Key Phuket Tourism Feeder Market Singapore Declines in January

The Island Republic which is an imporant feeder hub of tourist's into Phuket registered a decline of 12.9% for January 2009 verus the same month in January 2007, according to data released by the Singapore Touism Board (STB). The full year annualized forecast for this year has now been downgraded to the 9 million level from just over 10 million arrivals in 2008. Taking a pro active stance on the tourism industry the Government announced a US$58 million dollar stimulous package which will be focused on boosting the industry.
Singapore remains the second most important hub into Phuket, next to Bangkok and has substantial seat capacity with flights by SilkAir, Tiger Airways, and AirAsia. Key for tourist's is the long haul acesss though Singapore Airlines and Tiger's Australian network.
While Thailand is forecasting a downward trend from over 14 million arrivals in 2007 down to 12 milion in 2009, the looking glass into low season for Phuket remains unclear given the shorter booking pattern now experienced by hotels. Most hoteliers questioned said they are unsure of bookings past the end of high season in March/April and are cautious in commenting on a full year forecast.