With 28 million international arrivals in 2023, Thailand is clearly a destination of choice. It frequently ranks among the top 10 most visited countries worldwide, and it isn’t for no reason. In this article, we will cover the most famous aspects of Thailand, in descending order.
1. Full Moon Parties
Thailand’s full moon parties, especially on Koh Phangan, are world-famous, all-night beach parties that attract thousands of people each month.
2. Sex Tourism
Whether you approve of it or not, Thailand has a well-known sex tourism industry, particularly in areas like Nana, Asoke, and Patpong, as well as Walking Street in Pattaya.
3. Ladyboys (Kathoey)
Thailand is also famous for its ladyboys, or kathoey, who are featured in cabaret shows and entertainment industries.
4. Elephants
Whether it’s souvenirs like elephant pants or the animals themselves, elephants have undeniably become a symbol of Thailand.
5. Affordability
Thailand is known as a cheap place to live and travel. As a result, it is a big hub for backpackers and other budget travelers.
6. Thai Massage and Wellness
Traditional Thai massage is famous worldwide for its therapeutic benefits, and Thailand has countless massage parlors, spas, onsens, and wellness retreats.
7. Songkran (Water Fight Festival)
Songkran, Thailand’s water fight festival, is Thailand’s version of New Year’s. The celebration itself begins on April 13th every year, but the celebration can last up to a week.
8. Thai Boxing (Muay Thai)
Muay Thai, or Thai boxing, has become especially popular of late. It’s a combat sport that is both a traditional martial art and a popular spectator sport in Thailand, and matches are held regularly all over the country.
9. Thai Silk
Thailand is well-known for its high-quality silk, which has perhaps been popularized in the modern world by Jim Thompson.
10. Tuk-Tuks
Tuk-tuks are three-wheeled motorized rickshaws and an iconic method of transportation in Thailand.
11. Medical Tourism
Thailand is a top destination for medical tourism, known for its high quality of care at relatively low prices.
12. Traffic and Road Accidents
Thailand is infamous for its chaotic traffic and high rate of road accidents. In fact, it has one of the highest road traffic death rates in the world.
The Bottom Line
Thailand is famous for a variety of reasons, perhaps too many to count. Its reputation worldwide depends in large part on what kind of exposure one has received, whether it’s through Thai boxing, medical tourism, or even famous films like The Hangover Part II. Whatever it is that draws people in initially, it’s undeniable that Thailand is a country that people keep coming back to.
