In 2025, global travel preferences have radically changed. If in 2015 the main criteria were price and accessibility, today travelers seek safety, quality of life, remote work options, and long-term residency.
According to the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the top 10 most popular destinations are:
- Thailand — leader in nights booked by digital nomads and LTR residents;
- Spain — still attracts Europeans and Americans;
- Portugal — favorite among retirees and IT professionals;
- Mexico — growing interest from the US and Canada;
- Greece — popular due to Golden Visa program;
- Turkey — mass beach tourism and real estate investments;
- Japan — revival post-pandemic, culture enthusiasts;
- Italy — cultural tourism and 'slow living';
- Colombia — new hub for digital nomads in Latin America;
- Uzbekistan — rising interest from Europe and Asia in the Silk Road.
How Much Does Accommodation Cost in 2025?
Prices have significantly increased since 2015. Average cost per night in mid-range hotels:
- Thailand: €65–85;
- Spain: €90–130;
- Portugal: €95–140;
- Mexico: €70–100;
- Greece: €80–120;
- Turkey: €55–75;
- Japan: €110–160;
- Italy: €100–150;
- Colombia: €45–65;
- Uzbekistan: €40–55.
In the UK, the average price reached €210 per night — the highest in Europe.
What Has Changed Since 2015?
Key shifts:
- From tourism to residency: instead of '10-day vacation' — 'live for 6+ months';
- Digital nomads: 38% of travelers work remotely;
- LTR programs: Thailand, Portugal, Mexico offer 10-year visas;
- Sustainability: travelers choose low-carbon footprint countries;
- Safety: top priority after global crises.
Thailand in 2025: Not Just a Vacation, But a Lifestyle
Thailand rose from 4th place in 2015 to 1st in 2025 thanks to:
- LTR Visa: 10 years without annual exit;
- World-class healthcare: Bumrungrad, Bangkok Hospital;
- International schools: Shrewsbury, NIST;
- Developed infrastructure: metro, airports, 5G;
- Welcoming culture: 'Land of Smiles' remains in travelers’ hearts.
Outlook 2025–2030
Expected:
- Growth of hybrid travelers (work + leisure);
- Development of metaverse-based virtual tourism;
- Launch of digital nomad visas in 50+ countries;
- Global recognition of Thailand as the best place to live and work.
"Tourism no longer ends where work begins," said UNWTO Director-General Zurab Pololikashvili. "Today, people don’t just travel. They relocate."
Planning a move? My Thai Home helps you choose a country, calculate your budget, get a visa, and find a home. Your new life should start right.
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