Thai Essentials
Thailand Travel Tips, Visa News and Local Guides
Discover the latest Thailand travel news, visa updates, airport guides, cultural festivals, transport tips and insider advice for UK travellers. From Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport to Loy Krathong, Phuket and Pattaya, our Thailand experts keep this guide regularly updated with practical information before you travel.
TRAVEL FACT: Around 680,000 UK visitors travelled to Thailand during the first eight months of 2026
Why Millions Still Choose Thailand, Latest Tourism Statistics and Travel Trends for 2026
Updated September 2026
If you've been wondering whether Thailand is still one of the world's favourite holiday destinations, the latest figures provide a clear answer.
Thailand remains Southeast Asia's most visited country and continues to attract tens of millions of international visitors every year. While visitor numbers have settled slightly after the huge post-pandemic rebound, tourism remains one of the country's biggest industries, and UK travellers continue to play an important role.
Whether you're planning your first trip to Bangkok or returning to your favourite Thai beach, here's what the latest tourism statistics reveal.
Thailand welcomed over 32 million visitors last year
According to the latest figures from Thailand's Ministry of Tourism and Sports and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the country welcomed 32.97 million international visitors during 2025.
So far in 2026, Thailand has already welcomed more than 22 million visitors, generating over 1 trillion Baht in international tourism revenue.
Despite a small slowdown compared with the record recovery seen in 2024, Thailand remains comfortably ahead of every other country in Southeast Asia for international arrivals
The UK remains one of Thailand's top visitor markets
British travellers continue to rank among Thailand's most valuable long-haul visitors.
During the first eight months of 2026, approximately 680,000 visitors from the United Kingdom travelled to Thailand, placing the UK among the country's top ten international markets.
Unlike many neighbouring countries, UK visitors typically stay longer and spend more per trip, making Britain an important market for Thai tourism.
Bangkok welcomed around 32 million international visitors in 2024, making it one of the world's busiest international cities for tourism, ahead of many famous European capitals.
The city's popularity comes from its unique mix of:
- historic temples
- world-famous street food
- luxury shopping
- rooftop bars
easy connections to Phuket, Chiang Mai and Krabi
If you're flying into Thailand, don't miss our Suvarnabhumi Airport Guide, packed with practical arrival tips.
Important travel changes UK visitors should know
Before booking your trip, remember that Thailand has introduced several important changes affecting international travellers.
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) remains mandatory for foreign visitors.
The visa exemption period for UK travellers changed to 30 days from 15 September 2026.
Longer stays may require a Tourist Visa or Destination Thailand Visa (DTV).
If you're unsure which visa you need, our team at ThaiEmbassyUK can help you choose the correct option before you travel.
Royal Thai Embassy London Guide: Opening Hours, Directions and Visitor Tips
If you're visiting the Royal Thai Embassy in London for a Thai passport, legalisation appointment or other consular service, here's everything you need to know before travelling to Queen's Gate.
Getting There.
Tube (London Underground): The closest tube station is Gloucester Road, which is served by the Piccadilly, Circle, and District lines. From there, it’s a short walk to the embassy.
Bus: Several bus routes pass near the embassy. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient route.
Walking: If you’re exploring the area on foot, the embassy is easily accessible from nearby attractions like the Natural History Museum and Hyde Park.
Opening Hours:
The Royal Thai Embassy operates during the following hours:
Monday to Friday: 09:30 - 12:30 & 14:00 - 17:00
Holiday Closures:
Before planning your visit, take note of the embassy’s holiday closures. They are closed during weekends and on both British and Thai public holidays. It’s always a good idea to check their official website for any updates or additional closures.
What to Expect Inside:
Once you step inside the embassy, you’ll find a welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff. Here’s what you can expect:
Consular Services: The embassy provides information on various services related to Thailand, including visas, passports, and legal matters.
Cultural Events: Keep an eye out for cultural events, film festivals, and exhibitions hosted by the embassy. These events showcase the best of Thai culture and soft power.
Ambassador’s Office: While you may not get to meet the ambassador personally, you’ll be in the same building where diplomatic discussions and important meetings take place.
Tips for making the most of your visit:
Plan Ahead: Check the embassy's website or contact them directly to confirm opening hours, visa requirements, and any additional services you may need. Some services are by appointment only.
Bring Necessary Documents: Depending on the purpose of your visit, make sure you have all the required documents and forms filled out correctly to expedite the process.
Respect Cultural Norms: When visiting the embassy or attending cultural events, remember to dress modestly and respectfully, as you would when visiting any official or religious institution.
Contact details:
The Royal Thai Embassy is conveniently located at 29-30 Queen’s Gate, London SW7 5JB. You can call the embassy between 14.00 and 17.00 on 0207 589 2944, 0207 225 5500 or for visas on 0207 225 5524
Loy Krathong 2026: Date, Meaning and Chiang Mai's Yi Peng Festival
Loy Krathong (ลอยกระทง) 2026 takes place on Tuesday 24 November, when millions of people across Thailand release beautifully decorated floating baskets onto rivers, lakes and canals under the full moon. In Chiang Mai, the spectacular Yi Peng Lantern Festival takes place at the same time, creating one of Thailand's most photographed events
Loy Krathong 2024will be celebrated on the night of November 25th. Chiang Mai's 2 day i Peng Lantern Festival will take place from November 24th.
Loy Krathong , also named Festival of Lights, is a famous floating lantern festival in Thailand. On the evening of Loy Krathong, Thai people gather together to release floating rafts called Krathongs onto rivers, lakes, and canals to give thanks to the Goodness of Water and seek forgiveness from her.
Yi Peng (sometimes written as Yee Peng), or called sky lantern festival, which is another famous floating lantern festival, usually coincides with Loy Krathong Festival. It is a festival unique to northern Thailand, especially Chiang Mai.
The date of the Loy Krathong Festival changes every year. Loy Krathong takes place on the night of the full moon of the 12th month of the Thai lunar calendar and typically falls in November according to the Gregorian calendar.
Quick Facts-
Date: Tuesday 24 November 2026
Lunar Month: Full Moon of the 12th Thai lunar month
Best location: Chiang Mai
Also celebrated: Bangkok, Sukhothai, Ayutthaya, Phuket
Many cities now encourage biodegradable krathongs made from banana leaves instead of polystyrene to reduce environmental impact.
Best places to celebrate
Chiang Mai. The most famous celebrations combine Loy Krathong with Yi Peng sky lanterns.
Sukhothai. Traditional performances at the Historical Park.
Bangkok. Large celebrations along the Chao Phraya River.
Phuket. Beachfront celebrations.
Don Mueang Airport to Pattaya Bus: The Cheapest Way to Reach Pattaya
Travelling from Bangkok's Don Mueang Airport to Pattaya? Bell Travel's direct coach remains one of the most affordable options, costing around 350 Baht and avoiding expensive taxi fares
Since August 2022, the service has offered two journeys every day. Bell Travel runs already runs shuttles between Suvarnabhumi Airport and Bangkok or Pattaya. Bell Travel Service sells shuttle tickets at Gate 10 of Don Mueang Airport and online at BellTravelService.com.
Pattaya and Don Mueang Airport shuttle buses leave at 3 p.m. Pattaya is Don Mueang’s favorite destination, according to the airport’s deputy director. Going the other way, the 6 am bus leaves Pattaya’s Bell Travel Service Office on North Pattaya Road for Don Mueang.
If the shuttle proves successful, Don Mueang Airport’s Deputy Director of Operations hopes that it might lead to further bus choices.
The deputy director added that Don Mueang welcomes 40,000-50,000 people daily, with substantially higher numbers predicted in October. Most tourists use Bangkok’s public transit.
Think you’re too fat to fly?
You may be about to find out!
From September 16th, Bangkok Airways joined the likes Korean Air and Air New Zealand in demanding that passengers step on the scales before they step onto their plane.
The unconventional practice has taken off (pun intended!) and the system of assessing passengers’ weight before boarding has been introduced as the airline aim to reduce fuel consumption in the process. The airline says the statistics gathered will improve flight safety too.
Bangkok Airways Public Company Limited is effectively promoting its own airline weight-watching club. In doing so, the airline seeks to employ standardised average weight data to accurately gauge the cumulative weight of passengers and their accompanying carry-on luggage and while it’s common practice to weight checked bags, and standards are set for weight limits on your carrying, one crucial factor is missing in calculating a plane’s total flying weight – the “excess baggage” passengers are carrying on their bones! - but for many, this economy drive feels more like an intrusion of privacy.
Between now and Halloween, Bangkok Airways is formally petitioning for authorisation to conduct the weighing of passengers, including their carry-on items, at the boarding gate area. The airline’s management says it seeks the cooperation of all passengers in facilitating this ‘data collection exercise’.
Bangkok Airways promises though that your personal data will remain just that and won’t be publicly published for all to see as they claim to endeavour to fine-tune their average weight calculations.
Meanwhile airline passenger consumer groups fear this ultimately lead to another additional charge for passengers carrying their personal ‘excess baggage’.
Unveiling Culinary Excellence: The MICHELIN Guide, Thailand
As gastronomy enthusiasts eagerly await the latest culinary revelations, the MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2024 has arrived to set the stage for another year of exceptional dining experiences. This prestigious guide continues to be the go-to resource for discerning food lovers, showcasing the best restaurants and eateries across the Kingdom.
The MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2024 is a treasure trove of culinary exploration, featuring an extensive list of restaurants that have earned the coveted Michelin stars. From street food gems to haute cuisine establishments, the guide meticulously evaluates and celebrates diverse culinary offerings.
For an upscale experience, Gaggan Anand's progressive Indian cuisine at "Gaggan Anand's" in Bangkok continues to receive three Michelin stars, pushing the boundaries of traditional flavours. Bo.lan and Nahm, both in Bangkok, shine with two Michelin stars each, presenting an exquisite blend of traditional Thai ingredients and innovative culinary techniques.
Indulge in the flavours of Thailand by acquiring the MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2024, available at leading bookstores, specialty culinary shops, and online retailers. The guide opens the door to a world of Thai culinary wonders, providing detailed insights into the best dining experiences across the country.
For those eager to explore the essence of Thai cuisine without commitment, the full restaurant selection for Thailand is available free of charge on the MICHELIN Guide website, and app for iOS and Android devices. This digital treasure trove includes valuable information on starred Thai restaurants, Bib Gourmand selections, and more, allowing enthusiasts to savour the richness of Thai culinary traditions at no cost.
The MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2024 is your passport to an extraordinary culinary adventure, delving deep into the heart of Thai gastronomy. Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of flavours that define this exceptional cuisine. Whether you are a connoisseur or a curious explorer, this guide promises a delightful journey through the diverse and delectable world of Thai culinary excellence.
Free Internet & Travel Gifts
Amazing Thailand SIM card has a free trial of 8GB internet and a range of travel privileges
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) in partnership with AIS 5G has launched a ‘Welcome Back to Thailand’ campaign offering specially-branded ‘Amazing Thailand SIM’ card with a one-day trial of 8GB max speed internet and a range of travel privileges to mark the upcoming high tourist season. The campaign runs from 17 October 2023 to 31 March 2024.
In 2023 to-date, Thailand has welcomed 20.3 million foreign visitors, and the TAT is maximising the growth potential of the tourism by providing the convenience of communication systems and digital services through the Amazing Thailand SIM card.
Visitors can take part in the ‘Welcome Back to Thailand’ campaign by making travel arrangements for Thailand with the TAT’s partners in Asia and the South Pacific. They will receive a QR code to redeem a free SIM card at AIS shop at airports in Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang), Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, and Samui.
The Amazing Thailand SIM card comes with a one-day free trial of 8GB max speed internet and can be topped up via the AIS One-2-Call website and AIS WeChat mini programme.
Once the SIM is activated, visitors will be entitled to a range of travel privileges. These include a free travel insurance coverage from Bangkok Insurance, a welcome package from Central Group, a discount for online shopping at King Power’s website and application, shopping privileges at Siam Piwat’s malls (Siam Centre, Siam Discovery and Siam Paragon), discounts at Singha Park Chiang Rai, special self-drive car rental rates at Sixt Car Rental, a discount on travel activities from the TAGTHAi application, and special offers from Grab Thailand.
For more information, visit www.ais-amazingthailandsim.com
The Royal Thai Embassy's Thailand Express YouTube series remains one of the best free resources for Thai children growing up in the UK to maintain their language and cultural connection.
The Thai Embassy in London has added a number of new lessons for Thai Children to their You Tube Channel. The online lessons are aimed at helping children who have left their native Thailand keep up their Thai language skills and are now in their third year.
The highly successful "Thailand Express" series of lessons are an ideal way for parents to assist their children in staying in touch with their culture and are perfect for the forthcoming summer break from school.
They can be accessed FREE via the link below
American Tourists Spend More in Thailand
American tourists spend more money in Thailand on average than European tourists, according to a survey conducted by the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT), which polled 200 Western tourists about their holiday spending habits.
Tourists from the USA spend 2,000-3,000 per night on accommodation whereas European travellers average at 1,000-2,000
Of course, it’s possible to go backpacking and travel around Thailand on a smaller budget by staying in hostels, eating street food, and taking buses/trains instead of flying domestically.
Americans make up roughly 1% of the 33 million tourists who flock to the land of smiles each year. Yanks a lot!
Thailand's visa exemption rules changed again in September 2026, reducing visa free stays for eligible passport holders, including UK citizens, to 30 days.
Planning a longer stay, check whether a Tourist Visa or Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) is now the better option.
Yanks a Lot!
Grab a Tuk Tuk!
Grab, one of the leading ride hailing apps in Southeast Asia, has launched a tuk-tuk service in Phuket after being granted a licence by the Department of Land Transport. The "GrabTukTuk" service in Phuket welcomes international tourists and supports local job creation, the company said
Worachat Luxkanalode, Country Head of Grab Thailand, said, "we have seen consistent positive signals from the recovery of tourism industries. Ride-hailing applications have been one of the preferred travel options by foreign tourists, as they offer convenience and safety standards. Grab's mobility service can support not only Phuket's tourism sector but also the province's overall economy through income opportunities for local communities."
"As a leading platform, Grab is committed to raising the bar for ride-hailing service in Phuket, in terms of service quality, reasonable price and safety. We support the locals to use their personal vehicles to provide transportation services to earn extra income. Besides, we have encouraged those who provide public transportation services such as Tuk Tuk drivers, to use the Grab application as another channel of reaching passengers and increasing income opportunities," added Worachat.
Grab offers the following advantages:
- prices shown upfront
- cashless payment
- English app support
Three distinctive and delicious Thai dishes have been included in CNN Travel’s list of 50 of the best street foods in Asia
They are crab omelette, Khao Soi curry noodle soup, and Sai Krok Isan (Northeastern-style pork sausage), and they take their place among other wonderful and diverse street food dishes and beverages from around Asia on the CNN Travel list that celebrates the region’s “bottomless culinary talent and passion for food”.
Thailand's street food is regularly recognised among the world's best, and these three dishes continue to be must-try favourites for first-time visitors
This is what CNN Travel had to say about these superbly delightful Thai dishes:
Crab Omelette
“After you’ve had a khai chiao pu (a Thai crab omelette), it’s hard to understand why all egg dishes don’t taste this good. Crab and eggs are a match made in heaven – and the crispy edges, fluffy texture and a drizzle of sweet chilli sauce takes this wok-cooked dish to the next level.”
Khao Soi
“A staple in Northern Thailand, khao soi – curry noodle soup topped with deep-fried egg noodles – hits the spot. Vendors ladle gorgeously golden bowls of hearty, creamy, chilli-laced coconut broth over a bed of egg noodles with chicken legs or beef. On the side, you will often find mustard greens, freshly chopped shallots, lime wedges, and chilli paste.”
Sai Krok Isan
“Sai krok Isan – short and plump pork sausage – is one of the most commonly devoured street foods in Northeastern Thailand. Sour and garlicky, it’s usually made from pork, sticky rice, and garlic then hung up to ferment and dry. Herbs and spices vary from vendor to vendor, while condiments like ginger, chillies and cabbage typically round out the perfect bite.”
Thailand’s world-famous street food is consistently recognised as being among the best to be found anywhere on the planet, and has featured in The MICHELIN Guide in Thailand which has been in publication since 2017 and is today in its 5th edition
Monopoly Phuket Edition: The Perfect Thailand Souvenir
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has launched their own version of the ever-popular board game Monopoly – ‘Monopoly: Phuket Edition’.
Made under official license from Hasbro by Winning Moves UK, the Monopoly: Phuket Edition board game features more than 30 locations and activities in Phuket province, including popular landmarks and attractions such as Promthep Cape (on the game’s most prestigious square, Mayfair), Kata Beach, Chao Fah Variety Market (or Naka Market), Old Town Phuket and renowned diving spot Coral Island.
Miss Sadudee Sangnil, Director of TAT London Office, said, “The development of Monopoly: Phuket Edition has been a fun project and creative way to showcase one of Thailand’s much-loved beach destinations. It is an exciting opportunity for TAT to highlight the variety the island offers from accommodation and attractions to beaches and shopping, especially as travel to Thailand resumes.”
“An iconic brand, popular with all ages, Monopoly: Phuket Edition is a stand out campaign to engage first timers and repeat visitors as well as provide a unique marketing platform for our travel trade partners who feature on the board. The game is a great souvenir for those who come to Phuket, the perfect gift for friends who love Thailand, and it is also a fun way for board game enthusiasts and first timers to learn about Phuket and ‘play and plan’ their next holiday,” added Miss Sadudee.
There is so much to explore and discover across Thailand this is the first of special Thailand editions TAT plans to create in partnership with Winning Moves.
Monopoly: Phuket Edition was launched in March 2022 and is available at numerous stores and venues in Phuket, among them: The Box Cafe, Phuket Card, D6 Wargaming Phuket, The British International School Phuket, Utopia, The Naiharn Phuket, COMO Point Yamu Phuket, Blue Tree Phuket Water Park and Carnival Magic Phuket. It can also be purchased through online channels in the United Kingdom including Booghe and Amazon.
More information on the Monopoly: Phuket Edition board game can be found on the Facebook page Phuket Monopoly..