According to the recently released report, The Global Spa Economy 2007, the international spa economy is estimated to be worth a staggering 5 billion per year, 8 billion of which are directly related to spa services and operations. Suffice to say, the spa industry has grown tremendously in the past several years as demand throughout the world continues to increase. As developers, owners and hoteliers look beyond their own borders in which to invest and operate, it becomes increasingly important to understand the various markets and their implications on specific spa operations. Whether you are making a forray into new markets, or simply trying to market your existing location to a more international audience, the complexities, sensitivities and expectations for spa around the world will vary considerably, and proper attention should be paid to the nuances in order to ensure success.

Starting on October 26, 2008, Thai Airways will launch a new route from Los Angeles (LAX) to Osaka, Japan. With Thai's extended network you can fly anywhere in the world to over 70 cities in 5 continents. This service will be provided 5 days per week - Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday - with one scheduled flight per day. The flight will operate from Los Angeles International Airport to Kasai International Airport in Osaka, Japan and continue to Bangkok and other destinations.

The flight schedule is as follows:
Flight Route Departs Arrives

• TG797 Los Angeles - Osaka 12:10PM 6:00PM(+ 1 day)
• TG797 Osaka - Bangkok 7:10PM 11:40PM
• TG796 Bangkok - Osaka 7:30AM 2:40PM
• TG796 Osaka - Los Angeles 3:50PM 9:15AM