Britons looking for affordable winter sun can now jet off to Thailand for less, as Norse Atlantic Airways launches new direct flights from the UK.
The Norwegian budget carrier kicked off its Thai adventure with London Gatwick to Bangkok flights this weekend, offering up to five services weekly.
It's great news for travellers who've been waiting for cheaper options to reach Southeast Asia, and more new routes are coming.
From next month, Manchester will get its own Bangkok route, making it the only UK city outside London to offer direct flights to Thailand.
Holidaymakers have more options when travelling to Thailand
| GETTYThe low-cost airline is using Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners for all services, promising comfortable long-haul journeys at wallet-friendly prices.
The London Gatwick service started on Sunday, with flights running three to five times weekly to Bangkok. From April next year, it'll become a year-round option, giving travellers even more flexibility.
Manchester's weekly Bangkok flights begin on November 26, filling a massive gap in the market. More than 100,000 passengers currently travel between Manchester and Bangkok each year, but they've had to connect through other cities until now.
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The carrier isn't stopping at UK routes. Stockholm travellers got their Bangkok service last week, with twice-weekly flights that'll increase to four weekly from December. Swedish sun-seekers can also fly directly to Phuket from December 4.
Oslo gets its own Phuket connection on December 8, with weekly flights perfect for Norwegians craving beach holidays. All five new routes use those spacious Dreamliners with 338 seats, making the journey as pleasant as possible.
Thailand is a dream holiday destination for many, thanks to its picture-perfect beaches and bustling cities.
Parts of Thailand were among the most affordable holiday destinations | GETTYTourism Authority of Thailand Deputy Governor for International Marketing Europe, America, Middle East, and Africa, Chiravadee Khunsub, said: "The addition of these new routes reflects growing confidence in Thailand as a premier long-haul destination. This expansion provides travellers from the UK and Northern Europe with greater convenience and affordability."
Thailand welcomed 757,000 British visitors between January and September this year, up 13 per cent on last year.
Thailand enjoys warm and sunny weather during the winter months, with temperatures passing 30°C. This makes it a great option for some winter sun.
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