In the “Best in Travel 2026” article published on October 22, 2025, Lonely Planet praised Phuket as a destination with a rare and perfect balance of three main elements:
🌊 Beautiful Coastal Lifestyle:
Not just about beaches and clear waters, but also the relaxing atmosphere and breathtaking views of the Andaman Sea.
🏙 Vibrant City Life:
Beyond its natural beauty, Phuket is filled with urban energy — from the unique Sino-Portuguese architecture of its Old Town to chic cafés and Michelin-starred restaurants.
🎭 Rich Local Culture:
The island’s Peranakan heritage, blending Chinese, Malay, and Thai influences, continues to shine through its cuisine, traditional attire, and everyday lifestyle.
To reinforce this recognition, Lonely Planet didn’t just announce the list — it also launched a “Phuket Itinerary”, inviting travelers to discover the island on a deeper level.
This curated program encourages visitors to explore beyond the beaches, focusing on local food experiences, where travelers can savor authentic Southern Thai and Peranakan dishes rarely found elsewhere.
It also highlights creative arts, guiding travelers through the growing art scene, handicrafts, and cultural expressions in Phuket Old Town — a clear sign that Lonely Planet now views Phuket not only as a seaside destination, but as a vibrant cultural hub.
This recognition has a significant global impact. Lonely Planet boasts a strong international readership, with over 150 million travel guides sold worldwide and 2.5 million monthly website visitors.
Moreover, CNN, another leading global media outlet, further amplified this ranking in its article “25 must-visit places and must-do experiences named for 2026,” reaching an audience of over 90.5 million viewers per month.
Phuket’s inclusion in the “Best in Travel 2026” list is therefore more than just an award — it’s a milestone that reaffirms Thailand’s enduring charm in nature, culture, and creativity, ready to welcome travelers from around the world to discover unforgettable experiences in 2026 and beyond.
ข้อมูล : ททท. , lonelyplanet , ไทยรัฐ
