AIHM’s hospitality management students enjoy internships in some of the world’s most exclusive hotels and innovative resorts. On the AIHM Higher blog, we’ve shared internship stories from the Maldives and student experiences in the United Arab Emirates. Today, we turn our attention closer to home. Read on to discover what our students learned on their internships in Thailand.
All students in our bachelor’s degree programme enjoy two separate internships during the course of their studies. Internships are an essential part of the AIHM experience, allowing students to explore career options, gain real industry experience and build valuable professional connections in Thailand and beyond. Typically, our BBA students complete one internship in Bangkok during their first year of study and their second internship in a destination of their choice near the completion of their degree.
Being based in one of the world’s most vibrant hospitality markets, AIHM is able to open the doors to some of the globe’s most valuable hotel internship opportunities. Thailand’s hotels and resorts consistently rank amongst the world’s best, and the nation is a hotbed of hospitality innovation. We believe it’s arguably the best country in the world to study hospitality. Thailand is renowned for its exceptionally high standards of hospitality and customer service and its passion for creativity in the experience economy.
Those seeking to become the hospitality leaders of tomorrow benefit from studying and experiencing the industry in the country that in many ways is defining the hospitality business’s future. On top of being a renowned hospitality market, it’s also one of the world’s most diverse. From mature island destinations attracting millions of visitors each year to remote islands, mountain retreats, jungle sanctuaries, heritage sites, historic cities and the global metropolis of Bangkok, Thailand offers a wealth of destinations and successful hospitality businesses catering to all market segments.
Samantha Lauver-Marion, AIHM’s Head of Student Engagement, talks with a few of our current BBA students below to learn more about their internships in Thailand.
AN INTERNSHIP ON A THAI ISLAND HIDEAWAY
What is your name? And in which hotel and department are you doing your internship?
My name is Angad Jesu Nazareth, and I am currently doing my internship at Six Senses Yao Noi in the Front Office and Food & Beverage departments.
How did you approach the beginning stages of your internship?
These internships are a great way to get hands-on training. The Practical Arts semester at AIHM prepared us with the necessary skills, and I wanted to use them during my internship. But I also wanted to learn as much as possible during my internship at Six Senses, especially how they deliver their version of luxury hospitality and service.
During the initial week of my internship, I spent my time observing and making notes to ensure I had an understanding of the property and the operational procedures. This ensured I had sufficient knowledge to perform my assigned duties and effectively engage with guests.
What was the biggest challenge to overcome when relocating to a new city?
My biggest challenge was adapting to a new way of life, moving from a big city like Bangkok to the small island of Koh Yao Noi. It was pretty hard at first, but as time passed, I found stuff to do — from going to the gym to reading, meditating and even exploring the island and its restaurants with some of my colleagues at the resort.
I am in my fourth month on this island, and I must say it has turned out to be an unexpectedly exciting journey.
What is the best part of your job?
The best part of my job is the opportunity to work with a brand and company with an ethos and vision I align with. I have previously stayed at other Six Senses properties and love their luxury hospitality approach. I like that they focus on providing guest experiences which are fun and quirky. But also that they are sustainable and provide the luxury of reconnecting with the world around us, as stated in the Six Senses Vision.
For me, the best part is the chance to really learn what genuine hospitality is, as “Emotional Hospitality” is at the core of the Six Senses ethos. The views from the Yao Noi property are exceptional, and seeing that every day when I go to work is amazing.
What advice do you have for future students who would like to complete an internship in a remote destination in Thailand like you?
I won’t deny that moving to a remote location for an extended period is challenging. But my advice is to create a routine for yourself and find small hobbies you can do — exercising, reading, drawing and exploring the area around the resort. Find something you enjoy to pass your free time, which will help take your mind off being in a remote location. You must learn to keep yourself engaged.
What were your goals when you began your internship, and how are you progressing on them?
During my internship, my main goals were to boost my confidence in guest interactions and absorb as much knowledge about the operational processes as possible. I’m thrilled to say that I’ve made considerable progress in both areas. Engaging with guests is now easier. I’ve gained valuable insights into the guest journey, from check-in procedures to ensuring a pleasant stay for guests and facilitating smooth check-outs.
What is the most important thing you have learnt during this internship?
The most important thing I have learned is that hospitality must be genuine, as it is basically an act of generosity. It should not be forced because it is easy to tell when it is forced. Each situation you face in this industry should be treated as its own, not following a set of steps or comparing it to a previous encounter with a different guest.
One important thing I learned at Six Senses is that hospitality should always have empathy, as “emotional hospitality” is one of their brand values. I hope to use and incorporate “emotional hospitality” wherever I am working in the future.
A HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT INTERNSHIP SELLING AN ISLAND DREAM
What is your name and in which hotel and department are you doing your internship?
My name is Pattaranan Thongthep – you can call me 'Ice'. I'm currently a management intern at JW Marriott Phuket Resort and Spa. Previously, I was in the Sales & Marketing department for three months. Now, I'm working in the Human Resources department for the rest of my internship.
How do you feel about your internship? What has the experience been like overall?
My internship experience has exceeded expectations!
I have had such great opportunities to work in different departments and gain experience in what successful management looks like in a real workplace environment.
What have you learned? And what kind of support or guidance have you received from the property?
By working as a Sales Management Intern for three months, I obtained new interpersonal skills to negotiate with clients and strategically plan the process of group events to ensure the achievement of expected outcomes, and most importantly, guests' satisfaction.
Supporting the HR Team in the current phase of my internship has been extraordinary as well. I’m gaining a lot of incredible connections since collaboration with other associates is the main priority of our department.
Overall, I feel extremely grateful to be part of the JW Marriott Phuket team. The resort’s associates and guests come from diverse cultural backgrounds. Everyone on the team has their own personalities and aspirations but still makes sure to be supportive of their colleagues to reach the common objectives, which I think is the core benefit of working here.
What do usually do when you are free or have a day off?
Since Phuket is my hometown, I find myself enjoying the time where I can relax and get lost in my hobbies, or go to the beach which is my all-time favorite place here!
AN INTERNSHIP AT AN ICONIC BANGKOK ADDRESS
What is your name? And in which hotel and department are you doing your internship?
My name is Win Myatt Myatt Pho – or “Bea”. Currently, I’m doing my internship at Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel as a Front Office Trainee.
How do you feel about your internship? What has the experience been like overall?
It has been a nerve-wracking yet exciting journey for me. As I handle real-life guest interactions, my confidence grows, and I learn valuable skills in communication, problem-solving, and time management.
I am also very grateful to my colleagues as they’re always so supportive, which enhances the overall experience and creates a positive work environment.
What have you learned? And what kind of support or guidance have you received from the property?
My internship as a front office trainee has provided me with invaluable knowledge and skills. I have improved my customer service skills, developed a keen eye for detail, and learnt the complexities of check-in and check-out procedures.
The property has also provided me with such amazing support and guidance. All my colleagues and superiors have generously shared their assistance and mentorship whenever needed. My professional development and preparation for a successful career in the hospitality industry have been greatly aided by their guidance.
What do usually do when you are free or have a day off?
On my days off, I like to set off on foodie adventures. Bangkok is a culinary paradise!
Hospitality Internships for AIHM Students
Want to see more student internship experiences?
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Are you a hotel, resort or hospitality brand interested in partnering with AIHM to offer internship opportunities?
AIHM attracts and trains the most promising future leaders of the hotel industry. Collaborating with AIHM puts you in touch with the rising stars of Asia’s hospitality industry, the young professionals who will lead the industry as tomorrow’s managers and innovators.
Please contact Samantha-Lauver Marion at Samantha.Marion@aihm.education to discuss internship possibilities. We’d love to hear from you!
