Latest news with #PacificPrime
Dublin Live
16-05-2025
- Dublin Live
Beautiful country 'better' than Thailand that's cheaper and has less tourists
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info Some holidaymakers reckon there's a country that could be "better" for tourists than Thailand, despite receiving significantly fewer visitors. Thailand is a favourite hotspot for Irish tourists, often the first choice for backpackers and those seeking a journey filled with culture and natural splendour. Yet, other Asian countries boasting beautiful beaches, friendly locals and exciting activities are said to be potentially more rewarding. The Philippines, also nestled in South East Asia, comprises over 7,000 islands offering breathtaking coastal views, top-rated hiking and nature experiences, and much more for tourists, not to mention lower food costs than Thailand, as per Travel Authentic Asia. Travel insurance providers Pacific Prime report that the Philippines welcomes fewer than 10 million tourists each year, a figure overshadowed by Thailand's 40 million. With Thailand often perceived as pricier, holidaymakers are turning to the Philippines as an alternative to the well-trodden Asian destination. Drawing comparisons between Thailand and the Philippines can be challenging given their distinct cultural identities. However, many tourists are drawn to these nations for similar reasons, including their beaches, seaside resorts, forests, wildlife, and nightlife, reports the Express. One blogger, Island Hopping the Philippines, expressed her preference for the Philippines over Thailand, where she lived for several years, stating: "The Philippines has 7,000 beach paradise islands. It just never stops. You could pick some random corner of the country and bask the remainder of your life in paradise." Other travellers shared their reasons for why the Philippines surpasses Thailand as the top destination in South East Asia. A Tripadvisor user noted: "Filipinos are arguably friendlier than Thais and overall (with the exception of Boracay and sometimes El Nido and Panglao Island/Bohol Island - Alona Beach) Philippines is far less crowded and touristy than visitor-heavy Thailand." Another commentator added: "Beaches are better in the Philippines than in Thailand, and it's not just Boracay." YouTube creator Fonsi Abroad praised the Philippines' numerous beaches featuring crystal-clear waters and white sand, saying they will "blow your mind". Similarly, YouTube creator couple Jumping Places agreed that the Philippines' beaches are superior. On the other hand, some argue that Thailand is better equipped to accommodate tourists, with more developed infrastructure and easier transportation options on the mainland, allowing for travel by car, bus, and train. In contrast, the Philippines' island geography requires more air travel. Zipping between these islands can certainly tally up the travel costs, and Travel Authentic Asia reckons certain spots in Thailand might just offer you more bang for your buck when it comes to digs. For Brits on the lookout for a shorter haul, Thailand's within easier reach with flights zooming from London to Bangkok in roughly 11 hours and 40 minutes. Compare that to the schlep to Manila in the Philippines, which clocks in at almost 16 hours. The Philippines is a serious draw for those who are all about sandy stretches, lush greenery, and monumental mountains. White Beach has folks raving as the Philippines' premier hotspot; Tripadvisor buffs call it an "island paradise". Don't miss out on the Philippines' other stunners like El Nido Beach, Kayangan Lake, Puerto Princesa Underground River, Big Lagoon and Chocolate Hills Natural Monument. If you land yourself in Manila, the Philippine capital, you're spoilt for choice with tourist hotspots, chock-a-block with gems like the Instramuros historic district, Fort Santiago, Rizal Park, and the National Museum. Join our Dublin Live breaking news service on WhatsApp. Click this link to receive your daily dose of Dublin Live content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice . For all the latest news from Dublin and surrounding areas visit our homepage.
Daily Record
15-05-2025
- Daily Record
Holiday destination is 'better' than Thailand with friendlier locals and crystal clear waters
Another Asian country is made up of more than 7,000 islands and, like Thailand, it has beautiful beaches, friendly locals and plenty of things to do There's a country that some holidaymakers reckon is "better" for tourists than Thailand, despite receiving significantly fewer visitors. Thailand is a top choice for Brits, particularly backpackers and those seeking a cultural and nature-filled trip. However, other Asian countries offer stunning beaches, friendly locals and exciting activities that might be even more worthwhile. The Philippines, also in South East Asia, comprises over 7,000 islands boasting breathtaking coastal views, highly-rated hikes and nature experiences, and plenty more for tourists to enjoy. Plus, it offers cheaper food prices than Thailand, according to Travel Authentic Asia. As per travel insurance providers Pacific Prime, the Philippines welcomes under 10 million tourists annually, a figure dwarfed by Thailand's 40 million. With Thailand often considered pricier, tourists are turning to the Philippines as an alternative Asian holiday destination. Comparing Thailand to the Philippines can be challenging as both are culturally unique. However, many tourists visit these countries for similar reasons, such as their beaches, seaside resorts, forests, wildlife and nightlife, reports the Express. One blogger who is an avid traveller in the Philippines, and goes by the moniker Island Hopping the Philippines online, stated that after years of living in Thailand, they find the Philippines "so much better". They expressed their admiration for the archipelago, saying: "The Philippines has 7,000 beach paradise islands. It just never stops. You could pick some random corner of the country and bask the remainder of your life in paradise." Travel enthusiasts are weighing in on the debate over whether the Philippines or Thailand takes the crown as the leading Southeast Asian destination. Sharing their experiences on TripAdvisor, one user highlighted the friendliness of Filipino hospitality: "Filipinos are arguably friendlier than Thais and overall (with the exception of Boracay and sometimes El Nido and Panglao Island/Bohol Island - Alona Beach) Philippines is far less crowded and touristy than visitor-heavy Thailand." Commenting on the allure of seaside locations, another traveller remarked: "Beaches are better in the Philippines than in Thailand, and it's not just Boracay." Adding to the conversation on YouTube, Fonsi Abroad praised the pristine beaches of the Philippines, noting that its beaches with crystal clear waters and white sand will "blow your mind". Likewise, a duo that runs the Jumping Places channel on YouTube echoed this sentiment, asserting the superior quality of Philippine beaches. Despite the Philippines' praise, there remains support for Thailand's travel experience. Advocates for Thailand underscore its well-established tourist infrastructure and mainland geography, which simplifies travel by car, bus, or train, unlike the Philippines where more flying is necessary due to its scattered island composition. While island-hopping in the Philippines can be pricey, Travel Authentic Asia suggests that parts of Thailand often provide more affordable accommodation options. For British travellers, Thailand is also more accessible, with flights from London to Bangkok taking approximately 11 hours and 40 minutes, compared to nearly 16 hours to reach Manila, the Filipino capital. Nature enthusiasts flock to the Philippines for its stunning beaches, forests, and mountains. The top-rated attraction, White Beach, is hailed as an "island paradise" by Tripadvisor reviewers. Other must-visit spots include El Nido Beach, Kayangan Lake, Puerto Princesa Underground River, Big Lagoon, and the Chocolate Hills Natural Monument. Manila, the capital city, offers a diverse range of activities for tourists, including exploring the historic Instramuros district, visiting Fort Santiago, strolling through Rizal Park, and discovering the National Museum.
Business Wire
07-05-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Pacific Prime Thailand Wins AXA Thailand's Top International Broker Award 2025
BANGKOK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--In a strong display of commitment to its global insurer partners, Pacific Prime Thailand, a leading international health insurance broker, was awarded the Top International Broker Award from AXA Thailand on April 28th, 2025. The award was presented to Mr. Ricky Batten, General Manager of Pacific Prime Thailand, and Mr. Pierre Morin, Global Head of Sales. The ceremony took place at the 'Dare to Dream' AXA Awards 2025 held by AXA Thailand on April 28th, 2025, at the Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong Hotel, with Mr. Guillaume Mirabaud, CEO of AXA Thailand, attending and presenting the awards. Mr. Ricky Batten, General Manager of Pacific Prime Thailand, expressed his gratitude: 'On behalf of Pacific Prime Thailand, I would like to express my sincerest thanks to AXA Thailand for this prestigious award. It is a testament to the value that Pacific Prime can deliver to our partners, like AXA Thailand, as well as our global clients. It shows what our team's dedication could bring in assisting our clients to navigate the insurance landscape. Thank you, AXA Thailand, for this recognition and the long-standing trust you have for us. We hope this award is only a milestone in an even longer and more fruitful journey to come.' Mr. Batten also extended special thanks to the leadership of AXA Thailand, including Mr. Guillaume Mirabaud, CEO of AXA Thailand; Ms. Sally O'Hara, CEO of Southeast Asia & Korea; Mr. Jarut Sukkhawadee, Chief Distribution Officer; Mr. Antoine Brune, Chief Health Officer; and Ms. Hatainan (Pam) Kiatfuengfoo, Chief Distribution Officer. About AXA Thailand: AXA is a global insurance and financial services company operating in over 60 countries. With a focus on innovation and customer-centricity, AXA offers a comprehensive range of insurance, investment, and asset management solutions to individual and business clients. With a strong commitment to sustainability and responsible investment practices, AXA serves millions of customers worldwide, providing them with personalized advice and support through its extensive network of professionals, agents, and partners. For more information, visit About Pacific Prime Established in 2000, Pacific Prime is an award-winning global insurance brokerage and employee benefits specialist that offers individual and corporate insurance solutions. With a USD $ 750 million premium under management, Pacific Prime is now the third largest employee benefits broker in the Asia Pacific. The brokerage has over 1,000 employees and 15 offices worldwide, including Hong Kong, Singapore, China, Thailand, Malaysia, the UAE, Indonesia, the UK, the US, Mexico, the Philippines, and Australia. To learn more about Pacific Prime, please visit:
Business Wire
06-05-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Pacific Prime Dubai Awarded Bupa Global's SME Retention Award
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Pacific Prime Dubai, a leader in international health insurance and employee benefits solutions, is proud to announce that it has been honored with the esteemed "SME Retention Award" from Bupa Global. The award presentation took place during a ceremony held at Pacific Prime Dubai's office on April 29, 2025. We are truly honored to receive the SME Retention Award from Bupa Global. This achievement reflects our unwavering commitment to putting clients first and going the extra mile for their benefit. Share This accolade reflects the exceptional retention results achieved through the collaborative efforts between Bupa Global and Pacific Prime over the past year. The partnership has emphasized a shared vision of delivering outstanding service and tailored health insurance solutions to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across the region. Nicholas Lester, Head of Commercial Distribution & Client Management, UAE at Bupa Global, expressed his enthusiasm during the award presentation: ' Bupa Global is very pleased to present Pacific Prime with our 'SME Retention Award.' This recognition is testament to the incredible retention results Bupa Global has achieved in partnership with Pacific Prime over the past 12 months, and it highlights the years of collaboration and shared vision that we've enjoyed together. ' David Hayes, CEO for the Middle East & Africa at Pacific Prime, expressed gratitude for this significant recognition: 'We are truly honored to receive the SME Retention Award from Bupa Global. This achievement reflects our unwavering commitment to putting clients first and going the extra mile for their benefit, and high retention rates speak volumes about the trust and satisfaction of our clients. We have been very fortunate to have a partner in Bupa Global who shares this vision. Together, we will continue to ensure our clients receive unparalleled service and support.' About Bupa Global Bupa Global is a leading international health insurance provider, serving 38 million customers worldwide. With operations in 190 countries, Bupa Global is dedicated to delivering high-quality health insurance solutions that cater to the diverse needs of individuals and businesses alike. Bupa Global offers lifetime renewal, and its commitment to customer care and support is complemented by its extensive global network of healthcare providers and a large direct billing network, making it a trusted name for health insurance across the globe. To learn more about Bupa Global, please visit: About Pacific Prime Established in 2000, Pacific Prime is an award-winning global insurance brokerage and employee benefits specialist that offers individual and corporate insurance solutions. With USD $1 billion in premium under management, Pacific Prime is now the third largest employee benefits broker and the leading flexible benefits solutions provider in the Asia Pacific after acquiring CXA Group's brokerage arms in 2021. The brokerage has over 1,000 employees and 15 offices worldwide, including Hong Kong, Singapore, China, Thailand, Malaysia, the UAE, Indonesia, the UK, the US, Mexico, the Philippines, and Australia. To learn more about Pacific Prime, please visit:
Business Wire
29-04-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Pacific Prime Wins Servicing Broker of the Year Award from AXCO
LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Global insurance brokerage Pacific Prime has been honored with the 'Servicing Broker of the Year Award' at the prestigious AXCO Global Insurance Awards 2025 by AXCO Insurance Information Services at the Hilton London Bankside Hotel on April 24th, 2025. The event brought together over 300 leading professionals from the global insurance industry to celebrate outstanding achievements and collaboration across the insurance ecosystem. Selected from a highly competitive field of international firms, this award recognizes Pacific Prime's outstanding commitment to service excellence across employee benefits and international health insurance solutions worldwide. This marks Pacific Prime's first win at the AXCO Awards — a significant milestone that underscores the company's leadership in managing complex global risks through cutting-edge technology and client-centric services. AXCO presented the award to Neil Raymond, Founder and CEO of Pacific Prime, in recognition of the brokerage's client-centric approach, innovation in servicing solutions, and global reach that continues to set new industry benchmarks. Neil Raymond, Founder and CEO of Pacific Prime, expressed his gratitude: "It is a tremendous honor to be recognized as Servicing Broker of the Year by AXCO. This award is a testament to the relentless dedication of our global team, who strives every day to simplify insurance and deliver exceptional value to our clients. Winning such a prestigious award highlights the strength of our partnerships, the trust of our clients, and the innovative spirit that drives Pacific Prime forward. I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who made this achievement possible. We are inspired to continue raising the bar for service excellence worldwide." About AXCO: AXCO is the leading supplier of global insurance market information with over 55 years of experience in researching and publishing industry intelligence on insurance and employee benefits. Its unique business model and methods of research have enabled the development of an extensive suite of products comprising in-depth reports, focused profiles, Q&A databases, intelligent questioning tools, and email services, which are delivered to every corner of the globe. To learn more about AXCO, please visit: About Pacific Prime Established in 2000, Pacific Prime is an award-winning global insurance brokerage and employee benefits specialist that offers individual and corporate insurance solutions. With USD $1 billion premium under management, Pacific Prime is now the third largest employee benefits broker and the leading flexible benefits solutions provider in the Asia Pacific after acquiring CXA Group's brokerage arms in 2021. The brokerage has over 1,000 employees and 15 offices worldwide, including Hong Kong, Singapore, China, Thailand, Malaysia, UAE, Indonesia, the UK, the US, Mexico, the Philippines, and Australia.
