Thailand

Surrounded by the sparkling Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand, this Southeast Asian nation promises a myriad of unique experiences you won’t find anywhere else. From ancient cities, idyllic islands and diverse cultures to wellness traditions to enrich the mind, body and soul, there’s memories just waiting to be made.

Phuket, known for its perennial allure to holidaymakers and sun-seekers, has a framework of impressive beaches and jungle playgrounds that offer a verdant reprieve. From its throng of resorts clustered up and down the west coast, take your pick of stays that are made for romance in Mai Khao, in the heart of the action in Patong, or a wellness retreat for tapping into your Zen state. Beyond the beaches, Phuket town delights with cultural markets and intricate sacred temples. Further north, emerald forests are scattered with wildlife sanctuaries and opportunities for adventure.

In Thailand’s capital, twirl your chopsticks around spicy pad Thai at one of Bangkok’s 300,000 street food stalls, gaze at Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace gold spires, and wander the crimson-clad streets of the world’s largest Chinatown and enjoy a meal at a family-owned Michelin-starred restaurant. Visit ancient Ayutthaya and feed your inquisitive spirit at monasteries and archaeological ruins before grabbing a local snack at Ayothaya Floating Market. As nighttime descends, navigate bustling markets alive with colour and fragrance on a tuk tuk tour, then watch the city illuminate from high above at a cool rooftop bar, sipping on a refreshing cocktail in the evening breeze.

Go island hopping in Phang Nga province, where a treasure trove of unspoiled beaches and evergreen hinterland await, while Khao Lak’s pristine beachfront invites you to lay back on white sands and gaze at the swaying palms. Kayak through sunken caverns sprinkled around Phang Nga Bay, host to a collection of over 1000 islands and towering limestone formations. Explore the beautiful Surin and Similan Islands, a twinset of isles popular with divers.

More glorious sandy stretches await on Koh Samui: people-watch on popular Chaweng Beach, stretch out on tranquil Mae Nam Beach or catch a shimmering east-coast sunset on Lipa Noi Beach. Spend a day exploring Ang Thong National Park, find your balance with a Muay Thai class and treat yourself to the cosseting comfort of a signature Thai massage in the open air.

Adventure-lovers flock to Krabi, on the west coast of Southern Thailand, for its landscape of towering cliffs and jade-blue bays, Railay’s soaring limestone fortress attracts rock climbers in droves and snorkellers are sure to be drawn to Koh Lanta’s subaqua haven. From Ao Nang, cast away to more than 150 islets, including Koh Phi Phi – an island so spectacular it captured the heart of Hollywood. Venture inland to Khao Sok National Park and trek through one of the world’s oldest rainforests alongside wild elephants or take a night safari in search of the elusive tiger.

In Thailand’s northern provinces, get lost in the buzz of Chiang Mai Bazaar – the country’s oldest night market. Explore the historic Old City and its Buddhist temples and go further north to get to the heart of the country’s spiritual centre; Chiang Rai to explore more intricately carved places of worship like the ivory Wat Rong Khun and the cobalt Wat Rong Suea Ten. Connect to the history of the Sak Yant, or venture into the forested outskirts concealing waterfalls and elephant sanctuaries.

A fusion of unbeatable beaches, friendly locals and food-filled markets; find yourself anew in Thailand, where the memories you craft last a lifetime.