Thailand Crowned Best Tourist Country 2026 at the Grand Travel Awards

In January 2026, the Land of Smiles added more than a few reasons to celebrate. At the prestigious Grand Travel Award 2026 held in Oslo, Norway, Thailand was officially crowned the “Best Tourist Country,” marking a triumphant second consecutive year at the top. But the accolades didn’t stop there. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) was also honored as the “Best Tourist Office,” a testament to the kingdom’s relentless effort to remain the world’s most beloved destination. On January 8, 2026, the elite of the Norwegian travel industry gathered at a star-studded ceremony in Oslo for the Grand Travel Awards. Organised by Travel News Norge, these awards are considered the ultimate benchmark of excellence in the Nordic region, determined by the votes of nearly 800 travel agents, tour operators, and industry professionals. For the second year in a row, Thailand stood alone at the summit, proving that its allure transcends simple vacation trends.The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) was recognized for its effective market engagement and long-term partnerships across Scandinavia. The awards were accepted by a high-level delegation, including H.E. Ms. Nitivadee Manitkul, Ambassador of Thailand to Norway, and Mrs. Patsalin Swetarat, Director of the TAT Stockholm Office. Their presence underscored the diplomatic and economic importance of the Norwegian market to Thailand’s tourism recovery.