Opening of the first five-star resort signals growing fortunes for the ill-discovered island.

The economic capabilities of Thailand have shown glimpses of strength in the past twenty years. Even though periods of political and economic peace have brought the nation moments of prosperity, Thailand has faced many struggles, resulting in periods of stagnation in the economy.

When the world’s athletes leave Rio de Janeiro after Sunday’s closing ceremony, the economic games begin: How to convert billions of dollars spent on tracks, pools, pitches and routes around the Olympic village into urban regeneration?

On the face of it, this might not seem the right time to be investing in Turkey.