Phuket Won Top Wellness Award in Canada
The Tourism Authority of Thailand accepted the 2026 Travellers' Top Picks honor at a ceremony in Toronto.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Canada
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Phuket has been named the top wellness destination in the 2026 Travellers' Top Picks Awards by Air Canada Vacations. The recognition follows an online voting process where Canadian travelers selected their favorite spots.
Why it matters
The award highlights the growing popularity of Thailand as a destination for wellbeing-focused travel among international tourists. It also reflects broader efforts to promote specific health and wellness experiences on the island.
Thailand recorded 180,510 Canadian tourist arrivals between 1 January 2026 and 21 September 2026. This figure represents a 2.35 percent year-on-year increase in travel from Canada to the region.
The players
Air Canada Vacations
This tour operator organizes the annual Travellers' Top Picks Awards to recognize popular international travel destinations.
Tourism Authority of Thailand
This state agency promotes tourism to the nation and manages international marketing efforts for the country's travel sector.
The details
Representatives from the Tourism Authority of Thailand accepted the award during the Air Canada Vacations Toronto Product Launch held at the Universal Event Space. The island secured the top spot in the wellness category out of ten total awards presented to industry participants.
Timeline
1 January 2026 marked the start of the tracking period for Canadian tourist arrivals.
21 September 2026 served as the final day of the visitor data collection window.
22 September 2026 was the date of the award presentation in Toronto.
Travel Outlook
This award marks a significant milestone as the region prepares to expand its health tourism sector under the Amazing Thailand Global Health & Wellness Era 2027 initiative. The accolade underscores a shift in global tourism toward wellness-focused itineraries as standard travel patterns.
Travelers interested in wellness experiences in Thailand should look for expanded offerings as the country moves into its 2027 health initiative phase. Booking travel during off-peak periods can help visitors access these wellness resorts with more flexibility and availability.
The takeaway
Travelers are increasingly prioritizing health-oriented destinations when booking their international itineraries. Choosing award-winning wellness locations can help ensure access to high-quality amenities and professional health services during a trip.
Further reading
For more information on travel trends and regional updates, visit the Canada section.
Live Poll
Would you choose a travel destination specifically for its health and wellness tourism offerings?
