Thailand will welcome almost 1.2 million travellers from the United States next year, a milestone that continues a remarkable trend for American visitors and signals outstanding prospects for Phuket and luxury destinations nationwide.
This growth is powered by expanded flight connectivity, notably the return of United Airlines to Bangkok, which opens direct access for US travellers after more than a decade. New services and premium seat demand highlight the draw of Thailand’s beaches, resorts, and cultural experiences during peak season.
Why Americans Are Choosing Thailand
According to Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the US visitor market is distinct: travellers stay an average of 12 days, spend over THB 4,700 daily, and seek premium accommodation and wellness experiences. The recent season of HBO’s White Lotus, set in Thailand, has sparked even greater interest in luxury travel here.
In 2024, Thailand welcomed an all-time high of 1.03 million Americans, generating nearly THB 59 billion in revenue. Forecasts predict 8% more arrivals in 2025, exceeding 1.1 million, with figures on pace to reach nearly 1.2 million by 2026.
United Airlines Opens the Door
United Airlines’ new daily flights connect Los Angeles to Bangkok through Hong Kong, offering flexible options for leisure and business travellers. Half of the seats are booked from the US, targeting holidays, family visits, and extended stays. Other carriers, including Alaska Airlines and EVA Air, are positioning new long-haul routes for the upcoming seasons.
United’s Los Angeles hub now connects multiple US cities with Bangkok and Phuket, supported by onward links to Ho Chi Minh City and new regional routes. Premium cabins and efficient connections have seen strong forward sales for festive and winter travel periods.
The Outlook for Phuket Property and Investment
With the US market demonstrating longer stays and higher daily spending, property owners and investors in Phuket stand to benefit from increased rental demand, premium hospitality, and healthy growth in luxury living. Tourism experts expect this trend to drive rental yields, further validate sustainable beachfront developments, and keep Phuket at the forefront of Asia’s luxury hospitality market.
As new international routes and luxury-focused travel programs continue to launch, Phuket’s prospects for owners and investors grow ever brighter. Stay tuned to The Zero for exclusive opportunities in Phuket beachfront property investment, and discover why the island is the preferred choice for global travellers.
What Does It Mean for Phuket’s Real Estate Market?
Phuket’s surge in high-spending US visitors is good news for tourism and a catalyst for accelerated growth in property values, rental yields, and long-term investment prospects.
Higher Demand for Luxury Condos and Villas: Increased tourism is driving year-round occupancy rates, with American travellers seeking premium beachfront units and branded residences in areas such as Bang Tao, Nai Yang, and Cherngtalay.
Stronger Rental Yields: Short-term rental properties in Phuket remain exceptionally profitable, often delivering 7–12% annual yields in top tourist zones; Americans’ longer stays boost average returns.
Market Stability and Global Appeal: Unlike mortgage-dependent markets, Phuket’s cash-based property sector is strong, and foreign buyers from the US and around the world are increasingly choosing the island for extended stays, remote work, and lifestyle upgrades.
Value Growth and Infrastructure Upgrades: Ongoing infrastructure projects, new hospitals, and improved air links, including direct flights from the US, are set to further support price growth and attract more international investors.
