Thailand
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Thailand
Far more than its celebrated idealistic beaches, Thailand is known as The Land of Smiles thanks to its warm people. This mythical nation accommodates a diverse assortment of ancient temples; buzzing, frenetic cities and its infamous cuisine.
The country’s capital and likely first stop, Bangkok should not be missed; it is an abundance of local markets, temples and internationally acclaimed hotels, restaurants and shopping malls making for a lively introduction to Thailand.
North of the capital the legendary Golden Triangle boasts dramatic mountain ranges adorned in radiant paddy fields and native hill tribes in fascinating contrast to the bright, busy capital. Visit Chiang Rai for its calm, relaxed atmosphere and Lanna culture and Chiang Mai famous for hosting some of the country’s most vibrant festivals.
Thailand’s pristine national parks boast verdant tropical rainforest and mountainous terrain, scattered with striking waterfalls and impressive dams, the geographical variation protecting an abundance of flora and fauna, making it a prime destination for any wildlife enthusiast.
To the south beautiful shorelines and emerald islands are scattered off the coast like confetti. The sparkling waters of the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea offer the ultimate, picture-perfect beach escapes, spa retreats and magnificent diving opportunities.
Whether you’re in search of unforgettable wildlife encounters, immersion in local culture, the definitive phad Thai cuirsine or simply looking for the perfect beach, Thailand ticks every box and more.
Quick Facts
Capital
Bangkok
Population
69 million
Area
513,115 sq km (198,115 sq miles)
Major Languages
Thai
Major religion
Buddhism
Monetary Unit
Baht
Flight time from London
11.5 hours
Time Difference
GMT + 7
When to go
Thailand is located between vast areas of land and water, so it is impacted by both the summer and the winter monsoons. As a result, Thailand weather consists of six months of rainfalls during the wet season, three months of dry and cooling breezes during the cool season, and three months of heat during the hot season. The average temperature of Thailand ranges from 18 to 38°C.
The hot season is from the middle of February to the middle of May, with April being the hottest month. Interesting places to visit during this period are beaches and islands in the South and the East of Thailand.
The wet or rainy season starts from the middle of May to the middle of October, when rain will become less frequent and the weather in upper Thailand, especially the North and the Northeast, will get cooler, while rain in the South will continue until December. Popular activities during this time of the year include visiting hills and mountains and enjoying scenery of rice terraces in the North, which will look different from the cool season.
The cool season is from the middle of October to the middle of February. The temperature can get really cool in Northern and Northeastern Thailand in this period, especially on high hills and mountains, where tourists can experience the beauty of sea of mists and winter flowers. Chiang Mai weather is also best at this time of the year.
In the south however, the west coast experiences it’s wettest months between April & October; whilst the east coast experiences the same from September to December. The remainder of the year in the two regions is dry and sunny.
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- High Season
- Mid Season
- Shoulder Season
Highlights
Northern Thailand
The north of Thailand is made up of the country’s highlands. Vast mountain ranges dominate the landscape and are the source of many of the mighty rivers in the lowlands. Doi Inthanon, known as the ‘roof of Thailand‘ offers cooler temperatures, wonderful walking and climbing opportunities and a wealth of wildlife.
Chiang Rai Province is located in the northernmost of Thailand. It is a mountainous region with rivers cascading into lush jungles. Chiang Rai population is made up of a combination of ethnic backgrounds, including those from hill tribes and Chinese lineage.
Chiang Mai Province offers an equally stunning variety of mountainous landscapes, hill tribe villages and botanical gardens. Classic Northern Thai temples designed with an fusion of Lanna, Mon, and Burmese styles.
East Coast Beaches and Islands
Eastern Thailand is half mountain, half ocean. Although there aren’t many provinces here, it still has a lot of amazing sites and stunning locations worth visiting.
Sitting on the coast of the Gulf of Thailand, Hua Hin has many incredible beaches, mountains, viewpoints, temples, night markets, water parks, and fine restaurants. Pala-U Waterfall, which is located in Kaeng Krachan National Park, is also a great spot to watch butterflies flutter amid the tropical flowers.
Koh Kood is an idyllic island covered almost entirely with native forest, coconut plantations and rimmed with a number of pristine beaches.
Koh Samui is the third biggest island in Thailand and one of the most popular places to visit due to its spectacular nature, white beaches, clear seas, waterfalls and temples.
Pha Ngan Island is world-famous thanks to its well-known full moon party which attracts many a visitor each year. Alongside this but also its secluded beaches, as well as its history and nature which is protected by Chakkri Dynasty’s royal support.
West Coast Beaches and Islands
The West Coast of Thailand is famed for its picture perfect beaches and turquoise waters that provide some of the most magnificent snorkelling and diving in the world.
Phuket is Thailand’s biggest island and connected to the mainland by a causeway. The island’s incredible beaches have lured some of the nation’s top luxury resorts making this one of the world’s most recognisable beach escapes.
An hour north of Phuket on the mainland sits the serene Khao Lak with three national parks and undulating hills which slope down to a stunning coastline.
The province of Krabi, west of Phuket, is famous for its breathtaking beaches and over 100 offshore magical islands that peep out of the emerald water. Its coral reefs are also one of the world’s most beautiful, which makes it a great spot for snorkelling and diving. The less developed Koh Lanta is famous for it’s natural beauty and wealth of beaches, clear water, and amazing underwater world while the movie star Phi Phi Islands rise from the sea draped in jungle that drips down to secluded beach.
Bangkok
A collision of old and new, familiar and exotic, peaceful and chaotic, Bangkok has a way of feeling like an old friend, welcoming you into her bosom, it would be rude to just pass through.
From bustling markets selling t-shirts to travellers and serving delicious, if not exquisitely presented, thai food, to the crowded canals and boat strewn river, ornate palaces and sacred temples, Bangkok has something for everyone.
A city of contrasts, high- rise luxury hotels mingle with 200-year-old village homes and Bhuddist monuments to keep you on your toes while exploring.
Whiles some will find solace in the myriad shopping opportunities, whether the the river markets or malls, others will be overwhelmed by visiting the Grand Palace, Golden Buddha, and exploring the klongs of Thonburi.
Northern Thailand
The north of Thailand is made up of the country’s highlands. Vast mountain ranges dominate the landscape and are the source of many of the mighty rivers in the lowlands. Doi Inthanon, known as the ‘roof of Thailand‘ offers cooler temperatures, wonderful walking and climbing opportunities and a wealth of wildlife.
Chiang Rai Province is located in the northernmost of Thailand. It is a mountainous region with rivers cascading into lush jungles. Chiang Rai population is made up of a combination of ethnic backgrounds, including those from hill tribes and Chinese lineage.
Chiang Mai Province offers an equally stunning variety of mountainous landscapes, hill tribe villages and botanical gardens. Classic Northern Thai temples designed with an fusion of Lanna, Mon, and Burmese styles.
East Coast Beaches and Islands
Eastern Thailand is half mountain, half ocean. Although there aren’t many provinces here, it still has a lot of amazing sites and stunning locations worth visiting.
Sitting on the coast of the Gulf of Thailand, Hua Hin has many incredible beaches, mountains, viewpoints, temples, night markets, water parks, and fine restaurants. Pala-U Waterfall, which is located in Kaeng Krachan National Park, is also a great spot to watch butterflies flutter amid the tropical flowers.
Koh Kood is an idyllic island covered almost entirely with native forest, coconut plantations and rimmed with a number of pristine beaches.
Koh Samui is the third biggest island in Thailand and one of the most popular places to visit due to its spectacular nature, white beaches, clear seas, waterfalls and temples.
Pha Ngan Island is world-famous thanks to its well-known full moon party which attracts many a visitor each year. Alongside this but also its secluded beaches, as well as its history and nature which is protected by Chakkri Dynasty’s royal support.
West Coast Beaches and Islands
The West Coast of Thailand is famed for its picture perfect beaches and turquoise waters that provide some of the most magnificent snorkelling and diving in the world.
Phuket is Thailand’s biggest island and connected to the mainland by a causeway. The island’s incredible beaches have lured some of the nation’s top luxury resorts making this one of the world’s most recognisable beach escapes.
An hour north of Phuket on the mainland sits the serene Khao Lak with three national parks and undulating hills which slope down to a stunning coastline.
The province of Krabi, west of Phuket, is famous for its breathtaking beaches and over 100 offshore magical islands that peep out of the emerald water. Its coral reefs are also one of the world’s most beautiful, which makes it a great spot for snorkelling and diving. The less developed Koh Lanta is famous for it’s natural beauty and wealth of beaches, clear water, and amazing underwater world while the movie star Phi Phi Islands rise from the sea draped in jungle that drips down to secluded beach.
Bangkok
A collision of old and new, familiar and exotic, peaceful and chaotic, Bangkok has a way of feeling like an old friend, welcoming you into her bosom, it would be rude to just pass through.
From bustling markets selling t-shirts to travellers and serving delicious, if not exquisitely presented, thai food, to the crowded canals and boat strewn river, ornate palaces and sacred temples, Bangkok has something for everyone.
A city of contrasts, high- rise luxury hotels mingle with 200-year-old village homes and Bhuddist monuments to keep you on your toes while exploring.
Whiles some will find solace in the myriad shopping opportunities, whether the the river markets or malls, others will be overwhelmed by visiting the Grand Palace, Golden Buddha, and exploring the klongs of Thonburi.
Where to stay
These are just a selection of the properties we can personally recommend. Please get in touch to hear more about our full portfolio.
Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villas
The first luxury boutique property found on Koh Phangan, Anantara Rasananda Villas is an oasis of tranquility in the remote north of this picturesque small island.
Belmond Napasai
The Belmond Napasai enjoys a stunning position in a sheltered cove on the exclusive north coast of Koh Samui. Here you are cossetted from the outside world amongst 49 acres of immaculate tropical gardens yet just a few short steps from the white sand of Baan Tai Beach.
Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai
The Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai is spectacularly located in the lush Mae Rim Valley, just 30 minutes north of the city of Chiang Mai.
Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle
Luxury doesn’t come much more spoiling than the Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, set on the border of Thailand and Laos overlooking the mystical Mekong River. Accessed by river boat, and set amidst Thailand’s exotic bamboo forests, this safari-style lodge features just 15 supremely luxurious tented suites.
Mandarin Oriental Bangkok
For more than 143 years, travellers have followed the Chao Phraya River to stay at the legendary Mandarin Oriental Bangkok. A luxury five-star hotel in one of the world’s most exciting cities, we enjoy a reputation for style, service and excellence.
Six Senses Yao Noi
Six Senses Yao Noi sets the highest benchmark for island resort living in Asia. The attention to detail and focus on the unique destination reinforces the brand’s commitment to sustainability.
Soneva Kiri
Award-winning luxury resort Soneva Kiri is located on Thailand’s fourth largest but least populated island, Koh Kood, offering an unrivalled combination of luxury, an integral environmental approach, authentic Thai experiences and mouth-watering organic food.
The Sarojin
The Sarojin is a stunning beach property designed in a contemporary Asian style on the quiet coastline of the unspoilt Khao Lak, ideally located an hour north of Phuket. The resort is set in lush tropical gardens on a secluded 11km white sandy beach.