Swing Into Action
Golf helps to seal business deals and often leads to friendships off the course. But the global recession has been hard on the golf industry in Thailand, as it traditionally has relied on foreign tourists for much of its revenue. What strategies can Thai courses use when many tourists are cutting back on their expenditures? Eric Baker writes.
Vunsadej Thavarasukha believes Thai courses should promote the aspects that make them unique, and he is optimistic about the economic prospects for golf.
“Golf in Thailand is different from other countries,” states Vunsadej, deputy governor for domestic marketing at the Tourism Authority of Thailand. “In many foreign countries everyone uses a golf cart, but here you are required to use a caddy. And you can use two or three if you like: one to hold an umbrella, another to clean your ball, and another to help you read the line on your ball. You can stop every two or three holes to rest. You can use the clubhouse for entertainment. You see, golf is about relaxation here. It is not just a game or a sport.”
