KUALA LUMPUR: Thailand has reported that from January to May, the number of international tourists to the country increased by 7.27 percent despite the global economic slow down. Visits from Britons increased by 12 percent in May compared to the same time in 2011. “This strong performance cements Thailand's position as one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, currently ranked 11th by the UN World Tourism Organization,” said a report by Global Travel Industry News. Phuket remains the top destination for many visitors. According to the travel news websites, “holidays in Phuket can include Thai cooking classes, a sunset dinner onboard a traditional Thai boat and a cruise in a long tail boat to Phang Nga Bay Marine Park. Phuket holidays offer exceptional value for the money.” Koh Samui off the east coast of Thailand offers a more relaxed pace of life than Phuket. There are temples and waterfalls to discover inland and a breathtakingly beautiful coast to explore. Koh Samui comes to life at night with a range of restaurants, cafes, bars and clubs offering a welcoming blend of Thai and international cultures. After the 2004 tsunami Koh Phi Phi has rebuilt itself to be even more beautiful and tourist friendly.
