Asia's 'Amazing' race

THAI is the top choice for business travellers.

Asia's 'Amazing' race

Thai Airways has edged out Singapore Airlines (SIA) as the top choice for business travellers in the AsiaPacific region, according to a study released last week.

During the last 12 months, 14 per cent of those queried picked Thai Airways over 13 per cent of the respondents who selected SIA, said the MasterCard travel index.

Cathay Pacific tied with SIA for second place.

Nearly 5,400 consumers across 13 AsiaPacific economies participated in the study.

Hong Kong emerged as the most frequently visited destination for business travel, garnering 16.1 per cent. India followed as the second choice with 14.9 per cent, trailed by Thailand at 14.3 per cent. - Deutsche PresseAgentur

Developing the Mekong

There are lots of guidebooks on the bookshelves but few are as culturally aware as the newly published "Guide to Responsible Tourism in Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam". This 148page title explains where and how to enjoy responsible tourism activities in the three countries and suggests 25 activities in various destinations that create income for the locals while preserving heritage and providing meaningful experiences. Pick up a copy online for US$15 (Bt500) at www.Pata.org. Call (02) 658 2000 extension 121.

Vino veritas

Congratulations to Mom's Tri's Boathouse (www.Boathousephuket.com) which, for the third year running, has won Wine Spectator Magazine's "Best of Award of Excellence 2008".

"There are only a few of these awards granted in the whole of Southeast Asia," notes the resort manager Louis Bronner. "For our resort and restaurant to have again been designated as a winner for the third consecutive year is excellent news."

"Wine Spectator" is lifestyle magazine with two million readers worldwide.

Mom Tri's Boathouse on Phuket's Kata Beach keeps its wines in perfect condition and offers guests a superb choice at prices ranging from Bt1,200 to Bt300,000 per bottle.

Walking in the 'wild' west

With petrol prices at their peak, walking is a great way of getting around. Kanchanaburi is now beckoning pedestrians to take a walk along its historic Pakprak Road. Constructed in 1831, the strip is where East met West almost 200 years ago and where you can still admire old buildings in Thai, Chinese and Western styles. Adding to architectural wonder are shops selling handmade clothes from Baan Nong Khao and woodcarvings, cultural events and street performers. The street is will be closed to traffic every Friday to Sunday from 4 to 10pm from next month.