THE INTERVIEW : GREG MEADOWS
But it takes its toll . When bidding for business a year out , these events are always in the back of people ’ s minds . Companies don ’ t want to bring their business unless they can do a booking with confidence . But we do bounce back , and Thailand is a place people enjoy coming . It is such a reasonably priced destination for the value you get . Rates don ’ t grow here like they do in other capital cities of the world . I sometimes wish I could charge New York City prices , but I can ’ t . That has been a fact of life for years . It is one of those destinations like Kuala Lumpur where it is very difficult to charge for the services you provide . H : Are you worried about oversupply ? GM : There has never been any planning or control over how properties are allowed to open in Bangkok . It is a free-for-all . Practically every brand is represented here now , and hotels also have to compete with serviced apartments , which also let their suites on a nightly basis . That makes it tough , as well .
H : Are Chinese tourists coming to Bangkok yet ?
GM : It is starting . It is a trickle at the moment , but it will grow eventually . Hong Kong and Singapore are reaping the benefits at the moment . A lot more people are traveling here from India .
H : What is the allure of being a hotelier in Asia ?
GM : You are able to do things easier .
Celadon is one of Bangkok ’ s most renowned Thai restaurants .
You don ’ t have to deal with unions or sit around and explain your decisions all the time . The Thais will respect you if they know you are knowledgeable and know your business . Staff can be taught and learn . They will do anything for you as long as there is mutual respect .
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If you want to change service styles the answer is yes . The decision is made in 10 seconds . Elsewhere , they have to go through six unions to get it passed . From that point of view , we are lucky in this part of the world . People have a service mentality , and people want to make people happy .
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www . hotelsmag . com November 2012 HOTELS 35