Thai holidays 'not just for backpackers'

The editor of one of Britain's most popular travel magazines has said that people should forget their image of Thailand as a place only for backpackers and gap-year students.

Editor Alyson Cook said that Thailand holidays are as likely to appeal to people on their honeymoon looking for a bit of luxury as they are to those wanting a back-to-basics trip.

"Thailand has become a popular destination - particularly with the honeymoon market. The younger generation like the combination of a wonderful beach holiday [and] the opportunity to travel up into places [where they can see] elephants and have a mix of the two.

"They have also perfected the spa side of the market and that, increasingly, is very high on the luxury travellers' list; a decent spa is almost a pre-requisite," she remarked.

Ms Cook added that Thailand ranks in the top three in a list of the most popular long-haul holiday destinations compiled for the Kuoni Long Haul report.

According to research by the International Luxury Travel Market, the luxury travel industry as a whole is booming. The global luxury travel industry now comprises an estimated 25 million annual arrivals, accounting for 25 per cent of international tourism spend.