#Thaiauthority

A new study highlights sharp contrasts in travel prices for 2025, with Iceland identified as the most expensive destination and Thailand standing out as a budget-friendly option for global visitors. The findings show how currency shifts and inflation shape vacation budgeting for Thai travelers and Southeast Asian visitors.

Researchers from The Forex Complex, summarized for Travel + Leisure, analyzed 19 popular destinations by looking at daily spend on lodging, transport, and meals, along with local inflation and currency movements against the US dollar. In Iceland, 5.5% inflation has driven up prices for hotels, food, and transportation, making trips more costly for inbound travelers even before airfare.

Koh Samui is profiled as the standout destination for affordable luxury on Expedia’s 2025 Island Hot List. The recognition reflects a growing traveler focus on value, wellness, and authentic Thai experiences. For Thai readers, the award strengthens national pride and underscores international interest in the archipelago.

Expedia’s data show global interest in island escapes rising about 30 percent in 2025, driven by bookings, pricing, reviews, and search patterns. The Hot List evaluates weather, accessibility, and cultural appeal to spotlight locations. Koh Samui sits alongside Aruba for sun, Bali for culture, Fiji for community, and the Maldives for romance, illustrating a broader appetite for diverse experiences—from Sardinian food scenes to Paros nightlife and Oahu surfing. The insights highlight how value, comfort, and local flavor guide destination choices.