Bangkok travel: Airbnb’s ultimate creative guide revealed

Airbnb has rolled out its inaugural city guide, Airbnb Creative Guide to Bangkok, shedding light on the capital’s creative hubs, diverse neighbourhoods, and local influencers.

Aligned with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration’s (BMA) mission to foster creative tourism and amplify Thailand’s soft power on the global stage, this guide is a collaborative effort, drawing insights from prominent Thai tastemakers and revered Airbnb Superhosts. It spotlights four distinct neighbourhoods: Talat Noi, Wang Doem, Talat Phlu, and Kudi Chin, each brimming with its unique charm and allure.

From the captivating allure of street art to the tantalising aromas of local markets, from the architectural marvels to the culinary delights, Airbnb’s Creative Guide to Bangkok promises an exhilarating journey through the city’s creative pulse. Available in English, Chinese, and Thai, this guide is set to captivate audiences across the Asia-Pacific region, igniting wanderlust and excitement, especially in anticipation of the upcoming Songkran festivities.

Fresh data from Airbnb unveils Thailand’s soaring popularity as the top destination in Southeast Asia among global guests in 2023. With a remarkable surge in bookings, Thailand continues to enchant travellers worldwide, with the United States leading the pack of origin countries. Bangkok, the bustling capital, remains a perennial favourite amongst international and domestic guests, reaffirming its status as a global hotspot for cultural immersion.

Noteworthy is the surge in travellers from China and India, two pivotal markets for Thailand’s tourism sector. The recent winter season witnessed Thailand topping the list of outbound search destinations for Airbnb guests from China, whilst searches by Indian guests for the upcoming Holi and Easter weekends soared to unprecedented heights.

At the launch event, Bangkok Deputy Governor Sanon Wangsrangboon expressed excitement over Airbnb’s spotlight on the city’s hidden gems, particularly ahead of the festive fervour of Songkran. Emphasising Bangkok’s rich cultural tapestry and the diversity of its communities, Sanon hailed Airbnb’s initiative as a gateway to unlock the city’s treasures.

Tourism boost

Amanpreet Bajaj, Airbnb’s General Manager for Southeast Asia, India, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, echoed these sentiments, underscoring Airbnb’s commitment to fostering immersive travel experiences.

From the historic quarters to the bustling markets and cultural enclaves, Bajaj envisioned the guide as a conduit for travellers to delve deeper into Bangkok’s essence, aligning seamlessly with the government’s vision for sustainable tourism growth, reported The Nation.

The launch event also featured a thought-provoking panel discussion, bringing together leading voices from Bangkok’s creative and tourism spheres, alongside representatives from the BMA and UNESCO.

Amidst engaging exchanges, panellists highlighted Bangkok’s evolving creative landscape and the resurgence of lesser-known neighbourhoods, envisioning a future where creativity catalyzes urban revitalisation.