Thailand appealing to more upscale travellers

It’s becoming more evident that Thailand is shaking off its image as a backpacker destination and is beginning to appeal to a more upscale tourist market, a noted industry expert commented this past week.

According to a recent report featured in Luxury Travel Magazine, the popular south-east Asian travel destination is becoming a top choice for travellers seeking boutique hotels and luxury spas.

The magazine’s editor, Alyson Cook, said that the increase in popularity of Thailand as a travel destination is particularly noteworthy in the honeymoon market.

She commented: “The younger generation like the combination of a wonderful beach holiday in places like Ko Samui, [and] the opportunity to travel up into places like Chiang Mai [where they can see] elephants.”

Ms Cook went on to say that there is an ‘understated luxury’ offered by the country’s top hotels that isn’t readily found elsewhere. She also noted that Thailand regularly places in the top three on Kuoni Travel’s list of the most popular long-haul destinations.

Other positive news for the Thai tourism industry in the Kuoni Long Haul Report 2008 stems from data showing that the boutique luxury holiday market is thriving despite a weakened global economy and tightened credit.

Upscale travellers, who are still buying expensive holidays, are indicating that they want their travel experience to be personal and unique.

www.luxurytravelmagazine.com