Thailand is 'Throwing Off Its Backpacker Image'

Thailand has shaken off its backpacker image and appeals to a new market of travelers, an industry expert has said.

According to Luxury Travel Magazine, the south-east Asian nation is now a top holiday spot for those seeking boutique hotels and luxury spas to relax in.

Editor, Alyson Cook said: "Thailand has become a popular destination - particularly with the honeymoon market.

"The younger generation like the combination of a wonderful beach holiday in places like Koh Samui, (and) the opportunity to travel up into places like Chiang Mai (where they can see) elephants."

She added that Thailand’s top-class hotels offer an "understated luxury" and noted that the nation has regularly featured in the top three of Kuoni’s list of popular long-haul destinations.

Furthermore, the Kuoni Long-haul Report 2008 found that the boutique luxury holiday market continues to boom despite the credit crunch.

It revealed that those splashing out on expensive breaks want a personal experience.

Destinations News posted on 11/07/2008 14:38:10