Thailand is often thought to be a destination that’s solely suitable for young backpackers in search of adventures and a little too much fun. (We blame the book The Beach, and its 2000 movie adaptation for cementing this stereotype.) Because we know better, we’re desperate to debunk this myth by showing luxury-focused travelers that Thailand is an excellent spot for an indulgent vacation. Of course, an opulent beach-filled trip always starts with high-end hotels, so we’ve selected the six best in the country to get you started.
Capella Bangkok
Capella Bangkok is the best of both worlds. You can be in the heart of the bustling capital city while enjoying the carefully crafted peace and quiet of this modern riverside property. Located alongside the Chao Phraya River, Capella Bangkok comprises 101 rooms, suites, and villas. All of them have been designed and decorated to act as a sleek sanctuary for weary travelers. And whether you opt for an accommodation with a river view or a courtyard view, you’ll love the serene surroundings. The seven private villas all offer maximum privacy and comfort, with private gardens and jacuzzi plunge pools. The well-appointed spa is the obvious place where to seek relaxation. Treatments inspired by local traditions and ingredients include mung bean body polish, turmeric clay facials, and full moon massages. Aerial yoga and vibration sound therapy are available if you want to try something new.
Amanpuri
At Galavante, we believe that a country that is home to a Aman hotel is a country worth visiting. And Thailand is one of them. Aman has two properties in Thailand. There’s one in Bangkok, Aman Nai Lert Bangkok, and one on the west coast of the island of Phuket, Amanpuri. Amanpuri is a seaside resort located on a peninsula covered in palm trees. The property’s architecture and decor embraces Thai traditions for guests to fully immerse in their dreamy destination. The accommodations consist of private pavilions or villas, the largest of which comprises eight bedrooms. Relaxing on the beach or by your private pool is a must, but you can also make the most of the tennis and padel courts, the gym, steam room, and cold plunge pool. There’s a long list of watersports to try your hands at, including paddleboard yoga, diving, flyboarding, and surfing.
Four Seasons Koh Samui
Phuket might be the largest and most popular of Thailand’s islands, but it’s not the only one you should be visiting. Koh Samui, where you’ll find the glorious Four Seasons Koh Samui, is very much worth a detour. The resort, with its traditional Thai architecture, has all the hallmarks of a top-notch tropical island destination. Think beautiful views of the ocean, lush vegetation, and very few accommodations to keep everything intimate and quiet. There are seven villas and seven private residences, all with their own private pools. The resort organizes a wealth of excursions for visitors keen to step away from the comfort of their own gorgeous accommodations. There are Muay Thai lessons, visits to an elephant sanctuary, sunset cruises, and more. For something a little more lowkey, the spa offers CBD-infused massages, crystal healing, and breath work.
Six Senses Yao Noi
Six Senses properties never disappoint, and that’s especially true of the brand’s resort on the beautiful island of Koh Yao Noi. The location is exceptional, providing views of Phang Nga Bay and its famous limestone seastacks, but it’s only one of the property’s many assets. All the accommodations consist of private villas, each with a private pool. The biggest and most exclusive of all them is The Ocean Retreat. The 5,000-plus-square-foot villa can accommodate up to five guests, has panoramic ocean views, direct beach access, and an infinity pool. If you so wish, your personal concierge can arrange a day of island hopping in a private yacht, a SCUBA diving session, or even a sunrise breakfast cruise. Thai cooking classes and mixology lessons are available for those who prefer a more food-and-drink-focused vacation.
137 Pillars House Chiang Mai
There are three 137 Pillars properties in Thailand. There’s one hotel in Bangkok, one yacht in Phuket, and one resort in Chiang Mai: 137 Pillars House. Built in the late 19th century, 137 Pillar House is a colonial-style wooden house on stilts with only 30 suites. There are five types of suites, each featuring hand-crafted furniture, tropical-garden views, and outdoor garden showers. The Louis Leonowens Pool Suite is the biggest, with 135 square meters of space and a private pool. There are several fantastic dining options on site, but truly, there’s only one meal that matters: afternoon tea. It’s served daily in the old house or in the tropical gardens.
Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle
You don’t have to be by the beach to have a wonderful Thai vacation. In fact, you can be very far inland and still have the time of your life. Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, located in Chiang Rai’s forest, will make sure of that. The property sits among the bamboo forest and offers guests the opportunity to be immersed in nature by staying in luxury tents, each featuring a private deck and views of the Ruak River. Each tent has over 580 square feet of space and can welcome up to three guests. Travelers who prefer more conventional accommodations can stay in the beautiful Explorer’s Lodge and enjoy its traditional Thai architecture and expansive pool. Some of the activities available are weaving and fishing with locals, elephant encounters, monk blessings, safaris, and more.
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FAQs
Q: Is there an Aman hotel in Thailand?
A: Yes, there are two Aman properties in Thailand. One in Bangkok and one on the island of Phuket.
Q: What is Thailand’s largest island?
A: Thailand’s largest island is Phuket.
Q: What is Thailand’s Golden Triangle?
A: The Golden Triangle is the area where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet.
