Thailand is Kuoni’s eighth best-selling destination for 2022, with the tailor-made specialist expecting it to rise further up its best-selling list for 2023 as consumers seek value for money.

The collection, which went on sale on Monday (25 July,) features nine resorts exclusive to Kuoni in the UK, including new addition Paresa Phuket, as well as new Kuoni signature experiences in Bali.

Kuoni put the resurgent demand for Thailand down to the diversity of experiences it offers, its range of premium hotels and unique local culture.

Paresa Phuket, a pool villa retreat set in forested hillside above Kamala beach, has its own cookery school offering classes guests can enjoy as part of their experience.

Another addition is Pimalai Resort and Spa in Koh Lanta – a wellbeing and sustainability focused jungle spa where guests can learn the art of Thai massage and take part in activities including aerial yoga.

Kuoni said it was increasingly basing its hotel selection on how they are managing their impact on the local environment and community, highlighting Pimalai’s zero waste project, beach cleaning efforts and Little Scientist project designed to encourage local youngsters to take an interest in science through educational programmes.

In Chiang Mai, meanwhile, Kuoni is offering customers the chance to learn more about elephants and the work and culture of Thailand’s mahouts – elephant keepers – at Bush Camp by Elephant Hills, which has 10 tented camps.

Throughout the region, Kuoni has added more experiences that can be booked in advance; new signature experiences in Bali include opportunities to trek Mount Batur and visit its hot springs, or take in a traditional Balinese village experience.

Sheena Paton, senior programme manager at Kuoni, said: “Thailand has long been a favourite for Kuoni customers, but we want to diversify what we offer and surprise people. The experience at Bush Camp by Elephant Hills is such a draw and we expect that to do really well and customers will be attracted to that and build itineraries around it.

"Launching a new exclusive resort Paresa Phuket is really exciting; it means people get the Kuoni experience from beginning to end and it’s a beautiful property in a stunning setting, perfect for honeymoons and special occasion trips."

Paton added: "Sustainability is running theme throughout and we’re actively looking for hotels and experiences which have credible programmes to protect the local environment and support local communities and now make that an essential part of how we choose the hotels we work with.”