According to recent statistics from reputable sources, Thailand remains one of the top five travel destinations for Swedish tourists and the number-one destination for Swedish tourists outside of European destinations, but why?
Let’s dive straight in to discover some of the main reasons why so many tourists from Sweden tend to flock to this exotic location in the heart of Southeast Asia.
Why is Thailand the most popular tourist destination outside of Europe for people from Sweden?
Thailand is the most popular tourist destination outside of Europe for people from Sweden for the same reasons it is the number-one tourist destination for people living in many other parts of the world, such as China, India, Malaysia, Russia, the United States, Australia, the United Kingdom, and many European countries.
Around 275,00 to 285,000 Swedish tourists visit Thailand each year, and some of the main reasons why so many Swedes flock to Thailand are the following:
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- Climate – many people enjoy the warm and sunny weather, which lasts for long periods
- Affordability – it’s known as one of the world’s most economically viable (and budget-friendly) holiday destinations, whether you are planning to stay in guesthouses, hostels, beach huts, bungalows, or tourist hotels (budget hotels to luxury five-star hotels). Prices are cheaper than almost any other country on the planet
- Scenery – Thailand is home to some of the most breathtaking natural sceneries on the planet, from steamy rainforests and soaring mountains to tropical islands and stunning white sandy beaches
- Nightlife and entertainment – Thailand comes alive at night and offers eclectic entertainment activities. Land-based and online casino gambling activities aren’t what people naturally flock to this country for. Instead, it’s all about the bars, clubs, live shows, cabaret, night markets, Muay Thai fights, karaoke, Tuk Tuk night tours, strip bars, shopping, and so much more
- Tours and cruises – there’s so much to explore in Thailand, with something to suit all types of travellers, from Island hopping excursions and river cruises to guided street tours, canal tours, mountain & jungle tours, and city tours
There’s so much to do in Thailand, and it’s often impossible to cram it all into a two-week stay, which is why tourists from Sweden and other parts of the world return to Thailand on more than one occasion or will stay for much more extended periods.
I’ve never been to Thailand; where should I visit first when I arrive?
It all depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re a ‘foodie,’ then you may want to head straight to the street food vendors, try one of the many different cuisines in a restaurant, or check out the exotic foods at the day or night markets.
Some of Thailand’s most famous food markets are in Bangkok, but foodies can also find some fantastic markets (daytime and nighttime markets) in most other major Thai cities.
During your stay, don’t forget to check out some of the following food markets and famous street food vendors: the Night Bazar, the Chatuchak Weekend Market, the Cicada Market, the Naka Market, and the iconic Maeklong Railway Market.
That’s not forgetting the ThaPae Walking Street, Chiang Rai Night Bazaar, Pratunam Market, Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, and Bang Niang Market.
If you are going to Thailand because of the impact the 2000 movie The Beach may have had on you, the main reason to visit is the country’s beaches.
Many tourists flock to Thailand’s stunning white sand beaches and secluded coves simply to forget all their worries and soak up the sun.
If that’s you, then you might prefer to start by heading to places like Phuket, Koh Samui, Railay Beach, Karon Beach, Koh Lanta, Maya Beach, Thong Nai Pan Beach, Lamai Beach, or Chaweng, to name just a few breathtaking beaches.
Final thoughts
Before booking your flights to Thailand, remember to plan your trip well in advance and set out an itinerary of things you want to do.
Book your accommodation from reputable travel agents, and remember that if you overstay your welcome and your travel documents or visa expires, there can be fines or harsher punishments.
