torches into the sky.

May Rocket FestivalThis featival gives a possibility to blow off steam before commencing hard agricultural labour. That’s why generous dancing performances and picturesque parades are being held during this festival.

August 12Her Majesty the Queen’s Birthday (Mother’s Day)

This is not only an important holiday for the whole Thai people but also a date timed to coincide with a national holiday dedicated to Mother’s Day. The streets of the Kingdom are being beautified, national flags with royal family symbols are being unfurled, and Queen’s portraits are being posted throughout the country. It is supposed to bounty women with various souvenirs adorned with a jasmine blossom as jasmine is considered to be the Queen’s flower.

SeptemberLong Boat Racing Festival

Within the month of September traditional long boat racing is carried out in different Thailand provinces. The racing is accompanied by colourful festivals afloat or ashore, and bargain-sales of regional fruit and souvenirs.

OctoberPhuket Vegetarian Festival

A festival lasting nine days and being held on Phuket island. A tradition of the participants to put themselves to sophisticated tortures contributed greatly to the popularity of the festival. In spite of being treated as one of the most striking and not-to-forget shows in the world, Phuket Vegetarian Festival is not recommended by Thai government to be attended by impressible people and children.

November Loi Krathong

A very eye-filling holiday takes place on the evening of the full-moon of the 12th month. At this night all Gulf of Siam is illuminated by glimmering lights because of hundreds of floating candle rafts made of leaves, and the sky is quivering of numerous salutes and fireworks.

November Elephant Festival

Elephant Festival usually takes place on the 3rd weekend of November and is one of the most popular and merriest holidays of Thailand North-Eastern part. The festival begins with a huge elephant march column procession (around 120-150 elephants) and is continued with a major and sightly performance giving the possibility to set the true value to mastership and qualification of the riders, as well as talents of the animals.

December 5His Majesty the King’s Birthday

In advance of the celebration, on December 3rd, a marvellous ceremony takes place on Royal Plaza square in Bangkok. During this ceremony elite troops of the Royal Armed Forces solemnly confirm their loyalty oath to His Majesty the King. On December 5th celebration is held throughout the Kingdom. On this day all of the official buildings are being decorated with colorful illuminations.

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Within the last few years the so called wedding tourism in South-Eastern Asia is becoming more and more popular. Thanks to that a wedding is not more a plain marriage ceremony but it converts into a not-to-forget and bright life event which one would like to revise every year. According to the leading international tourism magazine Travel & Leisure Thailand has become the prizewinner in a tourism nomination The World Best Wedding Destination 2011 as a part of the World’s Best Awards arranged by the periodical.

Unforgettably fabulous nature, zesty local customs, exotic cuisine, lily-white sandbeaches, azure-coloured sea and idyllical surroundings of the hideaway Thai resorts contribute into CORUS ASIA arranging of incredible wedding ceremonies. We are able to offer our customers both gorgeous holiday in accordance with local traditions, or romantic

evening in West-European style in a remote resort where a young family may begin its coupledom in the atmosphere of romance and love.

Not less exciting and unforgettable may be a wedding tour throughout Thailand which is rich in hundreds of calm and tranquil places where a couple is able not only to enjoy the society of each other but also to taste exotic fruit, watch picturesque and extravagant nature, and sink into the atmosphere of a festive relaxation. In the meantime, Thailand stands not only for quiet and oasitic resorts but also for noisy city nightlife where gayety rules and numerous clubs and discotheques are at tourists’ disposal. In this country of contrasts each customer is able to find the appropriate rhytm for spending their best days of life, and CORUS ASIA personnel can help in this matter arranging a wedding or wedding tours at top level.

4.3. WEDDING TOURISM

Thailand has gained a good name in the world also in health and fitness service area. At present every tourist attending Thailand obtains an opportunity to both have a rest and be subjected to a diagnostic study by means of the state-of-the-art medical equipment in such world-known international Thai hospitals as Bumrungrad International Hospital, identify root cause of the diseases and undergo a course of treatment applying the most actual Western medicine achievements, and hereditary methodology of Oriental curing.

According to Tourism Authority of Thailand (ТАТ) Thai government is doing its best for the Kingdom to occupy the leading position among Asia countries in health tourism sphere and by the year 2014 to be considered a world-class health resort.

Together with diagnostic check plastic surgery is one of the most important health tourism directions in Thailand. This is resulted from relatively low prices, tried-and-true operation technique, and high qualification of the specialists, as well as favourable climate enabling fast rehabilitation after plastic surgery procedures.

CORUS ASIA offers its customers health and fitness tours comprising service in country hospitals and medical centres of the highest professional level. Such tours provide a possibility to both have a full-featured rest and recuperate health for prices measurably lower than those around the world.

4.4. HEALTH AND FITNESS TOURS

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What does SPA stand for? The SPA (spa) concept has been known from the Ancient Rome times already and is derived from Latin Sаnitas pro Aqua meaning Health via Water, or water treatment. Nowadays a spa means a resort with maximum opportunities for both physical and spiritual recovery and rehabilitation. Thailand, with its unbracing medium, well-known Thai massage, and highly qualified spa-centres is considered to be one of the leaders in spa-tourism area.

According to Apichai Jearadisak, Federation of Thai Spa Associations expert’s assessment, to date more than 400 spa-centres of premium-class are functioning in Thailand, including such worldwide known ones as Deravana Spa in Dusit, Chiva-Som in Hua Hin, and Six Senses Spa. Moreover, nearly all hotels in Thailand propose their customers spa services.

Naturally, it is very complicated for a profane to choose among this variety exactly what he needs (particularly because Thailand amazes not only with the number of spa-centres but also with a diversity of spa procedures). But this does not affect CORUS ASIA customers as each tourist addressing our company can count on a professional consulting conducted by experts who assist in spa procedures choice, as well as on booking of these in the best spa-centres of the country.

4.5. SPA TOURS

Thailand is considered to be a heavenly place for sports tourism since long as this country provides opportunities for everyone to go in for their favourite kind of sport, or try themselves in a new one. Sports tourism in Thailand is first of all represented by aquatics: diving, kite surfing, surfing, yachting, rafting, etc. Also overlander sport fans will have stuff to do, this is for example rock-climbing, tennis, or golf, especially in respect that since 2003 tennis and golf world championship are being held in Thailand.

It is worth mentioning that golf has been played in Thailand for already more than 100 years. Back in 1905 the first golf club has been established in the

Bangkok Kingdom. Currently there are more than 200 golf fields in Thailand the majority of which fully complies with international standards. In the year 2010 Thailand has won the premier award of International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO) as the best-valued golf experience destination.

Taking into account such opportunities provided by Thailand CORUS ASIA can only help tourists in choosing an optimal tour prioritising a preferable kind of sport and make sure that every day of vacations in Thailand bring exclusively favourable impressions.

4.6. SPORTS TOURISM

Objective factor existing in our social life makes educational tours more and more high-demand trend making it possible to obtain prestige education, improve qualification, or merely acquire new knowledge. Convenient mode of combining rest and knowledge obtaining affects Thailand tourist flow annual growth with the tourists wishing to not only lounge on lily-white sandbeaches, and enjoy incredible exotic nature, but also to get a Thai university diploma. The more so, as Thailand high school education level is nowadays comparable to that of leading universities of Europe, Australia and America, and diplomas received in Thailand are recognized in all corners of the globe.

According to Western agencies’ ratings one of the best and most perspective universities in Oriental and South-East Asia countries is

Assumption University of Thailand. In contrast to similar American, English and Australian universities Assumption University has initially been established as international high school, and for this reason enrollment of prospective students and socialization of newcomers are devoted special attention as for them English is not a native language, and English and American morale are completely inorganic.

Quickly responding to the increasing popularity of educational travel trend CORUS ASIA provides educational tours, within the bounds of which tourists may combine rest, excursions and tutorials. Moreover, CORUS ASIA operators are able to arrange a tour aiming to provide English language studying in schools and courses for language, or studying at TOEFL and IELTS exam training centre.

4.7. EDUCATION TOURS

« Thailand, with its unbracing medium, well-known Thai massage, and highly qualified spa-centres is considered to be one of the leaders in spa-tourism area

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The peculiarity of expo tourism and business travel lies in the fact that in the process of new partner search for further business development and participation in expositions and conferences business tourists gain an opportunity for an informal socialization in a casual atmosphere facilitating buildup of business contacts.

Thailand is located on crossing air and sea

passenger and trade routes which is rather convenient for making business with all ASEAN countries. Annually plenty of various expositions and festivals are held here, as there are eight exhibition and convention centres in the country (total floor area of more than 200 sq. m. thous.), and another similar centre with a floor area of 10,5 sq. m. thous. is to be opened in the year 2012.

4.8. EXPO TOURISM AND BUSINESS TRAVEL

Title Location Total floor area (sq. m. thous.)

Number of halls

IMPACT Arena, Exhibition and Convention Center Bangkok 137 13

Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre (BITEC) Bangkok 36 6

Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) Bangkok 13 971 2

THAILAND MAJOR EXHIBITION AND CONVENTION CENTRES

The atmosphere of the Kingdom favours conclusion of tight business relationship, and premium-class hotels are distinguished not only with a top-level service but also with cost-saving accomodation. This all makes Thailand an ideal destination for making various mutually beneficial bargains. That’s the reason why according to Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) data the Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibition industry (MICE) is growing in Thailand by 20% annually upon average.

CORUS ASIA assists business tourists in selection an appropriate option of a convenient and cost-saving accomodation, provides transfers as well as guide or translator accompanying who will help to establish sustainable relationship with new foreign partners throughout the country. At customer’s pleasure the company’s operators are capable to select a tour combining both business meetings and seashore rest, or excursions to the most picturesque destinations of the Kingdom.

4.9. CORPORATE TOURISM Recently corporate tourism has been allocated a separate travel industry segment which possesses its own distinctive features and nuances. Employees of a company having a common rest gain an opportunity to see each other in an unusual and relaxing atmosphere, to find compromises and best solutions in disputable questions, and to surely recreate physically and mentally.

Thailand, with its fabulously picturesque nature,

numerous opportunities and hospitable native people is a best destination for corporate tours. That is why the part of corporate travel in tourism industry is steadily increasing from year to year.

The main difference between corporate tourism and individual travels lies in the thoroughly planned organization. If a company personnel is merely taken to a rest, checked in into a hotel and provide wide latitude, all the employees would gather together in the airport only. During the rest they would split up into separate affinity groups with the cast of these groups being the same as it is in the office. The main purpose of corporate tourism is to break stable groups and create a single close-knit working team. To achieve this it is insufficient to arrange common excursion tours. Every single day of the rest shall be planned in detail for all the activities to contribute to solidating the team.

CORUS ASIA has several times successfully accepted teams from Russia and Ukraine that have not only enjoyed their reserved vacations on fine Thai beaches, and got acquainted with exciting ancient culture of the Land of Smiles, but also held their conference meetings and workshops in the Kingdom of Thailand.

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Recently the number of tourists who, for one or another reason, do not want to buy travel agencies’ designed tours and prefer to not only develop their own sightseeing tours, but also deal with organizational problems, have been increasing. The reason is that, firstly, many people consider such holidays more cost-efficient, and secondly, designed tours are felt by many tourists boring and trivial.

It should be noted that both organized and individual tourism modes have their own advantages. Organized travel involves a guided tour within a standard or mixed route designed by a travel agency, with the host country to undertake minimizing of the risks associated with the stay of tourists in Thailand. Custom private tours are the solution to all organizational stages of the travel, starting with the hotel booking, and ending with solving everyday problems directly in Thailand (where to buy food, what sightseeings to visit and how to get there, how to communicate with the local people, etc.).

Especially for private travel fans who do not want to be bound to a certain tour but set value on convenience and comfort CORUS ASIA has designed an offer thanks to which the company’s customers are able to combine all advantages of private and pre-organized travel. The core of this offer is that CORUS ASIA operators are undertaking all complexity of organizational issue handling leaving a tourist full freedom to choose both place and type of rest, and seightseeing tours.

Tourists are offered accomodation – comfortable houses and villas from economy to VIP class located in picturesque destinations, far from city fuss and tourist crowds accumulation. All houses and villas under proposal are managed by CORUS ASIA. That is, our customers are offered not standard hotel rooms where one must keep to certain residence rules but an analogue of homelike mini-hotel where everything is arranged for each of the customers’ convenience and comfort.

Company’s operators are undertaking handling of all issues connected with a tourist’s stay in a foreign country:

• Assistanceinschedulingoftourist’sstayinThailand,giving advice what sightseeings are the most important to see first;• Consulting in peculiarities of Thai customs andeveryday life;• Arrangementofsecurityguardduringamasseventat customer’s will;• Givingtipsofwheretobuyfoodorbuyingfoodforthe customer;• AssistanceinselectionbetweenThaitraditionalsandarrangement of studying Thai massage, Thai cuisine or Thai boxing, etc.;• Manyotherthings…

In general, our customers are taken unintrusive round-the-clock care, devoted attention and provided security. Moreover, a personal minibus and a driver are given to a tourist’s disposal. The driver is able to bring the customer at any time of day and night to a needed destination at the first demand. At customer’s will the following services are provided as well: personal cook, personal massage therapist, personal guide, personal translator, personal car, etc. Moreover, everyday house or villa cleaning is possible, as well as washing of both bedclothing and tourists’ personal clothes. All of these services are a part of All-inclusive system which is company’s own solution and may be proposed to all customers at their pleasure.

During the last couple of years real estate in Thailand is purchased by more and more foreigners. To date the percent of foreign buyers is about 80% in the most popular resorts of the Kingdom of Thailand. Realty purchase in Thailand enables not only comfortable rest around the whole year but also essential profit earning.

CORUS ASIA encourages all parties in interest, both private or legal entities, purchase real estate in Thailand and set a house or a villa under the authority of CORUS ASIA for the time of owner’s absence in the country. This ensures stable benefit for a dwelling owner not only from the lease but also due to interest from the whole scope of services of the company. That is, practically everyone may become a joint party of CORUS ASIA travel business.

4.10. CUSTOM PRIVATE TOURS

4.11. WELCOMING OFFICIALSWelcoming officials is one of the most popular business meeting kinds that subject to diplomatic etiquette. Official welcoming is of great ceremonial importance and serve to establish, fix and expand business contacts. As a rule, such welcoming is carried out on the occasion of national holidays, anniversary of a remarkable event, in honour of a visiting dignitary or foreign delegation, on account of contract conclusion, or company leadership attending, etc. Official welcoming foresees a little number of guests invited and provide a superb possibility to expand and tighten up business interrelations.

Welcoming authorities surely demands thorough preparation where plenty of peciliarities shall be taken

into account, and experience in handling such events to be involved. CORUS ASIA had a chance to accept officials more than once, including government executives, that is why company personnel is able to arrange official welcoming in a full compliance with diplomatic etiquette.

CORUS ASIA is capable to organize reception of guests on a lux class car at the airstairs, Super Vip Fast track (fast flight check-in and passport control), personal accompanying with security guard or police escort, as well as to provide professional guides who have a good command of the English language (at customer’s will, reception and accompanying may be performed in Thai language), and to environ an honourable guest with hypercare and special attention.

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Thailand and the whole South-East Asia is a rather perspective tourism destination gaining traction and improving service quality from year to year. Why is the Kingdom of Thailand so attractive for travellers?• Well-developed infrastructure (modern hotels,luxurious restaurants, recreation centres, cheap transport, high-quality highways, etc.);• Excellentservice;• Optimalprice-to-qualityratio;• High-level entertainment industry (ridingelephants, Thai massage, spa-centres, different festivals, etc.);• Advancedshoppingandexoticcuisine;• Unlimited capabilities for active rest (diving,deep sea offshore fishing, windsurfing, safari, kayak racing, rafting, etc.);• Vivid tropical nature and unique architectualmemorials.

Without doubt, also favourable economical situation has affected much the development of service to this level. Thailand economy is characterized through high-developed infrastructure, investment encouraging policy and powerful export branches (export amounts more than two thirds of GDP). This is highly influenced by the fact that in the year 2010 GDP growth of Thailand equaled 7,8%. Thanks to this economy of the country has become one of the fastest developing ones among Asiatic countries, and the fastest developing in South-East Asia. In addition to this, GDP indexes (9500000000000 baht, or $584 bln) drew Thailand to the 24th place among global economy. When talking about South-East Asia, the Kingdom of Thailand occupies the honourable second place after Indonesia’s economy, and the fourth place in GDP per person rate (after Singapore, Brunei and Malaysia).

Tailand has credibility among foreign investors and enjoys high confidence among customers. The continual growth of economic indexes of the country contributes to poverty reduction (Thailand bears the lowest poverty level in Asia) and unemployment contraction (in the year 2010 unemployment level amounted 1,2% with estimated drop to 1% in the year 2012).

Despite the fact that tourism industry is not one of the most important income source for the country (composing about 6% of GDP), the government is working hard on enlargement and promotion of this branch. Due to this Thailand tourist flow is constantly

increasing. Notably, that the growth is taking place even in complicated political and climatic situations.

The continual growth of tourist flow is an evidence of Thailand’s increasing popularity among travellers from year to year. This is confirmed by the fact that Thailand was again named the Most Popular Destination, and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) was honoured as the Best Asian Tourism Board by Go Asia, at the International Tourism Exchange (ITB) Berlin 2012.

In the year 2012 TAT is aiming to support tourism as one of the country competitiveness building factors. According to TAT expectations, the economy of Asian countries, including Thailand, shall firm up, and economical results shall escalate to the extent to provide even more active travelling and exploring new advantages of vacations in the Land of Smiles. All the more so as the Ministry of tourism has launched a program Miracle Year Of Amazing Thailand within the context of which a range of various bright events is to be held.

5. ECONOMICAL SITUATION AND TOURISM DEVELOPMENT IN THAILAND

« The economy of the country has become one of the fastest developing ones among Asiatic countries, and the fastest developing in South-East Asia. In addition to this, GDP indexes (9500000000000 baht, or $584 bln) drew Thailand to the 24th place among global economy

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Thailand enjoys great popularity among not only European tourists, but also those from the Near East countries. So, in the year 2011 the number of tourists from these countries grew by 5,95% and amounted 603 227 people.

It is worth to mention that travellers from the Near East are of high purchase power and a relatively long term average stay in Thailand. That is why Thai government is doing its best to smooth Near-East tourists’ stay in Thailand as much as possible. Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and United Arab Emirates citizens enjoy the opportunity to visit the country after receival free 30-days visa in Suvarnabhumi airport, or other major international checkpoints. Saudi Arabia citizens obtain 15-days visa upon arrival.

A rather important factor impacting the growing Thailand’s popularity among Near-East tourists is a step-by-step improving air connection between Thailand and the Near East countries. The year 2012 will present on the market a low-cost Rak Airways from Arab Emirates. The air company is planning to execute four direct flights a week

to Bangkok. Extra flights are being introduced by Etihad Airways and AirBerlin.

As of March 2012 there are 140 direct flights a week between Thailand and the eleven Near East countries serviced by 14 airline agencies: Emirates, Qatar Airways, Gulf Air, Etihad Airways, Kuwait Airways, Oman Air, Iran Air, Royal Jordanian Airlines, Egypt Air, Mahan Air, Turkish Airlines, Bangkok Airways and Thai Airways International.

5.1. GROWTH OF THAI TOURISM SEGMENT IN THE NEAR EAST

Country, city Direct flights per week Air Lines

UAE

Ras al-Khaimah Rak Airways

Abu Dhabi 14 Etihad Airways/Bangkok Airways

Dubai 35 Emirates, Thai Airways

JORDAN

Amman 7 Royal Jordanian Airlines

BAHRAIN

Bahrain 7 Gulf Air/ Thai Airways

KUWAIT

Kuwait 6 Kuwait Airways

OMAN

Muscat 16 Thai Airways, Oman Air

QATAR

Doha 21 Qatar Airways

EGYPT

Cairo 7 Egypt Air/ Thai Airways

SAUDI ARABIA

Riyadh 2 Gulf Air

IRAN

Teheran 11 Mahan Air, Iran Air

IRAQ

Mashhad 1 Mahan Air

TURKEY

Istanbul 13 Turkish Airlines

TOTAL 140 14 Airlines

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The main air gate of the Kingdom of Thailand and one of the largest world airports is Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport. This airport opened in the year 2006 is glorious not only for several dozens of years under construction but also the highest control tower of the world (132,2 m), and the third largest airport terminal in the shape of a separate building (563 sq. m. thous.). Currently Suvarnabhumi Airport is one of the most loaded airports in Asia and the main transit airway junction for such air lines as Thai Airways International, Bangkok Airways, Orient Thai Airlines, PBair and Thai AirAsia.

According to Skytrax World Airport reports international Suvarnabhumi Airport took the tenth place in the list of the best, most comfortable and high-quality airports of the globe. In Airports Council International (ACI) rating the Bangkok airport entered into top 5 best airports of the world in 2011 (in 2008 Suvarnabhumi Airport took 38th place, in 2009 – 16th, in 2010 – 10th). Brilliant results of service quality improvement were impacted by highly critical assessment gained at the time of the airport opening.

Statistical data of ACI depict that from the very beginning the major air gate of Thailand consistently belongs within 20 most loaded airports of the world.

Phuket International Airport is the second important one in Thailand concerning passenger transfer volume. Phuket International Airport possesses two terminals (one for inland, and another for international flights), and plays an essential role in travel industry of the Kingdom. In tourist season Autumn-Winter Phuket airport receives huge quantities of charter flights, and operates regular flights to Australia, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore and Japan. Officially Phuket airport is capable to accept 6,5 mln passengers per year. Though, growing popularity of Phuket as a resort and the continual tourist flow increase urged Thai national company Airports of Thailand take a decision to expand the airport, and by the year 2014 its passenger acceptance capacity will grow up to 12,5 mln of passengers per year.

The major airport of the North provinces of the Kingdom of Thailand is Chiang Mai International Airport. Currently it is the third most loaded airport of the Kingdom accepting more than 3 mln passengers per year. It operates mostly Thailand inland flights (up to 78%) and provides direct connection with three countries only.

On the top of that, there are more than 60 other airports in Thailand, some of them performing not only local, but also international transfers.

5.2 THAILAND MAJOR AIRPORTS

« According to Skytrax World Airport reports international Suvarnabhumi Airport is one of the best of the globe

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No. Airport City ICAO Airport Code IATA Airport Code1 Udorn Ban Mak Khaeng BAO2 Don Muang Bangkok Airport Bangkok VTBD DMK3 Nong Khai Bangkok QJX4 Thai ACC/FIC/COM Centre Bangkok VTBB5 Thai Dept of Civil Aviation Bangkok VTBA6 Buri Ram Buri Ram VTUO BFV7 Airport of Chanthaburi Chanthaburi VTBC8 Chiang Rai City Chiang Rai VTCT9 Chiang Rai International Airport Chiang Rai VTCR CEI10 Bang Phra Chonburi VTBT QHI11 CHUMPHON Chumphon VTSE12 Chumphon Airport Chumphon CJM13 Kamphangsaen Kamphangsaen KDT14 Khon Kaen Khon Kaen VTUK KKC15 Koh Samui Koh Samui Island USM16 Krabi Krabi VTSG KBV17 Lampang Lampang VTCL LPT18 Airport of Lamphun Lamphun VTCO19 Loei Loei VTUL LOE20 Khok Kathiam Lopburi VTBL KKM21 Nikom Sang Ton Eng Lopburi VTBZ22 SA PRAN NAK Lopburi VTBH23 Ban-Thi Lumphun VTCM24 Mae Hong Son Mae Hong Son VTCH HGN25 NDS Mae Sot Airport Mae Sot VTPM MAQ26 Kamphaeng Saen Nakhon Pathom VTBK27 Nakhon Phanom Nakhon Phanom VTUW KOP28 Nakhon Ratchasima Nakhon Ratchasima VTUQ NAK29 Nakhon Sawan Nakhon Sawan VTPN TKH30 Nakhon Si Thammarat Nakhon Si Thammarat VTSF NST31 Nan Nan VTCN NNT32 Narathiwat Narathiwat VTSC NAW33 Patong Beach Patong PBS34 Pattani Pattani VTSK PAN35 Pattaya Pattaya PYX36 Petchabun Airport Phetchabun VTPB PHY37 Phanom Sarakham Phanom Sarakham PMM38 Maruk Phetchaburi VTBM39 Phi Phi Island Phi Phi Island PHZ40 Phitsanulok Phitsanulok VTPP PHS41 Bangpa-In Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya VTBX42 Uthai Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya VTBY43 Phrae Phrae VTCP PRH44 KHAO E TO Prachin Buri VTBI45 Watthana Nakhon Prachin Buri VTBW46 HUA HIN Prachuap Khiri Khan VTPH47 Hua Hin Airport Prachuap Khiri Khan VTBP HHQ48 Ranong Ranong VTSR UNN49 U-Taphao Intl Airport Rayong / Sattahip VTBU UTP50 Rob Muang Roi Et VTUR51 ROI ET Roi Et VTUV52 Roi Et Airport Roi Et ROI53 Sakon Nakhon Sakon Nakhon VTUI SNO54 Airport of Saraburi Saraburi VTBE55 KHOUN KHAN Satun VTSA56 Hat Yai Airport Songkhla VTSS HDY57 Songkhla Songkhla VTSH SGZ58 Sukhothai Sukhothai (Savankolok) VTPO THS59 Surat Thani Surat Thani VTSB URT60 Surin Surin VTUJ PXR61 Khuan Phumiphon Tak VTPY62 Tak New Airport Tak VTPT TKT63 Trang Trang VTST TST64 Airport of Trat Trat VTBV65 Khao Saming Trat VTBO TDX66 Muang Ubon Ubon Ratchathani VTUU UBP67 Udon Thani Udon Thani VTUD UTH68 Uttaradit Uttaradit UTR

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It is worth to mention that one can reach Thailand from nearly all corners of the globe (with both direct and stop-over flight options). Air carriers are represented by local air agencies, as well as major air lines of the world.

Among Thai local air carriers special attention should be paid to national air lines of the Kingdom – Thai Airways International based in Thailand’s major airport Suvarnabhumi. At present Thai Airways is regarded one of the best air lines of the world on a par with such companies as Lufthansa, United Airlines, Air Canada, SAS and leagues the largest airline group Star Alliance. Currently Thai Airways International covers 5 continents and handles 75 directions in 35 countries of the world.

Asia, Australia and Oceania:• Australia(Brisbane,Melbourne,Perth,Sydney)• Bangladesh(Dacca,Chittagong)• China (Beijing, Kunming, Guangzhou,

Shanghai, Chengdu, Xiamen, Hong Kong) • Cambodia(PhnomPenh)• India (Calcutta, Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai,

Bangalore, Hyderabad, Gaya, Varanasi) • Indonesia(Jakarta,Denpasar)• Japan(Osaka,Tokyo,Nagoya,Fukuoka)• Korea(Seoul,Busan),Laos(Vientiane)• Malaysia(KualaLumpur,Penang)• Myanmar(Yangown),Nepal(Katmandu)• NewZealand(Auckland)• Pakistan(Karachi,Lahore,Islamabad)• Philippines(Manila)• Singapore(Singapore)• SriLanka(Colombo)• Taiwan(Taibei)• Vietnam(HoChiMinhCity,Hanoi)

Near East: • Oman(Muscat),• UAE(Dubai),• Kuwait(Kuwait)

North America: • USA(LosAngeles)

Europe: • Denmark(Copenhagen),• England(London),• France(Paris),• Germany(Frankfurt,Munich),• Greece(Athens),• Italy(Rome,Milan),• Russia(Moscow),• Spain(Madrid),• Sweden(Stockholm),• Switzerland(Zurich)

South Africa: • Johannesburg

1 Thai Airways 34 SilkAir 67 Alitalia 2 Lufthansa 35 Asiana Airlines 68 Dragonair 3 Aeroflot 36 Air Asia 69 Biman Bangladesh Airlines 4 Transaero Airlines 37 Philippine Airlines 70 Royal Nepal Airlines 5 Air France 38 Turkish Airlines 71 Gulf Air 6 United 39 Bangkok Airways 72 Iberia 7 Cathay Pacific 40 Hong Kong Airlines 73 JetairFly 8 Austrian Airlines 41 Japan Airlines 74 Royal Jordanian 9 Cebu Pacific 42 ANA 75 PIA

10 Emirates 43 Shanghai Airlines 76 Air Bagan 11 Finnair 44 Swiss 77 Kuwait Airways12 China Airlines 45 Malaysia Airlines 78 TAP 13 Korean Air 46 EVA Air 79 Mihin Lanka 14 EgyptAir 47 British Airways 80 South African Airways 15 Delta 48 Nok Air 81 Royal Brunei 16 Singapore Airlines 49 Air Canada 82 Air Mauritius 17 SAS 50 KLM 83 Air New Zealand18 Qantas 51 Jet Airways 84 Kingfisher 19 China Eastern 52 Hawaiian Airlines 85 Czech Airlines20 SriLankan Airlines 53 Saudi Arabian Airlines 86 Hainan Airlines 21 Air India 54 Batavia Air 87 Virgin Australia 22 China Southern 55 Jetstar 88 Berjaya Air 23 Aerosvit Airlines 56 American Airlines 89 Air Macau24 Garuda Indonesia 57 IranAir 90 Air Madagascar 25 Qatar Airways 58 Oriental Thai Airlines 91 XL Airways France 26 Uzbekistan Airways 59 EL AL Israel Airlines 92 Firefly 27 Ethiopian Airlines 60 Jin Air 93 TUIfly 28 Air China 61 Air Berlin 94 Air Koryo 29 Air Astana 62 IndiGo 95 Lao Airlines30 Vietnam Airlines 63 Air Austral 96 T’way Air 31 Etihad Airways 64 Kenya Airways 97 Jeju Air32 Vladivostok Air 65 Sichuan Airlines

33 Druk Air 66 Oman Air

AIR LINES PERFORMING FLIGHTS TO THAILAND

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Thailand is one the the most friendly and marvellous places of the globe rich in sightseeings and striking with extraordinary cultural traditions. The majority of tourists begin their journey throughout the Kingdom from its capital Bangkok, the City of Angels. But this city, founded in the 18th century, is not just the starting point of the most tourist routes but also a real crown in the jewel. There are around 300 Buddhism temples to visit here, as well as Grand Palace located on Rattanakosin island. The palace complex comprises ancient temples, residence of the king, a shrine and a library. By the way, Bangkok has recently won the 2011 Asian Townscape Award.

Bangkok surroundings are abundant with various sightseeings as well. For example, not far from a small town of Nakhon Pathon one may attend one of the earliest and the highest Buddha monument, or take a walk along the famous monkey bridge on the river Kwai located in Kanchanaburi, or sink into the past and visit the ruines of Ayutthaya, or take a tour to the well-known Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, or simply enjoy colourful tropical nature. Speaking to that point, in Thailand there are about 50 national parks situated throughout the territory of the Kingdom. Waterfalls park, rose garden, marine parks and other national landmarks on the islands are among them.

In a short distance away from Bangkok one of the major Thai resort is located – Pattaya. This tiny town is annually visited by around 5,5 mln of tourists from Europe and Eastern Asia. Almost all seashore of Pattaya is covered by accomplished beaches with numerous comfortable hotel complexes joint to them. In the surroundings of the town several tiger, crocodile and elephant farms are functioning, and various performances with the animals involved are held there.

Pattaya is also known as one of the favourite travel destinations to celebrate Songkran (Thai New Year’s Day held on April 13). According to Bangkok University Research Center statistics Pattaya takes the fourth place among sights-to-visit after such cities as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Silom.

Major directions for journeys are South and North of the country. Sightseeings of the North are bound with the spring of Thai civilization as the first Thai settlements appeared here. In the North there are such interesting and authentic cities to visit like Sukhothai, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, or Mae Hong Son. Chiang Mai is to be described separately as in the recent years it has become a real educational centre for tourists. In the process-specialized classes everybody may take a tutorial in Thai massage, Thai traditional food cooking, Thai boxing, yoga, or meditation. Of late tourists are also offered such educational courses as elephant rider course, Jeweller’s art, or Thai language study.

Southern Thai tourist routes are marked above all with the nearby sea. Major resorts heavily visited by the tourists are located on Samui and Phuket islands. Wonderful lily-white beaches, azure Andaman sea water, lagoons, waterfalls, coconut palms, coral reefs, and toy fisherman hamlets with painted wooden shallops appeal tourists from all over the globe. Here one may undisturbedly lounge on a beach, or take an active rest. Among the most wide-known and well-loved beaches there are Chaweng, Nathon, Lamai, Bophut, Maenam, Taling Ngam, Hua Thanon, Choeng Mon, Big Buddha Beach, Bang Po, Bang Khao, and Lipa Noi.

Some tourists feel fairly cheap and diversed erotic amusements a part of cultural and entertainment sightseeing of Thailand (sex tourism percent in travel services of the Kingdom amounts around 20%).

Thailand is also often visited for the love to shopping – for textiles, finery, and other goods of the kind as this country is famous also for its fine arts. The Kingdom of Thailand is one of the major manufacturers of cotton and silk handiwork, furniture, and embossed woodwork.

Numerous shops located everywhere offer ceramics, painted hand fans, sunshades, caskets, bronze and brass workmanship, Thai puppets, etc. Besides, Thailand is rich in uncostly jewellery made of silver and traditional yellow gold and precious stones (emerald, sardius, sapphire).

5.3. THAILAND TOURISM FEASIBILITIES

« Thailand is one the the most friendly and marvellous places of the globe rich in sightseeings and striking with extraor-dinary cultural traditions

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Based on the results of a recent survey of the tourists having visited Thailand a list of the most impressive resorts and sightseeings of the Kingdom of Thailand has been composed. Top 10 is made up by the next sights and resorts:

Mu Koh Phi Phi Marine National Park (Krabi Province)

At the area of about 387 sq.m. of the Thai main wildlife preservation secluded lagoons with coral reefs, beautiful beaches, mangle forests, and coconut palm groves are spaced. Here various animals of the richest Thai fauna may be encountered.

Koh Tao divers paradise It’s a small island which is not so popular as the well-known resort of Phangan. Although here, on Koh Tao, numerous diving and snorkelling schools are functioning. During the daytime the island is to a great extent deserted, but in the evening mini-parties of full-moon and seafood barbecue dinner are traditional.

Pattaya Beach Tiny fisherman hamlet Hat Pattaya has promptly won the fame of a well-loved sea resort. Gulf fields, zoos, and everything for going in for water sports attract to Pattaya both adults and children.

Alcazar Cabaret Show in Pattaya Really bright and not-to-forget show of lady-boys inevitably rings the bells with the tourists. Striking metamorphosis, extravagant costumes, and marvellous scenery made Alcazar Cabaret one of the most best-selling shows in the world.

Hat Patong Beach (Phuket) Picturesque bay with a long-distance offshore strip receives tourists all the year round and provides hundreds of leisure experiences. The beach best suits for intensive sport training.

Koh Samet A small island located in a short distance from Bangkok appeals tourists with its fabulous landscapes (most of the territory is a wildlife park) and the possibility to simply lounge under the sun, and be shared a legend of the pirate treasures buried on the island.

Mu Koh Similan National Park According to respectful organizations’ data Mu Koh Similan belongs within ten best diving destinations of the world. However, this park is best suitable not only for diving but also for relaxation on white sand virgin beaches.

Chatuchak Weekend Market (Bangkok) 15 thousand of shops visited by 200 thousand of tourists daily and 50% spread compared to Bangkok trading centres prices makes this market the most desirable place for shopping tours.

Ao Maya Bay (Krabi Province) This cosy cove surrounded from its three sides by 100 meter high cliffs gained popularity after The Beach movie had been shot in Ao Maya Bay with Leonardo DiCaprio in the lead role.

Chom Thian Beach (Pattaya) This resort area in the suburbs of Pattaya foremost attracts tourists by its more quiet seaside than that at Pattaya’s main beach. However, the range of active rest opportunities is not poorer by any means.

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Thailand hotels are considered to belong to the best world’s ones. There are both luxury hotels of the premium class rated several dozens of thousands baht per night, and rooms at lowlier prices that cost only 800-1500 baht per night. Notably, that a difference in price does not have any impact on service quality. According to the results of Hotel Price Index research in 2010 the average hotel room price in Thailand amounts 2,9 M baht. Due to this fact Bangkok belongs within a group of cities of the world offering best prices for 5-star hotel rooms, on level with Prague, Budapest, and Berlin.

Despite positive dynamics of tourist flow growth

in the Kingdom of Thailand (with annual increase equaling 7,5% for the period 2005-2010) thorough examination of statistical data shows that duration of stay of the foreign tourists, especially prosperous ones, has distictly shortened. According to expert opinion the reasons of well-to-do foreigners runoff from the Kingdom lie in ‘suspiciously low’ prices which frightens away the travellers used to high-quality journeys throughout Europe, USA, Australia

and Japan. Whereas low Thai hotel room rates are the consequence of unregulated increase of hotel number and total undercutting in a fight for tourists.

In accordance with Thai Hotel Association in the year 2011, in spite of existing hotel oversupply, only Bangkok was planning to launch 2 282 new hotel rooms. Experts are convinced that Thailand has to urgently change from mere hotel number increasement to construction of outstanding and iconic mega projects. Currently, pursuant to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand information, there are 6 057 registered hotels functioning with total room amount of 285 923, including the 329 logged hotels of Bangkok. Whereby occupancy rate of Thai hotels in the year 2011 did not exceed 60%, after Thai Hotel Association data.

A range of Thai hotels belong within major international hotel chains, like Mariott, Best Western, Hilton, Sheraton, Swissotel, Renaissance, etc. Thuswise, for instance, the thirteenth hotel of the Best Western hotel chain has been opened some time ago in one of the most popular Bangkok streets, Sukhumvit Road, called Bangkok Hiptique Hotel; worldwide known Hilton hotel chain has branched out the fourth chain hotel Hilton Pattaya. Obviously, Thai hotel market is widely represented by Thai local chains such as Dusit and Amari yielding to none of the global brands in service quality and luxury.

Unfortunately, nowadays Thailand hotels do not subject to a single hotel quality assessment tool, that is why star-rating of each single hotel is rather relative. Nevertheless, Thai governance devotes special attention to the Kingdom’s hotel classification. In 2004 Thai Hotel Association cooperative with the Ministry of Tourism of Thailand developed a single freewill classification system Thailand Hotel Standart close to the European standards as much as possible. Certainly, not all hotels of the Kingdom apply Thailand Hotel Standart as an additional evidence of service quality, however 200 hotels of the country have already confirmed their high-qualified service by obtaining single hotel standard certificate.

5.4. THAILAND HOTELS

Hotel rating: L (Deluxe), F (first), S (superior), M (medium), B (budget)

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Understanding the importance of tourism industry growth the governance of the Kingdom together with Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) have developed the National Tourism Development Plan for 2012-2016 which was approved and accepted at the Cabinet of Ministers meeting on February 15th, 2011.

The main purpose of the development plan includes Thailand’s promotion in global rating of tourism trends, upgrading of the infrastructure and increasing of travel industry income (by min 5% within the next five years). To bring this plan to life Thai government is projecting to allot 6,65 bln baht (about $220 mln). The plan comprises five strategies at once thanks to which Thailand will be able to strengthen its competitiveness and cost-effectiveness of tourism in general.

The first strategy stands for development and improvement of infrastructure and logistics throughout the Kingdom both for internal and international tourism.

The second strategy provides reconstruction of the existing sightseeings in Thailand, as well as improving of a range of norms and rules that will attract more tourists to the country.

The third strategy stipulates launch of new products and services, as well as increasing of investment opportunities for foreign funding. Therewith a key role will be given to human resourse development.

The fourth strategy of the designed plan addresses enhancement of international public image of Thailand and promoting the Kingdom as one of the best and most perspective destinations both for vacation or work.

The fifth strategy, at last, foresees a close cooperation between public and private sectors, as well as all local organizations practising tourism to provide service quality and comfort upturn.

It is worth mentioning that current situation in tourism industry of Thailand is rather optimistic and perspective. According to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports of Thailand report the tourist flow to the Land of Smiles is constantly growing (by average 7,5% per year). Tourism income has also increased by 11,9% during the period of 2005-2010 (from 367 400 000 000 baht in the year 2005 to almost 586 000 000 000 baht in the year 2010). Thailand profit resulting from the travel industry is coming mostly from Europe, then East Asia, ASEAN, South America, South Asia, Near East and Africa.

5.5. NATIONAL OBJECTIVES OF THAILAND TOURISM INDUSTRY GROWTH

Smooth tropical climate, picturesque nature, huge number of sightseeings, ideal price-to-quality ratio and easy lifestyle are the most essential reasons for many people to not only be willing to have vacations in the Land of Smiles but also invest in it. Some people feel Thailand an excellent opportunity to combine rest and profitable investment, the others are attracted by the fact that the same things are much more affordable here than in other countries matching them in comfort and quality. Someone else considers real estate purchase in Thailand solely from the point of view of further earning capacity expecting to gain permanent income from leasing.

In any case Thailand is a paradise making possible not only careless relaxation but also profitable investments. Moreover, from the point of view of investment risks the Kingdom of Thailand is one of the most forecasted countries of the world. All of the

Thai cities are permanently developing, and novelties are reaching places located faraway from the capital. This favours economical climate coursing stability, upgrading of manufacturing, growth of employment, and strengthening of reliability in general. During its long history Thailand has proved many times that despite of all political or natural catastrophes its economy always restores. Those observing development of the Land of Smiles from the short distance can assure that future of Thailand and its travel industry in particular is exceptionally optimistic.

In case you got interested in this exciting country and you would like to be in progress along with it, CORUS ASIA may become your reliable partner eager to represent all Thailand benefits to you with great pleasure. Cooperation with CORUS ASIA is a guarantee for your business stability and auspicious vacations for your customers.

6. CONCLUSION

« The main purpose of the development plan includes Thailand’s promotion in global rating of tourism trends, upgrad-ing of the infrastructure and increasing of travel industry income (by min 5% within the next five years)