Thailand's tourism pivot toward wellness, culture and responsible travel brought 2,000+ global travel professionals to Bangkok in July. The focus on 'value over volume' signals a shift that may reshape Phuket demand.
General
A new border road between Thailand and Malaysia opened in July 2026, cutting journey times and creating a smoother overland corridor. For Phuket, the question is whether easier southern access strengthens the island's position or draws visitors elsewhere.
A three-year TAT-AirAsia partnership and upgraded Malaysia border crossing signal a push for 4.8 million Malaysian arrivals. For Phuket, the question is how much of that demand reaches the island.
Faster immigration and smoother arrivals at Suvarnabhumi could mean more tourists heading to Phuket with less friction. The upgrade matters for rental demand and buyer confidence.
Thailand is rolling back the generous 60-day visa exemption introduced in 2024. The new measures, pending Royal Gazette publication, will shift most nations to 30-day entry. For property buyers and long-stay visitors to Phuket, the change raises practical questions about time, extensions and how Thailand is reshaping visitor access.
A freehold one-bedroom condo in central Chiang Mai costs just over 2 million baht. The same budget barely covers a studio in Bangkok's CBD. The gap matters for buyers weighing up entry points across Thailand.
Dusit International will open ASAI Patong Phuket in 2029, bringing its lifestyle hotel concept to the heart of Patong with 85 rooms, rooftop pool and community-focused spaces for travellers seeking Phuket beyond the traditional resort.
Thailand's Prime Minister has announced intensified enforcement against illegal nominee land ownership, especially for large plots. The move follows concerns over foreign-controlled land in the EEC.
Following a deadly Bangkok fire, Phuket has launched province-wide safety inspections of entertainment venues, hotels and restaurants. For property investors and hospitality operators, the move signals tighter compliance ahead.
Two arrests in two days at Phuket International Airport highlight a legal reality many foreign buyers and expats still misunderstand: cannabis may be decriminalised inside Thailand, but exporting it carries up to ten years in prison.
A reminder from Thai immigration that travellers should carry proof of funds at entry has caught attention. The amounts haven't changed since 2000, but the practical question is whether enforcement will tighten.
Bangkok condo prices have climbed back to pre-pandemic levels, but developers are not launching affordable projects. Tighter mortgage rules and rising land costs are pushing activity toward Phuket instead.
