Skål, the association of tourism professionals, held its
regular monthly meeting at the lovely new resort and hotel, The Rim perched
on the north side of the moat with uniquely Lanna architecture and a serene
feel despite its location in the heart of the city.
Talk, of course, centered on the numbers for Loy Krathong
with one hotel GM stating that his hotel was fully booked over the Loy
Krathong period. Hopes are high for a good season, as the weather seems to
be holding out, if a bit warm.
The dinner was al fresco, on the patio of the hotel’s
restaurant, The Rim, and the hotel’s general manager, Naichanok Kraison
insisted that everyone call her by her nickname of Jan. “It’s a difficult
name to pronounce,” she laughed. Koji, the new owner of the Glass Onion was
on hand as was newcomer to Chiang Mai J. Christian Wurzel Sotelo-Suarez of
International Wine Supply of Spain, a collection of small wine producers;
they are looking to expand their market to Thailand and Chiang Mai.
Tim McGuire of the Playhouse was on hand to remind
everyone of their upcoming major events, including Christmas Carols in the
20th of December and a show by popular Thai singer Khun Nadda Viyakarn on
December 19.
The usual toast was held, if a bit belatedly as everyone
was keen to try the new restaurant out and was led by Skål Director Marc
Dumur who drives from Chiang Rai every month for the meetings. Reminders
were made to all to remember December’s grand Skål party to be held at the
Mandarin Oriental Dhara Devi on December 16, 1000 baht for what promises to
be an amazing dinner with lobster and more.
