New data released by Airbnb has shown domestic bookings in Thailand have increased 13 per cent year-on-year as the country begins to open up following the pandemic.

With travel slowly resuming in Thailand, domestic travel is trending to destinations near, rather than far. 

Between 18-24 May, there were more nights booked for domestic travel on Airbnb globally than there were in the same period in 2019. From June 5-7, for the first time since February, year-over-year growth in gross booking value (not including cancellations or alterations) has increased for all Airbnb reservations made around the globe.

In Thailand, Airbnb’s host and guest community generated over 40 billion baht in direct economic impact to Thailand in 2019, increasing by 17 per cent year-on-year. 

Airbnb Asia Pacific Regional Director Kum Hong Siew said the company was already seeing early positive signs of domestic travel getting ready to make a comeback, driven by locals booking holidays that are closer to home.

"This latest data reinforces our belief that travellers increasingly are looking for more local, authentic and affordable experiences,” he said.

“Tourism is a key driver of economic growth in Thailand and it will play an important role in overall recovery.

"We are committed to working hand in hand with governments, tourist agencies, communities and other key local stakeholders in Thailand to help restore travel in a responsible way that economically benefits local citizens and small businesses, paving the way towards tourism’s much-needed recovery.”

Similar to this: 

Thai Finance Ministry agrees to domestic tourism proposal

Ninety per cent of domestic tourists planning to visit Phuket once restrictions are lifted - Survey

AirAsia to resume Thailand domestic service from May 1