Thailand is one of the world’s most exciting and exotic destinations, known for its stunning beaches and tropical island playgrounds, superb cuisine, fascinating temples and warm, friendly people. Tourist arrivals are growing annually, with almost 15 million international visitors in 2007, bringing revenues of 550 billion baht (US$17.3 billion). In 2008, arrivals are projected to hit 15.7 million, an increase of 6 percent, and a rise of a similar size is again predicted for 2009. Over the past five years Thailand’s luxury condominium and villa market has exploded, with high end properties now common at popular beach destinations.