Phuket just hosted one of the biggest wellness gatherings in the world — and it was opened by the Queen herself. If you want a sign of where Thailand's tourism money is heading next, this is it: less beach-party, more health, herbs and high-value visitors.
Her Majesty Queen Suthida presided over the opening of the Global Wellness Summit 2026 today (Nov 11) at Angsana Laguna Phuket in Thalang, arriving at the resort at 8:21am. She was received at the ACES conference hall by the Public Health Minister, the Tourism and Sports Minister, Phuket's Governor and senior officials, alongside the summit's chief executives.
The summit runs under the theme 'The Science, Art and Soul of Wellness'. In her address, the Queen pointed to Thailand's chance to build its health-tourism industry by combining modern medical science with traditional Thai medicine and herbal knowledge — and noted what it means for Thailand to have been chosen to host.
After the ceremony, the Queen toured an exhibition by the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine. It showcased 79 premium herbal products from 32 brands — a product value chain projected to exceed 525 million baht by the end of 2026 — plus traditional Thai massage innovations, including herbal massage oils using camellia seed oil, health analysis services, and cuisine developed to a 'Thai Food Good Health' standard.
The summit brings together international wellness leaders, experts, investors and entrepreneurs. Organisers say the aim is strategic investment in the wellness economy and new opportunities for local communities — with Phuket as the showcase for Thailand's ambitions. For an island already famous for spas and massage, that is a very deliberate next step.
Full story: The Phuket News — Queen Suthida opens Global Wellness Summit
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