Embracing culture, luxury, and eco-adventures in Southeast Asia’s crowned gem: Thailand’s recognition as the 2025 Destination of the Year is a testament to its enduring appeal and dynamic offerings. Whether you’re drawn by its cultural treasures, natural wonders, or luxurious retreats, Thailand awaits with open arms and countless adventures to discover. Plan your journey, embrace the vibrant spirit, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
When Travel + Leisure recently announced Thailand as its 2025 Destination of the Year, it felt like a personal nod to a country that I’ve long thought of as home. From bustling cities and serene beaches to vibrant festivals and rich culinary traditions, Thailand truly embodies the spirit of exploration and indulgence with a huge helping of hedonism. Since first arriving here in the early-1990’s as a wide-eyed backpacker, to maturing into a culture-seeking traveller who enjoys the privacy of more luxurious accommodation and seeks eco-conscious adventures, I embarked on a journey to uncover what makes Thailand so special and why it deserves this prestigious accolade.
Wok Tum Canal Viewpoint, Koh Phangan. Photo credit: Gavin Cox
When to Visit Thailand: Timing Your Thai Adventure
Planning the perfect trip to Thailand involves more than just picking dates—it’s about syncing your visit with the country’s vibrant seasons and festivals. Here’s how I navigated the best times to experience Thailand’s diverse offerings:
- For Smaller Crowds and Cheaper Costs (July-September)
During the rainy season, many tourists steer clear, allowing me to explore iconic sites like the Grand Palace in Bangkok and the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya without the usual hustle. The lush landscapes are at their peak, making every trek and temple visit feel more intimate and serene. National Parks such as Koh Chang look greener and the air is fresher, and there’s much less chance of suffering sun burn. Traveling off-peak not only means fewer crowds but also more affordable accommodations and activities. I took advantage of discounted rates on eco-luxury resorts in Koh Samui and sustainable tours in Pai, allowing me to indulge without breaking the bank. - For Perfect Weather (November-February)
This cool season is my personal favourite. The skies are clear, temperatures are comfortable, and it’s the perfect time to dive into outdoor adventures. Whether it’s kayaking in Krabi’s emerald waters or trekking through Chang Dao’s misty mountains, the weather enhances every experience. Just be aware of the burning season and keep an eye on air pollution monitors in the rural areas. - For Spectacular Festivals (April & November)
Experiencing Thailand’s festivals firsthand is a highlight of any trip. From the wild water fights of Songkran in April to the mesmerising lantern releases during Loy Krathong and Yi Peng in November, these celebrations offer deep cultural immersion and unforgettable memories. For hedonists looking to party all night, Koh Phangan’s Full Moon Party is a monthly event, which has become part of Thai culture since the late 1980s, when Thailand was still very much off the beaten track.
Tip: Booking accommodations and tours well in advance during festival seasons ensures you secure the best spots and experiences.
Thailand’s Festivals: A Tapestry of Tradition and Joy
Thailand’s festivals are vibrant expressions of its rich cultural heritage. Here are some I couldn’t miss:
- Songkran Festival (April)
Celebrating the Thai New Year with exhilarating water fights, parades, and religious ceremonies. I joined locals in a joyful splash fight, feeling the festive spirit drench me. April is the height of summer in Thailand, so prepare for scorching heat and intense humidity. - Loy Krathong (November)
Witnessing lanterns float down rivers during Loy Krathong was magical. It symbolises letting go of the past year’s misfortunes and making wishes for the future—a serene and beautiful tradition, especially for couples. Remember to avoid polystyrene and plastic floats and aim for biodegradable items that won’t choke the water course. - Yi Peng Lantern Festival (November)
Held in Chiang Mai, thousands of sky lanterns illuminated the night sky, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Floating lanterns felt like wishes soaring towards the heavens, a truly ethereal experience. Again, avoid plastic and choose biodegradable lanterns and be wary of local regulations designed to protect the environment. - Chiang Mai Flower Festival (February)
The vibrant floral displays and parades showcased Thailand’s natural beauty and meticulous craftsmanship. The city was a kaleidoscope of colours and fragrances, celebrating the blooming season with elegance. February is also a great time to visit northern Thailand and take in Chiang Mai’s temple walk and night markets in cooler temperatures.
Top 10 Must-Visit Destinations in Thailand
Thailand is a treasure trove of experiences, each destination offering its own unique charm. Here are my top picks:
- Bangkok
From the awe-inspiring Grand Palace and Wat Pho to bustling street markets and wild nightlife, Bangkok is a city of contrasts that never ceases to amaze. Recently, “Tom Yum Kung,” the iconic Thai prawn soup, was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, highlighting Thailand’s culinary prowess, and there’s no better place to dive into one of Thailand’s traditional dishes than at one of Bangkok’s many street food stalls and restaurants. - Chiang Mai
Known for its rich heritage, stunning temples, and the breathtaking Yi Peng Lantern Festival, Chiang Mai is a cultural hub. Exploring ancient temples and engaging with local artisans made my stay unforgettable. Chiang Mai is also a great hub for exploring the lesser-known Chang Dao, this mountainous area borders Mayanmar and is great for hiking and wildlife spotting. - Phuket
Thailand’s iconic beach destination is perfect for unwinding on pristine shores, enjoying water sports, and experiencing lively nightlife. The clear waters and vibrant marine life offer excellent snorkelling and diving opportunities. Containing some of the more exclusive resorts in Thailand, Phuket has long been the favoured retreat of the rich and famous visitors to Thailand. The area around Patong Beach can prove to be crowded, but it’s easy to escape this by dropping down to the south of the island. - Ayutthaya
Wander through the UNESCO-listed temple ruins of Thailand’s ancient capital. The historical grandeur of Ayutthaya’s temples provided a fascinating glimpse into the country’s past. Like a step back in time, Ayutthaya is adored by photographers and history buffs alike. - Krabi
Discover dramatic limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking beaches like Railay and Ao Nang. The natural beauty here is simply stunning, perfect for both adventure and relaxation and is easily reached by air or road travel. - Pai
This charming mountain town offers natural hot springs, picturesque trekking trails, and a laid-back atmosphere. Pai’s serene environment was the perfect retreat after days of exploration. For motoring enthusiasts the Mae Hong Son loop is favoured by motorcyclists for its stunning sceanary and excellent roads. - Sukhothai
Explore the majestic ruins of Thailand’s first capital, another UNESCO World Heritage site filled with historical significance. The well-preserved temples and monuments are a testament to Thailand’s ancient glory. If you enjoyed Ayutthaya, prepare to be blown away by Sukothai’s offerings. I would hate to miss out on Ayutthaya however, if time isn’t on your side, I would choose Sukhothai for the historical and cultural part of your trip, due to its size. You will need a tuk-tuk driver, unless you are fit enough to hire a pushbike and brave the exhausting heat by yourself. Bring plenty of water as you will need to rehydrate often. - Koh Samui
Experience luxury resorts, serene beaches, and vibrant nightlife on this upscale island paradise. Koh Samui’s blend of relaxation and excitement caters to all types of travellers. If Phuket is a bit too much, try Samui. It’s much changed since my first venture here in 1993, with concrete resorts replacing wooden bungalows, but the island vibe remains, and if you want a more laid back beach affair, Koh Phangan is only a short boat ride from Samui’s northern beaches. - Kanchanaburi
Rich in history, featuring the famous Bridge on the River Kwai, stunning national parks, and peaceful waterfalls. The natural landscapes and historical sites make Kanchanaburi a diverse destination. Kanchanaburi has become a site for pilgrimage for war veterans. A large cemetery is a feature of the town centre, complete with museums. While you can visit the site of Death Railway to fully appreciate the horrors of World War II and the numbers who sadly died here at the hands of the Japanese. Further north into the province you can visit the Erawan Falls and a bit further still lies Sai Yok, a wonderful eco-friendly paradise where overnight visitors can stay on the river at the River Kwai Jungle Rafts or Sai Yok View. - Koh Phi Phi
A tropical paradise perfect for snorkelling, diving, and soaking in dramatic natural landscapes. The crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs are a diver’s dream. The island, made famous by The Beach movie can become a bit overcrowded at times and its visitors have sadly been known to produce a lot of litter. Although Thai authorities are starting to prevent over-tourism and by the time you read this I am hoping things will be much improved and the island will return to its pristine best, as it was before Leonardo DiCaprio arrived in 2000.
Highlight: Don’t miss a sunrise at Ayutthaya’s Wat Mahathat, where ancient ruins bathed in morning light create a truly ethereal scene.
The sun sets over the temples of Ayuthaya, Thailand’s ancient capital. Photo credit: Gavin Cox
Culinary Excellence: Tom Yum Kung’s UNESCO Recognition
One of the most delightful experiences in Bangkok was savouring Tom Yum Kung, now officially recognised by UNESCO as part of Thailand’s intangible cultural heritage. This iconic spicy and sour Thai prawn soup is more than just a dish—it’s a reflection of Thailand’s cultural knowledge and culinary expertise. The broth, infused with galangal, lemongrass, chilli, lime, and kaffir lime leaves, offers a harmonious balance of sour, salty, spicy, sweet, and slightly bitter herbal notes.
Thailand’s famous Tom Yum Kung. Photo credit Gavin Cox
The Best Experience:
There’s no better way to enjoy a steaming bowl of Tom Yum Kung than at a bustling Bangkok street market. Each spoonful was a burst of flavours, showcasing the perfect balance that Thai cuisine is renowned for. This recognition not only celebrates the dish itself but also promotes Thai culinary culture globally. Did you know, there are 2 types of Tom Yum Kung? One is a clear broth (Tom Yum Nam Sai), whilst the other and the one I prefer, contains evaporated milk (Tom Yum Nam Khon). Try them both, and let me know in the comments which one you prefer!
Bangkok: The World’s Top Tourism City in 2024
Alongside being named destination of the year for 2025, Euromonitor International has named Bangkok the world’s top tourism city in 2024, welcoming a record-breaking 32.4 million visitors. This figure surpasses Istanbul, the second-ranked city, with 23 million foreign arrivals. Bangkok’s success is attributed to Thailand’s traveller-friendly visa policies, including a 60-day visa exemption for citizens of 93 countries and expanded visa-on-arrival eligibility for 31 countries.
Personal Insights:
Living in Bangkok for over a decade, it’s easy to overlook exploring the capital’s vibrant streets. Revisiting after the pandemic, I was reminded of the city’s dynamic blend of tradition and modernity. From serene temples like Wat Arun to the lively markets and upscale malls, Bangkok caters to every type of traveller. The extensive infrastructure and welcoming policies make it a seamless and enjoyable destination.
Challenges:
Despite its tourism prowess, Bangkok didn’t make the top 10 list for overall destination attractiveness across key pillars like sustainability and health. This highlights the need for ongoing efforts to balance tourism growth with sustainable practices. The constant traffic can create a fog of air pollution to go with the noise on its busy streets, and regular squabbles with taxis over a fair fare can become tiresome. Bargaining at markets can be fun, but battling the seemingly constant scams can sour the taste of an otherwise fantastic city. Escape this by diving into an air conditioned shopping mall in Silom, or at night enjoy dinner on a river cruise along the Chao Phraya to escape the hustle and bustle of Bangkok street life.
Why Thailand Deserves the 2025 Title
Thailand’s blend of cultural richness, natural beauty, and hospitable spirit truly sets it apart as a destination of the year. Whether you’re sipping cocktails on a rooftop bar in Bangkok, releasing lanterns in Chiang Mai, or diving into the crystal-clear waters of Koh Phi Phi, every moment in Thailand is a celebration of life and culture.
A view of downtown Bangkok taken from the Octave Rooftop bar. Photo credit: Gavin Cox
Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Travel:
As an eco-conscious traveller, I appreciated Thailand’s growing emphasis on sustainability. From eco-certified resorts to community-based tourism initiatives, the country is making strides in ensuring that travel benefits both visitors and local communities. Through education and engaging with locals, it is hoped that Thailand continues its upward trend in recycling plastics and finding biodegradable alternatives; although the country, like much of the region, has still some way to go.
Cultural Immersion:
Engaging with locals, learning about ancient traditions, and participating in vibrant festivals enriched my experience, making every visit more meaningful. Instead of splurging at the hotel bar, take a walk along the streets and find a street bar to sit with the locals, learn the local language and get a better perspective of Thai life than many sheltered tour operators offer you. Thailand is generally a safe country for tourists and the people are some of the most friendly you will meet so immerse yourself in that and you’ll have a wonderful time.
Luxury and Comfort:
Thailand caters to luxury seekers with its world-class accommodations, fine dining, and wellness retreats. Staying at eco-luxury resorts and sustainable boutique hotels not only provided comfort but also allowed me to connect with the local environment and culture. There are far too many to mention in this blog post. However this website contains travel tips and luxury accommodation recommendations that you can find by using the search option, or clicking the relevant tab.
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