The Ultimate Guide to Luxury Travel in Thailand
In this Ultimate Guide to Luxury Travel in Thailand, you’ll find a travel guide for each region in Thailand, tips for what to see and do during your visit, and a sample itinerary to get you started.
Thailand is one of the bigger countries in Southeast Asia and offers a diverse experience from North to South. When planning a visit to Thailand, it’s important to know that it’s large enough and diverse enough that it often merits more than one trip!
When you’re ready to beginning planning your travels to Thailand, fill out our Design My Trip form and we’ll work together to design a customized itinerary just for you.
If you’re interested to learn more about designing your travels to Thailand with a professional travel advisor, read 5 hidden perks of working with a travel advisor and learn more about working with our team HERE.
Who should travel to Thailand?
No matter your typical standard of travel (from backpacker to ultra luxury), Thailand offers everything along the spectrum, no matter where you visit. If you’ve never traveled to Asia before, Thailand is the perfect destination to visit first. The Thai people are very welcoming to travelers and many speak English. Thailand is one of the best places to break into the Asian continent.
Also, if you’re looking for an itinerary that has it all - history, culture, urban adventures, countryside adventures, beautiful beaches - this is one destination that offers a very well-balanced experience.
Honeymoon in Thailand
Thailand is a fantastic location to celebrate your honeymoon as there are so many options to consider. Whether this will be your first time traveling in Asia or if you know the region well, Thailand is diverse, adventurous, and luxurious.
If you’re envisioning a luxurious honeymoon filled with white sand beaches and enjoying time out on the water, we’ll send you straight to paradise in Southern Thailand.
If you’re interested to adventure and explore a little bit with some relaxation and luxury for the last few days, we recommend starting in Bangkok, the hub of Thailand’s history and culture, consider a few days in the north with elephants and ancient ruins, and finally, head off to Southern Thailand to enjoy a luxurious resort before heading back to the real world.
Family Travel in Thailand: Exploring Thailand with kids
When planning a family holiday, Thailand is one of my top recommendations for families traveling to Asia. In Thailand, you’ll explore stunning temples, both in Bangkok and dotting the countryside of central and northern Thailand, their cuisine is well known around the world and even better in country - and why not include a street food tour and a cooking class to really immerse yourself in those unique flavors? - and the adventures will keep you active from start to finish.
Read more: 5 ways a travel advisor can up level your next trip
Adventure Travel in Thailand
As Thailand is so well known for their beautiful beaches and world renown cuisine, you might not know that it’s also known to offer some of the greatest outdoor adventures in Southeast Asia! Small group adventures will provide the most authentic experience as they will take you much further off the typical path than you would find traveling solo and their knowledge and experience in the local villages will greatly enhance your experience.
Whether you’re an avid hiker, biker, scuba diver, or all of the above, Thailand should certainly be a top contender for your next adventure.
Cruising in Thailand
The beauty of Thailand is often found far from typical ports that welcome large cruise ships, but there are certainly opportunities to explore Thailand’s smaller islands via an expedition cruise ship or a specialty ship (think Clipper Ship or LiveAboard). Expedition cruise ship itineraries change each year, so if this is something you’d be interested to explore, reach out by filling out the Design My Trip form and we’ll set up a call to discuss options that we can consider for your travels.
Top tips from my travels in Thailand
Both the railway market and the Damnoen floating market are extremely touristy and very little authenticity remains. While these markets are famous and you may feel like it’s a shame to miss, if you generally try to avoid the trapped tourist vibe, this day trip can be skipped.
A bike ride through Bangkok Noi neighborhood took us far from the most common areas visited and offered a authentic look into life in Bangkok.
A quiet cruise down the canal’s of Bangkok was unexpected, relaxing, and far more authentic than the floating markets. This experience was one of our favorite’s!
The temples in Bangkok blew me away. They’re stunning, packed with history, and all very unique from one another. As conservative attire is required to visit each, I recommend packing in as many as you can in one day.
A 7-day experience onboard a clipper ship was absolutely incredible and offered an experience far beyond what a day trip into the Phang Nga Bay could offer.
Scuba diving in Southern Thailand is some of the best in the world and cannot be missed if you’re an avid diver!
Unique experiences in Thailand
Star Clippers is a small ship sailing experience that offers access to islands far from the mainland. To visit these islands otherwise, it requires hours on a speedboat for very little time to enjoy these beautiful beaches while some of these destinations aren’t accessible at all via daytrip. If the sun and water is your idea of paradise, this is a wonderful experience to consider.
When is the best time to visit Thailand?
The temperatures in SE Asia don’t fluctuate as much as the rain and humidity comes and goes. While you can visit year round, November - April is generally cooler and drier.
How long should I spend in Thailand?
I recommend visiting Thailand for a minimum of 7 days which will offer time to visit two areas at the most. To visit all major areas of Thailand (Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and the southern islands), I recommend 3-4 weeks total.
What other countries should I visit while I’m in this region?
Many other countries connect easily from Bangkok, including Myanmar (7 days minimum), Bhutan (10 days minimum), Vietnam (7 days minimum), Cambodia (7 days minimum), Laos (7 days minimum), and Singapore (2 days minimum).
Thailand is so large and so diverse that a full month on the ground wouldn’t get boring. If wanting to connect with a nearby destination, I recommend only if you’re traveling for a minimum of 2 weeks to give you enough time in both destinations.
Photo credit: Peter Borter of Unsplash.
What are the best places to visit in Thailand?
Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai is the northernmost province in Thailand. Smaller in comparison to Chiang Mai, the province is a good base to explore the Golden Triangle, where the borders of Myanmar, Thailand and Laos converge. While the town itself is rather nondescript, the surrounding areas are spectacular with scenic mountains and remote villages inhabited by various ethnic minority peoples. Cultural exploration of temples and museums combined with adventurous jungle treks and river rafting are the highlights of this provincial town.
Not to miss experiences in Chiang Rai:
Wat Rong Khun
Go trekking to explore the culture of the ethnic hill tribe villages
Interact with rescued elephants
Recommended hotel in Chiang Rai: Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, Thailand
Recommended Stay: 2-4 nights
Photo credit: Yingchu Chen of Unsplash.
Chiang Mai
The former capital of the Lanna Kingdom in the 13th century, Chiang Mai today continues to serve as a cultural and administrative centre of Northern Thailand. Though the metropolitan area of Chiang Mai has a population of more than a million, the historic centre has a laid-back atmosphere more akin to a provincial town than a capital city. Beyond the Old City there is vast green countryside and rainforests ideal for trekking and exploring the ethnic minority villages.
Not to miss experiences in Chiang Mai:
Cooking class to learn the secrets of authentic Thai cuisine
Wat Doi Suthep
Explore the villages of ethnic minority groups in the nearby countryside
Recommended hotel in Chiang Mai: 137 Pillars House
Recommended Stay: 2-4 nights
Photo credit: Attapon Chootuan of Unsplash.
Sukhothai
Situated in north-central Thailand, Sukhothai was founded in the 13th century and became the first Thai Kingdom. The city flourished during the 13th to 14th century, establishing Sukhothai as a powerful kingdom rivalling that of Angkor.
The remains of the old kingdom, featuring close to 193 historical sites, are enclosed within a 70 square kilometre UNESCO World Heritage Historical Park. The historical park is divided into several different zones, interspersed with trees and ponds, and can be leisurely explored by foot or bicycle.
Not to miss experiences in Sukhothai:
Bicycle through the UNESCO World Heritage Sukhothai Historical Park
Visit in November during the full moon to enjoy Loy Krathong Festival
Recommended Stay: 1-2 nights (can also visit from Chiang Mai as a long day trip or along the way driving to or from Chiang Mai to your next destination)
Photo credit: The Wonder Alice of Unsplash.
Ayutthaya
Situated at the confluence of the Chao Phraya, Lopburi, and Prasak rivers, the heritage city of Ayutthaya was the capital of Siam from the 14th to 18th centuries. This UNESCO World Heritage site was once Asia’s finest city with towering chedis and gilded palaces, protected by a 12km-long and 6m-high wall. The city spiralled into decline after it was sacked by the Burmese in 1767. Though in a damaged state, the ancient temple and palace ruins within the archeological park provide a glimpse into the grandeur and history of what was once the most powerful city in Asia.
Not to miss experiences in Ayutthaya:
Ayutthaya Historical Park
Chao Sam Phraya National Museum
Take a boat to Ayutthaya from Bangkok - a much more interesting + relaxing way to arrive!
Recommended Stay: 1-2 nights (can also visit as a day trip from Bangkok or on your way from Bangkok to your next destination)
Bangkok
Most visitors will arrive in the capital city of Bangkok, a pulsating megacity with modern skyscrapers towering over glittering temples below. One of Asia’s most popular megalopolises, Bangkok offers a diverse range of sights and experiences, with something for everyone. Culture fiends will delight in the dazzling Royal Palace and the city’s countless pagodas, while shoppers could spend weeks sifting through Bangkok’s modern malls and traditional open-air markets. Entertainment in Bangkok ranges from thrilling Muay Thai bouts to highbrow classical Thai music concerts and everything in between. Dining options are equally varied. Whether you’re eating fine French cuisine in a plush hotel restaurant or sampling fried crickets on the side of the road, prepare to have all of your senses engaged.
Not to miss experiences in Bangkok:
Wat Phra Kaew & The Grand Palace
Wat Po (followed by a traditional Thai foot massage)
Wat Arun
Chatuchak Weekend Market or River City Bangkok for authentic souvenirs
Boat cruise on the Chao Phraya River
Street food tour
Recommended hotel in Bangkok for couples: The Siam
Recommended hotel in Bangkok for families: The Peninsula Bangkok
Recommended Stay: 3-4 nights
Photo credit: Sumit Chinchane of Unsplash.
Southern Thai Islands (Phuket, Krabi, Ko Yao Noi, etc)
Located on the west coast of the Andaman Sea, Phuket is the largest island in Thailand. With magnificent coastal scenery, Phuket is characterized by tropical rainforests, steep limestone cliffs, and picturesque beaches of soft golden sand. With a wide range of activities from beach lounging and watersports to culture and history and holistic healing, it is no surprise why Phuket is one of the most popular beach destinations in Thailand.
Phuket is the most popular destination in Southern Thailand. If you’re looking for a more secluded experience, consider Krabi or Ko Yao Noi.
Not to miss experiences in Phuket, Krabi, & Ko Yao Noi:
Cruise through the mangroves and karst formations of Ao Phang-nga National Park
Scuba diving and snorkeling in some of the world’s top dive sites
Recommended hotel in Southern Thailand for couples: Rayavadee
Recommended hotel in Southern Thailand for families: Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas
Recommended Stay: 4-7 nights
Photo credit: Hanny Naibaho of Unsplash.
What to eat in Thailand
Thailand is a food lover’s dream. From street food to fine dining, from fresh fruit to coconut curries, the dishes are fresh and they use a wide variety of ingredients that are difficult to find outside Asia. Thailand is well known for the four dishes I’ve included below and these are just the beginning. These four dishes are must east local dishes and from there.
When looking for restaurants and specific dishes to order, I highly recommend relying on your private guide and the hotel concierge. They’ll be able to recommend the most well known restaurants and can assist with confirming reservations. Don’t be afraid to ask where their favorite dishes can be found - it’s often not at the restaurants that are most well known!
Spicy Green Papaya Salad Crunchy and fresh, this is a wonderful option as a side dish to share around the table or to order all for yourself. Shredded green papaya, tomatoes, carrots, green beans, and peanuts are mixed with a dressing made from lime juice, garlic, palm sugar, tamarind pulp, fish sauce, and dried shrimp. And of course, chilies! Not only is this salad delicious, the recipe is often included in cooking classes and is an easy one to make upon returning home!
Pad Thai This is one of Thailand’s most famous street food dishes and is likely one you’ve had at your favorite local Thai restaurant at home. Fried noodles can be ordered vegetarian or with shrimp or chicken. Ask your private guide where to find the most authentic pad thai - it’s likely at a street food stand or a small local restaurant!
Gaeng Keow Wan (Green Curry) You’ll find a variety of curry dishes on the menu during your travels in Thailand. Green Curry is one of the most popular and known to be the spiciest option. Different from other Asian nations, many of Thailand’s curries use coconut milk which adds the perfect touch of sweetness. Be sure to order steamed rice together with your curry to balance the level of spiciness to your liking.
Kao Niew Ma Muang (Mango and Sticky Rice) If you are a dessert lover and if you like mango, please just plan to order this at every meal. It is one of the things I look most forward to en route to Thailand. It’s super simple: sticky rice, fresh mango slices, and sweet condensed milk. Yum!
Click HERE for the full photo album from our travels in Thailand.
Photo credit: Lydia Casey of Unsplash.
14 day luxury itinerary in Thailand
City, culture, elephants, and pristine beaches
Day 1: Arrive to Bangkok
Day 2: Start your morning with a cruise along the Chao Phraya River followed by a visit to the magnificent temples of Bangkok: Wat Arun, Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Po. Enjoy a traditional Thai foot massage before retreating back to your hotel for the evening.
Day 3: Enjoy a relaxing boat ride north to explore the Ayutthaya Historical Park
Day 4: Spend the morning driving through the Thai countryside from one historical capital to the next: Ayutthaya to Sukhothai. Upon arrival, bicycle your way through the UNESCO World Heritage Historical Park.
Day 5: Continue your drive north to Chiang May where you can relax for a few days. On your way into the city, stop to explore the villages of ethnic minority groups living just outside Chiang Mai.
Day 6: Learn your way around Thai ingredients at a private cooking class. After lunch, explore Wat Doi Suthep.
Day 7: As you continue north toward the Four Seasons Tented Camp where you can engage with rescued elephants and hike the mountain trails of the Golden Triangle (Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos), stop at Wat Rong Khun along the way.
Day 8: Spend the full day as a mahout with the rescued elephants, including bathing them in the morning.
Day 9: Hike to the Golden Triangle in the morning to enjoy the view over Thailand, Laos, & Myanmar ; enjoy a relaxing spa treatment in an open-air spa located in a bamboo forest.
Day 10: Fly Chiang Rai to Phuket to begin your relaxing stay on one of Southern Thailand’s stunning beaches.
Day 11 - 13: There are no plans on the agenda. Enjoy a full day on the beach, go out for a dive or two, or we can arrange for a private catamaran to take you sailing for the day.
Day 14: Depart Phuket for your return flight home.
Thank you to Trails of Indochina, one of our preferred partners in SE Asia, for the detailed descriptions of each region.
