Thailand top for budget travel

Thailand has been voted the top country worldwide for value for money holidays, in a major new survey.

The south-east Asian state, famed for its temples and culture alongside raving full moon beach parties, was deemed the best holiday destination in the world for visitors travelling on a shoestring in research by the FutureBrand Company.

Some 11.5 million tourists visited Thailand last year; 750,000 of these were Brits and, despite the low prices charged for accommodation, travel and activities, the industry generated a total of £4.6 billion for the country's economy.

Suraphon Svetasreni, tourism authority of Thailand's deputy governor for marketing and communications, said: "It is heartening to see that Thailand has such a high level of recognition in one of the most important decision-making criteria for global travellers.

"In an era of volatile currency fluctuations and high oil prices, travellers are constantly seeking ways to stretch their hard-earned income on leisure travel."

Mr Svetasreni continued to explain that Thai authorities have intentionally appealed to travellers on a tight budget.

"One of the key elements of our marketing strategy has always been to position our excellent products and services as being value for money and we are happy to see that the message is having an impact," he said.

Australia, the US and Italy emerged as the three best overall country brands in the survey.