Phuket among top ten leisure destinations - Nation Thailand

*Phuket was listed 10th among top-ten global leisure destinations where the majority of visitors are Chinese travelers who spent around $239 on*

Published: 2026-03-14 18:08 UTC Event date: developing

Phuket has been named among the world’s top ten leisure destinations, according to Mastercard’s latest Global Destination Cities Index: Play, highlighting the island’s enduring appeal to international vacationers.

The report, released recently, ranks cities based on the proportion of overnight visitors traveling for leisure rather than business. Phuket secured the tenth spot on the list, which is led by Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, where over 90 percent of travelers visited for non-business reasons in 2017. The index reflects global travel trends, with destinations attracting eco-tourists, history enthusiasts, beach lovers, and adventure seekers.

Phuket stands out as the only Thai city in the top ten, reinforcing its status as a premier holiday destination in Southeast Asia. The Mastercard study found that the majority of visitors to Phuket are from China, with Chinese tourists spending an average of $239 per person per day on leisure activities. This spending supports a wide range of local businesses, from hotels and restaurants to tour operators and retailers.

For Phuket residents and those working in the tourism sector, the recognition comes as a positive sign amid efforts to sustain and grow visitor numbers following global travel disruptions in recent years. The island’s economy is heavily reliant on tourism, and the influx of leisure travelers contributes significantly to employment and local incomes. Tourists are drawn to Phuket’s renowned beaches, vibrant nightlife, and diverse cultural offerings, all of which benefit from the increased international attention.

The announcement also has implications for the island’s infrastructure and services. As Phuket continues to attract high volumes of leisure travelers, local authorities face ongoing challenges in managing resources, ensuring environmental sustainability, and maintaining the quality of visitor experiences. The continued influx of tourists underscores the need for careful planning, especially during peak travel seasons and major festivals.

Looking ahead, tourism officials and business operators in Phuket are expected to leverage the recognition to further promote the island as a top holiday destination. Marketing campaigns and new tourism products may target key markets such as China, while efforts to enhance sustainability and visitor satisfaction remain a priority. With global travel patterns evolving, Phuket’s position in the top ten highlights both its opportunities and responsibilities as a leading leisure hub. Local stakeholders will be monitoring visitor trends and working to ensure that Phuket remains attractive and welcoming to travelers from around the world.

Source: https://www.nationthailand.com/life/30348681