With fluctuating oil prices, dwindling global economies and volatile currency exchange rates, travelers are now, more than ever, seeking out tourism destinations which offer the upmost value for money.

This is where Thailand, the Land of Smiles and the tourism epicenter of Southeast Asia steps in and paves the way; a country where those with higher spending power can enjoy a luxurious 5-star hotel room for just a 100 Euro and an exquisitely romantic buffet dinner cruise for 60 Euro. Then, for those on a budget an exotically located beach bungalow can be had for 15 Euro and a dish of tasty shrimp fried rice for even less than a Euro.

It is no wonder therefore, that Thailand has, this year been awarded the designation of Best Country Brand for Value for Money by the coveted Country Brand Index (CBI) during World Trade Market (WTM), London, 2008 (the largest trade conference of its kind in the UK). CBI is a world leader in terms of global brand consultancy which incorporates qualitative and quantitative research, quality opinions and references relevant statistics which link brand equity to assets growth and expansion.

Developed by Future Brand in conjunction with the public relations firm Weber Shandwick’s Global Travel Practice, the annual study has, for the past four years, ranked countries in accordance to key criteria while identifying emerging global trends in the world’s second largest economic industry – travel & tourism. Brands included authenticity, sports, business, fine dining and perhaps most important of all ‘Value for Money’. And besides Singapore, Thailand was the only Southeast Asian country to have been acknowledged.

This result as Best Country Brand for Value for money truly evidences the fact that Thailand has become the globally leading tourism destination for those seeking to stretch their hard-earned income.

This value for money includes some of the best the world has to offer in regards to spa, golf, women-only, family-friendly, green, beach, diving and medical tourism. Fields of tourism where Thailand has recently excelled, soared in popularity and been accoladed by their relative expert sectors.

Besides being honored best value for money in November 2008, Thailand also received designation in other key travel decision areas. They were:

- 3rd Best Country Brand for Authenticity
- 4th Best Country Brand for Shopping
- 4th Best Country Brand for Nightlife

Thailand’s unique authenticity includes: distinctive cuisine, angelic dance, ancient Thai boxing and revitalizing Thai massage. And not forgetting of course, that natural honest-to-goodness renowned smile which is synonymous with Thailand’s people.

On to shopping and Bangkok has evolved into one of the world’s shopping hubs which satisfies every serious shopper’s appetite. The Ratchaprasong Shopping District is a colorful haven offering everything from luxury to local brand-names, jewelry to jeans and cutlery to crafts. Besides just the famous shopping destinations at Ratchaprasong, within walking distance there are other renowned destinations such as Siam Paragon, Siam Square, Discovery Center and MBK.

Finally, but certainly not least, Thailand’s riveting nightlife continues to entertain in leaps and bounds. Whether it is a quiet bar, traditional Irish pub, glitzy show & dance, enthralling live music or a bustling discotheque you are after, Thailand’s main tourism destinations has it all.

So, if you are counting the cash while planning your next travel itinerary do ensure that Thailand is one of those destinations which get serious contemplation.