Why Thailand is Considered a Luxury Tourist Destination
Thailand, a diverse country known internationally for its spicy food and beautiful beaches, has been attracting travellers for decades. Recent figures show that nearly 40 million tourists visit the country every year.
Visitors flock from:
- China
- Japan
- South Korea
- Russia
- Australia
- New Zealand
- United Kingdom
As well as around a million from the United States annually.
Thailand was never colonised by any major European power and used to be called Siam. Although it has cultural influences from some nearby countries, it retains its own distinct personality.
Backpacking or flash hotels?
While some associate Thailand with backpacking, many people choose to take luxury holidays there. Movies such as The Beach lured even more visitors, but just as many to top-class hotels as hostels.
Backpackers normally stick to a low budget, but still get to experience the wonders of Thailand such as:
- White sand beaches
- Trekking through the jungle
- Partying in cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai
However, those seeking more luxury activities will also be spoilt for choice. The following all also on offer:
- Unique spa and wellness treatments
- High-end dining
- River cruises
- Helicopter rides
Some of the world’s best-known luxury brands have a strong presence in the country, particularly in Bangkok.
A luxury destination in South East Asia
Although Europe holds the market share for luxury travel, there is no doubt that South East Asia is catching up.
Thailand has so many islands and untouched spots that attract the luxury traveller. People seek a unique, customised travel experience when going on holiday and Thailand can provide that.
Combining culture, gourmet and nature experiences to build a truly unforgettable escape is easy in Thailand. This is why so many visitors from Australia and New Zealand love it.
The flight time is not as far as the beaches of the Mediterranean, yet the rewards can sometimes be better.
Luxury travellers also come from the UK, US and Germany. The flight times to Thailand aren’t too difficult, and usually, there are stop-overs in destinations such as:
- Abu Dhabi
- Doha
- Qatar
- Singapore
- Kuala Lumpur
Top activities loved by luxury travellers to Thailand
When splurging some money on a foreign holiday, Thailand offers plenty of value. Let’s look at some of the reasons luxury travellers are choosing to spend their money here.
1. Luxury hotels
Some of the world’s most beautiful hotels and resorts are located in Thailand. From living it up in the city, to taking a break at the beach, guests will find regal splendour.
Some examples include:
- Rosewood Phuket is listed as 11th on CNN’s Best Resorts in the World. Free-standing bungalows and endless Andaman views, plus excellent service.
- Anantara Riverside Resort Bangkok. Travel by private boat to this lush resort where you experience total relaxation in one of the world’s busiest cities.
- Somewhere Only We Know. Splash out for a sea view villa in an unspoilt part of Surat Thani with its own private waterfall.
- Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok. Live the high life in this hotel that has graced the riverside for nearly 150 years. Grace and glamour.
2. Casinos
Millions of Aussies and Kiwis love playing casino games online at one of the many reputable providers available in their area, so many will look for a casino on holidays. Although you will find places to play in Bangkok and the other major cities, the biggest casino place is Poipet.
This is a border town with Cambodia and many people travel there to play the tables and slots.
3. Luxury wellness facilities
When planning a visit to Thailand, you must book a Thai massage. Also known as assisted yoga, this strenuous type of body massage is very good for you.
However, there are luxury spas everywhere so you can pick and choose your own selection of treatments. Usually, these are much better priced than visitors’ home countries, so it’s possible to enjoy a few.
At every luxury spa, the therapists are very well-trained and the decor is designed for relaxation. You can book massages on the beach, facials by the pool and experience world-class treatments.
4. Boat charters
To explore the Andaman coast, it’s best to book your own book charter. You could even hire a yacht.
The clear turquoise waters are perfect for snorkelling, so you can drop anchor at a deserted bay to jump in. The private islands are also perfect to arrange a secluded private family or romantic lunch.
While permits are necessary for some private islands, you can sail around a couple in one day.
5. Unexpected dining experiences
Thailand has some of the best street food in the world but it’s also a place to find Michelin-star dining. If you’re looking for top-class eateries, both Bangkok and Phuket have many.
You can also experience the following:
- Treetop dining in Koh Kood. Have your food delivered by waiters on a zipline to your bamboo pod amid the branches.
- Beachfront barbecue for two. Dine amid the candles on the sands, sequestered away from the rest of the world.
- A royal dinner. Book a private dinner in regal surroundings at the palace of the former Prince of Chanthaburi.
6. Adrenaline-seeking activities
If you want your Insta feed full of holiday activities to make people jealous, you could try one of the following:
- Next-level glamping and ethical elephant engagement in Khao Sok
- Helicopter arrival to The Peninsula, Bangkok
- Balloon rides in Chiang Mai, the scenic north of Thailand
- Sunset drinks at the top of Bangkok. The city has many incredible rooftop bars to enjoy cocktails way up high.
Memorable breaks endowed with elegance
Anyone who has ever visited Thailand knows it is more than a beach destination. There is so much to do and see, and it has so much to offer to luxury travellers.
From the heights of luxury in architectural wonders to exclusive pool villas with endless sea views, Thailand has it.
