Asian University has just hosted a group of twenty six students and two lecturers from Curtin University, Perth, Australia. The students, all studying business or associated subjects have enjoyed a short "Asian Experience" in Thailand. They came to Asian University on Wednesday 25 June, after spending a few days in Bangkok, stopping on the way for a visit to Laem Chabang Port to see how that operates. The same afternoon they visited Nong Nooch Gardens and then went elephant riding in Bang Saray. In the evening, they arrived at Asian university, and, after checking into the dormitory, they were hosted by a group of faculty members for a welcome dinner, followed by a Bai Si ceremony. The Thai staff explained the symbolism of the string tied around their wrists to welcome and bless the visitors.
Early the next morning some of the students went to a temple in Baan Amphur to give food to the monks. Then it was back for breakfast and a morning lecture by the University President, Dr Viphandh Roengpithya on Management through the understanding of Buddhist and other Oriental philosophies. The afternoon included a visit to AAT on the eastern Seaboard, and a chance to see a modern manufacturing plant. Back at the University again, the visitors had a go at Thai boxing (two of the students were already leaning about Muay Thai in Australia so were very interested in seeing it in its home country) and after this enjoyed dinner with the Asian University students. The Thai students put on a show "My Thailand" to help the Australian group understand the Thais a little better. The Curtin students had kindly brought along some Australian wine, which was enjoyed by all.
Friday morning was a lecture on cross cultural behaviour, with contributions from faculty members and Dr Vip. After lunch they group were taken to The Bangkok Hospital, Pattaya. Here they were hosted by Neil Maniquiz who gave an interesting presentation about the hospital, its customers, and the influences of expats and tourism. One of the newest members of the hospital's marketing team is an Asian University graduate, Khun Nan, so the visitors from Perth were able to talk with her about her post graduation experiences. A few of the students even stayed at the hospital to have their teeth whitened.
Then it was off to the Amari Hotel for a tour, and dinner followed by a couple of free hours to explore Walking Street and a few of the famous sites of Pattaya.
Saturday was the last day with Asian University. After breakfast it was off to the beach and Koh Larn. The visitors took advantage of the weather, and swam and relaxed on the beach. After such a full few days, the students reluctantly left the island, and boarded the bus to return to Bangkok. Several of the students felt that they had not had enough time and will definitely try to return to Thailand. 
Asian University staff are now busy preparing for the annual international Summer University which commences on 4 August, and already has participants booked from ten different countries.
