In a small, sunny spot of news, Thailand’s islands are still lovely places to visit.
Based on the happy reviews of its customer base, travel review site TripAdvisor named Ko Tao the 10th best island in the world and first in Asia.
“From the coral reefs of Ambergris Caye to the beaches of Ko Tao, these Travellers’ Choice Islands winners have been highly rated by travellers around the globe,” said TripAdvisor spokeswoman Barbara Messing in a release.
Along with Ko Tao, Ko Phangan, Ko Lanta, Phuket and Ko Samui came in third, fourth, seventh and ninth respectively in the rankings.
Thailand’s tourism authorities, anxious to reverse the kingdom’s falling currency as a travel destination in the face of rising violence, were quick to seize on the good news.
“Thailand’s islands are famous all over the world,” said Thawatchai Arunyik, Tourism Authority of Thailand chief. “In recent years, our beach and island resorts have attracted honeymooners, the rich-and-famous, and those seeking privacy and luxury. At the same time, there is no shortage of options for backpackers and young people travelling the world.”
TripAdvisor said its winners were based on “the quality and quantity of the most highly-rated hotels, restaurants, and attractions listed for each island” during a 12-month period.
Top 10 Islands in Asia:
1. Ko Tao, Thailand
2. Bali, Indonesia
3. Ko Phangan, Thailand
4. Ko Lanta, Thailand
5. Gili Trawangan, Indonesia
6. Boracay, Philippines
7. Phuket, Thailand
8. Palawan, Philippines
9. Ko Samui, Thailand
10. Langkawi, Malaysia
Top 10 Islands in the World:
1. Ambergris Caye, Belize
2. Providenciales, Turks and Caicos
3. Bora Bora, French Polynesia
4. Marco Island, Florida
5. Lewis and Harris, Scotland
6. Naxos, Greece
7. Aitutaki, Cook Islands
8. Nosy Be, Madagascar
9. Easter Island, Chile
10. Ko Tao, Thailand
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