Launch of biofuel vehicles in Thailand
Posted in Attractions,General,Government,Guide,News June 2, 2009The launch of new biofuel vehicles in Thailand by general motors corp. this year, offers incentives to cut reliance on gasoline. The Thai government also offered incentives, including lower excise taxes for biofuel vehicles. Earlier Volvo Thailand was launched in December, the first flexible fuel vehicle that can run on a range of alternative fuels including E85, providing an option for those who want to go green and cut their fuel costs.
David J. Tulauskas, director of public policy for GM Asia Pacific, said that these biofuel vehicles will be able to run on E85 fuel, a blend of 85 percent ethanol with gasoline, or E20 fuel which contains 20 percent ethanol. This E20 fuel is 20 percent cheaper than regular gasoline, while E85 is 40 percent lower. He said that good response is expected, when the vehicles are launched in Thailand, and he declined to give further details.
The Thai government is promoting its ethanol industry, which can be made from crops such as sugar cane and corn. Compared to gasoline, the E85 fuel emits up to 70 percent less greenhouse gas that is blamed for global warming and can reduce oil demand by as much as 30 percent, officials said. Ethanol has the biggest potential to displace petroleum in the next decade” as it is widely available and can be made cheaply.
Comments 0Le Meridien Expands in Thailand
Posted in Attractions,Business,Destinations,General,Guide,Hotels,News,Tips,Tourist June 2, 2009Le Meridien has unveiled three new hotels and resorts in Thailand, Le Meridien Bangkok, Le Méridien Chiang Rai Resort and Le Méridien Chiang Mai. These three new Le Méridien properties highlights the significant development of the brand in Asia Pacific, which further expand the brand’s growing portfolio in northern Thailand. All three properties offer a culturally rich environment combined with superior service designed to inspire the creative guest.
“Le Méridien is proud to broaden its reach in Asia Pacific with the addition of these three stunning properties. The core of the arrival experience centers around custom artwork created through LM100, a group of design experts who help determine unique amenities for the chain. Here guests can enjoy a unique experience that combines contemporary European refinement with distinct Asian influences. Going through the hotel entrances with the more than 40 different works of art provided by six very different emerging artists, installed in diverse locations across the globe, is a unique experience,” said Eva Ziegler, Global Brand Leader.
It is a project that takes permanent contemporary art pieces to various unexpected locations and makes guest discover a new perspective of the arts, architecture, design, and cuisine at each of its destinations around the world. All three new Le Meridien hotels will feature Le Meridien’s newly introduced Arrival Experience for guests. Le Méridien Bangkok features latest recipe, an all day dining concept, and Bamboo Chic, a contemporary Asian fusion concept, a spa by Le Méridien with seven circular treatment rooms, and a fully-equipped fitness center and outdoor pool.
Le Méridien Chiang Rai resort offers 159 spacious and contemporary guest-rooms and suites, featuring expansive private balconies, the resort offers an extensive Pavarti Spa, three world-class restaurants, a state-of-the-art gym and outdoor swimming pool. Last one that is Le Méridien Chiang Mai. This newly constructed hotel features two restaurants, a modern health club, a multi-sensory spa and an outdoor swimming pool with panoramic views of Chiang Mai.
