THAILAND WINS FOUR OUT OF 10 TRIPADVISOR AWARDS FOR TOP ASIAN BEACH DESTINATIONS

New York, May 10, 2010 — The results of the TripAdvisor Traveler's Choice 2010 awards are in, and the beautiful islands of Thailand brought home four out of 10 awards for beach destinations in Asia.

The islands of Koh Lanta, Khao Lak, Koh Phangan and Koh Samui were ranked #3, #4, #5 and #6, respectively, on the list of "Top 10 Beach & Sun Destinations in Asia." With these honors, Thailand became the most-awarded Asian country in the category, besting Vietnam, the Maldives and the Philippines.

In other award categories voted on by TripAdvisor users, Thailand fared equally well. In "Top 10 Culture & Sightseeing Destinations in Asia," the Thai cities of Chiang Mai, Bangkok and Ayutthaya all made the list-with Bangkok also being named to the "Top 10 Food & Wine Destinations in Asia." And the islands of Koh Lanta and Koh Samui were both named the "Top 10 Romance Destinations in Asia" and the "Top 10 Relaxation & Spa Destinations in Asia," with Chiang Mai also awarded the latter.

"We are immensely proud to have Thailand recognized so extensively in such diverse categories by the members of the TripAdvisor community," says Srisuda Wanapinyosak, Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) - New York. "It is particularly gratifying for Thailand to be awarded for its many facets, including beaches, cultural sites, food and spas."

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