With over 25 years across Asia’s most recognised hotel brands, Thanatouch Kaiwannon shares his vision for the future of hospitality — and why Thailand sees strong potential in the Turkish traveller market.
- Could you please introduce yourself in Tourism and Hotel Industry?
My name is Thanatouch Kaiwannon (Paul), and I currently serve as the General Manager of Prince Palace Hotel Bangkok.
I have over 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry, having worked with both international and leading Thai hotel brands across various segments including city hotels, MICE hotels, leisure destinations, and lifestyle hospitality. Throughout my career, I have held leadership positions in operations, sales and marketing, business development, and hotel management.
My professional journey has included renowned properties such as Hard Rock Pattaya, Amari, Novotel, Pullman King Power, Lebua, Grande Centre Point Terminal 21, Berkeley Pratunam, and Grand China Hotel Bangkok, before joining Prince Palace Hotel Bangkok in 2026.
Beyond hotel operations, I am also passionate about hospitality education and leadership development, and currently contribute as a lecturer in MBA hospitality programs in Thailand.
- What are your thoughts about the future of hotel industry in Thailand, Asia, and globally? Also, what are the new trends in hospitality sector in Asia?
I believe the future of the hospitality industry remains very positive, particularly in Asia, which continues to be one of the fastest-growing tourism regions in the world.
Thailand remains a globally attractive destination due to its unique combination of hospitality culture, cuisine, wellness, affordability, and strong tourism infrastructure. However, the industry is evolving rapidly, and hotels must adapt beyond traditional accommodation models.
Several major trends are shaping the future of hospitality in Asia:
- Experience-driven travel
Guests today seek meaningful experiences, local culture, authenticity, and emotional connections rather than simply a place to stay. - MICE and Bleisure Growth
The combination of business and leisure travel continues to expand strongly across Asia, especially in destinations like Bangkok, Singapore, and Dubai. - Wellness & Sustainable Hospitality
Travelers are becoming more conscious about wellness, environmental responsibility, and sustainable operations. Green initiatives are no longer optional — they are becoming part of guest expectations. - Technology & AI Integration
Digital transformation, AI-powered personalization, smart guest services, and data-driven decision-making will play increasingly important roles in hotel operations and guest engagement. - Human Connection Remains Essential
Despite technological advancement, genuine service and emotional hospitality will remain the heart of the industry. Technology can support service, but it cannot replace authentic human care.
I believe hotels that can successfully balance technology, sustainability, and heartfelt hospitality will become the leaders of the next generation.
- Could you please shortly tell us about Prince Palace Hotel?
Prince Palace Hotel Bangkok is one of Bangkok’s iconic large-scale hotels, strategically located in the historical district of Bangkok with convenient access to both business and cultural attractions.
The hotel features 744 guest rooms and suites, extensive meeting and convention facilities, multiple restaurants, wellness facilities, and panoramic city views. Our MICE facilities can accommodate large international conferences, events, and corporate gatherings, making the hotel one of the key convention hotels in Bangkok.
What makes Prince Palace unique is the combination of:
- Large-scale facilities
- Resort-style atmosphere in the middle of Bangkok
- Strong value proposition
- Rich local heritage surrounding the property
- Warm Thai hospitality
Currently, we are also focusing on organizational transformation under the vision:
“To be the most preferred hotel in the heart of Bangkok for innovative MICE customers and all travelers.”
This reflects our commitment to modernization, service excellence, and sustainable long-term growth.
- Why do guests prefer Prince Palace Hotel? What are your important markets in the world and Europe? How is the Turkish market?
Guests choose Prince Palace Hotel Bangkok for several reasons:
- Spacious rooms and facilities
- Excellent value for money
- Large meeting and event spaces
- Convenient location connecting old and modern Bangkok
- Family-friendly and group-friendly environment
- Strong service culture
Our key international markets include:
- Europe
- Middle East
- India
- China
- Southeast Asia
- Corporate and MICE travelers globally
Within Europe, we continue to see positive growth from markets such as Germany, France, Eastern Europe, and the UK.
Regarding the Turkish market, we see strong future potential due to the increasing connectivity between Türkiye and Thailand, as well as growing interest in leisure, shopping, wellness, and cultural tourism. Turkish travelers are generally sophisticated travelers who appreciate service quality, comfort, and authentic experiences, which aligns well with Thailand’s hospitality strengths.
We believe there are excellent opportunities for deeper tourism collaboration between Thailand and Türkiye in the coming years.
- What is the percentage of online bookings via internet for your hotel compared to traditional distribution channels?
The hospitality industry today is increasingly driven by digital distribution channels. At present, approximately 55–65% of hotel bookings are generated through online channels, including OTAs, direct website bookings, and digital platforms, while the remaining percentage continues to come from traditional segments such as corporate contracts, travel agents, wholesalers, MICE business, and long-stay partnerships.
However, one important strategy for hotels today is not simply increasing OTA business, but balancing distribution channels effectively while strengthening direct booking channels and customer loyalty.
At Prince Palace Hotel, we continue to focus on:
- Digital marketing enhancement
- SEO and online visibility
- Guest engagement
- Direct booking strategy
- Long-term relationship building with corporate and travel partners
We believe the future success of hotels will depend on having a strong omni-channel distribution strategy supported by excellent guest experiences.
Interview conducted by Suat Tore.