Three Thailand’s popular southern islands scored top spots in the 2016 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice™ Awards for Islands.

Phuket gained the second spot in Asia and 8th in the global ranking. The awards identify the top 10 island destinations globally and by region.

Two other Thai islands, Samui and Tao, achieved third and fourth places in the Asia rankings.

TripAdvisor said it highlights the world’s top islands based on the quantity and quality of reviews and ratings for hotels, restaurants and attractions in destinations, worldwide, gathered over a year, as well as traveller booking interest registered on TripAdvisor.

Ms. Barbara Messing, TripAdvisor Chief Marketing Officer, added “With common traits like breathtaking beaches, exciting activities and popular hotels and restaurants, the Travellers’ Choice Islands are favourites of the TripAdvisor community. While most of these islands have year-round appeal, TripAdvisor booking data shows that bargain hunters can save on their hotels when staying at the top islands during the shoulder season rather than the peak.”

Mr. Sugree Sithivanich, Tourism Authority of Thailand Deputy Governor for Marketing Communications, commented “We are glad that our destinations continue to be among the top choices for a great island vacation.  Phuket has some of the best beaches in the world and a huge range of attractions, while Samui and Ko Tao with their warm seas and nearby marine parks allow visitors to enjoy a combination of stunning scenery and friendly local culture.”

In the citations for each of the winning destinations, TripAdvisor states that Phuket musters 1,086 things to do based on its visitor reviews and feedback.

It recommends Phuket’s Baba Wedding Festival hosted in the island’s old town, this June, as an impelling reason to book a Phuket holiday.

TripAdvisor identifies 475 things to do while visiting Samui the third place island in the Asia rankings. It recommends a booking in May to catch the spectacular Samui Regatta, at Chaweng Beach, during 21 to 28 May.

Reviews of Ko Tao, a world-class dive destination, identify 156 things to do. TripAdvisor recommends a visit in June to capture the ambience of the ecotourism event, Save Ko Tao Festival, during 18-19 June.

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