According to Amanpreet Bajaj, Airbnb’s General Manager for Southeast Asia, India, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, Chiang Mai remains a popular destination for global travelers, particularly through Airbnb. Known for its unique accommodations and growing list of Michelin-recommended dining spots, Chiang Mai continues to attract international visitors seeking memorable experiences. Searches for Airbnb stays in Chiang Mai surged nearly 30% in the lead-up to Loy Krathong and Yi Peng festivals, signaling its sustained appeal among foreign tourists, especially Chinese travelers—a top market in 2024—with bookings up almost 70% in the first half of the year compared to 2020.

Airbnb data for the first half of 2024 also shows significant growth in Chiang Mai bookings from the Asia-Pacific region, with Japanese travelers up 97%, Indian travelers up 47%, and South Korean travelers up 41%. Thai bookings rose nearly 30% year-over-year, placing Thailand as the fifth largest market for Chiang Mai stays. This strong demand reflects Chiang Mai’s continued popularity among regional travelers.