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Just what the doctor ordered: Thailand pivots from Middle East medical magnet to longevity sanctuary

The kingdom has long had a firm grip on South-east Asia’s medical tourism crown, but with Malaysia and Vietnam nipping at its heels, Thailand makes a charge for wellness. This is Part 3 of our series on Asia’s booming medical tourism. 

Goh Ruoxue
Published Wed, Jan 1, 2025 · 05:00 AM
    • Stem-cell treatments, a particularly contentious and highly regulated field, are becoming increasingly popular in Thailand, as patients seek treatment for diseases such as Alzheimer's and anti-ageing remedies.
    • Stem-cell treatments, a particularly contentious and highly regulated field, are becoming increasingly popular in Thailand, as patients seek treatment for diseases such as Alzheimer's and anti-ageing remedies. PHOTO: EPA-EFE

    SAIL into the sunrise along the Chao Phraya River with a plate of pad thai, then shop till you drop before smoothing out those forehead lines with a quick cosmetic treatment. Finish it all with dental care and a full-body health screening – and watch yourself look eight years younger, all before the clock strikes 12.

    Thai hospitality is on a whole new echelon.

    Crowned South-east Asia’s largest medical tourism revenue contributor, Thailand – where tourism accounts for about 12 per cent of its gross domestic product – has consistently drawn millions of foreign visitors year after year.

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