Government Spokesperson Chai Wacharonke quoted recent data released by Airbnb, a web-based platform, revealing that global travelers were seeking out lesser-known destinations in Thailand, with Mae Hong Son, Trang, and Ayutthaya on the top of the list.

The Government Spokesperson stated that the search data indicate a growing interest in emerging destinations in Thailand among international tourists, moving from major tourist cities. This shows that the Government’s efforts to expand tourist spots to lesser-known destinations have been well received.

According to Airbnb, Mae Hong Son Province, in the North, saw the most significant surge in popularity, with a 149 percent increase in searches during the first quarter of 2024 over the same period in 2023. Pai District, in particular, has captured the attention of global travelers, with its blend of nature, culture, and leisure activities.

Trang Province, in the South, saw a 140 percent increase in searches. This province boasts beautiful beaches and islands. Ko Kradan, an island off the coast of Trang, was ranked the best of the “Top 100 Beaches on Earth 2023” by the UK website World Beach Guide. Trang was also chosen as a filming location for the movie "Jurassic World 4."

Ayutthaya Province, in the central region, ranked third in searches. A former capital of Thailand, the province is famous for monumental remnants of old palaces and temples spread across a tranquil landscape. Ayutthaya was declared a World Heritage Site by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) on 13 December 1991.

After Ayutthaya, Satun came fourth, followed by Phetchaburi, Narathiwat, Rayong, Kalasin, Buri Ram, and Songkhla. The rising interest in emerging destinations also shows that international tourists are looking for new travel experiences.

The Thai government is stepping up efforts to promote tourism in secondary destinations nationwide in order to better distribute tourism income, in line with its vision “Ignite Tourism Thailand.”