What Drives Nighttime Tourism Intensity in Thailand? Evidence From Thai Attractions Based on Satellite Observations

Investigating nighttime tourism intensity in Thailand is crucial for the development of the local economy and related industries. Based on the satellite-observed nighttime light (NTL) data, points of interest data, and natural geographic condition data, this article explored the spatio-temporal distribution of the nighttime tourism intensity of 1594 tourist attractions within Thailand as well as their influencing factors by using the geographically weighted regression model. The results of this article demonstrate: First, regions with concentrated NTL are predominantly centered in the capital city, Bangkok, followed by Chiang Mai and Phuket, displaying a spatial distribution pattern that gradually diffuses from urban centers to the surrounding areas. Second, from 2013 to 2023, the level of nighttime tourism intensity in Thailand's tourist attractions has shown an upward trend with the average annual growth rate of 4.34% yr^-1, except the negative impact of the pandemic on Thailand's tourism industry. Finally, it is found that higher levels of the catering and accommodation, shopping service, traffic service, leisure and entertainment were associated with higher levels of nighttime tourism intensity. These findings contribute to the sustainable development of Thailand's tourism industry and offer valuable insights into global tourism trends and patterns.