A delegation from the Tourism Authority of Thailand came to Bournemouth University on 12 March to discuss developing a partnership with our School of Tourism.

The Thai party included Manit Boonchim, the Executive Director of the Planning Department.

Professor Dimitrios Buhalis from the School of Tourism said: “This is a great opportunity for cooperation between Bournemouth University and the Tourism Authority of Thailand. We look forward to the benefits this will bring to our students and academics as we develop this partnership in the future.”

Bournemouth University academics will deliver courses, seminars and conference based on our world-leading research from the School of Tourism. Our students will also have the opportunity to travel to Thailand to work on placements, gaining valuable experience and knowledge that will help boost their careers.

The visit to BU finished with a chance for the delegation of seven from the Tourism Authority to meet with students from Thailand who study at BU.

In the future students from Thailand will work on research at BU on tourism in Thailand, using their knowledge of their home country as a base.

The delegation also heard about BU’s involvement with the National Coastal Tourism Academy and there are plans that a similar academy may be set up in Thailand modelled on this.

Professor Buhalis added: “The visit was a great success and we were very flattered that The Tourism Authority of Thailand travelled to England exclusively to see BU as they recognise us as a global leader in tourism marketing and management.

“We are very pleased to be developing our links in a country known for the quality of its education system, as well as its stunning tourism attractions and friendly people. This partnership will benefit both BU and Thailand going forward.”