Bangkok, 18 August, 2014 – Thailand ranked first place in the new Global Beachfront Awards that recognise countries with the most accommodation located directly on the beach.
In a poll carried out by the Beachfront Club, Thailand came ahead of many of the world’s best-known seaside destinations with an amazing 1,270 true beachfront hotels, resorts and bungalows where guests can step from their hotels and onto the sand. This puts the kingdom ahead of the USA, (1,016 hotels), Mexico (943), Spain (736) and Philippines (591).
The Global Beachfront Awards recognise countries with the most true beachfront hotels; that is, accommodation with no obstructions or roads between guest areas and the beach itself. The Awards were established to publicise hotels where travellers and beach lovers can enjoy a true beachside setting and not feel they have been subjected to false advertising about beach-side locations.
Mr. Thawatchai Arunyik, TAT Governor said, “With their warm waters, soft sands and stunning, romantic backdrops, Thailand’s beaches have always been a major draw for tourists looking to enjoy a little piece of tropical paradise. So it comes as no surprise to anyone that the kingdom is making waves internationally, becoming even more popular among international tourists.
“Being able to step your hotel right onto the sand has always been the perfect way to enjoy Thailand’s islands and coastline and we’re always working hard to preserve our beaches for generations to come.”
In addition, one of Thailand’s most popular islands of Ko Samui won the Global Beach Destination Award, which recognises single destinations that have the most beach-side accommodation. With 270 properties right on the sand, Samui beat some of the world’s best-known destinations including Mexico’s famous Riviera Maya, Mallorca in Spain, (a hot spot since the 70s) and the Mediterranean island of Crete.
The Beachfront Club was established to help travellers find and experience true beachfront hotels and tourism. Their interactive website with maps and extensive database aims to register every proper beachfront property in the world, from boutique resorts to big brands and has now identified over 11,000 beachfront hotels and resorts in 109 countries.
