TRAVEL + LEISURE NAMES THAILAND THE 2025 DESTINATION OF THE YEAR

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Travel + Leisure has named Thailand as the 2025 Destination of the Year, marking the tenth year of this recognition program. Thailand was selected for its rich cultural heritage, dynamic culinary scene, and blend of tradition with modern innovation. The country offers diverse experiences across regions, from Bangkok's cutting-edge food scene and vibrant LGBTQ+ community to 1,430 islands including Koh Samui, which will host the upcoming season of HBO's The White Lotus. The destination features luxury resorts, wildlife conservation efforts, particularly for Asian elephants, and cultural hubs like Isan. A comprehensive guide will be available in Travel + Leisure's December/January 2025 issue.

NEW YORK, Nov. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Travel + Leisure has named Thailand as the 2025 Destination of the Year. Known for its rich cultural heritage, dynamic culinary scene, and a seamless blend of tradition with modern innovation, Thailand is a must-visit destination for travelers in the year ahead. This is the tenth year Travel + Leisure editors have selected a Destination of the Year, with previous honorees including Costa Rica, Italy, and Japan.

"We are thrilled to recognize Thailand as our Destination of the Year for 2025," said Jacqui Gifford, Editor-in-Chief of Travel + Leisure. "Whether visitors are exploring Bangkok's cutting-edge culinary scene, relaxing on one of the country's 1,430 islands, or experiencing its renowned hospitality with some of the best luxury hotels in the world, Thailand offers a unique adventure for every type of traveler."

Thailand's diverse regions offer travelers a mix of artistic inspiration, natural beauty, and off-the-beaten-path adventures. The capital, Bangkok, shines as a cultural powerhouse, renowned for its dynamic food scene and vibrant LGBTQ+ community. Beyond the bustling city, Thailand's islands–including the world famous Koh Samui, home to the forthcoming season of HBO's The White Lotus–offer tranquil escapes and luxury resorts. Phang Nga Bay is known for breathtaking views of limestone karst formations, while the cultural hub of Isan in the northeast showcases artistic contributions that have influenced the broader creative scene in Thailand. Additionally, the country remains committed to wildlife conservation, particularly in its efforts to protect endangered Asian elephants, which visitors can witness firsthand at various sanctuaries.

A comprehensive guide to everything Thailand has to offer—from the family-friendly hotel offerings to the vast island network and more—is available now at TravelandLeisure.com, and will be featured in the cover story of the December/January 2025 issue, available on newsstands on November 22.

Citi^® / AAdvantage^® is the presenting sponsor of Travel + Leisure's 2025 Destination of the Year program. As part of the sponsorship, Travel + Leisure will host a special event for cardmembers celebrating the winning destination.

ABOUT TRAVEL + LEISURE

Travel + Leisure is the preeminent voice for the sophisticated traveler, serving up expert intelligence and the most immersive travel lifestyle content anywhere. Travel + Leisure captures the joy of discovering the cultural pleasures the world has to offer, from art and design to shopping and style to food and drink. Travel + Leisure connects with its audience across platforms including the U.S. flagship and four international print editions, digital channels, the annual World's Best franchise and more. Launched in 1971, Travel + Leisure is part of the Dotdash Meredith publishing family and is owned by Travel + Leisure Co. (NYSE: TNL).

 

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FAQ

Why did Travel + Leisure choose Thailand as the 2025 Destination of the Year?

Travel + Leisure selected Thailand for its rich cultural heritage, dynamic culinary scene, blend of tradition with modern innovation, and diverse offerings from luxury resorts to wildlife conservation, making it appealing to all types of travelers.

Where can readers find Travel + Leisure's comprehensive guide to Thailand?

The comprehensive guide will be available on TravelandLeisure.com and in the December/January 2025 issue, hitting newsstands on November 22.

Which HBO show will be filmed in Thailand's Koh Samui?

The upcoming season of HBO's The White Lotus will be filmed in Koh Samui, Thailand.

How many islands does Thailand have according to Travel + Leisure?

According to Travel + Leisure, Thailand has 1,430 islands.