The new codeshare offering will launch during the summer timetable in 2027, subject to regulatory approval. It will cover selected destinations in Europe, Asia, and Oceania, giving passengers on both airlines a wider range of connections and greater convenience when travelling. 

Robert Ludera, Board Member and Chief Commercial Officer at LOT Polish Airlines, and Kittiphong Sansomboon, THAI’s Chief Commercial Officer (CCO), signed the MoU. 

The MoU signing coincided with the launch of LOT’s Warsaw–Bangkok route, opening new opportunities to develop cooperation between the two carriers.

LOT Polish Airlines and Thai Airways intend to develop travel options between Europe and the Asia-Pacific region. The partnership is designed to give passengers access to additional destinations while enabling both carriers to reach new groups of travellers. Another key objective is to support tourism and business in both directions: travel from Poland and Europe to Thailand and other countries in the region, and visits to Poland and Europe by passengers travelling from Asia and Oceania.

(Source: LOT Polish)

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The findings bring together national park escapes, coastal destinations, and cultural experiences, offering inspiration for travellers planning their Thailand trip.

Drawing on Traveloka’s platform insights across Southeast Asia, the Index highlights destinations gaining momentum in individual origin markets. Thailand’s domestic picture includes familiar getaway options alongside destinations that offer a different setting for exploring the country. The findings offer a starting point for travel planning, but reflect activity on Traveloka rather than the size of Thailand’s overall tourism market.

From national parks to coastal getaways, Khao Yai ranks first on the Index’s Thailand domestic fastest-riser list, followed by Pattaya, Si Racha, Nakhon Ratchasima, and Sakon Nakhon. Khao Yai’s national park setting puts nature at the centre of the local story, while Pattaya and Si Racha bring coastal destinations into the mix. Nakhon Ratchasima and Sakon Nakhon add further variety to the domestic list.

Koh Chang adds an island perspective 

In the Index’s “Next Destination” section, searches from the Thailand market rose by more than 40% year on year. The increase points to growing search interest in the island and complements the domestic destination rankings. For travellers considering an island break, the report puts Koh Chang among the places worth exploring.

Sacred landmarks and historic cities in focus

Complementing the SEA Index, a separate analysis of Traveloka’s Thailand-market data shows accommodation searches for Nakhon Phanom rose around 50% year on year in Q3 2026. Its Mekong setting and the province’s sacred landmarks inspire exploration of northeastern Thailand’s cultural heritage.

Ayutthaya and Nakhon Si Thammarat also recorded growth in accommodation searches, bringing historic temples, ancient ruins and Buddhist heritage into the domestic travel picture.

Faith and heritage also feature in the regional Index. Accommodation bookings from Indonesia to Mecca rose by more than 50% year on year, while bookings from Vietnam to Luang Prabang more than doubled from a smaller base. These regional findings provide context for the local heritage extension, with distinct origin markets and destination patterns.

Explore the Q3 2026 SEA Index at HERE

(Source: Traveloka)

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Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) President Dr Supawan Teerarat said: “MaxiMICE Thailand positions Thailand as a dynamic host where business events connect with cultural depth, community development and ecological stewardship.

Two curated post-event tour routes featuring Chiang Rai and Khao Yai present new possibilities for incentive travel, corporate retreats and international gatherings.

The Chiang Rai “Farm to Cup” Journey offers MICE travellers a curated post-tour experience, organised by The Association of Thai Tour Operators (ATTO). It combines Chiang Rai’s highlights — premium tea and coffee enterprises — with Akha ethnic gastronomy, plus a venue for outdoor events amid tea plantations, mountainous scenery, and northern Thai “Lanna” culture.  

Chiang Rai experiences

The journey highlights Chiang Rai’s capability to create distinctive incentive and corporate programmes with a strong sense of place. 

• • The Roastery by Roj – discover the journey behind premium coffee
• • Triple A Doi Chang Coffee Factory – premium coffee from cultivation, processing, roasting and brewing
• • Doi Chang – Thailand’s renowned Arabica coffee-growing region
• • LEGROR Restaurant – ethnic “Akha” cuisine and local recipes
• • Singha Park Chiang Rai – venue for outdoor events, combining the setting of nature, agriculture, recreation and adventure
• • Bhubhirom Restaurant – cuisine with quality ingredients from local farms
• • Choui Fong Tea Plantation – tea leaf selection techniques and tea tasting
• • Doi Pha Mee Coffee House – a journey of sustainable livelihood with coffee cultivation
• • Mae Fah Luang Art and Cultural Park – a centre exhibiting art, craft and local wisdom in northern Thai or Lanna culture
• • Walking Street in Chiang Rai – a vibrant platform to connect with local artists and producers
• • Wat Rong Khun – internationally acclaimed cultural landmark of Chiang Rai

Khao Yai — nature and wellbeing

Khao Yai combines natural landscapes, art therapy, wellness, and culinary experiences, making it an ideal destination for programs balancing business and leisure. 

Experiences

• • Ban Mak Muang — mango-themed farm
• • Khao Yai Art Forest – a nature-based art institution
• • Elephant Conservation Centre Khao Yai – educational activities centred around Asian elephant conservation, local ecosystems, and community awareness
• • Pen Lao  authentic Isan cuisine
• • Varin Wellness & Spa — Thai massage, aromatherapy, detox programmes, and luxury spa experiences
• • Lamaya Restaurant & Bar — Western cuisine plus farm-to-table menus
• • GranMonte Vineyard and Winery
• • Mother Say No — fusion restaurant

(Source: TCEB)

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NBT World TV channel reported that TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool met with company executives last week to discuss marketing cooperation, new travel routes, and infrastructure improvements.

The discussions covered attracting passengers from North America, Europe, Australia, and Asia while encouraging greater spending in local communities. 

Proposed cruise routes would connect Phuket with Phang Nga and Krabi, and Laem Chabang Port in Chon Buri with Rayong and Chanthaburi. TAT is also considering familiarisation trips to introduce industry partners to additional attractions and travel experiences.

Both sides reviewed potential upgrades to cruise terminals, especially at Laem Chabang, along with rail infrastructure and transport connections to nearby destinations. 

The proposal prioritises higher visitor spending and a broader distribution of tourism income over passenger numbers alone.

Royal Caribbean Group currently operates cruises calling at Laem Chabang, Samui Island, and Phuket through its Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises brands. In 2025, its ships made 181 port calls in Thailand, bringing approximately 424,000 passengers and generating an estimated THB2.12 billion in spending.

(Source: NBT World)

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Robinson’s latest video venture, “I Love My Life in the Sun”, features London-based singer Luke White’s distinctive vocals and was filmed on Koh Talu, a small island in Prachuap Khiri Khan province on the Gulf of Thailand, 300 km south of Bangkok.

“I Love My Life in the Sun”, featuring the distinctive vocals of London-based singer Luke White, was filmed on Koh Talu, where white-sand beaches, coral reefs, and tropical scenery create a fitting backdrop for a song celebrating life’s simple pleasures in the sunshine.

I first met Will through connections surrounding the extraordinary Tham Luang cave rescue in Chiang Rai in 2018, when 12 young footballers and their coach were trapped deep in a mountain cave system. 

His musical tributes to those involved reflected a quality I have come to admire: an ability to connect with people and tell their stories with warmth and respect.

Since then, I have followed his regular music and video releases. 

His latest project shines a spotlight on Koh Talu, where natural beauty sits alongside an important conservation story. Hawksbill turtles come ashore to nest on the island’s quiet beaches, while its sanctuary cares for young turtles as they develop before being released into the sea.

The island setting gives the video an appeal beyond its sunny soundtrack. It introduces audiences to a corner of Thailand where beaches, marine life and conservation are closely connected.

For more than a decade, Robinson has shared Thailand’s beauty and culture with international audiences through The Isan Project. The project’s popular “Amazing Thailand” song has recorded more than 10 million audio plays across Meta platforms. A catalogue of around 20 songs has provided the foundation for his continuing musical exploration of the Kingdom.

Will Robinson and Daniel Ryan wrote “I Love My Life in the Sun”, co-produced by Robinson and Rob Cass and mastered by Christian Wright at Abbey Road Studios in London.

For me, the appeal of Will’s work lies in the way he combines music with a personal connection to Thailand. This latest release continues that journey, inviting viewers to discover Koh Talu through a song with sunshine at its heart.

About the Author

Andrew J Wood is a British-born travel writer, tourism commentator and former hotelier based in Thailand since 1991. CEO of A&P Media, he brings more than four decades of hospitality experience in Asia and Europe.

A member of Skål International since 1992, he has served as a Director and President at the association’s Asia levels, including two terms in Bangkok. He also serves on the Board of the South African-Thai Chamber of Commerce (SATCC). His writing covers tourism, aviation, hospitality and sustainable destination development.

(The views expressed are the author’s own and do not represent those of any association, chamber or committee with which he is involved).

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TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool said the appointments support TAT’s direction for 2027 under “The Year of Transformation”, as the organisation takes on a more integrated role across Thailand’s tourism ecosystem. 

Promoted to deputy governors

Suphida Onbanchong has been appointed Deputy Governor for Administration, following her role as Executive Director of the Governor’s Office.

Parichart Boonclai has been appointed Deputy Governor for Marketing Communications, following her role as Executive Director of the Marketing Services Department.

Assignment changes

Pattaraanong Na Chiangmai has been appointed Deputy Governor for the Domestic Market, formerly Deputy Governor for International Marketing Asia and the South Pacific.

Kittipong Prapattong has been appointed Deputy Governor for International Marketing Asia and the South Pacific, formerly Deputy Governor for Digitalisation, Research and Development.

Akkarawit Taphasit has been appointed Deputy Governor for Digitalisation, Research and Development, formerly Deputy Governor for Administration.

Three deputy governors continue in their current portfolios:

Chiravadee Khunsub, Deputy Governor for International Marketing – Europe, the Americas, the Middle East, and Africa; 
Nat Kruthasoot, Deputy Governor for Tourism Products and Business;
Chuwit Sirivajjakul, Deputy Governor for Policy and Planning.

(Source: TAT)

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The portfolio deal, covering hotels in Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket, expands the JW Marriott brand and will introduce citizenM, Four Points by Sheraton, and Series by Marriott to Thailand for the first time.

Bangkok

JW Marriott Bangkok Sathorn – expected to feature 288 keys, the luxury hotel is slated to bring together refined hospitality and urban living, with enhanced well-being experiences offered through diverse sports and fitness facilities and a vibrant lifestyle hub, creating a welcoming environment where guests can recharge, reconnect and experience the energy of Bangkok.

CitizenM Bangkok Sukhumvit 11 will mark the brand’s debut in Thailand with 147 keys. Reflecting citizenM’s signature approach to modern hospitality, the hotel is expected to combine intuitive technology, bold contemporary design, genuine service and an exciting food and beverage venue in the heart of Bangkok’s Sukhumvit district.

Four Points Flex by Sheraton – three properties set to mark the brand’s entry in Thailand, strategically located across Bangkok. Four Points Flex by Sheraton Bangkok Sukhumvit 8 (162 keys), Four Points Flex by Sheraton Bangkok Sukhumvit 14 (130 keys), and Four Points Flex by Sheraton Bangkok Surawong (201 keys) are all located close to the city’s BTS skytrain network. 

Pattaya and Phuket

Marriott’s newest collection brand, Series by Marriott, is designed to deliver comfortable, approachable stays that celebrate each destination’s character while offering the reliability and consistency travellers value. Set to make its debut in Thailand, the brand is coming to two of the country’s most popular resort destinations with the 192-key Easy Planet North Pattaya, Series by Marriott, and the 142-key Easy Planet Phuket Patong, Series by Marriott.

This multi-property agreement builds on Marriott’s existing relationship with FICO Corporation, which spans four hotels in Bangkok under four distinct brands: Hotel Muse Bangkok, Autograph Collection; Marriott Executive Apartments Bangkok Townhall Sukhumvit; Four Points by Sheraton Bangkok Ploenchit Sukhumvit; and Metropole Bangkok, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel.  

(Source: Marriott International)

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Alemán is the first person in human history to achieve a staggering trifecta of exploration: travelling to all 193 UN member countries; reaching both the North and South Pole; and journeying into space.

His appearance at the Extraordinary Travel Festival offers attendees a rare chance to hear firsthand from one of the planet’s most accomplished contemporary explorers.

“Jaime Alemán embodies the absolute pinnacle of global exploration,” says ETF co-founder Ric Gazarian. “Very few people have been to every country. Even fewer have reached both poles. And only a tiny fraction of humanity has ever travelled to space. To combine all three is extraordinary — and perfectly aligned with the ethos of the ETF.”

About ETF III
ETF III will unite hundreds of the world’s most travelled individuals, including country collectors, overland adventurers, explorers, extreme travellers, and those pushing the boundaries of what it means to experience the world. The event will feature more than 20 speakers, including adventurers who have climbed the Seven Summits, visited every sovereign nation, and explored some of the globe’s most remote corners.

The largest mega-travel clubs will be prominently represented, including Every Passport Stamp (40,000 members), Travel Massive (80,000 members), Pangea, Most Travelled People (40,000 members), and NomadMania (50,000 members), fostering an unparalleled networking environment.

“Our goal is to convene the world’s most passionate travellers in one place,” Gazarian explained. “Bangkok, with its culture and unmatched energy, is the perfect location to host this next edition of the festival.”

ETF III will include keynote talks, breakout sessions, cultural programs, vibrant social gatherings, and a gala dinner. The event has previously drawn international media attention, with coverage in the Wall Street Journal and the Australian Financial Review, both of which have featured ETF in front-page travel stories.

Ticket Information

Tickets for ETF III are now on sale: https://extraordinarytravelfest.com/tickets/ 
Use code BANGKOK for a discounted rate.

(Source: ETF III)

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Travellers can discover this centuries-old tradition, its connection to the Royal Kathin ceremony, October rehearsals, and riverside viewing locations for this rare celebration of Thai culture, craftsmanship, and royal heritage.

Tradition centuries in the making

Thailand’s royal water processions date back to the Ayutthaya kingdom, when the river was the main road, and the monarch’s barge was a statement of power. Foreign envoys recorded the ceremonial fleets with awe, and the tradition passed to Bangkok after its founding in 1782. The great barges carved in this era became floating works of art, and some are still in use.

Each barge is carved from timber and covered in gold leaf, glass mosaic, and lacquer. They carry mythological names and prows shaped like Hindu-Buddhist creatures. The most famous is the Suphannahong, with a swan-like golden bow, which serves as the king’s vessel. The Narai Song Suban, built during King Bhumibol’s reign, is the only barge from his era. Wartime bombing and decades of decay left the fleet in poor condition, but it was restored, and the ceremonies were revived in the mid-twentieth century. Today the barges are kept at the National Museum of Royal Barges in Bangkok Noi.

Why it matters

The procession is a rare pageant, held only for significant occasions. It is tied to the Royal Kathin ceremony, when the monarch presents robes to Buddhist monks at the end of Buddhist Lent. The ceremony joins two pillars of Thai identity: monarchy and Buddhism.

This year’s procession is for the Royal Kathin Ceremony at Wat Arun Ratchawararam, as part of celebrations for Queen Suthida’s 48th birthday anniversary. Fifty-two barges will be manned by 2,200 Royal Thai Navy personnel, in five columns and three lines, forming a procession about 1,280 meters long and 90 meters wide. 

When and where

The main procession is on Friday, 6 November 2026. It departs from Wasukri Pier and travels past Phra Sumen Fort, Somdet Phra Pinklao Bridge, Siriraj Hospital, the Grand Palace and the Royal Thai Navy Auditorium before reaching Wat Arun Ratchawararam. It is expected to start in the afternoon, with viewing areas opening from around 3 p.m., so aim to arrive well before then.

Tickets and rehearsals

The Royal Thai Navy offered free tickets for designated riverside areas, but bookings closed on 16 September, with tickets to be collected in person by the end of September. That window has now closed. 

Rehearsals are a good alternative. Twelve rehearsals are scheduled until 28 October. You can watch the smaller sessions on 15 October from the riverbanks without a ticket. Full-dress rehearsals are scheduled for 21 and 28 October.

Best vantage points

Official viewing areas line both banks, so check your ticket or the latest announcements for access. Some popular vantage points, from north to south along the Chao Phraya embankments:

Rama VIII Bridge area: This is the northern end of the public viewing stretch, with open views of the fleet in formation, which suits photographers.

Phra Sumen Fort and Santichaiprakan Park: This riverside park in the old town is a pleasant place to settle in early, with the formation passing near its best.

Somdet Phra Pinklao Bridge: The fleet passes beneath it, and the elevated angle shows off the full column. Expect crowds.

Tha Chang and the Grand Palace side: Here the barges pass the palace walls. It is the most atmospheric stretch, and the most crowded.

Tha Tien and Wat Pho: A good place to watch as the fleet nears the finale, with Wat Arun directly across the water.

Wat Arun riverbank: This is the ceremonial destination, offering a dramatic backdrop at the end of the route, though access is likely to be restricted.

Riverside restaurants and hotel terraces near Wat Arun and the Grand Palace tend to fill quickly, so book early if you want a table with a view.

(Source: TAT)

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The event attracted nearly 3,000 Thai and international runners, marking another successful milestone in Bangkok Airways’ ongoing commitment to promoting sports tourism through running. 

The race commenced amid Chiang Mai’s picturesque scenery and iconic attractions, including the Royal Park Rajapruek, the Royal Project Agricultural Research and Development Centre, and Wat Phra That Doi Kham. These landmarks gave runners a memorable experience that blended sport, nature, and the Lanna region’s charm.

The competition featured three race categories: the 21 km Half Marathon, 10 km Mini Marathon, and 5 km Fun Run. Participants who completed the Half Marathon within the four-hour cut-off time received a limited-edition PUMA Finisher Shirt as a commemorative reward for their achievement at the season’s finale. 

The event also featured the Kids Series Race, an 800-metre adventure run held on Saturday, 26 September 2026, offering children aged 12 and under an engaging opportunity to build healthy exercise habits while enjoying a memorable family experience.

Bangkok Airways Director, Key Account and Ancillary Product, Komkrit Ngamwongwirot, said: “Bangkok Airways remains committed to promoting sports tourism through the ‘Bangkok Airways Boutique Series,’ which has now been organised continuously for its eighth year. The event combines sporting activities with the unique characteristics of each destination, while helping stimulate local economies and encouraging people to embrace healthier lifestyles through regular exercise.”

(Source: Bangkok Airways)

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