Raising up the River of Kings

At this year’s 7th annual Thailand Tourism Forum (TTF) hosted by the American Chamber of Commerce Thailand and C9 Hotelworks Hospitality Consulting Group at InterContinental Hotel, Bangkok in January. Hotel professionals gathered to look ahead at what’s in store for Thailand’s fast expanding ‘megacity’, bringing in the industry’s biggest names and leading Thai conglomerates to share their insight.

Jon Nielson, Executive Director, Portfolio Management at Country Group Development joined a panel discussion titled ‘Thailand Hotel Leaders – Chao Phraya River Hotels and Tourism – A Giant Evolves’. With an impressive background in the international hospitality industry, Mr. Nielson brings over 25 years of experience in the hospitality sector to Country Group Development. In his current role, he is in charge of asset management and strategic support for the company’s portfolio of internationally branded hotels and residences.

Other directors and leaders from Horwath HTL, Minor Hotel Group, Minor International PCL and ICONSIAM joined the panel to discuss the importance of the river for the top 5-star hospitality names in Bangkok as well as the city’s future development trends.

With Bangkok repeatedly chosen as one of the world’s most visited cities, often beating out places like London and Paris to claim the top spot, all the experts agreed that the expansion of branded luxury offerings is crucial to the cities continued success and future growth

New additions such as Four Seasons Hotel & Private Residences Bangkok at Chao Phraya River and Capella Bangkok will enhance and elevate the city to become one of the world’s most sought-after luxury destinations for business and leisure.