Seeing the real Thailand with Exotissimo...
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Thank you for choosing Exotissimo Travel Thailand to organise your travel arrangements in the kingdom of Thailand. This document will give you some more information about the country, the different destinations within Thailand, useful information for travellers, a listing of the Exotissimo preferred hotels and the reservations and booking procedures. In Thailand Exotissimo has been very successful offering tours that show a little bit more of the country then just the mass tourism places as we think it is very important to show you the unknown treasure of the real Thailand. We will take you of course to the highlights but also are pleased to show you lesser known sites. Something which is often promised but not always delivered. |
Bangkok | Chiang Mai & the North | Chiang Rai and the Golden Triangle | A few Suggested Itineraries | Combination tours with other exotic destinations in South East Asia | |
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Where should I go in Thailand?
That depends how long you've got, what you want to see and what you want to do? Hopefully the guide below will help you make those decisions.
If you want to really discover Thailand you should set a side a couple of weeks to travel, meet the people and get some kind of understanding for this beautiful and fascinating country. Our shortest tours are half day excursions and while the longer you've got the better, at Exotissimo we pride ourselves on being able to fill everybody's travel plans with just the right mix. It will be our pleasure to make the suggestion and arrangements to allow you to make the most of your precious leisure time. After all, our team of Thai and western travel enthusiastics work, live and travel all over the country and we would be happy to share our new discoveries with you.
The following is a guide to the best of the best of Thailand. Ideas for travel sightseeing and accommodation with a few inside tips along the way.
Bangkok
Thailand's capital city is the beating heart of a country that is home to quite diverse and varied cultures, languages and people. On the surface Bangkok is now a modern Asian mega city with towering steel and glass skyscrapers and a justified reputation for traffic and smog, but scratch through the veneer and a gentler, peaceful and very oriental face is revealed.
Bangkok is not just one of Asia's most exciting cities; it is a great place to discover a unique culture. Where else can you take a canal-boat from your ultra-swanky designer hotel to a floating fruit market around the corner before arriving at a golden Buddhist temple? Shop, spa, eat, drink, party… Bangkok has it all.
Many people rush in and out of Bangkok on their way to beaches or to Chiang Mai or Indochina where they expect to discover the real Asia. Those in the know will tell you that the real Asia is right here in Bangkok. We recommend you spend at least two and preferably three nights here to get below the surface of our amazing capital city.
Where should I stay in Bangkok?
There is a wide choice so let us try and cut to the best. First decide if you want to stay by the river or in the city. Then whether you want a big smart address or a boutique residence. We have been getting very good feed back from clients who have booked our interesting independent hotels listed below.
Near the River
If it's your first visit to Bangkok and you are visiting purely for leisure you really should stay on the riverside. There is a wide choice of big name hotels offering various degrees of comfort but for an intimate encounter Thai hospitality why not try Arun Residence or the 3 rooms of the Ibrik. If these choices are a little too exotic we also heartily recommend the new Hilton Millennium and of course The Oriental and The Peninsula. Le Bua, with spacious rooms and super-hip restaurants such as Sirocco and Breeze is a great place to base yourself while discovering the City of Angels. Also recommended in the old town and not far from the river is the eight room Old Bangkok Inn. The Marriot Riverside is also a very pleasant low-rise resort on the river offering all the necessary facilities. Budget conscious travellers can try the Swana Hotel, which is close to the Khao San Road area but is a notch above the backpacker hostels
City Hotels
In town our favourite boutique hotel is The Eugenia, we also highly rate The Sukhothai and the smart Metropolitan, sister hotel of the London style-setter. We also like Triple Two on Silom Road while further east is the lesser-known The Davis, which offers excellent rates. If you want to stay in a brand name five-star then Grand Hyatt Erawan has been extensively refurbished and offers everything you could possible need.
What should we see in Bangkok?
To complement the modern travellers' love affair with the unusual and experiential travel Exotissimo offers a range of new and interesting tours in Thailand that take you off the well worn tourist trails and focus on the wonders of Thai culture. First time visitors should undoubtedly see The Grand Palace but you should also join a Chinatown Bicycle Tour or try our Bangkokian Tour, which involves canal-boats, a walk through the markets and a visit to a little known museum. If you have enough time then our Thai Countryside Tour is a must as you escape by boat through the canals to Koh Kret island – try and join at weekends when the market is at its liveliest. Otherwise our Tha Kha and Amphawa tour is a great little day out and takes you to the famous floating market area and beyond to the little known villages, orchards and temples that surround Bangkok. More glamorous, and just as rewarding, is a day trip aboard one of the many luxury cruise boats to Thailand's ancient capital city of Ayutthaya. We recommend the Horizon Cruise. For your first dinner in Bangkok we suggest joining an evening dinner cruise on the Manohra in Bangkok.
Around Bangkok
Looking for nature but don't have the time to fly to the north of Thailand? Kanchanaburi (just a couple of hours drive from Bangkok) offers great jungle accommodation where you have a real wilderness feeling and can do long or short treks and even elephant riding or bamboo rafts. If you need your comforts then stay at the charming River Kwai Resotel, or if you are looking for adventure try the Jungle Rafts or even Hin Tok River Camp, a small, newly built tented resort on the river side that offers luxury tents (incl air-conditioning, timber flooring and shower with hot water) and an excellent choice for nature lovers. For a real adventure try going as far as Sanghklaburi – the accommodation is a little basic but the rewards are great scenery, charming towns and a combination of Thai, Burmese, Mon and Karen culture. We have a number of package tour ideas or build a visit to Kanchanaburi into your tailor-made tour of Thailand.
Khao Yai National Park is another excellent place to experience Thailand. You can trek through the jungle to see wild elephants and a wide range of flora and fauna. Alternatively you can spend the day cycling through vineyards and sampling award winning wines at the various different wineries in the area. Our accommodation recommendations include The Village Farm and Winery or the luxurious and beautifully designed Kirimaya Resort, which is complete with an 18-hole golf course designed by jack Niclaus.
For those in search of the truly romantic and luxurious, a three-day, two-night cruise to Ayuthaya aboard the well appointed Manohra Song teak rice barge is a once in a lifetime experience. Enjoy exquisite candlelit dinners, morning temple tours and cruising along the fascinating River of Kings. Or why not take the Mekhala Cruise, another rice barge but a more affordable, to Ayuthaya and then continue touring through Central Thailand.
For a short break try our Amphawa Escape. Staying at the charming Chotika Riverside Resort right on the rivers and canals. A short drive from Bangkok but a century back in time. Highly recommended. Or try the Thai House for an enlightening homestay and cooking school experience.
Chiang Mai and the North
Chiang Mai, Thailand's second-largest city, is the gateway to the country's north. Chiang Mai has grown rapidly into a large and dynamic city in recent years but it still retains a great deal of charm within its ancient walls and has much to offer visitors. Much more compact and easier to navigate than Bangkok, it is here that visitors come to immerse themselves in some of Thailand's extraordinary culture.
Whether chatting with Buddhist monks, observing the skilled artisans, riding bicycles through the surrounding villages, flying in hot-air balloons or white water rafting, there is plenty to do and see in the north of Thailand.
Exotissimo is one of few international standard tour operators that have a fully staffed office in Chiang Mai.
Our team, which includes expatriates as well as local Lanna and hill tribe people, has developed many new and interesting sightseeing tours and round trips but have been working closely with local communities, lecturers and museum owners to develop tours where you learn and experience Chiang Mai rather than just see Chiang Mai.
A week in the region will give you time to see all the sights of Chiang Mai and the Golden Triangle as well as take in a 2 or 3-day trek. Or, if you are feeling independent why not take a 5-day self-drive tour from Chiang Rai and along the mountain road to Mae Hong Son, plus a few days to enjoy the delights of Chiang Mai.
Where should we stay in Chiang Mai?
Chiang Mai has plenty of choice from small, charming, boutique style accommodation to super luxury resort complexes.
Our recommendations are Rachamankha, Yaang Come Village and Tri Yaa Na Ros and Manathai. These boutique properties have all reached the right combination of style, service and price with Rachamankha top of the list and Manathai the best value. At Niman Conceptual Home is another outstanding choice for lovers of boutique accommodation and really offers that special blends a sense of home with the comfort and luxury of a great little hotel. Other boutique addresses to consider are Ayatana Hamlet, De Naga, Banthai Village, Rarinjinda, and Puripunn.
At the top of the luxe list are the Oriental Dhara Dhevi and the Four Seasons Chiang Mai. Both are a little out of town and both are high on luxury. The Oriental is top of the charts when it comes to facilities while the Four Seasons is considered by many a more authentic experience. If you are staying at these resorts you should balance your time in Chiang Mai so you can both get out and see the sites and spend some quality time enjoying the five-star services and facilities. The Chedi is the in-town choice for the design conscious, although it is quite compact, while the Sofitel Riverside is a good choice for deluxe clients and families.
What should we see in Chiang Mai?
If you are only spending a few days in Chiang Mai then a visit to Doi Suthep is a must. A morning with the monks is also a great way to discover the culture or why not take a bicycle adventure, a balloon ride over Chiang Mai or even learn to become a mahout.
A visit to an elephant camp is an interesting day out, especially if you have kids with you. Chiang Dao Elephant Camp is our favourite as it is set in spectacular natural countryside and has and fewer tourists than those close to town. There are also some smaller camps with just a few elephants such as Patara Elephant Farm on the foothills of Doi Suthep where the concept is really to act as if you were the tuskers' owner as well as the Elephant Nature Park. This unique project was established with the aim to provide a sanctuary and rescue centre for elephants in Thailand. The park is a project rather than a camp - the owner has rescued over 30 distressed elephants throughout the country.
In the evening you should enjoy dinner by the river and then take a tuk tuk ride to discover the famous night bazaar.
Trekking and Homestays
Spending a night in a home stay village is one way to really learn and understand how the people live. Working with local community projects, Exotissimo has developed relationships with local communities to develop sustainable tourism projects with Thai and Shan villages in the mountain areas of north Thailand. The facilities might be basic but the experience will be unforgettable – and for just 1 night it should be possible to live without modern hotel facilities. Shan Homestay at Tam Lod is one of our favourite places in Thailand. Spend a few days walking through the hills and learning how the Shan people live. Closer to Chiang Mai we highly recommend a night at Mae Kampong, a beautiful Thai village in the hills where you stay as guests of a local family in their teak house.
The trekking we are able to offer around Chiang Mai and across the north has also taken on a new dimension and is no longer an activity suitable for backpackers only. A two day / one night trekking tour organized by Exotissimo includes trekking guide, porters, all meals, and sleeping materials in local village (basic but clean accommodation) and guaranteed an unforgettable experience. The trekking is not very difficult or hard and can be done by anybody with a normal physical health and a bit of adventurous spirit.
More comfortable but still rewarding home stay experiences can be found at Lisu Lodge or Khum Lanna, home stay style resorts in the countryside where the emphasis is on learning and experiencing as well as seeing. Hmong Lodge is also a nice out-of-town experience and recommended for families. We have a number of packages including these properties or you can simply ask us to include time at either or both into your tailor made itinerary.
Chiang Rai and the Golden Triangle
The area earned its name due to the wealth that Opium trading used to bring. Nowadays the opium has gone but the area still retains an allure. The mountains of Burma and Laos are easily visible and ruined cities such as Chiang Sean and The Hall of Opium Museum offer evidence of a long and chequered history. The area around the museum is a bit touristy but once you are on a boat trip on the Mekong River you can dream away while closely passing Burmese and Laos country side and even make a stop on the Laos side of the river and sip a Beer Lao or send a postcard from Laos before heading back to the Thai side.
The area around Chiang Rai has been cultivated using organic, sustainable agricultural techniques and is farmed by the hill tribe people of the area. It is a great place to explore on elephant-back, and is the picture-postcard vision of typical Thai rice terraces and orchid-clad hillsides.
The Mekong River forms the border with Laos for a few hundred kilometres from the Golden Triangle to the south offering a scenic route to access the beauty of northern Laos and the city of Luang Prabang by river. From the border town Chiang Khong there are several boat options to cruise the Mekong River, sit on the deck and enjoy one of the most stunning views in the world with blue sky, brown river water and lush green jungle on both sides of the river. Take a look at one of our tour modules featuring Chiang Rai and the Golden Triangle or ask your Travel Consultant to include a few days in your tailor made tour.
Places to stay in Chiang Rai and the Golden Triangle
In Chiang Rai we really like The Legend Resort, which is located on the river but still in the city. La Lunna is also charming and very good value. The Golden Triangle area at the far north of Thailand is home to the very top-end Four Seasons Tented Camp as well as the delightful and also deluxe Anantara Resort and Spa. Phu Chaisai is another favourite hotel, perched on the mountains forty minutes drive from Chiang Rai with breathtaking views this independent hotel is truly unique.
Touring to Pai and Mae Hong Son
Heading west towards Burma, the delightful towns of Pai and Mae Hong Son are picturesque and charming. Pai is the hot new destination for backpackers and travellers looking for that essential 'Thai travel sensation'. A charming town in a scenic valley with lots to do during the day: biking, rafting, trekking and cafes and bars to enjoy in the evenings. There are now daily flights from Chiang Mai if you don't want to brave the four hour drive.
The delights of Mae Hong Son are a very under rated and often missed part of the Thai tourist trail. The town has interesting Burmese and Shan architecture in many monasteries as well as wonderful countryside and trekking opportunities. A drive to Nai Soi Village, where you can meet the Padaung, or long neck people is a highlight and an education for many travellers. The ideal tour is to spend two days driving along one of the most scenic roads in Asia with an overnight stop in Pai and then fly back after a night in Mae Hong Son. If you are travelling between June and December a rafting trip down the Pai River is a highly recommended experience for adventurous travellers.
In Pai stay at Belle Villa Pai or Baan Krating Pai, both a little out of town with nice rural ambiance or the new town centre hotel – The Quarter. In Mae Hong Son we use the eco-friendly Fern Resort for almost all our clients.
Adventurous travellers can continue to Mae Sariang, which is deep in Karen country and close to the Salween River. The scenery here is rugged and beautiful and the people are especially welcoming. Then drive back to Chiang Mai via Doi Inthanon.
If you are feeling independent why not try and drive the northern loop your self. We will deliver the car to you; book your hotels, supply a map and road book and way you go.
Further a field to the Unseen Thailand
For more intrepid travellers the stunning scenery and natural charm of Nan and Loei are definitely worth visiting. The mountains of the north-east are home to many charming towns, each with a laid-back atmosphere and a fascinating part in the history and culture of the region. Phrae and Nan are particularly charming and the surrounding mountain scenery around Loei is simply outstanding, but the real reward for the traveller in this region is meeting the smiling, friendly people who live here.
Accommodation in the more remote destinations is not as varied or luxurious as it is around Chiang Mai however that does not mean you have to suffer backpacker standard guest-houses either. We always use the best available hotels and will do our best to reserve the best rooms in the house. Sometimes even in the most remote areas we can find a true hidden gem such as Bo Klua View Resort in Nan province or Phu Pha Nam Resort in Loei.
If you want to see the real Thailand you really should make the effort to see places like Nan and Loei where the modern world has not yet arrived and neither have the tourists. A million miles from Phuket and Pattaya, it is in places like these where you will find those special and memorable experiences that live with you forever.
Sukhothai and the roads between Bangkok and Chiang Mai
New resorts opening in Sukhothai are going to help lure tourists to one of Asia's most under rated world heritage sites. Although not as extensive a site as Angkor Wat, Sukhothai really should be compared to its more famous neighbour in Cambodia as a truly world class heritage site and visitors to Thailand that don't make the effort to go are really missing out on something special.
Between Sukhothai and Ayuthaya, the cities of Lopburi, Kampaeng Phet and Uthai Thani are all historical treasures lying in the Chao Phraya River basin waiting to be discovered. Lopburi rose to ascendance in the 10th century when it was under the influence of the Khmer kingdoms and the ruined sandstone temples are still very much in evidence and worth visiting. Be warned monkeys have taken possession of many of the ruins so keep an eye on your cameras.
Kamphaeng Phet can be visited on the way to Sukhothai or as part of a daytrip from Sukhothai and has an interesting historical park with numerous chedi and stupas one of which once contained the famous emerald Buddha. Uthai Thani is a beautifully preserved Thai town located on the Sakae Krang River, a tributary of the Chao Phraya River with interesting temples and a vibrant market place. Once a resting place for Rama IV, Utah Thani is an ideal stopping point on the way north from Bangkok and with comfortable accommodation now available as well as interesting river boat rides, it is the perfect place to immerse yourself into the real Thailand.
Driving at a leisurely pace you can visit Ayuthaya, Lopburi, Uthai Thani, Kamphaeng Phet and Sukhothai in about four days from Bangkok. Chiang Mai is another day or two's drive after Sukhothai. Look at some of our Classic Thailand overland tour modules or ask your travel consultant to build these fascinating destinations into your tailor made itinerary.
Isaan - the unspoilt Northeast
If you are searching for true Thai hospitality you should look no further than Isaan Area in the north east of Thailand. Often overlooked in favour of the more obvious charms of Chaing mai and the north, what isaan lacks in genuine tourist attractions it makes up for in old-world charm. The people of Isaan are by far the friendliest in Thailand, which is quite a claim to fame, and the food is simply outstanding – as long as you don't mind it hot!
The main attractions are the Khmer temples Phimai, Phanom Rung, Muang Tam and Khao Phra Viharn to name but three, located along the southern corridor. While in the far east, the Mekong River provides a continually scenic backdrop for your explorations. The riverside provincial capitals of Nong Khai, Nakhon Phanom and Mukdahan all ooze charm and relaxed touring. While the city of Ubon Ratchathni not only provides a gateway into neighbouring Laos but also can act as a base to explore the eastern area of Isaan. An added incentive is the delightful Tohsang Khongjiam Resort which is a true gem and you could easily spend from anywhere between two nights and a week discovering the surrounding area.
A two or three day tour of Isaan taking in all the main temples before spending two nights in Ubon and then flying back to Bangkok is a different way to visit Thailand before heading to a beach. Or you can continue your travels through southern Laos and even Cambodia as these sites are a perfect primer before a trip to Cambodia to see the crown jewels of Angkor Wat. Those with ore time might want to travel north through Phanon Rung and up to Nong Khai where you can cross into Laos or even keep travelling through Loei and on to the north of Thailand. The choices for spending quality time in Thailand are almost endless so please let your travel consultant help plan the perfect tour for you.
Touring the beautiful South
Most tourists heading to the south of Thailand have only one thing on their mind – the beach. However a drive down the south coast can be a great way to discover Thailand. Peninsula Thailand has good, fast roads and fabulous beaches as well as some great national parks such as Kraeng Krachan, Thailand's biggest park, or Sam Roi Yot, arguably Thailand's most scenic with its hundreds of limestone peaks and caves waiting to be explored.
Another gem waiting to be discovered is Khao Sok National Park. Well known to the backpackers, this unspoilt rainforest is close to Phuket, Samui and Krabi, yet is rarely visited by the hoards of tourists that flock to the beaches. Elephant Hills, an eco-resort on the edge of Khao Sok is a fantastic place to spend a few days. Exotissimo can offer a range of tours that include Khao Sok.
A really nice touring journey is to drive south to Pranburi and visit Sam Roi Yot National Park, continue to Chumphorn and then onwards to Khao Sok via Wat Suan Mok temple or Surat thani monkey training school. After a few days exploring khao Sok head to any one one of the beaches of Krabi, Khao Sok, Phuket or Samui.
Alternatively fly to Phuket and then take a self-drive tour of the south. We will book your hotels, deliver the car and provide a map and roadbook. So Easy… So Exotissimo…
Thailand's Beaches
Thailand's beaches are the stuff of legend. Whether you are looking for a classic palm-fringed hideaway, a friendly family resort or all night partying, Thailand has it all. And there is quite a choice too.
Everybody has heard of Phuket and Samui, but the last decade has seen the growth of many new beach destinations, such as Krabi, Koh Lanta, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Yao, Koh Chang and Koh Tao and it is often at these lesser known beaches where the real paradise feeling can be found. New resorts are opening up and down the coast and we suggest you ending your holiday in Thailand at a new, fresh and exciting resorts such as the Library in Samui, Sarojin in Khao Lak, Paradee at Koh Samed, Aleenta in Pranburi and Phang Nga as well as the marvellous Evason Koh Yao.
One of the neat things about heading for a Thai beach is the fact that with two weather systems which bring the tropical rains at different times of the year, it's possible to enjoy Thailand's beaches year-round. From January to September you can choose a beach in Koh Samui or Koh Phangan where you will have the best chance on sunny and dry weather while from October to April a beach like Krabi, Khao Lak or Koh Samed and Ko Chang are offering the best chance of getting an all over tan.
To try and make your decisions just a little easier here is a super fast guide to Thai beaches:
Phuket for pure luxury, great facilities, lots for kids to do, wide choice of restaurants and plenty of nightlife.
Krabi for deluxe resorts, activities, shopping and nightlife if you want it.
Khao Lak for pristine beaches, lazy days and early nights, wide choice of resorts and some shopping..
Koh Lanta for pristine beaches, lazy days, moderate nightlife.
Koh Yao for pristine beaches, lazy days, early nights and luxury resorts.
Phi Phi for diving, quiet resorts (around the edge) or backpacker mayhem (in the middle).
Trang for remoteness and comfort. Koh Hai for real remoteness.
Samui for a hip-beach scene, boutique resorts and lots of nightlife.
Phangan for a pristine beaches and backpackers.
Koh Tao for great diving, good beaches and lots of backpackers.
Hua Hin for great hotels, restaurants and shopping but only average beaches.
Koh Samed for pristine beaches, lazy days, moderate nightlife and only a short drive from Bangkok.
Koh Chang for pristine beaches, lazy days, moderate nightlife, wide choice of resorts and some shopping..
Phuket
Phuket is Thailand's number one beach resorts and one of the world's most famous holiday destinations. Here you find the best of the best. Super luxury hotels, yachts, restaurants, fine wine, golf courses, shopping and miles and miles of great beaches.
Yes Phuket is full of tourists and you will see tour buses all over the place but this is a big island (the size of Singapore) and there are plenty of places to hideaway if you want. Phuket is the place to head to if you are looking for a luxury destination or if you are with the family and want lots of facilities. It is not the place to find small charming hotels at reasonable prices.
The best beaches and most of the best hotels are in the north of the island. The southern beaches of Patong, Kata or Karon are busy, noisy and not very classy. Hotels we recommend to our luxury clients are Trisara and Amanpuri. After that you should try The Chedi and Budarika will not disappoint while we really like Twin Palms even if it is not on the beach. Evason in the south is also a nice property even if the beach there is not the best. If budget is an issue Manathai makes a good compromise. While The Racha Resort just of the south of Phuket is dream get-away-from-it-all hotel.
Krabi
The beaches in Krabi area were first discovered by the backpacking crowd and have developed slowly into international standard resort destinations while retaining plenty of charm. Krabi is home to a string of beaches and islands. The scenery is amazing with limestone kasts exploding out of the sea and jungle everywhere.
The Phra Nang peninsula is an idyllic retreat, and the beaches of Rai Leh are among the most beautiful in Thailand. The Rayawadee is a magical combination of luxury and nature. Accessible only by boat, giving a true 'desert island' ambience you stay in a villa surrounded by coconut palms and towering limestone cliffs. The rest of Railey beach is lined by family run resorts the best of which is Railey Bay Resort with Sea Sand coming next. Rock climbing has become a hugely popular activity in this area and Phra Nang is now recognized as one of the hottest climbing spots in the world and the islands and mangroves make for superb sea kayaking opportunities. The new international airport at Krabi has seven flights a day to Bangkok, making the entire area easily accessible.
Ao Nang is still the vibrant tourist centre of Krabi but the beach can be disappointing and the village is crowded. The best option here is Krabi Resort as it has its own beach. Further north Khlong Muang has become the choice for those seeking an upmarket resort. The Sheraton Krabi Beach and new Sofitel Phokeethra are the big players in Khlong Muang but Tubkaak Resort and Nakamanda, which are both hip luxury resorts, provide a touch of class and style that make Khlong Muang an exciting new beach destination. The new Amari Vogue Resort has a great location and will not disappoint.
Just south of Krabi on an island of its own is the charming Koh Jum Resort. Managed by a French couple this is one of those great little secrets you hope stays just the way it is. Backpacker Deluxe is a good way of explaining the style and comforts. If you don't need an Aman but want to get away from the crows this could be for you.
Koh Lanta
In the south of Krabi and not far from the airport, Koh Lanta, is gaining a reputation as the Thai island of choice for those looking for a balance between island charm and sophisticated accommodation. 'Laid backâ€, 'Thai style†and 'chilled†are words that are often used to describe the atmosphere on Lanta Island and it is hard to disagree. This is where the swaying palms and wide sandy beaches of found without the traffic or nightlife of Samui or Phuket. World class hotels such as Pimalai and Layana combine stunning locations with five-star services, while The diving here is also outstanding with the pinnacles of Hin Daeng and Hin Muang within easy daytrip range from Lanta (but too far for Phuket day-trippers) an attraction for feeding whale sharks and mantas as well as divers. The islands still retain a rustic charm - Koh Lanta had no telephones before 2001 and electricity only arrived on the island a short time before that!
Luxury lovers should check in to the imperious Pimalai, especially the new pool villas. Layana Resort is also a good choice while more relaxed is Sri Lanta. Royal Lanta is a good budget choice as is Lanta Casaurina Resort.
Phi Phi
The islands of Phi Phi have been immortalized by many Hollywood movies, most recently the Beach starring Leonardo Di Caprio. Badly damaged by the Tsunami in December 2005, Phi Phi is now almost recovered and is back in business and welcoming tourists. The beaches are cleaner than ever and the small town in the centre has reestablished itself – although it must be said it is something of a scruffy backpacker's ghetto. On a secluded beach the Zeavola has established itself as the best on the island and offers a nature-chic alternative to the more established choices such as Phi Phi Island Village. Avoid the backpacker throng in the centre of the island, unless you are a backpacker.
Khao Lak
Also devastated by the Tsunami but now very much back on the scene is Khao Lak. The clean up of the beaches of Khao Lak has been incredible and apart from a few monuments to the wave, such as the Thai navy boat that was washed a kilometre on-shore and is still lying on its side close to the main road through Khao Lak, there is little evidence of the Tsunami.
Most resorts have now reopened and are looking better than ever and Khao Lak is once again becoming the beach of choice for those looking for a different or quieter scene than Phuket. To be perfectly honest Khao Lak is much far superior to Phuket. The beaches are better, there is enough to do and you don't have tourist buses everywhere. Our favourites resrorts are Aleenta and Sarojin. Located at different ends of the coast, Aleenta is south of Khao lak and Sarojin north, but both are special and most certainly deluxe. Sarojin doesn't allow kids so it is best suited for honeymooners. Otherwise la Flora is also highly recommended and better located if you want to be close to town and we still love the beachfront treehouses at Similana Resort even though the resort itself is getting a showing its age. Haadson is great budget choice.
Koh Yao
Koh Yao, which means long island, is the two islands (one long and one not so long) in between Phuket and Krabi in the heart of Phang Nga Bay. Just a few minutes by boat or seaplane from Phuket, Koh Yao is and hardly noticed until recently Koh Yao has had none of the development of its larger neighbour and is still a real tropical hideaway. We still love Koh Yao Island Resort, which was the original Robinson Crusoe resort on the isalnd but with lots of style and more than adequate comfort. Offering substantially more comfort is Six Senses Evason Hideaway on Koh Yao Noi. Using sustainable building techniques and materials the environmentally friendly yet simply luxurious resort has just opened its doors and promises idyllic island life to the privileged few. Smaller, but also highly recommended is Koh Yao Paradise Resort, which different categories of room located in a beautiful bay with a stunning cliff at the edge of the beach.
Trang and the Far South
Even further south, Trang province has even more attractions and even less tourists. With clear waters and limestone islands dotting the horizon, it is easy to see why travellers are beginning to discover Trang. The Amari Trang resort is the first chain hotel to establish itself but there are also some charming resorts on the island of Koh Ngai (pronounced and sometimes spelt Koh Hai). This is where you really get the desert island treatment. Stay at Thapwarin Resort or Koh Hai Fantasy.
Samui
If the Andaman islands are paradise for just flopping on a tropical beach, Samui is heaven for the active traveller (although of course there are plenty of beaches to flop on too). There are literally hundreds of activities and attractions on Koh Samui, from diving in the pristine waters of the marine park to learning how to be a sea-lion trainer!
Avoid crowded Chaweng and Lamai beaches, unless you don't mind the occasional sleepless night listening to techno music, and head for Cheonmong, Bophut or Mae Nam Beaches on the north of the island. New world-class five star resorts such as Napasai, Four Seasons and Sila Evason Hideaway are all top choices and definitely top-end. Karma resort is also highly recommended and they have a great choice of villas for families or larger groups. Sala Samui is also a great choice. One resort on Chaweng that does stand out from the crowd is the Library.
The luxury market is quite new for Samui but the island is quickly adapting itself to cater for the tastes of a more discerning crowd. Santiburi golf course is one of the best – and one of the most difficult – in Asia and there are a preponderance of new upmarket restaurants and night clubs, including the trendy Q-Bar. More affordable yet also overflowing with style are Zazen Resort in Bophut and Rocky Resort, just south of Lamai.
Samui has established itself as one of South-East Asia's leading destinations for wellness and therapeutic retreats, and its hotels, day-spas, yoga and meditation centres have become a Mecca for stressed out visitors from around the globe. Our pick of the wellness resorts is Kamalaya.
Koh Phangan
Just a short boat ride away is Koh Phangan. Although best known for its full moon parties, which attract thousands of travellers from all over the globe, there is a lot more to stunning Ko Phangan than partying all-night on the powder-soft white sand. The island has swathes of beautiful beaches, great walks, adventurous boat and fishing trips, fabulous diving and even kite-boarding. Some new and interesting resorts have recently opened on the quiet but beautiful beaches lining the north of the island bringing Phangan onto the radar for more than just backpackers. Avoid Haad Rin Beach as it is little more than a party venue and the only place to stay is Panwiman Resort in Thong Nai Pan on the north of the island. It is quite an adventure to get and It will not get on the Conde Naste list but Panwiman, which means paradise, is another great little Thai beach secret.
Koh Tao
Koh Tao, which means Turtle Island, is one of Thailand's premier diving locations and those willing to make the journey by boat from Samui or Chumporn on the mainland are rewarded with gorgeous beaches, great viewpoints and hospitable locals. If you are a diver, Ko Tao is the perfect destination as it really does have the best diving in the Gulf of Thailand. If you are not a diver – be warned there are lots of divers here and the island can feel a little crowded as there are a lot of small backapacker resorts selling cheap dive packages. The main beaches, Saree and Mae had are noisy at night and dive boats chug noisily around the island all day. Koh Tao is not for everyone and best suits divers or those looking to revisit their backpacker experiences. The best places to stay is Charm Churee Resort, while serious divers should consider Koh Tao Coral Grand Resort.
Hua Hin, Cha Am and Pranburi
On the mainland, Hua Hin and neighbouring Cha Am have great family appeal, with a bucket-and-spade atmosphere and plenty to entertain every member of the family. Located just a couple of hour's drive from Bangkok and a long-time favourite with the Thai royal family, Hua Hin is easily accessible, even to those with limited time in the kingdom. A wide choice of hotels, including no less than six five star hotels, and small independent resorts makes it an attractive destination for a wide range of tourists. Recently Hua Hin has shaken off the sedate seaside town image and taken a cool contemporary feel. Trendy restaurants and cool resorts have sprung up all over the town and the annual Jazz festival has added certain vibrancy.
In Hua Hin there are five or six big five-star hotels, of which our favourites are the Hyatt Regency and Dusit Cha Am. We also like Veranda in Cha Am as it has great beachfront a bags of style and the budget choice is Baan Talay Dao.
Further south the charming seaside village of Pranburi, has begun to brand itself as the Thai Riviera. This is where you find Aleenta, one of our all-time favourite boutique resorts as well as the Evason Resort & Spa and the luxurious Evason Hideaway. The rugged mountains of Sam Roi Yot are now a backdrop for the annual Pranburi International Triathlon, which takes place each October at the Evason Resort and is organized by Exotissimo.
Koh Samed
Also easily accessible from Bangkok is the local's favourite is the island of Koh Samed. Although just a couple of hours from the capital, Samed has some of the best beaches in Thailand and all the atmosphere of a tropical island escape – it is not too touristy. Hotel choice is not too bad either with the new Paradee Resort at the top of the list and offering real barefoot luxury with its own private paradise beach. We also like Sai Keaw Resort which has great charm although it is fairly basic. Otherwise Ao Prao Resort and neighbouring Le Vimarn are also pretty good.
Koh Chang
Further east close to the Cambodian border is Koh Chang, Thailand's third largest island. Although there are no serious luxury resorts here, the Amari Emerald Cove will not disappoint. Koh Chang Paradise resort is also nice and Aana Resort is one of our favourites even if it is not right on the beach. Gajapuri is also a nice resort although the beach is not the best.
A few Suggested Itineraries
There are many ways to see Thailand. Below are a few suggestions of itineraries that we think work well. Take a look; let us know what you think and then one of our knowledgeable travel consultants will be pleased to work through you tailor-made touring itinerary.
Two weeks in Thailand – First time here
Bangkok – Bangkokian + Grand palace
Bangkok – Ayuthaya by Horizons Cruise
Bangkok – Amphawa Tour
Bangkok – Chiang Mai – City Tour
Chiang Mai – elephants + villages
Chiang Mai – at leisure
Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai and Golden triangle
Chiang Rai -fly to Samui or Krabi and spend a few days on the beach.
Two weeks exploring the centre and north
Bangkok – Bangkokian tour
Bangkok – Amphawa
Amphawa – Kanchanaburi
Kanchanaburi – Uthai Thani
Uthai Thani – Sukhothai
Sukhothai
Sukhothai – Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai – villages visits
Chiang Mai – Lisu Lodge
Lisu Lodge – Chiang rai
Chiang Rai and Golden triangle
Chiang Rai fly Bangkok
Bangkok – at leisure – departure
A week off-the-beaten track starting from Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai - Lampang
Lampang – Phrae – Nan
Nan
Nan – Dansai
Dansai – Loei
Loei - Udon Thani (you can fly to Bangkok or enter Laos through Nong Khai to Vientiane)
Thailand In Style for True Luxury Seekers
Bangkok
Bangkok
Bangkok
Bangkok -Chiang Rai – Golden Triangle
Golden Triangle
Golden Triangle
Golden Triangle – Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai – Bangkok – Your Beach of Choice
Bangkok – The Central Area – Hua Hin
Bangkok
Bangkok – Ayuthaya - Uthai Thani
Uthai Thani – Kanchanaburi
Kanchanaburi
Kanchanaburi – Hua Hin
Hua Hin
Hua Hin
Hua Hin
Combination tours with other exotic destinations in South East Asia
Thailand is an ideal destination to combine with other exotic destinations in the region and Bangkok is a major hub to start your trip to Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam. Do you want to combine Thailand with one of these destinations? Exotissimo Travel has offices in all above mentioned countries and your travel consultant can help you making all arrangements in all these destinations. If you decide to travel to only one of the Exotissimo destinations the travel consultant of that country will be in direct correspondence with you. If you want to combine destinations the travel consultant of the destination you will arrive first will coordinate all arrangements in all destinations and send just one itinerary and one invoice - it is easy for you to combine!
Some suggestions of combination tours:
Thailand and Laos
Bangkok
Bangkok
Bangkok – Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai – Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai – Chiang Khong – Luang Say Cruise
Luang Say Cruise – Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang – Vientiane
Vientiane
Thailand, Laos and Cambodia
Bangkok
Bangkok – Korat
Korat – Ubon Ratchatahni
Ubon Ratchathani
Ubon – Pakse
Pakse – Wat Pho Cruise
Wat Pho Cruise
Pakse – Siem Reap
Siem Reap (Angkor Wat)
Siem Reap
Highlights of Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam
Bangkok
Bangkok
Bangkok – Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai – Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang – Siem Reap
Siem Reap
Siem Reap
Siem Reap – Hanoi
Hanoi – Halong Bay Cruise
Halong Bay – Hanoi – Hue
Hue – Hoi An
Hoi Na
Hoi An – Danang – Saigon
Saigon – Mekong delta – Saigon
Saigon
Thailand and Myanmar
Bangkok
Bangkok – Yangon
Yangon
Yangon - Bagan
Bagan
Bagan – Inle Lake
Inle lake
Inle Lake – Yangon – Bangkok – Krabi and a few days on the beach
Please don't hesitate to ask us for any other combinations within different countries – our travel consultant will be happy to assist.
We hope that this latest information has given your some better thoughts about what to do and where to visit and where to stay in Thailand. Thailand is a big country and has plenty of cultural, natural, adventurous and relaxing experiences to offer but new as traditional ones.
How to book?
Use our independent Travel Planner to help us understand your requirements or send an email with as much information as you can on your favoured destinations, activities, hotels etc (we hope that this document helps you to make the right decision. One of our Online Travel Consultant will then get back to you with some suggestions and questions before sending a detailed itinerary and price for your program. Once you confirm the program we will need the names of all travellers as well as the passport numbers to make the reservations. In case certain hotels or flights are fully booked the travel consultant will offer alternatives (and inform you about changes in the price). With the confirmation of hotels and flights the travel consultant will send the invoice and ask for a deposit payment or full payment (depending on the arrival date and booking conditions of certain hotels). Payments can be done by bank transfer or by credit card using our secure online payment gateway.
Hotel vouchers, tickets and other papers
Your Travel consultant will confirm your booking as soon as we receive payment and send you all relevant documents by email. Upon arrival in Thailand your Exotissimo guide will give you an arrival package that will include all hotel vouchers, flight tickets and a printed touring itinerary (if any) as well as some useful information on Thailand. Your guide will be your main contact point in Thailand but you can contact us at any time at the numbers below.
One of the great benefits about booking with Exotissimo is that we are here on the ground in Thailand and we will take care of you the whole time you are here.