SEVERAL longhaul markets have displayed more interest in visiting the Land of Smiles over the last one year despite the country’s political challenges, according to TripAdvisor.
In a study of site data for the period between June 30, 2013 and June 30, 2014, TripAdvisor found that Brazil has shown the most interest in booking accommodation with Thai properties, growing 22 per cent year-on-year.
In second place comes the US with a strong showing of 17 per cent, followed by Egypt with 10 per cent, Ukraine and Canada with seven per cent, Russia with six per cent, Germany and Denmark with three per cent, and the Netherlands with two per cent.
This is despite the military coup and martial law established in Thailand in May (TTG Asia e-Daily, May 23, 2014) that shook tourism arrivals for the country, especially the MICE sector (TTG Asia e-Daily, June 9, 2014).
Grant Colquhoun, senior director of account management, APAC, TripAdvisor, said: “It’s encouraging to see a significant increase in traveller interest from longhaul, emerging markets like Brazil, alongside more established markets in North America, confirming Thailand’s appeal as a much-loved and desired destination for international travellers.”
Within Thailand, Phuket was the most searched destination. Bangkok came in second, Surat Thani third, Krabi fourth and Chonburi fifth. According to the same TripAdvisor study, the list is rounded up by Chiang Mai, Phang Nga, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Trat and Satun.
