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Bangkok, 17 July 2025 – Digital travel platform Agoda has released its latest insights into inbound travel trends for Thailand during the first half of 2025, showing sustained momentum from regional markets. China, Malaysia, and South Korea ranked as the top three sources of international visitors, followed by Japan and Singapore. The findings coincide with Thailand’s expanded air connectivity and improved travel facilitation under the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025 campaign.

At the destination level, Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket continued to lead as the most visited cities among these top markets. Notably, Hat Yai emerged as a rising destination, particularly for travellers from Malaysia and Singapore. Its affordability and accessibility have contributed to its growing appeal, earning recognition as one of the most budget-friendly cities in Asia for two consecutive years.

Agoda’s data also revealed distinct visitor behaviour by market. While China led in visitor volume, South Korean travellers recorded the longest average stays. They were followed by tourists from Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, and China. Island destinations and quieter locales attracted extended stays, with Ko Tao known for its diving experiences, Ko Pha-ngan for its blend of laid-back beaches and nightlife, and Pathum Thani for a more local atmosphere near Bangkok.

Citing official figures from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, Agoda noted that Thailand welcomed over 16 million international visitors between January and June 2025, generating approximately 743.582 billion baht in tourism revenue. This growth reflects the positive impact of government-led efforts to promote quality tourism through infrastructure upgrades, streamlined visa procedures, and targeted campaigns.

In the press release, Akaporn Rodkong, Country Director at Agoda, stated: “We’re honoured to be the platform of choice for travellers from across Asia and proud to play a role in supporting tourism in Thailand. At Agoda, we’re committed to offering convenient and diverse accommodation options that help travellers explore both well-known destinations and hidden gems across the country, making their trips easier and more memorable.”

According to Agoda, its portal www.agoda.com offers access to over 6 million properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and 300,000 activities with flexible options for micro-adventures or extended stays.

The post Agoda Reveals Top Travel Insights for Thailand in H1 2025 appeared first on TAT Newsroom.

Bangkok, 17 July 2025 – Digital travel platform Agoda has released its latest insights into inbound travel trends for Thailand during the first half of 2025, showing sustained momentum from regional markets. China, Malaysia, and South Korea ranked as the top three sources of international visitors, followed by Japan and Singapore. The findings coincide with Thailand’s expanded air connectivity and improved travel facilitation under the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025 campaign.

At the destination level, Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket continued to lead as the most visited cities among these top markets. Notably, Hat Yai emerged as a rising destination, particularly for travellers from Malaysia and Singapore. Its affordability and accessibility have contributed to its growing appeal, earning recognition as one of the most budget-friendly cities in Asia for two consecutive years.

Agoda’s data also revealed distinct visitor behaviour by market. While China led in visitor volume, South Korean travellers recorded the longest average stays. They were followed by tourists from Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, and China. Island destinations and quieter locales attracted extended stays, with Ko Tao known for its diving experiences, Ko Pha-ngan for its blend of laid-back beaches and nightlife, and Pathum Thani for a more local atmosphere near Bangkok.

Citing official figures from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, Agoda noted that Thailand welcomed over 16 million international visitors between January and June 2025, generating approximately 743.582 billion baht in tourism revenue. This growth reflects the positive impact of government-led efforts to promote quality tourism through infrastructure upgrades, streamlined visa procedures, and targeted campaigns.

In the press release, Akaporn Rodkong, Country Director at Agoda, stated: “We’re honoured to be the platform of choice for travellers from across Asia and proud to play a role in supporting tourism in Thailand. At Agoda, we’re committed to offering convenient and diverse accommodation options that help travellers explore both well-known destinations and hidden gems across the country, making their trips easier and more memorable.”

According to Agoda, its portal www.agoda.com offers access to over 6 million properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and 300,000 activities with flexible options for micro-adventures or extended stays.

The post Agoda Reveals Top Travel Insights for Thailand in H1 2025 appeared first on TAT Newsroom.

Bangkok, 16 July 2025 – Thailand’s commitment to responsible and creative tourism has been recognised on the regional stage, with the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (Public Organization) and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) receiving top honours at the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Gold Awards 2025. These prestigious awards celebrate standout achievements across the Asia Pacific travel industry, raising the bar for innovation, sustainability, and excellence.

DASTA received one of the PATA Gold Awards’ highest honours—the Grand Award for Sustainability & Social Responsibility—for its work on the Ban Na Ton Chan Homestay Community Enterprise, a project that has become a model for community-based cultural heritage preservation. This initiative reflects the strength of long-term engagement and locally rooted sustainability.

DASTA also earned five Gold Awards in the same category, recognising its initiatives in climate action, inclusive tourism, women and youth empowerment, and destination resilience. Each win underscores Thailand’s leadership in developing tourism that uplifts communities while protecting cultural and natural assets.

TAT was recognised with two Gold Awards in the Marketing category, continuing its strong track record of annual wins across a variety of categories. Its “Love Season” initiative was awarded Best Integrated Digital Marketing Campaign (Destination) for its strategic digital outreach and emotive storytelling that encouraged romantic travel in Thailand. The second award, for Best Travel Photography, went to “The Hidden Romance of Sam Roi Yot”, a visual showcase of one of the country’s most serene coastal landscapes.

Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said: “We are deeply honoured to be recognised once again by PATA for our efforts in promoting Thai tourism with creativity and care. Receiving these awards year after year is a meaningful affirmation of our team’s commitment to delivering impactful, engaging campaigns that resonate with travellers. We also extend our warmest congratulations to DASTA for its remarkable achievements in sustainable tourism development. Their continued success brings great pride to Thailand’s tourism sector.”

This recognition follows a string of recent international wins for Thailand, including major accolades in the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards 2025. A growing list of honours celebrating Thai destinations, initiatives, and organisations can be found on the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Awards page.

The PATA Gold Awards 2025 Gala Dinner will take place on 27 August during the PATA Travel Mart 2025 in Bangkok, where all award recipients will be officially recognised. Winning projects will also be exhibited at the Mart, offering delegates from across the region an opportunity to engage with some of Asia Pacific’s most inspiring tourism initiatives.

More information on this year’s winners is available at the official announcement:
PATA Gold Awards 2025

DASTA’s Multi-Award-Winning Sustainable Tourism Initiatives
The Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA) received the Grand Award for Sustainability & Social Responsibility at the PATA Gold Awards 2025, along with five Gold Awards for outstanding projects in climate action, inclusion, women and youth empowerment, and heritage revitalisation—highlighting its leadership in community-based tourism across Thailand.

Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Award-Winning Campaigns
TAT received two Gold Awards at the PATA Gold Awards 2025 for its “Love Season” digital marketing campaign and the travel photo “The Hidden Romance of Sam Roi Yot,” both recognised for creativity and destination storytelling.

The post Thailand Honoured at PATA Gold Awards 2025 for Excellence in Sustainability and Marketing appeared first on TAT Newsroom.

Bangkok, 16 July 2025 – Thailand’s commitment to responsible and creative tourism has been recognised on the regional stage, with the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (Public Organization) and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) receiving top honours at the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Gold Awards 2025. These prestigious awards celebrate standout achievements across the Asia Pacific travel industry, raising the bar for innovation, sustainability, and excellence.

DASTA received one of the PATA Gold Awards’ highest honours—the Grand Award for Sustainability & Social Responsibility—for its work on the Ban Na Ton Chan Homestay Community Enterprise, a project that has become a model for community-based cultural heritage preservation. This initiative reflects the strength of long-term engagement and locally rooted sustainability.

DASTA also earned five Gold Awards in the same category, recognising its initiatives in climate action, inclusive tourism, women and youth empowerment, and destination resilience. Each win underscores Thailand’s leadership in developing tourism that uplifts communities while protecting cultural and natural assets.

TAT was recognised with two Gold Awards in the Marketing category, continuing its strong track record of annual wins across a variety of categories. Its “Love Season” initiative was awarded Best Integrated Digital Marketing Campaign (Destination) for its strategic digital outreach and emotive storytelling that encouraged romantic travel in Thailand. The second award, for Best Travel Photography, went to “The Hidden Romance of Sam Roi Yot”, a visual showcase of one of the country’s most serene coastal landscapes.

Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said: “We are deeply honoured to be recognised once again by PATA for our efforts in promoting Thai tourism with creativity and care. Receiving these awards year after year is a meaningful affirmation of our team’s commitment to delivering impactful, engaging campaigns that resonate with travellers. We also extend our warmest congratulations to DASTA for its remarkable achievements in sustainable tourism development. Their continued success brings great pride to Thailand’s tourism sector.”

This recognition follows a string of recent international wins for Thailand, including major accolades in the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards 2025. A growing list of honours celebrating Thai destinations, initiatives, and organisations can be found on the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Awards page.

The PATA Gold Awards 2025 Gala Dinner will take place on 27 August during the PATA Travel Mart 2025 in Bangkok, where all award recipients will be officially recognised. Winning projects will also be exhibited at the Mart, offering delegates from across the region an opportunity to engage with some of Asia Pacific’s most inspiring tourism initiatives.

More information on this year’s winners is available at the official announcement:
PATA Gold Awards 2025

The post Thailand Honoured at PATA Gold Awards 2025 for Excellence in Sustainability and Marketing appeared first on TAT Newsroom.

Bangkok, 15 July 2025 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) proudly announces that Chiang Mai has been named the No. 1 City in Asia in the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards 2025, with Bangkok also earning top global and regional rankings. Both cities are Hall of Fame honourees, recognised for consistently placing among the world’s best. Chiang Mai also ranked No. 2 globally, reaffirming its status as one of the most beloved destinations worldwide.

Chiang Mai topped Asia’s 15 Best Cities with a Reader Score of 91.94, earning praise for its “super cordial people and amazing food.” Travellers highlighted the city’s ancient temples such as Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, its lively night markets, and its mountain scenery. Ethical elephant encounters were another standout, with one reader calling it “a great place to see the elephants and to feed and wash them.”

Chiang Mai’s dominance in Asia is underscored by its strong global standing—ranking No. 2 in the World’s Top 25 Cities. As a long-time favourite among international travellers, it continues to shine as a cultural and natural treasure.

Thailand’s capital, Bangkok, also a Hall of Fame honouree, received high honours—ranking No. 3 in Asia and No. 4 globally, with a Reader Score of 91.34. Celebrated for its dynamic energy and cultural depth, Bangkok was described as “the most fascinating, beautiful, and exciting city” by one respondent. From world-class cuisine and iconic temples to buzzing street markets and vibrant nightlife, the city continues to offer something for every kind of traveller.

In the Best Islands in Asia category—featuring only the top five—Thailand claimed two spots. Phuket ranked fourth with a Reader Score of 89.47, recognised for its stunning beaches, luxury resorts, and marine activities. Ko Samui followed in fifth place, earning a Reader Score of 89.31, and was praised for its laid-back atmosphere, tropical beauty, and relaxed charm.

Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said: “We are proud that Thailand continues to stand out in travellers’ hearts. Chiang Mai’s top ranking in Asia, along with strong performances by Bangkok, Phuket, and Ko Samui, speaks to the richness and diversity of experiences our country offers.”

The Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards are based on nearly 180,000 reader submissions and more than 657,000 votes. Cities are rated on criteria including sights and landmarks, culture, food, friendliness, shopping, and value—areas where Thailand’s destinations consistently deliver.

Source: Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards 2025

For more on Thailand’s international accolades and ongoing recognition in the global travel scene, visit the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Awards page.

The post Chiang Mai Crowned Best City in Asia by Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards 2025 appeared first on TAT Newsroom.

Bangkok, 15 July 2025 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) proudly announces that Chiang Mai has been named the No. 1 City in Asia in the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards 2025, with Bangkok also earning top global and regional rankings. Both cities are Hall of Fame honourees, recognised for consistently placing among the world’s best. Chiang Mai also ranked No. 2 globally, reaffirming its status as one of the most beloved destinations worldwide.

Chiang Mai topped Asia’s 15 Best Cities with a Reader Score of 91.94, earning praise for its “super cordial people and amazing food.” Travellers highlighted the city’s ancient temples such as Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, its lively night markets, and its mountain scenery. Ethical elephant encounters were another standout, with one reader calling it “a great place to see the elephants and to feed and wash them.”

Chiang Mai’s dominance in Asia is underscored by its strong global standing—ranking No. 2 in the World’s Top 25 Cities. As a long-time favourite among international travellers, it continues to shine as a cultural and natural treasure.

Thailand’s capital, Bangkok, also a Hall of Fame honouree, received high honours—ranking No. 3 in Asia and No. 4 globally, with a Reader Score of 91.34. Celebrated for its dynamic energy and cultural depth, Bangkok was described as “the most fascinating, beautiful, and exciting city” by one respondent. From world-class cuisine and iconic temples to buzzing street markets and vibrant nightlife, the city continues to offer something for every kind of traveller.

In the Best Islands in Asia category—featuring only the top five—Thailand claimed two spots. Phuket ranked fourth with a Reader Score of 89.47, recognised for its stunning beaches, luxury resorts, and marine activities. Ko Samui followed in fifth place, earning a Reader Score of 89.31, and was praised for its laid-back atmosphere, tropical beauty, and relaxed charm.

Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said: “We are proud that Thailand continues to stand out in travellers’ hearts. Chiang Mai’s top ranking in Asia, along with strong performances by Bangkok, Phuket, and Ko Samui, speaks to the richness and diversity of experiences our country offers.”

The Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards are based on nearly 180,000 reader submissions and more than 657,000 votes. Cities are rated on criteria including sights and landmarks, culture, food, friendliness, shopping, and value—areas where Thailand’s destinations consistently deliver.

Source: Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards 2025

For more on Thailand’s international accolades and ongoing recognition in the global travel scene, visit the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Awards page.

The post Chiang Mai Crowned Best City in Asia by Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards 2025 appeared first on TAT Newsroom.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) highlights Phuket OneMap as a digital portal that consolidates these core bus routes. Designed to support both tourists and residents, the platform provides reliable, up-to-date information on routes, timetables, and live bus locations to assist with trip planning.

While a wide range of transportation options are available across Phuket—including tuk-tuks, taxis, app-based ride services, local minibuses, songthaews (shared pick-up trucks), motorbike taxis, car and motorbike rentals, and private charters—Phuket OneMap focuses specifically on six public bus lines operated by local authorities and private entities.

Explore the system at: onemap.phuket.cloud

Phuket Smart Bus

Air-conditioned public buses connecting Phuket International Airport with major beaches and town centres.
Operated by: Phuket City Development Co., Ltd. (PKCD)
Fares: 50–170 Baht per trip (day-pass options available)

Routes & Stops:

• Airport Rawai (08:15–23:30 / 06:45–19:30)
  Key stops: Phuket International Airport, Thalang Public Health Office, Baan Khian, Cherngtalay (Boat Avenue & Laguna), Surin Beach, Kamala (Fantasea & Big C), Patong (Jungceylon), Karon (Circle & Stadium), Kata Palm, Sai Yuan, Rawai Beach
• Patong Phuket Bus Terminal 1 (06:00–21:00 / 06:00–20:00)
  Key stops: Phuket Bus Terminal 1, Chillva Market, Lotus’s Samkong, Andamanda Waterpark, Patong Beach

The Dragon Line

Free electric shuttle serving a circular route through Phuket Old Town.
Operated by: Phuket Province / Smart City Initiative (PKCD-supported)
Service hours: 10:00–21:00
Fare: Free for all users (locals and tourists)

Route & Stops:
Circular loop with 16 designated stops, including: Opposite Limelight, CIMB Bank, Phuket Terminal 1, Royal Phuket City, Pearl Hotel, Kaset Market, Office Mate, Ko-Ang Seafood, Red Plaza, Coffee Talk, Krungthai Bank, Islamic Bank, Phuket Thaihua Museum, Dibuk Road, Wat Mongkolnimit, and returning to Limelight.
Buses run every 15 minutes.

Phuket EV Bus

Modern, electric buses serving city routes between piers, markets, shopping centres, and residential areas.
Operated by: Phuket Provincial Administration Organisation (PPAO)
Fares: 15–40 Baht per trip (free for eligible riders: students in uniform, monks/priests, elderly, persons with disabilities)

Routes & Stops:

• Route 1 – Saphan Hin Central Phuket (05:45–18:00)
  Key stops: Saphan Hin Park, Central Phuket shopping mall
• Route 2 – Chalong Pier Supercheap (Samkong) (05:45–17:30)
  Key stops: Bangkok Hospital Phuket, Chillva Market, Lotus’s Samkong, Andamanda Waterpark, Phuket Bus Terminal
• Route 3 – Rassada Pier Andamanda Phuket Water Park (05:45–18:30)
  Key stops: Rassada Pier, Andamanda Phuket Water Park, Suan Nam neighbourhood

All six routes listed above are integrated into the Phuket OneMap platform for live tracking and trip planning.

Why Use Phuket OneMap?

• Live bus arrival times
• Clear and easy-to-follow route maps
• Access to key beaches, cultural sites, shopping areas, and public piers
• Affordable, air-conditioned, and increasingly electric-powered public options

How to Use Phuket OneMap

1. Visit: onemap.phuket.cloud
2. Select your bus route or service line
3. View real-time bus positions and estimated arrival times
4. Use the map to identify nearest bus stops, transfer points, and landmarks
5. Click for timetable and route details

Tip: No app download needed—just use a mobile browser for full functionality.

Tips for First-Time Bus Riders in Phuket

• Be patient: bus frequency may vary depending on route and time of day
• Arrive early at the stop, especially during peak tourist hours
• Keep small change for fare (where contactless payment is unavailable)
• Stop signage may be limited—check landmarks on OneMap before travelling
• Bus services are not 24/7; check the last departure time for each line
• Allow buffer time when connecting to flights or appointments

Phuket OneMap is developed by Phuket City Development Co., Ltd. (PKCD) in collaboration with local government agencies. It is part of a broader smart city initiative aimed at improving urban mobility, reducing traffic congestion, and supporting more sustainable tourism. The platform integrates live data from Phuket’s key public bus operators into a single, user-friendly system for both visitors and locals.

The post Phuket OneMap – A Convenient Guide to Getting Around by Public Bus appeared first on TAT Newsroom.