The JV with Bird Hospitality Services is committed to develop 4- to 5-star hotels, which will provide Dusit the possibility to manage or franchise several hotels in India.

The first three properties, projected to open within the next few years, are in Delhi, Goa and Rishikesh; and the next three by 2013 will be in Pune, Amritsar and Jaipur. The total investment from Bird in 6 hotels is approximately over 200 million US Dollars. The joint venture total investment from BHS and Dusit is 800,000 US Dollars.

Elaborating on the same Ankur Bhatia, Executive Director, Bird Group, said, "The Bird Group has been a forerunner in the travel and tourism industry for almost four decades, with a touch point in every vertical of the industry. Seeing the tremendous demand and the burgeoning growth in this sector, it was only logical for us to step into the hospitality industry. We are delighted to enter into a strategic alliance with Dusit, Thailand's leading and longest established hotel group. Considering that India is witnessing a tremendous boom with inbound travel of 4.43 million in 2006 with a double digit growth forecast year on year till 2020, this partnership comes at the most opportune time. Our main focus will be to provide our customers a world-class experience with professional quality service that blends efficiency and traditional touch."

He further added, "Delhi is already in short supply of business and leisure hotels, which will be further heightened with the advent of the Commonwealth Games in 2010, while in Goa there is a growing demand in leisure (domestic and overseas) segment, and Rishikesh is also witnessing a sharp rise in demand of leisure and MICE segments. "

According to Chanin Donavanik, CEO of Dusit Thani Plc, "We are really excited about this new venture because we know that India is a new market that is ready to be tapped into. It has the right resources, unspoiled natural environment and capable manpower to ensure the healthy growth of its local hospitality industry. We believe that India is ready for newer experiences and cultures from overseas hotel chains. At the same time, Dusit is eager to learn from what India has to offer. It will be a shared experience that's going to be exciting and insightful for both Bird Hospitality and Dusit."

In the 1st phase of its launch (Delhi, Goa & Rishikesh) collectively, the elegant properties will comprise of approximately 500 stylish deluxe rooms and suites. The properties will serve variety of cuisines from Continental, Indian and world cuisines. With state-of-the-art equipped meeting rooms and the latest audio-visual facilities that will make the property an ideal venue for meetings and conferences. Each property will also have a deluxe spa.