What if we told you that you could rent a private yacht to explore Thailand’s serene waters or get a bird’s eye view of its beauty from a balloon high above? We’re sure you’ve started planning and prepping already!
If you thought Thailand is all about pristine beaches and adventure activities, we’d like to introduce you to a new segment of Thailand. One that allows you to vacation in the glory of Thailand with luxury, pomp, and grandeur.
Whether it’s the swanky villas or the luxurious wellness centers, it beckons you to relish opulence at its best. Besides this, we’re all aware of Thailand’s vast stretches of lush greenery, immaculate beaches, majestic waterfalls, and forested mountains that show nature’s artwork in a splendid way. Needless to say, that is a luxury in itself!
Here are the 10 ways you can experience luxury in Thailand-
1. Pamper yourself at a luxury spa or wellness center
Thailand is often recognized as the quintessence of relaxation and comfort. Thai massages and healing traditions are as old as the Thai culture itself. Traditional Thai massage significantly helps with reducing stress, uplifting energy, and curing a variety of ailments.
The experts make use of gentle pressure and stretching techniques to relax the whole body. These massages are the best way to unwind, relax, and strengthen yourself to return to the monotony of everyday life with renewed energy and vigor. Now, isn’t that the primary reason for your vacation?
Most of the wellness centers practice a holistic approach to wellness by offering programs designed to befit your concerns. The health practitioners not only design a suitable treatment plan but also help with information and tips to deal with your problems when you return to your routine.
Chiva Som in Hua Hin is one such place that invites you to savor the benefits of Thai massage and customized wellness treatments. Kamalaya on Koh Samui, Asaya Spa at Rosewood Phuket, and The Wareeraska Hot Spring Spa are a few centers where you can experience luxury in Thailand.
2. Marvel at The Andaman Coast from high above
The Andaman displays a surreal stretch of breath-taking beauty. White sand beaches, azure waters, limestone cliffs and forested mountains comprise the true essence of this coast.
Now, imagine a bird’s eye view of this scenery. Well, take to the skies to do just the same!
It is an experience of a lifetime to gaze at Andaman’s splendid seascape from high above. Helicopters and sightseeing planes are available in Krabi and Phuket to take you for a joyride over several locations and islands. Fly over the Phang Nga Bay or witness a panoramic view of the small islands, these beautiful glimpses will be etched in your memory. Several tour services offer packages that involve helicopter tours to take you through the landscape of some mesmerizing locations in Thailand.
3. Experience gourmet dining at Michelin-starred restaurants
You must have heard a great deal about the lip-smacking flavors of Thailand’s street food, but its flourishing fine dining experience is no less! The country has several Michelin-starred restaurants which are an excellent way to experience luxury in Thailand. These restaurants present Thai delicacies with great panache at spectacular locations in Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and Phuket.
Khaomao-Khaofang in Chiang Mai is one such restaurant that features regional dishes against a beautiful backdrop of a flowery tropical rainforest. R-Haan, Na Chantra, and Manohra are a few restaurants you should definitely visit during your stay in Thailand.
4. Hire your own boat or charter a yacht
If you’re traveling with your family and friends, hiring your own boat is the best way to navigate the islands of Thailand with your crew. Hiring a speedboat also enables you to plan your day based on your interests and preferences of island hopping and water activities.
If you’re in the mood to cruise through the waters of Koh Samui in a luxurious way, renting a private yacht is the best option. You can also choose to captain your own ship if you are regular, however, if you are a beginner, it is advisable to set out with a qualified team. You can either go for a 33 feet cruiser for a day trip or an 80 feet superyacht for a four-day trip. These yachts are comfortable and spacious enough to accommodate anywhere from a small group of six to a large number of people.
The easiest way to go about renting your own boat is through a yacht charter company that can help you pick the right boat based on your preference for a comfortable onboard experience. You can rent a yacht or catamaran in Phuket as well to explore the nearby islands of Ko Racha Noi and Ko Racha Yai.
One of the major attractions for seafarers is the Thailand Yacht Show which is a leading maritime show in Southeast Asia. The show features an exceptional line-up of motor and sailing yachts and an exclusive display of luxury products.
Tip: Don’t forget to sail around the Ang Thong National Marine Park in Koh Samui.
5. Flyover Chiang Mai in a balloon
Yes, you heard it right!
You can enjoy breath-taking views of Chiang Mai’s landscape with a balloon soaring high above. Balloon flights are operated by seasoned and qualified pilots with balloons checked and monitored by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand.
Get ready to gape at the stunning views of Chiang Mai’s countryside as the balloon acquaints you with the cultural and historical attractions from a vantage point.
You can end this unforgettable experience with a traditional champagne celebration or head for a relaxing spa treatment.
6. Experience the luxurious atmosphere of Bangkok’s sky bars
Bangkok has taken its rooftop culture to new heights (pun intended!) with fresh concepts and unique concoctions of food and beverages. For an elegant evening where you can relish dinner and cocktails by a glorious view of the city, head to any of the sky bars in Bangkok.
Mahanakhon Bangkok Skybar is Thailand’s tallest dining landmark. Located on the 76th floor, the place offers a surreal escape from the bustling streets of Bangkok.
Another place to experience luxury in Thailand is the Vertigo and Moon Bar at Banyan Tree. This bar cum restaurant beckons you to try its world-class cocktails, finest champagne, non-alcoholic beverages, and delicacies al fresco. Its contemporary design incorporates surreal and chic elements to offer a premium dining experience.
Park Society at So or the CRU Champagne Bar also offers 360-degree views of Bangkok’s magnificent cityscape.
7. Treat yourself to a high society afternoon tea
Indulgent afternoon tea is the perfect way to unwind with some cozy brews and decadent treats. Several luxury hotels in Thailand present the opportunity to savor a ‘hi-so’ afternoon tea amidst the beautiful surroundings of rice paddies or emerald waters.
Head to the Chao Phraya River to enjoy a lavish afternoon tea at the Authors’ Lounge in the Mandarin Oriental. Adorned with hand-painted fabrics and silk, this place offers a traditional high-tea experience with a rustic charm.
With a delicious spread of pastries, home-made jams, and freshly-baked scones, this place will enrapture your heart and taste buds, both!
137 Pillars in Chiang Mai also offers an elaborate variety of afternoon tea. You can enjoy your tea with some savories in the relaxed ambiance of this place. Set up in a classic heritage teak building, 137 Pillars offers wonderful views of the tropical garden courtyard and a giant banyan tree.
The Anantara, House on Sathorn, and The Dhara Dhevi are a few other places to spend some leisurely afternoon hours.
8. Travel back in time on the Eastern and Oriental Express
The Eastern and Oriental Express offers a brilliant opportunity to travel in style and experience luxury in Thailand. It runs from Singapore to Bangkok, giving a beautiful glimpse of ancient temples, verdant jungles, and rural villages.
Its green and gold carriages are embellished with cherry wood paneling, Thai silk, and Malaysian embroidery. This regal journey through landscaped vistas includes stops in Penang and island hopping through the Gulf of Thailand.
The train also offers ‘an evening of sophisticated indulgence’. Light snacks are offered at Bangkok’s Hualumphong station before the train arrives which is followed by a traditional Khon Dance as the crew escorts you to the train. After dinner, the evening comes to an end at Kanchanaburi. A sumptuous dinner featuring Asian and Western flavors is also served on board.
9. Visit the Golf Courses
Thailand is often recognized as Asia’s Golf Capital. The country has over a hundred golf courses at picturesque locations. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced golf player, everyone is allowed access to the golf course. A number of golf courses also offer a customized golf vacation.
Santiburi Samui Country Club in Koh Samui is situated on the steep mountain slopes, showcasing spectacular views of the Gulf of Thailand. The Kantar Course is another one that is located between two runways at Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok.
In order to accentuate the natural element of these courses, most of them contain some beautiful creeks, rocks, and trees. The golf course also includes impressive clubhouses that allow you to pamper yourself with extravagant services after your round. Black Mountain Golf Club, Thai Country Club, Red Mountain Golf Club are a few other courses you should visit experience luxury in Thailand.
10. Shop to your heart’s content at Gaysorn Village
Is your luxury vacation in Thailand even complete without hoarding your favorites from some of the most chic outlets?
While you might have come across several luxury shopping malls, Gaysorn Village Shopping Mall is one of a kind. Gaysorn Village is a lavish complex that includes only high-end products and design labels. The mall’s ultra-modern design and innovative retail concept make for an exciting shopping experience.
The mall hosts international brands like Aigner, Jim Thompson, Bang & Olufsen, Hugo Boss, and a premium selection of Thailand’s most popular designers like Disaya Senada and Theory. You can also enjoy a relaxing brunch or high-tea at one of the plush restaurants or cafes here.
Thailand has plenty of ways to fulfill your idea of a luxury vacation here. From sophisticated dining to sailing around in a private yacht, this country truly knows how to present a fine display of luxury and grandeur.
We hope you’re prepared to get smitten with Thailand’s luxuries and explore its treasures in style.
