MANILA, Philippines — According to booking platform Airbnb, Thailand was the no. 1 most visited country in Southeast Asia last 2022, with Bangkok being the most visited city in the country.

As the country gears up for its annual Loy Krathong, or Festival of Lights, celebration, a huge inflow of tourists is expected to happen before the month of November ends, thus solidifying Thailand’s hold on the top spot on the list of the most popular destinations in Asia. Airbnb has already seen a 17% surge in international guests searching for a stay in Thailand, and the searches cover Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Phuket, Koh Samui, Hua Hin, Koh Pha Ngan and Krabi.

Many more are flocking to "The Land of Smiles: for the end-of-year holidays, with Airbnb seeing an approximately 88% spike in searches by China travelers for November to December travel to Thailand, and an over 15% increase in searches by Australian guests for the same period.

But, first, Loy Krathong, also known as the Festival of Lights, which is one of Thailand’s most colorful and picturesque festivals. To celebrate the water goddess Phrae Mae Khongkha, millions of Thais float (loy) a little raft (krathong) commonly made from banana trunk and topped with flowers and candles. The krathongs carry the hopes, wishes, and gratitude of individuals, and represent the act of letting go of the old and ushering in the new.

Loy Krathong is celebrated nationwide every year, on the night of the full moon of the twelfth month of the Thai lunar calendar. The festival is a special occasion for both Thais and travelers who flock to the country for this dazzling festival.

If you’re thinking of visiting Thailand to experience Loy Kathong, make it one to remember. Airbnb recommends the following best destinations and places to stay to experience Loy Krathong:

Chiang Mai

Renowned for its mountains and lush forests, Chiang Mai in the north is home to the traditional Lanna culture. Loy Krathong celebrations are marked by large ceremonies and illuminated temples and are held at the same time as the Yee Peng Festival, where Thais release thousands of paper lanterns (khom loi) into the night sky, thus making for a truly incredible sight.

Flowing through the heart of Chiang Mai province is the Ping River, a popular place amongst locals and visitors alike to float krathongs. Tha Phae Gate is another; located on the east side of the old city wall. The surrounding moat is a local favourite and popular gathering place, while Three Kings Monument in front of the old town hall has a lively atmosphere and attracts many to join in the activities.

When in Chiang Mai, you have to try the local delicacies, of which there are many. Some must-tries are sai oua (a northern Thai sausage), nam ngiao (sour and spicy noodles with tomato soup), and the always popular khao soi (creamy coconut curry with crispy noodles).

Bangkok

Thailand’s vibrant capital transforms every Loy Krathong, as the city embraces its cultural roots and traditions in a spectacle to remember. The main water artery of Bangkok, the Chao Phraya River, is a popular destination for visitors and locals to float krathongs and where you can join in the festivities against the backdrop of iconic landmarks such as Wat Arun. Alternatively, make your way to Wat Saket, where you can enjoy a memorable Loy Krathong by one of Bangkok's oldest canals, Khlong Maha Nak, and explore the iconic Golden Mount nearby.

A short stroll from the Chao Phraya is the hip neighborhood of Song Wat, which was recently voted as one of the world’s 40 coolest neighborhoods in 2023 by TimeOut. Song Wat has an eclectic mix of art galleries and historical buildings to explore. While exploring Bangkok, don’t forget to try the city’s food offerings, from street food vendors offering Thai staples such as pad thai and pad krapow, to markets such as Jodd Fair and Michelin-starred eateries.

Phuket

There’s much more to Phuket than meets the eye. Famous for its beaches and islands, Phuket is steeped in history and dotted with temples and shrines, making for a unique Loy Krathong experience with an island-style vibe. There are more than 30 beaches where locals often float their krathongs. Alternatively, explore some of the less touristy and equally popular spots, such as Sapan Hin Lake and Suan Luang Park in Phuket Town, or Nai Harn Lake in the south or Bang-Ma-Ruan Lake in the north.

When in Phuket, make sure you try some of the freshest seafood caught daily from the Andaman Sea. Delicious Southern dishes to try include kaeng som (sour and spicy soup), massaman (a flavorful, slightly sweet Thai curry) and kaeng tai pla (an intensely spicy curry with fermented fish). And while enjoying island life, don’t forget to explore the history and Sino-Portuguese architecture in Phuket Town.

Searching for your perfect stay this Loy Krathong? Here are a selection of unique Airbnb stays where you can enjoy the sights and sounds of the Festival of Lights:

• · Bohemian Home, Chiang Mai - Unique home located in a local neighborhood near Tha Phae Gate and Warorot market.
• · Mango Home No.1, Chiang Mai - Adjacent to Sunday Walking Street and Tha Phae Gate, the old city is within easy reach.
• · Funky Handmade House, Chiang Mai - Beautiful hand-crafted teak house nestled along the foothills of Doi Suthep mountain.
• · Canal House, Bangkok - Antique canal house on the Thonburi side (old capital city) of Bangkok.
• · Antique Colonial Luang Prasit Canal Home, Bangkok - Colonial-style teakwood house located on Bangkok Yai Canal.
• · Chic Loft, Bangkok - Artistic loft-style townhouse located in the vibrant Thonglor neighborhood.
• · Bella Vista Panwa, Phuket - Stunning sea views from this bungalow in Ao Yon on Phuket’s east coast.
• · Pangolin Villa, Phuket - Private pool villa in the north of Phuket close to Nai Thon and Nai Yang beaches.
• · Duplex-Style Pool Villa, Phuket - Duplex pool villa with garden view, located in the popular northwest area of Phuket.