Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket lead Thailand’s visitor charts, while Ko Tao and Ko Pha-ngan attract longer stays with diving, nightlife, and relaxed island vibes appealing to regional travelers. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – Thailand continues to assert itself as one of the world’s most fun and sought-after destinations, with Pattaya firmly retaining its place as a favorite hotspot among both new and returning international visitors. Digital travel platform Agoda recently released fresh insights highlighting sustained inbound demand across the first half of 2025, driven by regional markets and bolstered by government efforts under the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025 campaign. According to Agoda’s booking data, China, Malaysia, and South Korea topped the list as the largest sources of international travelers, followed by Japan and Singapore. The influx is strongly supported by expanded air connectivity and streamlined travel procedures, part of Thailand’s push to enhance the quality and ease of tourism throughout the country. At the destination level, Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket continued to dominate as the most visited cities across all major inbound markets. Pattaya, with its vibrant nightlife, entertainment scene, and easy access to beaches, has retained its magnetic appeal — not just among first-timers but also long-stay visitors from nearby nations. Also making a surprise ascent was Hat Yai, which is quickly becoming a popular choice for Malaysian and Singaporean travelers, thanks to its affordability and convenient access. It was recently named one of the most budget-friendly cities in Asia for the second year running. Agoda’s findings also shed light on visitor behavior: Chinese tourists led in total visitor volume, while South Korean travelers stayed the longest on average, followed by tourists from Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, and China. Island locales such as Ko Tao, Ko Pha-ngan, and the more local-feel Pathum Thani drew longer stays, offering a mix of diving, nightlife, and proximity to Bangkok, respectively. Among the many reasons for Thailand’s enduring fun factor is the Full Moon Party on Ko Pha-ngan, a legendary beach event now considered a rite of passage for global partygoers. In April, the Songkran water festival adds a countrywide explosion of fun, with Pattaya in particular transforming into a massive street water fight — a spectacle that continues to attract tourists from around the world. These experiences, alongside delicious food, beautiful beaches, and a vast range of accommodations, cement Thailand’s status as the only Asian country in the recent top 10 “most fun countries in the world” ranking — alongside Spain and Brazil. Official statistics from Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports show that the kingdom welcomed more than 16 million international visitors between January and June 2025, generating an impressive 743.582 billion baht in revenue. These figures affirm the effectiveness of strategic investments in infrastructure and tourism promotion. “We’re honored to be the platform of choice for travelers from across Asia,” said Akaporn Rodkong, Country Director at Agoda. “Our goal is to help make travel easier and more memorable by providing access to both well-known destinations like Pattaya and hidden gems throughout Thailand.” With over 6 million properties, 130,000 flight routes, and 300,000 activities available through Agoda, travelers have more flexibility than ever to explore Thailand — whether it’s for a weekend escape or an extended adventure. As the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025 continues, Pattaya and the nation as a whole are poised for even greater tourism momentum, showcasing the very best of Thai hospitality, culture, and fun.