BY It’s all over Instagram – someone you ‘know’ has completed yet another race in yet another picturesque location. Envy stirs as food, drinks and beachy race photos captioned with a PB figure combine to raise a competitive variant of wanderlust.
Being Singaporean, I love a good getaway. And if it comes with a finisher medal and a coconut at the end, sign me up!
Across Southeast Asia, running holidays are picking up pace (pun fully intended). Thailand has seen a boom in sports tourism, with reports bandying a figure of over S$1.7 billion being added to its economy each year. And it’s not just the serious athletes heading North; weekend warriors, corporate executives, and even families are tying their travels to races, turning long runs into long weekends.
The Trio To Watch
One standout on the 2025 running calendar is the Bangkok Airways Boutique Series.
Now in its 7th year, this trio of scenic races is purpose-built for regional runners who want more than just a race bib – they want the whole experience.
With stops in Koh Samui, Trat, and Sukhothai, this series blends adventure, culture, and convenience in one smooth stride.
And convenience really is the name of the game. Planning a race trip overseas can sometimes feel like a 10K of logistics: booking flights, finding accommodation near the start line, figuring out race registration, food, transport. They all add up to the pressure of wanting to ace the actual objective itself. But this series makes it easy-peasy. Thanks in part to Bangkok Airways’ "Fly to Run" promotion, runners can book a flight and receive complimentary race entry. Yes, your air ticket is your entry pass. Simply message them your booking on Facebook and you’re in. It’s that direct.
The real showstopper? Bangkok Airways Samui Half Marathon 2025, happening over the weekend of 21 – 22 June on the paradise island of Koh Samui.
This isn't your average race route.
The 21km Half Marathon kicks off at a crisp 4:30am from Central Samui, just as the island’s waking up. It will take you through Fisherman Village, the most famous street on the island. You’ll head out toward Laem Chengmon, where the sky is pink, the sea is still, and you start wondering if this is really a race or just a sunrise appreciation jog.
From there, the route winds past the serene Wat Ban Laem temple – perfect for a reflective moment (or a quick Insta story) – then on to Bangrak Pier, where the salty sea breeze and cheering locals give your stride a second wind.
The final stretch merges with the 10km route at BIG C Samui, with the homestretch lined with supporters and local energy. Expect music, fanfare, and probably more than one person dressed as a mango. You’ll end back at Central Samui, medals in hand, legs slightly sore, and a big grin on your face.
Not quite ready for an entire half marathon? No stress. There’s also a 10K Mini Marathon, a 5K Fun Run (right along the beach in Chaweng), and even an 800m Kids Series for little ones. Yes, this is a family-friendly race, with activities tailored for children and a holiday backdrop that keeps everyone smiling.
And because no Thai event is complete without a touch of star power, local celeb “TwoTwo” Popetorn Sunthornyanakij will be there on race day at Phru Chaweng Public Park, adding a little glitz to the grit.
Beyond Samui
Following Samui, the series heads to Trat (16 and 17 August), known for its mangroves and laid-back charm, and finishes in Sukhothai (27 and 28 September), where runners trace a route through Thailand’s ancient ruins for a history lesson at tempo pace.
For the fashion-forward, don’t miss the exclusive race shirts designed by Thai artist Underhandedly, with bold graphics inspired by each destination, from white-sand beaches to historic temples.
If you’ve been sitting on the idea of combining travel with training, this is your sign. With direct flights from Singapore to Bangkok (and easy onward connections with Bangkok Airways), race logistics have never been smoother.
So pack your race kit, trainers, sunscreen, and maybe a few spare energy gels. Whether you’re chasing a PB or sunsets, marks the Bangkok Airways Boutique Series 2025 for a racecation to remember.
Register before 10 September 2025 at bangkokairways.run or visit facebook.com/BangkokAirways.Run for full details.
Flights from Singapore to Samui, Trat and Sukhothai are eligible for the Fly to Run deal—one flight = one free entry.
Ready? Let’s run Thailand.
This article is in collaboration with the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Singapore Office.
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