A change of direction

Horizons News - Thursday December 13, 2007

AT LEISURE

A change of direction

YVONNE BOHWONGPRASERT

German expatriate Dr. Paul Strunk feels Thailand should focus on quality tourists to improve its image overseas.

Tourism between Thailand and Germany has been growing in leaps and bounds, but more can be done to attract quality tourists to the Land of Smiles, says Dr. Paul Strunk, executive director of the German-Thai Chamber of Commerce.

"Sex tourism has blemished Thailand's image overseas for years," noted Dr. Strunk, who retires this month. "I believe a concentrated effort should be made by tourism officials to attract quality tourists. Apart from the ongoing roadshows, which have done a fantastic job in improving Thailand's image, further promotions can be done in German shopping malls to showcase Thai tourism products and culture.

"Media familiarisation trips should also be more focussed so a correct image of the country is portrayed abroad. Thailand has so much more to offer tourists than meets the eye. The Kingdom is getting better recognised as a spa destination, with excellent hospital facilities; this marketing strategy has given a great boast to the country's image.

"Prostitution has to be taken seriously. Offering better education to people in rural areas is one way to effectively tackle the problem."

You have resided in Thailand for 28 years, what advice would you offer expatriates?

It takes a couple of years to understand what is going on in the country and how the people function. A newcomer should first of all try to be natural; approach the Thai people in an open way and on an equal footing.

You are living in their country and you are a guest and should behave as such. In this case, you will always be welcome and will enjoy friendship with the Thai people. Learn a little of the Thai language to show them your interest in their language and culture.'

What makes Thailand a popular destination for Germans?

Thailand offers to the German tourist a long, colourful history with many cultural relics in a beautiful countryside. There's a tropical climate - and in northern Thailand maybe even a subtropical climate. There are pleasant breezes during the cool season and blue skies and hot weather during the summer, when one should be close to the seaside. Even the rainy season offers a lot of wet surprises.



Above all, the warmth and friendliness of the Thai people is a real experience. The foreign visitor does not easily find in other countries, and this is why he always comes back.

What are some of the misconceptions Germans have about Thailand?

It is difficult to erase misconceptions. In Thailand, personal relations matter very much. People who know each other enter into a business relationship. It is not common to conduct business with a person one does not know, even if such a person offers a good price and good quality for the product he or she wants to sell.

Thai people are very accurate when it comes to fulfilling the contract and their payment obligations. A Thai debtor will use accuracy and care to properly fulfill his payment obligation. During the financial crisis of 1997/1998, everyone knew that their moneys due had to be paid back, even if it was one or two years later, due to shortage of funds.

What are your plans after retirement?

I do not feel that I am retiring by the end of the year, rather I am changing direction. I will join a German law office and return to what I have been educated in - making contracts and interpreting and applying the law.

Let's now focus on your leisure travel. Tell us something about your vacationing style and favourite holiday spots.

I have always loved to spend the weekend at the seaside in Hua Hin. Twenty years ago, we went to the Sailom Hotel and enjoyed the tran- quility there that is currently disappearing due to an added focus on entertainment. Today musical bands spoil the peace there during the weekend.

Another favourite leisure spot for me is the beautiful bay found in Pattaya, which offers both cool sea breezes and wonderful sunsets. Restaurant facilities are also abundant. Finally, I enjoy visiting Chiang Mai and the Northern region too during the cool season.

Pick 3 of your most memorable travel experiences and tell us why they stand out.

A couple of years ago, I enjoyed travelling to the North with a car full of blankets to distribute in Pai, Mae Hong Son, to locals who were in need of them during the cold season. I very much enjoyed the broad valley in which the small town is situated and the surrounding mountains and rivers.

Outside Thailand, I went trekking twice to the Himalayas via Kathmandu, Pokharla and then with a group of Sherpas and Gurkhas to the Mount Everest Base Camp.

Last but not least was the time I visited Micronesia's mini-state of Palau. It was an extremely exciting sojourn because I got to snorkel in some of the clearest waters that housed numerous reefs.

Could you draw some comparisons between German and Thai cultures?

German and Thai cultures complement each other. The Germans are accurate; see things black and white; are sometimes a bit stubborn and stiff; live according to rules and regulations; prefer substance to form.

The Thais are often the opposite. Often the Thais are described as the Italians of Asia. I think that there is some truth in it, at least when one looks to the (many) positive sides of the Italian culture.

If you wish to contact the writer, email yvonneb@bangkokpost.co.th

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