Thailand A Romantic Trio
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very honeymoon should have a basic recipe for success: an exciting setting, amazing food and once-in-alifetime experiences. Thailand has this combination down pat. I recently visited and was hosted by two of Minor Hotels’ signature brands – Anantara and AVANI. My Thai travels took me to three distinct destinations – each of which would make a wonderful option for a honeymoon. Visit just one or any combination of the three and your travel taste buds will be left tingling.
HONEYMOON HIDEAWAYS
BANGKOK
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This city is buzzing with intensity in all the right ways. Rather than feel overwhelmed, you’ll be energized by Bangkok’s feverish pace and world-famous street food scene. As soon as the sun sets, hit the bricks and head to Chinatown. The city’s street food vendors take over and alleyways that were previously packed with cars are now brimming with locals and tourists alike delighting in everything from Thai green curry and satay skewers to Yaowarat toasted milk buns. Bangkok has some of the most famous Michelinrated street food vendors in the world, so be sure to do your research in advance, as opening times and locations can vary. To escape the heat, head to Teens of Thailand – a hip bar with a gin and tonic that will knock your sweaty socks off. Once you’ve successfully eaten your way into a food coma, head to Anantara
AVANI+ Samui
Siam Bangkok Hotel, AVANI+ Riverside Bangkok Hotel or Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort. The accommodations and service at each are stellar – it’s the locations and style that set them apart. The Anantara Bangkok Siam is located on the Golden Mile, near the Chatuchak Weekend Market (one of the largest open air markets in the world), the skytrain and upscale shopping. The Anantara Siam is swanky and known for its gilded silk mural that dominates the lobby. Both the AVANI+ Riverside and Anantara Riverside are located – you guessed it – by the Chao Phraya River and boast breathtaking views of the Bangkok skyline.
KOH SAMUI An hour’s flight south of Bangkok takes you to Koh Samui. The AVANI+ Samui is new to the scene and is a private escape set along the Gulf of Thailand. The beach leaves a bit to be desired, but the food and accommodations are outstanding. Be sure to book a pool villa for a private plunge whenever the urge strikes you. For a day trip, book a traditional Thai longtail boat and discover the island of Koh Matdsum for stunning sand and a charming shack serving up ice cold cocktails.
CHIANG RAI Just an hour’s flight north of Bangkok, you can escape to the (slightly) cooler temps and jungle setting of Northern Thailand and the Golden Triangle. Chiang Rai is located in this region.
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AVANI+ Samui
Photos courtesy of: Avani Hotels & Resorts
WORDS BY COURTNEY KELLAR
AVANI+ Riverside Bangkok