Originally opened in 1983 and designed by acclaimed hotel architect George Wimberley, Anantara Siam has earned its reputation as one of Asia’s most treasured addresses, a place where hand-painted murals, tranquil garden courtyards and storied hospitality have defined the art of Thai luxury. Guided by the brand philosophy of “Transformed. Timeless. Thai”. This new era honours the essence of the property while introducing inspired contemporary design, elevated experiences and a renewed sense of discovery.

The overall transformation has been guided by a deep respect for the hotel’s Thai heritage, ensuring that many of its most treasured design elements remain at the heart of the guest experience. Among them is the magnificent 100-metre hand-painted mural that crowns the hotel’s iconic lobby, originally painted by Thailand’s greatest muralist, Paiboon Suwannakudt, on the 200th anniversary of the current reigning dynasty, while the 19 ceiling panels over the lobby depict the “Heavens in Thai Thought”. For generations, the artwork has welcomed guests beneath its intricate depiction of Thai culture and craftsmanship, becoming one of the hotel’s most recognisable features.

As part of the hotel’s restoration, the mural has been meticulously preserved as a touching tribute to the artist’s legacy, while Anantara Siam remains deeply committed to the cultural heritage that has always defined the hotel.

At the heart of the transformation is the complete reimagining of all 335 guestrooms, suites and villas, thoughtfully redesigned to reflect Anantara Siam’s enduring sense of place. Across the hotel’s diverse collection of accommodation from the refreshed Deluxe Rooms to the elegant Siam Suites, sophisticated Anantara Suites and opulent Presidential Suite. Every space has been carefully remodelled to celebrate Thailand’s rich artistic heritage. Warm teak wood, handcrafted detailing, luxurious silk accents and a sophisticated residential palette create interiors that are both modern and unmistakably Thai. Every bathroom has been meticulously revamped with elegant marble finishes, bespoke vanities, enhanced lighting and contemporary fittings.

Among the many remarkable additions to the hotel are the Anantara Garden Pool Suites and Villas, which offer a personal space in the centre of Bangkok. Set within lush tropical gardens, these exclusive sanctuaries redefine urban luxury with private pools and indoor and outdoor living spaces allowing guests to enjoy the intimacy of an individual residence while remaining moments from the city’s premier shopping, business and cultural districts.

Another one-of-a-kind addition to the hotel is a refined suite inspired by a Thai summer home, the Jim Thompson Explorer Suite is reimagined through a global partnership with Thailand’s legendary ‘Silk King’, Jim Thompson. It blends timeless Thai heritage with modern sophistication through polished teak floors, painted panelled walls and curated artwork. Featuring an open-plan living and dining area and a private library, the two-bedroom suite offers an elegant, character-filled retreat in the heart of Bangkok.

Dining has long been one of Anantara Siam’s defining strengths, and the hotel continues to offer one of Bangkok’s most celebrated culinary collections through its nine restaurants and bars. Guests can journey through authentic Thai flavours at Spice Market, contemporary Italian cuisine at Biscotti, refined Japanese dining at Shintaro, premium steaks at Madison Steak Avenue, vibrant South American cuisine at Guilty Bangkok and handcrafted cocktails surrounded by lush greenery at one of Asia’s 50 Best Bars – Aqua Bar. Additionally, guests can savour an array of all-day delights at Mocha & Muffins, from freshly baked pastries and exquisite cakes to expertly crafted coffee and artisanal tipples. Throughout the day, guests may also indulge in a leisurely afternoon tea at The Lobby or unwind by the pool at The Garden Terrace with refreshing beverages and light bites.

Equally transformed are the hotel’s renowned meetings and event facilities. The magnificent Grand Ballroom, together with an extensive collection of meeting rooms and creative event spaces, has been comprehensively redesigned to meet the evolving needs of today’s global business and luxury events market. Combining timeless Thai elegance with state-of-the-art technology, the revitalised venues provide an exceptional setting for prestigious international conferences, spectacular weddings, glamorous gala dinners and intimate celebrations alike.

Wellness takes centre stage with the complete transformation of the award-winning Anantara Spa, where guests continue to enjoy the world-renowned spa experiences inspired by traditional Thai healing methods. The Siam Sports Club, featuring a brand-new Technogym-equipped fitness centre and a Pilates studio, as well as an outdoor wellness space with a Muay Thai boxing ring, a rock-climbing wall and a functional training zone, further enhances the hotel’s commitment to holistic wellbeing.

The transformation extends throughout the hotel, thoughtfully preserving its distinctive cultural storytelling, immersive experiences and authentic Thai traditions, which remain at the heart of every guest journey.

As Bangkok continues to evolve as one of the world’s most exciting destinations, Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel enters its next chapter with renewed purpose, honouring its remarkable legacy while embracing the future with confidence, sophistication and an unwavering commitment to exceptional hospitality.

Whether visiting for business or leisure, an unforgettable celebration, world-class dining or a restorative city escape, guests are invited to discover a reimagined icon where the enduring spirit of Thailand meets the next generation.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), in collaboration with Ubon Ratchathani Province and partners across the public and private sectors, is elevating the 125th-anniversary edition of the Ubon Ratchathani Candle Procession to a Signature Thailand Event. Held from 25–31 July at Thung Si Mueang, with the main programme that took place from 28–30 July, the festival preserves its time-honoured traditions while introducing new presentation and participatory elements to expand its international appeal.

Rooted in the Buddhist Lent tradition of candle offering, the procession has evolved into a major expression of faith, craftsmanship and local identity. Its longevity reflects the collective contribution of temple communities, candle masters, educational institutions, residents, government agencies and other stakeholders committed to preserving and passing on specialised skills.

Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said, “The Ubon Ratchathani Candle Procession has earned its standing through the faith, craftsmanship and collective effort behind it. TAT is giving this living heritage a stronger platform by pairing its cultural foundations with contemporary presentation and meaningful participation. This will broaden international awareness, encourage longer stays and channel greater tourism value to local communities, artisans and businesses.”

The Ubon Ratchathani Candle Procession is one of three homegrown traditions TAT is elevating as Signature Thailand Events, alongside the Nakhon Phanom Illuminated Boat Procession and the Christmas Star Parade in Sakon Nakhon. Together, they support TAT’s strategy to bring distinctive regional celebrations to wider international audiences and strengthen Thailand’s cultural soft power.

As part of this approach, TAT spotlighted the main venue at Thung Si Mueang from 25–31 July through lighting installations designed to create a more distinctive setting. On 29 and 30 July, TAT staged four light-and-sound performances each evening, combining tradition with contemporary storytelling rooted in Ubon Ratchathani’s heritage.

Two large-scale three-dimensional sculptures of ‘Nong Mamuang’, a popular Thai cartoon character, will form an illuminated landmark at Lan Thian Chaloem Phra Kiat, from 23 July–13 August. Reimagined in contemporary Thai dress, one reclines while the other strikes a classical Thai dance pose. The installations combine traditional motifs with modern pop culture, reflecting the province’s identity as the “City of Beautiful Lotuses”.

TAT’s ART SPACE, opened from 25–30 July, offered hands-on activities based on local knowledge and craftsmanship, including candle carving, wax-flower making and gold-leaf decoration, encouraging visitors to engage with local crafts.

The main events took place from 28–30 July, beginning with the Candle Gathering on 28 July. A total of 47 elaborate pieces — one showcase candle and 46 competition entries — represented Ubon Ratchathani’s three principal candle-making categories: traditional, moulded-wax and carved-wax.

On 29 July, the royally bestowed Buddhist Lent candle and monastic bathing cloth was taken in procession from 08.29, followed by a candle parade, dance troupes and folk cultural performances. The official opening on 30 July also began at 08.29, followed by another candle parade, dance troupes and the Phanom Phra boat procession from Surat Thani.

Across both days, more than 37 dance troupes involving temple communities and educational institutions throughout the province took part. More than 5,000 complimentary seats were available at five viewing points: Wat Si Ubon Rattanaram, Lan Khwan Mueang, U Hotel, Siam Commercial Bank and Bangchak service station.

Evening highlights on 29 July included the “Amazing Light of Isan: Stunned” light-and-sound production and illuminated candle displays, beginning at 19.00 at Wat Si Ubon Rattanaram and Lan Khwan Mueang. On 30 July, candle competition awards were presented at 17.30, followed at 19.00 by a light-and-sound programme featuring a candle procession at both venues.

Award-winning candles remained on display from 31 July–1 August at Thung Si Mueang and the City Pillar Shrine.

The wider programme includes visits to nine temple communities from 13–27 July, where visitors can learn about wax decoration. From 27 July–1 August, the “Candle Road of Dharma” event at the cultural plaza near Ubon Ratchathani City Pillar Shrine featured candle making alongside local and One Tambon One Product markets.

Additional highlights included the “Stories of Ubon Ratchathani” light-and-sound performance at Lan Thian Chaloem Phra Kiat, on 31 July and 1 August at 18.00; the “Ganesha Barami UNSEEN” illuminated candle-flower field at Ubon Ratchathani Zoo from 25–31 July, from 16.30–20.00, with daytime viewing from 25–30 August, from 09.00–16.30; and “Ubon Candles on View Throughout the Month” at Wat Phra That Nong Bua from 3–17 August.

This trend reflects the growth of Event Tourism, or activity-based tourism, which is gaining popularity among a new generation of both Thai and international travellers. Events are not merely a reason to travel; they are also a starting point for sharing experiences with like-minded people, feeling the energy of a city at its liveliest and enriching the journey through food, culture, lifestyle, relaxation and memorable moments along the way.

Pattaya is one destination that clearly reflects this new travel trend. Once best known as a familiar seaside getaway near Bangkok, the city has now evolved into a vibrant year-round destination, with everything from sporting competitions, music festivals and beachfront activities to international lifestyle events such as Wonderfruit, Rolling Loud Thailand, the Pattaya International Fireworks Festival, Pattaya Music Festival, Honda LPGA Thailand and the Pattaya Marathon, as well as many other international events that continue to draw Thai and overseas travellers back at different times of the year.

This September, the 33rd Pattaya Marathon 2026, to be held on 26 and 27 September 2026, is another major event that reinforces Pattaya’s role as an Event Tourism city. This year, more than 40,000 runners and family members from various countries are expected to travel to take part, filling Pattaya with the atmosphere of travel, connection and the energy of people brought together through sport. Adding to its appeal, the race combines a scenic coastal course with Pattaya’s lively urban energy, giving runners the opportunity to enjoy sunrise views over the Gulf of Thailand, refreshing sea breezes and some of the city’s most recognisable beachfront landmarks.

But the appeal of travelling to Pattaya for an event does not end on race day. After the run or activity, travellers can extend their trip with many more experiences, from strolling along the beach and visiting cafés in popular neighbourhoods to dining at well-known local restaurants, spending time at a beach club, trying water activities, or relaxing with family and friends in an easily accessible beach city that stays lively throughout the day.

To complement this style of travel, ONYX Hospitality Group welcomes travellers at its two Pattaya hotels: Amari Pattaya and OZO North Pattaya. Both are conveniently located for easy access to the city’s vibrant attractions and close to the Pattaya Marathon 2026 starting point, making them ideal for runners, families and travellers who want to turn an event trip into a seaside break.

For those looking to make their holiday experience even more complete, Amari Pattaya presents a new definition of multi-generational family holidays. For families travelling together, the hotel offers a balanced approach that allows members of every generation to enjoy their own lifestyle seamlessly before coming together again to share happy moments as a family.

While some family members may choose to explore Pattaya Beach or enjoy outdoor activities, others can unwind at Maai Spa, a premium spa that blends contemporary Thai wellness practices with the refined inspiration of silk to restore both body and mind.

For larger families travelling with little princes and princesses, children can let their imaginations run free through creative activities at The Treehouse Kids Club and the expansive water park, while grandparents can retreat to the peaceful privacy and exclusive service of Club Napha.

Amari Pattaya also brings the whole family together over memorable meals, from authentic Thai cuisine crafted with carefully selected local ingredients and a selection of Western favourites at Amaya Food Gallery, to authentic Italian cuisine served in the warm ambience of Prego Pattaya Pasta Lab and Bar, a beachfront Italian restaurant where families and friends can gather over fresh pasta, handcrafted dishes and contemporary interpretations of Italian classics in a warm and welcoming setting

Meanwhile, OZO North Pattaya is an ideal choice for travellers who want to make the most of every moment of their trip. Its location close to the beach, major shopping centres, cafés, restaurants and the city’s key event venues makes it easy to experience Pattaya’s vibrant atmosphere. Guests can start the day with breakfast at EAT, take a stroll by the sea, stop at a café during the day and conveniently round off the evening with Pattaya’s nightlife. Back at the hotel, they can relax by the large swimming pool or recharge at the fitness centre before retiring to a room designed for a truly restful night’s sleep, ready to welcome a new morning and enjoy the city all over again.

More than just a seaside city near Bangkok, Pattaya today is a destination where travellers can shape their own experiences throughout the day, from relaxing on the beach and enjoying brunch at an inviting café to water activities, art attractions and seaside dining at sunset. This is the appeal of Event Tourism: an event is not merely the reason to travel, but the starting point for a trip filled with people, atmosphere and memorable moments.

For runners, families, groups of friends or anyone look for a seasonal getaway, Pattaya Marathon 2026 could be a good reason to start planning the next trip and use the opportunity to experience a side of Pattaya that goes beyond the beach.

Location

Located in Phuket’s exclusive Layan Beach area, the resort offers guests the perfect balance between secluded island tranquillity and convenient access to many of the destination’s most sought-after attractions. Laguna Phuket, Boat Avenue, Porto de Phuket, championship golf courses and stylish beach clubs are all within a 15 minutes drive, while Phuket International Airport is approximately 30 minutes away, making the resort an ideal base for both domestic and international travellers.

“Thailand continues to be one of Radisson Hotel Group’s most important strategic markets, and Phuket remains one of Asia’s most recognised leisure destinations. The opening of Radisson Resort Layan Phuket further strengthens its resort portfolio in Southeast Asia Pacific, offering guests a contemporary tropical retreat in one of the island’s most desirable locations. We are delighted to continue expanding in destinations that combine natural beauty with authentic local experiences,” said Tim Cordon, Chief Operating Officer, Middle East, Africa & Southeast Asia Pacific, Radisson Hotel Group.

Accommodation

Inspired by contemporary tropical living, Radisson Resort Layan Phuket has been thoughtfully designed to embrace its natural surroundings through open spaces, lush landscaping and a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living. Warm earth tones, abundant natural light and modern interiors create a relaxed atmosphere that reflects Phuket’s laid-back coastal lifestyle.

The resort features 300 guestrooms and suites across a variety of accommodation categories, including spacious family suites and two-bedroom suites designed for longer stays. Private balconies, premium bedding, smart televisions, high-speed Wi-Fi and generous living spaces ensure a comfortable stay for couples, families and groups alike.

Dining and Bars

Dining experiences celebrate both local flavours and international favourites across three distinctive venues.

The Taste Restaurant showcases authentic Southeast Asian cuisine, bringing together aromatic herbs, bold spices and comforting regional dishes in a vibrant all-day dining setting.

At Mangrove Bar & Restaurant, guests can enjoy freshly caught seafood, grilled specialties and handcrafted cocktails overlooking the resort’s tropical surroundings, creating a relaxed atmosphere from day through sunset.

For lighter refreshments throughout the day, Aroonsawat Café offers premium coffee and tea, proudly serves Starbucks® beverages, alongside freshly baked pastries, sandwiches and convenient grab-and-go options.

Wellness & Leisure

Designed around wellbeing and relaxation, the resort offers a range of facilities for guests seeking both active and restorative experiences.

The Malai Spa provides a peaceful space inspired by traditional Thai wellness, offering signature massages and aromatherapy treatments. Guests can also maintain their fitness routines in the fully equipped 24-hour fitness centre, complete with dedicated yoga facilities and modern cardio and strength-training equipment.

Three outdoor swimming pools surrounded by tropical gardens provide dedicated spaces for families, leisure travellers and those simply looking to relax beneath the Phuket sunshine.

Meetings & Events

Complementing its leisure offering, Radisson Resort Layan Phuket also provides flexible venues for meetings, conferences, incentive groups and private celebrations.

The resort features four contemporary meeting rooms, Karon, Kata, Patong and Layan, together with a ballroom spanning approximately 324 square metres. Equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi, LED screens and modern audiovisual technology, the venues accommodate a variety of event formats, from executive meetings and workshops to banquets and social occasions.

The Destination

Guests are perfectly positioned to discover Phuket’s quieter, more authentic side. Relax on the unspoilt sands of Layan Beach, explore the protected coastal landscapes of Sirinat National Park or spend the day enjoying the golf courses, restaurants and boutiques of nearby Laguna Phuket.

Beyond the resort, visitors can uncover Phuket’s rich cultural heritage in Old Phuket Town, visit the historic Wat Phra Thong temple, experience authentic local life in Bang Rong Community or discover hidden coastal gems including Banana Beach and Leam Son Beach. Vibrant local markets, waterfront cafés and traditional Thai cuisine complete the island experience.

“We are delighted to welcome guests to Radisson Resort Layan Phuket. Every aspect of the resort has been designed to create a welcoming island retreat where contemporary comfort, thoughtful service and the natural beauty of Phuket come together. Whether guests are seeking a family holiday, a romantic escape or a longer tropical getaway, we look forward to creating memorable experiences that reflect the warmth of Thai hospitality,” said Nanthaphat Santisaksakul, General Manager, Radisson Resort Layan Phuket.

A standout in this year’s ranking is China, which climbed from seventh place in 2025 to third in 2026, recording a 38% year-on-year growth in searches on the platform. Together, the top five reflect a diverse and growing mix of markets drawn to Thailand from across Asia.

Agoda’s insights also point to several other markets maintaining strong interest in Thailand, with Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Indonesia all featuring in the top nine. The search patterns reveal that Thailand’s appeal is not concentrated in one corner of Asia: it spans Northeast Asia, Southeast Asia, and South Asia alike, making it one of the most consistently sought-after destinations in the region.

When it comes to where travellers are heading, Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket remain the top three destinations on Agoda’s platform based on accommodation searches, a reflection of their enduring appeal across visitor profiles. Chiang Mai holds fourth place, with searches pointing to sustained interest in Thailand’s north, while Hua Hin/Cha-am rounds out the top five as a favourite for those seeking a quieter coastal escape within easy reach of Bangkok.

Beyond the top five, the ranking reveals that travellers are increasingly looking beyond the historically popular. Destinations like Khao Yai, Kanchanaburi, and Nakhon Nayok feature among the top twenty, suggesting a growing appetite for inland and nature-focused travel. Meanwhile, island destinations including Krabi, Koh Samui, Ko Samet, and Ko Tao continue to hold strong, showing that Thailand’s coastal appeal remains as compelling as ever. Taken together, the spread of the top twenty paints a picture of a destination that offers something for every type of traveller.

Akaporn Rodkong, Country Director, Thailand and Indochina at Agoda, shared “The trends we are seeing in the first half of 2026 reinforces what we have long believed about Thailand’s position in the region. That diversity is a sign of a maturing destination, and it reflects the role Agoda plays in helping travellers discover more of what Thailand has to offer, beyond the well-known names. We remain committed to supporting Thailand’s growth as a travel destination and to being the platform that helps people to see the world for less.”

The limited-time offer invites guests to indulge in a unique experience, blending the serene beauty of Andaz Bali with the fun and charm of KAKAO FRIENDS. The Garden Pool Villas will be designed with distinctive elements of KAKAO FRIENDS, with special in-room amenities such as KAKAO FRIENDS plushies, pool floaties and bathrobes. Guests will enjoy not only the private comfort and luxury of the lush gardens but also an interactive adventure as they search for KAKAO FRIENDS characters throughout the resort.

The “KAKAO FRIENDS IN BALI” room package includes:

• Daily breakfast at Village Square to start your mornings off right
• Personalised butler service
• Complimentary minibar and hand-selected welcome amenities
• VIP airport transfer arrival with seamless in‑villa check‑in
• Resort credit for spa or dining per stay to splurge
• One-time rejuvenating spa journey for two at Shankha Spa, featuring a 60‑minute full‑body massage followed by your choice of a 30‑minute body scrub, facial, or hair treatment

This collaboration experience is perfect for couples, families and KAKAO FRIENDS enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable escape where relaxation and adventure meet.

More Than an All-Inclusive Stay

Unlike traditional all-inclusive resorts, Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa encourages guests to explore the destination through local flavors, cultural discoveries, and signature experiences inspired by Phuket.

Guests can enjoy dining across the resort’s restaurants and bars, from authentic Southern Thai cuisine at Takieng and beachfront dining at Sand Box Beachfront Bar & Eatery to locally inspired breakfasts at Loca Vore, handcrafted coffee at Doppio, and cocktails at The Lounge. The experience will soon expand with Yunami, a new coastal izakaya inspired by seaside Japan, opening in late July.

Discover Phuket Beyond the Beach

Guests can discover Phuket through local markets, Thai cooking experiences, cultural landmarks, and charming neighborhoods. Through the resort’s Navigator program and Good Travel with Marriott Bonvoy, including Market-to-Table experiences, guests can connect more deeply with the destination, local communities, and Phuket’s culinary heritage.

Wellness, Family Time and Relaxation

Whether enjoying Quan Spa, daily wellness activities, cycling around the destination, or creating memories with Kids Yoga, fish feeding, arts and crafts, and the signature Marshmallow BBQ, every stay is designed to bring families, couples, and friends closer together.

Everything Included. Nothing Ordinary.

The Ultimate All-Inclusive Package includes a daily buffet breakfast, unlimited lunch and dinner, and unlimited beverages across the resort’s six restaurants and bars. Guests also enjoy full access to the resort’s facilities, including the beachfront swimming pool, Mai Khao Beach, Discovery Hour, a 24-hour fitness centre, and a variety of daily activities for both adults and children.

SOURCE Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa

Beginning in 2027, Adventures by Disney is expanding its portfolio of guided land adventures in Europe and Asia with the debut of captivating itineraries to Thailand and Croatia & Slovenia, along with a reimagined Italy: Sicily & Amalfi Coast itinerary that adds new activities including visits to multiple UNESCO World Heritage Sites and hands-on activities ranging from pasta making to limoncello tastings.

Designed to immerse guests into the heart of each destination, these new adventures invite guests to connect with local traditions, explore iconic landmarks and take part in hands‑on experiences, all brought to life through Disney’s signature storytelling, insight and level of service.

Each departure is led by Adventure Guides who help ensure every detail is seamless – from transportation and accommodations to exclusive experiences – allowing guests to fully focus on making unforgettable memories together. Young travellers, known as “Junior Adventurers”, will also have unique activities designed just for them, making each adventure incredibly meaningful for every member of the family.

Thailand

Over 10 days, guests on the brand-new Thailand itinerary will travel through a tapestry of ancient temples, vibrant cities and tranquil landscapes, discovering the country’s rich history, spiritual traditions and world‑renowned cuisine through cultural encounters and immersive experiences that invite exploration beyond the expected.

Highlights include:

• Exploring the Grand Palace in Bangkok and the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that once served as the heart of the Kingdom of Siam.

• Navigating Bangkok’s historic canals by private klong boat, offering a glimpse into daily life along the waterways.

• Travelling to Chiang Mai for hands-on cooking and tea garden experiences and learning about Thai culinary traditions.

• Cruising through the hidden lagoons and towering limestone formations within the world-famous Phang Nga Bay.

• Spotting Asian elephants from a canopy walk at an elephant sanctuary in Phuket while learning about their conservation and animal care.

Croatia & Slovenia

This brand-new, eight-day itinerary explores storybook towns, dramatic coastlines and crystal‑clear waters. Together, Croatia and Slovenia offer guests a view of Central Europe where they can savour local flavours, uncover centuries of history and experience the natural beauty of these two neighbouring countries with charming villages and awe‑inspiring natural wonders.

Highlights include:

• Travelling through time during a guided tour of Ljubljana Castle, featuring costumed performers who bring Slovenia’s past to life.

• Gliding across Lake Bled aboard a traditional pletna boat to visit the island church that has drawn pilgrims for generations.

• Hiking to Velika Planina, a protected alpine settlement where herdsmen have raised cattle for centuries.

• Cruising the turquoise waters of the Adriatic to explore the Elaphiti Islands, with opportunities to swim and relax on sandy beaches.

• Kayaking along the ancient walls of Dubrovnik before crossing to Lokrum Island, a natural retreat rich with legends and local lore.

Italy: Sicily & Amalfi Coast (Reimagined)

A reimagined itinerary builds on a guest‑favourite by introducing new highlights and additional experiences while staying true to what made it special in the first place. This reimagined Italy: Sicily & Amalfi Coast itinerary is an eight-day adventure that takes guests into a seamless journey through southern Italy, pairing Sicily’s layered history and artistic traditions with the postcard‑perfect villages and coastal beauty of the Amalfi Coast. From hands‑on culinary experiences to explorations of ancient ruins and vibrant seaside towns, this updated itinerary offers even more opportunities to slow down, savor the moment and experience la dolce vita.

Highlights include:

• Exploring Mount Etna, Europe’s highest and most active volcano, with guided excursions through lava fields and lava tubes.

• Visiting the ancient Greek Theater of Teatro Greco, offering sweeping views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna.

• Experiencing Sicily’s artistic heritage through a private puppet show and hands-on puppetry workshop in a Sicilian puppet theatre, recognised by UNESCO on their Cultural Intangible Heritage List.

• Discovering the preserved Roman town and UNESCO World Heritage Site of Herculaneum, which was originally lost to time in the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.

• Participating in hands-on cultural experiences, including pasta making in Gragnano, Italy’s pasta capital and a ceramics workshop in Vietri sul Mare.

The demand for more adaptable hospitality is a defining feature of the current travel landscape. According to the Expedia Group Unpack ’26 report, travellers are increasingly moving away from rigid itineraries in favour of ‘Hotel Hopping’ and intentional, experience-led stays that offer greater value and flexibility. Across the Asia-Pacific region, this shift has turned time into a top-tier luxury. As travellers seek higher-value escapes that reflect their personal passions, the ability to customise stay durations has become a critical factor in holiday satisfaction, allowing for more relaxed arrivals, unhurried meals and meaningful time together that isn’t dictated by a standard 2:00 PM check-in.

Responding to this shift, Le Méridien Phuket Mai Khao Beach Resort has amplified its luxury philosophy with its signature 25-hour stay experience, which allows guests to check in at a time that suits their schedule and enjoy a full, flexible experience from arrival.

“In the current travel climate, time is the new luxury, especially for families balancing busy schedules,” said Jirarat Ninpradub, General Manager of Le Méridien Phuket Mai Khao Beach Resort. “We designed the 25-hour stay experience to return control to our guests, removing the anxiety of the ticking clock that often accompanies traditional hotel stays. By offering this flexibility, we ensure that our guests can settle in at their own pace and fully immerse themselves in the Mai Khao lifestyle without feeling rushed.”

Located on the quiet shores of Mai Khao, the resort supports a slower pace of travel through family-friendly room configurations, expansive open spaces and curated on-site experiences. This approach allows guests to enjoy a seamless and self-contained stay without the pressure of fixed hotel schedules. The 25-hour stay is available until 30 June 2026.

The insights are based on accommodation searches on Agoda from 1 January to 30 April 2026 for stays between 19 June and 24 August 2026, which aligns with the school summer break for students in Thailand’s international school system. Tokyo, Singapore and Osaka topped the list as the most searched destinations, offering a strong mix of family entertainment, educational experiences and peace of mind for parents. These trips aren’t just about fun; they’re also a chance for kids to learn through real-world experiences, while parents enjoy a holiday that works for every age group.

The findings were based on accommodation searches including at least one child, highlighting how families are increasingly choosing trips that balance entertainment, convenience and activities for every age group. The data also showed that these destinations were among the most searched in 2025, pointing to their continued popularity with Thai family travellers. Hong Kong, however, saw a slight drop in search interest this year.

Leading the rankings once again in first position, Tokyo continues to appeal to Thai families with its balance of entertainment, culture and convenience. Attractions such as Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea remain major highlights for families traveling with children, while the city’s efficient public transportation, diverse food scene, shopping districts and cultural landmarks make it equally enjoyable for multi-generational travel, including elderly family members.

Singapore also maintained its position as one of the top three outbound summer destinations for Thai travellers. Known for its seamless transportation system, safety and family-friendly environment, the city offers a wide range of attractions. Universal Studios Singapore and the S.E.A. Aquarium further enhance its appeal as a well-rounded destination for family travel. Meanwhile, senior travellers are attracted to the city’s accessibility, culinary experiences, green spaces and relaxed urban lifestyle.

Osaka remained among the top-ranked destinations, driven by its reputation as a city known for world-class theme parks, entertainment districts and a wide variety of attractions. Beyond its entertainment appeal, Osaka offers a diverse range of attractions including the world-renowned Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, along with convenient transportation, renowned local cuisine, and easy access to nearby cultural destinations such as Kyoto and Nara. The combination of modern attractions and traditional experiences continues to make the city highly appealing for family groups travelling across generations.

Destinations that combine diverse entertainment offerings such as theme parks, aquariums, and immersive interactive experiences continue to strongly appeal to Thai travellers. These destinations deliver a comprehensive holiday experience, fostering learning opportunities for children while encouraging meaningful family bonding through engaging, family-friendly activities in a single trip.

Akaporn Rodkong, Country Director, Thailand and Indochina at Agoda shared, “Family travel continues to be a key driver during the summer holiday season, especially among Thai families planning trips around their children’s school break. Destinations like Tokyo, Osaka and Singapore remain highly appealing because they combine world-class theme parks with convenient travel access, diverse attractions, and experiences that cater to both children and adults. At Agoda, we are committed to helping people see the world for less, making these kinds of memorable family journeys more accessible to everyone.”