New unit as Intrepid enlarges local presence

The firm established a presence in Thailand two years ago, assisting foreign travellers in the Kingdom who were originally handled by branch offices outside of Thailand.

Since being formed in Australia in 1988, Intrepid has opened offices on several continents.

The new business unit in its Thai office will actively seek customers interested in short one- to three-day excursions in Bangkok and upcountry.

It will also offer outbound international trips. Domestic tours will cost Bt24,000 to Bt45,000, all of them under the theme of "Real-Life Experience".

General manager Carl Needham said the expansion cost Bt6 million.

To build awareness of the new services, the company has earmarked Bt3 million for marketing and advertising, including ads in expat-oriented periodicals, coordinating with local chambers of commerce and arranging roadshows on university campuses.

The company expects the expansion to help raise revenue 20 per cent from last year's Bt15 million.

Needham said the ongoing economic slowdown was not a major concern, because the company feels confident about its unique travel services and programmes. Above all, he believes people still want to relax via travel.