Emerging destinations
A voyage of discovery awaits in amazing Thailand
Vast parts of Thailand remain ‘off the beaten path’ in Thailand, with travelers often opting for its more infamous destinations. But there’s so much more; not to mention a whole other side – quite literally – waiting to be discovered. But there’s no need to be an adventurous traveler; Thailand’s lesser-known spots are more accessible than ever before.
For those starting to dip their toe in more unfamiliar waters; a great place to start is the enormous province of Phang Nga, just an hour north of Phuket Airport. Here Khao Lak offers a resort-based stop that feels a world away from Phuket, with a local drag bar and LGBT+ community to boot. It’s also the launching pad for the spellbinding Similan Islands and a LGBT+ run and trans*-positive tour company there does weekly trips. Drive even further into Surat Thani and you’ll find the Khao Sok National Park, home to the breathtaking Elephant Hills.
Thailand’s Southernmost destinations are opening up after being in the dark – Trang is an unspoilt paradise with 70 miles of pristine costs; where barefoot beach-hutting is the order of the holiday. Don’t expect beachclubs down here, it’s really about getting away from it all. Koh Lipe is also rising in notoriety; as well as its neighbouring islands, geographically closer to Malaysia than they are Thailand. Koh Libong for example, is a snorkelling and diver’s paradise.
On the East Coast, Nakhon Si Thammarat is a time-capsule of a place that adventurous foodies and culture vultures alike will love; a real glimpse into Muslim-Thailand and the influences that has on Thai culture. It’s also the heartland of Thailand’s latest foray into community-based and eco-tourism.
Further North, Kanchanaburi, Chantaburi and Khampeang Phet is historically fascinating; and Khao Yai holds nature’s secrets. The final frontier is the North Eastern province of Isan; whose spicy and unique food has become internationally renowned of late.
Inspiration
Country roads: four reasons to go trekking in Thailand
What does Thailand have in common with Canada, Norway and New Zealand? Well, not a whole lot on the surface.…
In the footsteps of the Khmer – visit the Thai-based strongholds of a lost empire
Bangkok has many sacred sites, from Wat Arun and Wat Phra Kaew to the iconic Temple of the Reclining Buddha,…
Pink paradise – Thai attractions in our favourite colour
Dive Phuket’s turquoise waters, trek the juicy, green rice terraces of Chiang Mai or feast on a red chilli curry…
Soul searching – Thailand’s most meaningful experiences for solo-travellers
To travellers around the world, Thailand is a dream escape: its sandy beaches and glistening pagodas lure families, friends and…
Came to sustain: eco-friendly ideas for a greener Thai holiday
Thailand is often said to have it all. More than anything else, however, the country’s natural wonders are the stuff…
Lights, camera, action: visiting Thai places you’ve seen in the movies
The making of a great film includes a clever plot, sound acting, sharp editing and more. One aspect that can…
Bangkok breaks: quick escapes from Thailand’s bustling capital
Some destinations elude being described in a few words and Bangkok is certainly one of them. The Thai capital…
Stranger Things – weird and wonderful places to see in Thailand
Thailand has its fair share of sublime, untouched and simply beautiful places. But it’s the bizarre corners of any country…
5 ways to celebrate Songkran in Thailand
January 1st now seems like a date in the distant past, but in Thailand, a new year is just about…
Five Thai festivals and rituals to be part of
Songkran Probably Thailand’s most well know festival, this three-day celebration marks the Thai New Year. You’ve probably seen scenes of…
Exploring Khao Lak and the Similian Islands
Khao Lak is a coastal resort in the emerging region of Phang Nga Province, just north of Phuket. It’s home…
Bangkok’s hidden jungle: Bang Krachao
One of the hardest parts of planning a trip to Thailand isn’t finding the flight or hotel, it’s actually deciding…
10 LGBT+ friendly destinations to visit
Bangkok is the first name that comes to mind when you think of LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer)…
Thai cuisine is good for you
Yeah. It’s a bummer. You’ve booked your Thailand trip, but it’s the middle of winter and you’re not summer body ready.…
Loving Lipe: Koh Lipe escape
A trip to Thailand isn’t complete without an island getaway. Most tourists head south-east to Koh Samui and Koh PhaNgan…
Date ideas for adventurer couples in Thailand
Thailand is full of beautiful forests, bodies of water, skies, and people – so what better way to experience it…
Getting festive Thai style
April brings one of the most important (and fun) Thai festivals of the year, Songkran, or Thai New Year. The…
Ayutthaya: Ruins, rapids and roars
Bangkok is amazing, but even the most ardent city-slickers will find it nice to get out of the city sometimes.…
Belmond Eastern & Oriental Express, Bangkok
A fabled journey through the exotic East.Step into a world of classic glamour as you travel between ancient wonders and…
Leave the crowds behind at Koh Yao Noi
I’m a great fan of the beaches and islands of southern Thailand. While I love Phuket, Koh Phi Phi and…
Escape to Koh Kret
The craft beer trend has only just reached Thailand. So when my friend mentioned he’d like to take a trip…
For lovers (of nature): Khao Yai National Park
A favorite of Bangkok residents, Khao Yai National Park is one of Thailand’s most beautiful national parks. Not only does…
Alternative routes: Sukhothai
If you’re visiting Thailand then there’s a good chance you may head up north to Chiang Mai. If you have…
Paradise is a place called Khao Sok
I’m going to let you in on a little secret. I’ve found the most beautiful untouched paradise. So for those…
Street walking for Isaan food
I’m willing to bet my lucky left testicle that you’re already a fan of Thai food. Tom yum soup, Thai…
Mae Hong Son: The end of the road
For those of you who need to see it all – what’s behind that last mountain, past that final valley,…
Koh Samet getaway
A nice option for a weekend away from Bangkok, especially if you’re on a budget or want to reduce your…
Pranburi: Thailand’s hidden treasure
We’d been in Bangkok for a few days when my partner Nikki and I decided on a quick adventure before…
Thai massage: Ultimate healing power
After far too much complaining about our sore necks and back muscles after a grueling workout, my American friend and…
LGBT+ welcoming hotels & resorts
Elephant Hills, Khao Sok
Elephant Hills is Thailand’s first Luxury Tented Jungle Camps, combining the camp idea of African national parks with the Thai…
Away Koh Kood Resort, Koh Kood
Away Koh Kood is the epitome of an island hideaway. The resort features spacious luxury bungalows with private terraces and…
Away Kanchanaburi Dheva Mantra
At our luxurious 5 star resort, Kanchanaburi guests will be whisked away to a serene tropical paradise that is rich…
La Flora, Khao Lak, Phang Nga
The elegant and boutique La Flora Resort & Spa is located right at the beautiful golden sandy beach of Bang…
Sala, Ayutthaya
sala ayutthaya is located in the heart of Ayutthaya, along the banks of the Chao Phraya River, opposite the famous…
Glow Elixir, Koh Yao Yai
Specializing in romance and adventure, the natural ambiance is geared towards privacy and couples looking to escape the hectic life…
Casa de la Flora, Khao Lak, Phang Nga
Casa de la Flora is located directly on the beautiful, palm-fringed beach of Khao Lak, just one-hour drive, by car from…
Sukothai Heritage Resort, Sukothai
Set amidst lush green rice fields in a historically rich surrounding, Sukhothai Heritage Resort is within 45 minutes of UNESCO…
Oakwood Hotel & Residence Sri Racha, Si Racha
Oakwood Hotel & Residence Sri Racha, with a magnificent panoramic view of “Gulf of Siam”. Not only defined by elegant…
Kantary, Ayutthaya
The Hotel that reflects the splendour of Thailand’s ancient capital city. As a centre of tourism, industry, history and culture…
Santhiya, Koh Chang
Santhiya has a new island home on Koh Chang, where the hotel group’s signature heart-warming hospitality is infused with contemporary…
Shinnabhura Historic Boutique Hotel, Sukothai
Shinnabhura Historic Boutique Hotel is a historic tourist hotel located on an area of over 5 rai (1.97 acres) of…
X2 Kui Buri Resort, Prachuap Khiri Khan
X2 Kui Buri Resort was designed as an oasis of serenity, intimacy, and bespoke experiences, equally enjoyable for an active…
X2 River Kwai, Kanchanaburi
X2 (pronounced cross-to) River Kwai is located at a beautiful stretch of the Kwai Noi River with its spectacular views…
Iudia, Ayutthaya
iuDia is a tasteful, comfortable and well equipped serviced accommodation located among the ancient ruins of the great Siamese kingdom…
Santhiya, Koh Yao Yai
Our eco-luxury resort comprises of 39 teakwood pool villas and 109 deluxe rooms that blend in perfectly with the natural mountainous…
Soneva Kiri, Koh Kood
Nestled on the unspoiled island of Koh Kood, far beyond Thailand’s tourist trail, Soneva Kirioffers unforgettable, authentic Thai experiences. Hike…
X2 Vibe Buriram Hotel, Buriram
X2 Vibe Buriram features 68 uniquely designed rooms in 4 different types. With a clear focus on architecture, that goes…
Santhiya, Koh Phangan
This gem of a resort embraces the true meaning of Natural Beauty. Stretched over 18 acres of glorious tropical landscapes,…
Events & offers
May: Bun Bang Fai Skyrocket Festival
Bun Bang Fai Festival is an ancient local festival, held in the lesser known Yasothon Province. It is associated with Thai…
May: Surin Elephant Festival
Witness an ordination parade with over a hundred of elephants from Chang Swang Temple in Surin. Attend the ritual to…
October: Chonburi Festival
Every province in Thailand has a festival at some point during the year. These are frequently off the main tourist…
November: Loi Krathong
Well, you little devil, if you’re planning to vacation in Thailand at the end of November, you’re in luck literally…
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