Sounds like a little hippo deserves a big raise.
Thailand was just named ‘destination of the year’ for 2025 by the experts at Travel + Leisure – who cited its “rich cultural heritage, dynamic culinary scene and a seamless blend of tradition with modern innovation”.
The top prize, awarded to one lucky country per year, comes as the Land of Smiles has been unofficially renamed the Land of Moo Deng.
The adorable pygmy hippo – drawing adoring fans from around the world to Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Si Racha – has probably raised the country’s profile more than any travel article or advertising campaign.
“We are thrilled to recognize Thailand as our Destination of the Year for 2025,” said Jacqui Gifford, editor-in-chief of Travel + Leisure, in a written statement.
“Whether visitors are exploring Bangkok’s cutting-edge culinary scene, vacationing on one of the country’s 1,430 islands, or experiencing its renowned hospitality with some of the world’s finest luxury hotels, Thailand offers a unique adventure for every kind of traveller.”
Thailand is the tenth country to take the title for the annual honor – previous years featured the likes of Italy, Japan and Costa Rica.
Jeninne Lee-St. John, editor-in-chief of Travel + Leisure Southeast Asia, cited the “stark contrasts” of her adopted country as a reason for the award.
“Take the fact that this predominantly Buddhist and often traditional society recently legalized marijuana and same-sex marriage,” she wrote.
“Or that Thailand has some of the best luxury hotels in the world – many at unbeatable prices – yet you’ll find the same warm hospitality and attention to detail in more modest homes,” the pro noted.
And as for Bangkok, the entry point to the country for many foreigners, Lee-St. John confesses that she did not go to the place immediately.
But “once you understand” the city, she promised, “it’s impossible not to fall for it.”
The professional traveler cited the Thai concept of “kreng jai,” or respect for all people, as a favorite trait, as well as being able to eat krapow gai, “a fried chicken dish topped with an egg,” for breakfast every morning. day.
“Whether you visit the mountainous north or the southern shores along the Andaman Sea, the country reveals its treasures gradually, and usually by word of mouth,” she wrote.
“There is so much creativity in the art, food and hospitality scenes that it can be difficult to decide where to go and what to do.”
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Maui and Sicily appeared in vivid detail in earlier installments of the Mike White drama.
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Image Source : nypost.com