Thailand has witnessed a remarkable 30% surge in travel bookings, driven by its exotic allure.
- Accounting for 12% of all bookings, the popularity of Thailand as a travel destination accelerated in January.
- Phuket emerges as the top choice for travellers, followed by vibrant Bangkok, serene Khao Lak, and lush Krabi.
- Multi-centre trips are increasingly favoured, with a 40% rise, as travellers seek immersive experiences.
- Online booking tools have significantly contributed to the growth, enhancing accessibility for travel agents.
The travel industry is witnessing a substantial rise in bookings to Thailand, with an impressive 30% increase year-on-year during the peak booking period. This trend underscores Thailand’s enduring appeal as an exotic and inviting destination for tourists worldwide.
In January alone, Thailand accounted for 12% of all bookings handled by the trade-only specialist, signalling robust demand. The month saw progressive growth, with sales rising dramatically: 23% in the first week, 24% in the second, and a remarkable 36% in the third week, highlighting the escalating interest among travellers.
Phuket, renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, stands out as the most popular resort among travellers. Closely following are the bustling cityscape of Bangkok, the tranquil retreats of Khao Lak, and the scenic splendour of Krabi, each offering unique experiences to visitors.
There is a notable shift towards multi-centre trips, which have become the preferred choice over single or twin-centre bookings. These have grown over 40% compared to the previous year, reflecting holidaymakers’ desire to explore multiple regions within Thailand during their stay.
The implementation and increased utilisation of online booking platforms by agents have amplified this growth. Since the launch of an online booking functionality last year, agents are increasingly leveraging these tools to facilitate and increase their Thailand bookings, thereby ensuring a seamless booking experience and contributing significantly to the overall increase in sales.
Deborah Wadhams, head of long-haul product, posits that Thailand’s vast offerings, from bustling urban centres to serene natural landscapes, make it an irresistible destination. “Not only are customers venturing to different areas across Thailand, but we have also seen they are choosing to spend more on their holiday this peaks than in previous years,” she noted. Such observations underline Thailand’s status as a prime destination in the Far East for diverse demographics, including couples, solo adventurers, and families.
Thailand’s growing allure as a travel destination is unmatched, with diverse attractions driving significant tourist engagement in 2024.
