From the founders
Welcome to our Thailand brochure. Packed with brand new itineraries, cultural experiences, some of our favourite accommodation and lots of planning assistance, we’ve designed this brochure to inspire your wanderlust, to help you dream and to show how you can turn those dreams into reality.
At InsideAsia, we know our destinations inside-out, and we’ll use that experience to help create the right trip for you. As no two travellers are the same, our service is designed around listening to you, getting to know you and understanding what your ideal trip looks like. Whether this is your first visit or a return to a favourite place, we’ll use our experience and knowledge to make planning your trip stress-free and fun.
Twenty-five years ago, we started this company to share the joy of exploring different cultures with as many people as possible. It has been our privilege ever since to help people step outside their everyday lives, experience other cultures and see the world differently.
We hope you enjoy exploring Thailand through our brochure. And when you’re ready, pick up the phone or drop us a line and we’ll help you explore for real.
Simon King Founder & COO
Alastair Donnelly Founder & CEO
The
‘Inside Travel’
We guarantee that you’ll have our support every step of the way: in planning and preparation, and while you’re travelling – including on the ground, 24/7, if something unexpected happens or you want to make a change.
guarantee
Whether it’s a medical emergency, a lost phone or a last-minute restaurant booking, we never pass the buck or dodge responsibility. We’ll be there to help, and we’ll make it right.
Our cultural adventure formula
Cultural adventure is a style of travel built around deeper experiences – the kind that connect you to the people, traditions and everyday life of a place. It’s about understanding a culture from the inside out – and doing it in a way that reflects your pace, your interests, and what you want from your holiday.
Quiet contemplation in a Kyoto temple garden; a street food safari in Siem Reap; a kerbside haircut and hot-towel shave in Hanoi; trekking with conservationists through Borneo’s jungles. Maybe a K-pop dance class in Seoul is more your thing. Or a Muay Thai lesson in Bangkok with an ex-professional fighter. That’s cultural adventure at Inside Travel.
+ Your unmissable sights
The famous, the ancient, the iconic. We’ll make sure you experience your highlights, the places that excite you the most.
+ Hands-on cultural experiences
These shared moments with artists, chefs, farmers and families will open a window into their world. Whether you’re learning to cook regional dishes, taking part in traditional crafts, or joining a local ceremony, your trip will be richer for the connections you make.
+ A slice of everyday local life
Our destination experts create space for the in-between. These could be myriad ways of watching a different world go by. Because those simple, joyful moments stay with you.
A holiday with positive impact is a better holiday
We believe in making every trip the very best it can be. We sweat the small stuff – every detail triple checked, every hotel, guide and experience carefully selected to be just right. That focus on doing things properly leads us to make different choices. Working with small-scale, local suppliers often means warmer welcomes, more care and a genuine pride in delivering a great experience – something you feel straight away as a traveller.
It’s also why we spend time in lesser-known places, away from the busier tourist hubs. You’ll have more opportunities to meet people, enjoy real cultural exchange and feel part of the places you’re visiting. All whilst making a tangible difference to livelihoods in those communities. We always leave breathing space for travel that gets beneath the surface – calmer journeys, deeper connections, and experiences that stay with you long after you return home. Travel done right – for you and the places you visit.
Why book with us?
A holiday can make a huge difference to family life. But for some, time away together is simply out of reach. That’s why we give back a percentage of our profits to charity partners who help families in difficult circumstances enjoy a break from home. When you book with InsideAsia, your trip helps make that possible Our giving back commitment
Travel’s friendliest experts
We promise we’ll care about your trip as much as you do. A dedicated travel consultant will listen, guide and create a trip that could only be yours.
From seamless logistics to unexpected discoveries, our deep destination specialism means travel that feels effortless and richer than you could plan for alone.
Rockstar service as standard Specialists make it effortless
Our Info-Packs are legendary
We guarantee that you’ll have our support every step of the way. We never pass the buck or fail to take responsibility. We’ll be there whenever you need us.
Transfers, tickets and check-ins verified so your trip runs like clockwork. Plus, we create your totally tailored trip bible Info-Pack, so every detail is in your hand, at all times.
How it works
We’ve built trips for thousands of happy customers using our proven process, honed over 22 years. It’s why 88% of our customers rate us as excellent.
It all starts with a conversation. You give us your ideas and we listen to the things you’ve been dreaming of – your wish list for the perfect trip. We provide our advice and opinions and come up with a proposal, which we refine until you tell us it’s just right.
Make it so! You tell us it’s a ‘go’ and our team gets to work linking everything up ready for your arrival. We’ll also create your personalised Info-Pack, packed with practical advice, cultural tips, language hints, restaurant recommendations and sightseeing guides for every stage of your journey.
You’ll receive thoughtful, friendly and expert service throughout your holiday from logistical arrangements to professional service and insight from our guides. Our mission is to make sure your trip is everything you hoped it would be, and more.
When you’re home, we’ll get in touch to hear about all of the places you went, the experiences you had, the food you ate and the people you met (we can’t resist a good travel story). Plus we’ll have a few ideas for how you can keep exploring from the comfort of your own home.
We offer a fully tailormade holiday experience. Your trip can start on any day of the year and from anywhere you like, giving you complete flexibility over itinerary, duration and budget.
A trip to Thailand is an adventure that you will never forget. It’s not just another destination in “Asia”. Indeed, it is not like anywhere we’ve ever been (and we get around!) Booking a tailor-made holiday ensures you get the most out of your trip. You let a personalised travel consultant know your interests and wishes, and they will put together a bespoke tailor-made holiday ready to suit.
The Inside Travel tailormade experience:
Take a private trip designed just the way you like it
Make the most of every moment with expert advice from your travel consultant
Any month, any day – travel where and when works
From cooking to cycling, choose from a huge range of experiences
We’ll handle the logistics, and you can choose the balance of pre-arranged activities with our guides vs independent exploration
Get directions, recommendations and cultural tips from our tailormade Info Pack
24/7/365 support from our in-house team spread across three continents so you always get someone awake and ready to help
All the logistics and practicalities sorted so you can enjoy being in the destination, not worrying about whether you have the right flight tickets or are staying in the right city district.
Using this brochure
In the next section of this brochure we highlight a selection of example Self-Guided Adventures to showcase the variety of trips we can offer. Some take in classic sights, other focus on more remote areas and a handful of itineraries are based on themes, such as cuisine, adventure, or travelling with family.
You may like to choose an itinerary and book it exactly as described in this brochure, but we expect you’ll want to add experiences and make alterations to suit your personal preferences. Please speak to one of our travel consultants who will be happy to discuss your travel plans and start customising an itinerary for you.
Unforgettable experiences
We base our itineraries around experiences rather than sights, as we believe this is the best way to really get beneath the surface of our destinations. Each of our trips can be tailored to include any number of activities, whether you want to meet elephants ethically or learn Muay Thai from an expert instructor.
Transport Accommodation
With your Info Pack in hand, you won’t have any problems getting around Thailand. With information on where, when and how to meet your guides for private travel, or how to use the public transport networks in the larger cities.
Thailand boasts a tremendous diversity of accommodation from skyscraper hotels to treehouses. You can find a selection of our favourites on pp. 58–65 as well as on our website. We have an ever-evolving list of hotels, which we have personally tried and tested, meaning we’ll be sure to suggest the right accommodation for you.
Customer support
At any point during your trip you can contact our customer support team. Should you need medical attention or if the weather disrupts your travel plans, use our 24-hour emergency hotline.
Why Thailand?
Most travellers arrive in Thailand with a few expectations: heat, tuk-tuks, temples, and great food, but leave with a completely different picture. Beyond Bangkok and beaches, what completely catches people off-guard is the range of experiences Thailand has to offer.
One day you’re walking through rainforests older than the Amazon, the next you’re in a night market where for under 100 baht you can load up on drunken noodles or pork skewers. A few days later, you’re with a local family sharing lunch on their riverside veranda. Thailand offers one of Asia’s most diverse and rewarding travel experiences, packed into a country that’s easy to get around, affordable to explore, and warm in welcome
Thailand shares familiar threads with its Southeast Asian neighbours; Buddhism, rice paddies, a history shaped by kings, but what sets it apart is its ability to surprise and satisfy at the same time. Infrastructure is well developed, locals are quick to help, and the sense of “it just works”
makes even the most remote corners feel within reach. That’s part of why more than half of visitors return, because each trip isn’t a redo, but a completely fresh experience.
You might want to learn to cook in Sukhothai, unwind on the beaches of Khao Lak, or drift through the Chiang Mai countryside on a Vespa. Wildlife is a real draw in Khao Sok. Think jungle treks, early morning canoe paddles, and sightings of dusky langurs, hornbills and Asian elephants around Cheow Lan Lake. We’ll design a trip that matches your pace, style, and sense of adventure, whether this is your first or fifth time in Thailand.
Sure, there are standout sights and blockbuster activities such as climbing at Railay and temple-hopping in Bangkok, but more often it’s the unscripted moments that linger: a hawker’s grin as they hand over your first Thai iced tea, the sound of a gibbon calling from the canopy, or the fragrant heat of green curry made just the way locals like it – spicy and aromatic.
Our itineraries are shaped with care and built around how you like to travel. Tell us your budget, interests, and what sort of stories you want to bring home – we’ll look after the rest.
When to travel
“Songkran (Thai New Year), celebrated countrywide from 13–15 April, blends tradition with joyful chaos – think morning offerings at the temple, followed by city-wide water fights, parades and street parties.” Steph, Southeast Asia specialist
Best time to visit
Northern trekking, Bangkok sightseeing
January is a good time to travel across Thailand. Chiang Mai is cool (15–25°C) for trekking and temple visits. Bangkok is warm (25–32°C) but not stifling. Andaman beaches are hot and dry. Gulf coast has showers. Although there is rain this month, countrywide trips are still highly recommended.
Country-wide trips & Andaman beaches
February is dry and sunny nationwide. Northern hills are cool (16–28°C) and ideal for walking. Bangkok is warm (26–32°C) with low humidity. The Andaman beaches are at their best. The Gulf coast turns drier, though seas can still be rough. Resorts are getting busier.
Gulf coast beaches & off-peak travel
April is Thailand’s hottest month (30–36°C), and the humidity is rising. Mornings are best for visiting Bangkok temples. The north stays dry (25–35°C). Songkran festival brings nationwide water fights. Seek shade and plan for slower days.
May marks the start of the wet season. The Gulf coast stays sunny, especially Ko Samui and Ko Pha-Ngan. The north is hot and dry (25–34°C), while Bangkok turns humid. Storms hit the Andaman. Fewer tourists mean quieter sights and transport routes.
Combining beach with city highlights
Dry season continues. Northern hills are warm (20–32°C) and dry for trekking. Bangkok is hot (28–34 °C) so plan early starts to get ahead of the heat. Andaman beaches are at their best. Gulf coast turns drier with calmer seas. However, air quality can be poor in the north from crop burning.
Gulf islands, Buddhist festivals, a green north
June brings daily showers, but the Gulf islands stay drier and warmer (26–32°C). Chiang Mai and Bangkok are hot and humid, with mornings best for sightseeing. Buddhist festivals, like Visakha Bucha, offer insight into temple life. Andaman seas turn rough.
July is wet in the Andaman, but Ko Samui and Ko Pha-Ngan stay mostly dry (26–32°C). Chiang Mai is green but muddy, Bangkok is humid. Expect some travel delays in the west. Look out for Buddhist Lent ceremonies and candle processions, especially in temple towns.
August brings storms and rough seas to the Andaman, limiting beach options on the west coast. Gulf islands like Samui stay drier (26–32°C). Chiang Mai is lush and green, though muddy. Bangkok is hot (26–33°C). Fewer visitors mean quieter temples and easier travel.
“In November the countryside is rich and green after a season of rain. Crops are growing across farmland – making for excellent photo opportunities and a scenic backdrop for hikes.”
Rhys, Southeast Asia specialist
October brings the tail end of the rains. Chiang Mai cools (20–28 °C) but Bangkok stays humid. Storms linger early in the month, easing later. The Gulf remains drier. Events like Ok Phansa and longboat races are fun and lively insights into Thai tradition.
November is reliably dry. Chiang Mai is cool (18–27°C) so it’s a good month for hiking. Bangkok is pleasant (25–30°C). Andaman beaches improve with calm seas and blue skies. Gulf islands stay warm with fewer showers. It’s start of high season, so expect more visitors.
December is dry and mild across Thailand. Chiang Mai is cooler (15–25°C), Bangkok remains warm (25–30°C). Seas are calm on both coasts, ideal for snorkelling. Events like Christmas, New Year, and Constitution Day are celebrated. It’s high season – so expect crowds. September is Thailand’s wettest month. Rough seas and frequent storms mean it’s not the time to visit beaches, especially on the Andaman side. Chiang Mai is lush but muddy and Bangkok stays humid (25–31°C). It’s a quieter time to visit temples.
“November to February is a smart time to choose Thailand if you want to combine cities, culture and coast all in one trip.”
Charlotte, Southeast Asia specialist
Buddhist Lent & temple visits
End of the rains, boat races, temple festivals
Songkran festivities & early mornings
Samui sunshine, green hills, quiet temples
Andaman beaches & comfortable sightseeing
Quieter sights & moody landscapes
Cool Chiang Mai & festive season
Where to travel
Key locations in Thailand
Thailand’s north and south offer completely different rhythms, flavours and landscapes – from Chiang Rai’s highland air and surrealist art houses to the Andaman coast’s warm-water islands. You’ll find grilled sausage stalls tucked behind gold-leafed temples, simple home-cooked lunches shared on trekking trails with hill tribe hosts, and beaches where longtail boats still outnumber loungers. We’ve travelled the length of the country – and we help you join the dots that matter.
Northern Thailand
Home to Chiang Mai and Chaing Rai, many visitors focus the northern section of their Thailand holiday within the big cities.
But, if you love lacing up your walking boots and exploring by trail, northern Thailand provides epic trekking terrain. Hike past jungle-covered mountains, stop for lunch by waterfalls and visit hill tribe villages, like the Karen and Akha communities – eating dishes straight from home kitchens, if you’re lucky enough to share a meal with them.
Central Thailand
Central Thailand is where the country’s past and present sit side by side: golden - spired temples rise behind neon skylines and ancient capitals are bordered by slow-moving rivers. From Bangkok’s buzzing neighbourhoods to the historic ruins of Ayutthaya, the wartime stories of Kanchanaburi and the lush forests of Khao Yai National Park, this region is Thailand at its most varied.
Southern Thailand
It’s all too easy to fly to Thailand’s largest island, Phuket, and sunbathe for a week or two. And, while there’s nothing wrong with that, there’s so much to explore along Thailand’s southern trunk.
From climbing the cliffs on Railay Beach, to learning how to make paper out of pineapple and elephant dung in Kui Buri, and relaxing on the powder soft beaches of Khao Lak (with just the right amount of tourist services and local originality locked in), there’s many types of cultural adventure to be found in southern Thailand.
Places we love
Bangkok
Bangkok is bold, unruly, and delightfully unpredictable. One moment you’re threading through the smoky backstreets of Chinatown, the next gliding past teak houses on a quiet canal. Centuries-old temples share street corners with glassy malls and Portuguese cakes sit alongside mango sticky rice. For foodies, culture enthusiasts, and bargain hunters alike, it’s a place that will reward your curiosity with the kind of stories you’ll still be telling years later. The heat is relentless, the traffic worse, but that’s all part of the ride. Love it or not, Bangkok gets under your skin in ways you never quite expect.
“ Thailand is a place where classic culture and contemporary life collide at 100 miles an hour in a chaotic explosion of energy. Ancient ruins – where you can trace the birth of Thai culture – co-exist with modern, laid-back towns filled with rooftop bars, art galleries and hipster coffee shops.” Tyler, Southeast Asia specialist
Golden Triangle
A tri-border where Thailand, Laos & Myanmar meet, the Golden Triangle isn’t just a convenient stop off between Laos and Thailand. Come for the day form Chiang Rai, or stay the night in a luxury resort.
Chiang Rai
Not just a base for trekking, Chiang Rai is Thailand’s unofficial capital for offbeat travel. Start with the popculture-meets-Buddhist-sanctuary known as the White Temple, finish with the macabre, skeleton-festooned Black House. Slurp curry noodles on the way.
Pai
On the banks of the Pai River, surrounded by mountains, waterfalls, gorges, caves and hot springs, the town of Pai calls out to active types who want to explore Thailand’s northern sceneries in more detail.
Mae Hong Son
Wedged into a jungle-cloaked valley in Thailand’s far north, Mae Hong Son is a laid-back base for adventurers. Do the famous “Mae Hong Son Loop”, or explore forests and farmlands of Karen, Lisu and Black Lahu ethnic minorities.
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai isn’t in a rush to impress and that’s exactly why we love it. Street vendors grill chicken over charcoal in leafy lanes, centuries-old temples sit quietly on street corners, and the best hikes start just outside of town.
Sukhothai
Abandoned for four centuries, today its 193 restored temples offer a glimpse into the civilisation that created the Thai alphabet, spread Theravada Buddhism, and presided over an artistic flowering that gave birth to Thai culture.
“Bangkok’s firmly on the tourist route and operates as an established international city, but it still has its surprises. The newly opened bubble tea shop in a glossy mall, or the 5th generation noodle stall down a soi (side alley) that we dismissed as only residential on our previous three trips to the city.” Jarrod, Southeast Asia specialist
Ayutthaya
Before its fall in 1787, Ayutthaya was a city of a million inhabitants. Enthusiastically absorbing influences from Japan, Arabia, Portugal and Italy. Its cosmopolitan history is reflected today in the brick spires of its ruins and the white kupi caps of the Muslim Quarter.
Kanchanaburi
Kanchanaburi is a quiet riverside town with a heavy WWII past. The infamous Death Railway runs through it, but so do jungle trails, limestone caves, and waterfalls that feel like destinations themselves.
Three times older than the Amazon, Khao Sok’s protected rainforest offers misty jungle treks, kayak journeys across Cheow Lan Lake’s forested islands, and nights in floating lodges, delivering one of Thailand’s most immersive wilderness experiences.
Khao Sok NP
Beaches we love
Khao Lak
Pearlescent white sand, deep blue skies, and rustling palm trees leaning out towards glittering, turquoise seas. The scenery is so stereotypically paradisiacal that it’s not hard to see why we love Khao Lak. Despite its popularity, Khao Lak retains a wholesome, family-friendly vibe that enhances rather than spoils its charms. If you ask us, Khao Lak has everything you could wish for in a beach getaway. Sprawling along 20 miles of balmy Andaman coast, it has popular beaches with nightlife and markets, but also, secluded stretches lined with sleepy villages. Such balance is rare, so take it from us: Khao Lak is a find.
“ The original tropical paradise, Thailand boasts beautiful beaches with seas as clear as glass and sand so white it threatens to burn your retinas. It offers ancient jungles, lakes dotted with limestone caves and jagged karsts, and mountains threaded with hiking trails that weave through paddy fields and minority villages.”
Steph, Southeast Asia specialist
Phuket
Phuket is no stranger to mass tourism, but that doesn’t mean you should give it a miss. There are pockets of paradise here to compete with anywhere in the world – and there’s plenty to go around.
Ko Yao Noi & Ko Yao Yai
Known for their low-key tourist scene, luxurious resorts, and reserved Muslim culture, Ko Yao Noi & Ko Yao Yai are island idylls between the famous party islands and backpacker beach towns of the Andaman Sea.
Krabi
Emerald vegetation clings to dramatic, gravity-defying limestone pinnacles and hundreds of tiny islands lie waiting to be explored. Krabi is a landscape built for adventure: climbing, caving and waterfall swimming.
Ko Lanta
Ko Lanta is a beach-fringed green island in the middle of Thailand’s famous turquoise seas. If you’re looking for a relaxed island retreat, far from the backpacker chaos that has come to define so many beaches in the region, this is it.
Ko Lipe
Ko Lipe is a well-established beach base, with an underlying respect for its nature. As part of the Mu Ko Tarutao National Marine Park, its land is fiercely protected, and naturally beautiful.
Ko Pha-Ngan
This gulf isle offers much more than the Full Moon parties that made it famous. What most don’t realise is that it has an equally peaceful, serene and spiritual side – you just need to know how to find it.
“ Thailand’s glut of beaches means there really is something for everyone, as clichéd as it sounds. There are beaches for climbing, boat trips, snorkelling and even dive schools.
Others where palm trees outpopulate people.” Robyn, Southeast Asia specialist
Ko Samui
Ko Samui may have swapped hippie shacks for high-end resorts, but the white sands and warm seas remain. With sleek spas, fresh seafood and tropical views, it’s one of Thailand’s most polished – and indulgent –island escapes.
Ko Samet
Accessible overland from Bangkok and a short ferry, Ko Samet proves you don’t need to head south for the beach.
You’ll share your island paradise with the Samet trees that litter the island, parrot fish and macaques.
Trat Islands
Comprising the islands of Ko Chang, Ko Kood & Ko Mak, the Trat Islands are a laid-back archipelago off Thailand’s eastern coast, known for their jungle-covered interiors, quiet beaches, and clear waters.
Luxury Thailand
Looking for a luxury trip to Thailand? This is our no-holds-barred, no-indulgence-spared, ultimate dream trip through Thailand. You want luxury? You got it.
Price based on accommodation
This itinerary combines refined comfort with authentic experiences, offering carefully selected accommodation and activities, and seamless travel. Immerse yourself in Thailand’s culture while enjoying the highest standards of luxury.
Arrive in Bangkok and settle into one of the city’s finest hotels. Not only will you visit iconic temples like Wat Pho, but with your Insider guide you’ll gain unique insights into the city’s culture and religion, including a visit to the hidden Santa Cruz Church in the Portuguese Quarter. Take a day trip to Ayutthaya, exploring the UNESCO-listed ruins and the Bang Pa-In Summer Palace. In the evening, dine while cruising under the city’s bridges..
In Chiang Mai, visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, perched on a forested hilltop, and the woodland Wat Umong, learning from monks about Theravada Buddhist practice. Journey into the surrounding countryside to meet elephants at a responsible sanctuary, watching them relax (no forced performances here).
Take a private cookery class, preparing northern Thai dishes such as khao soi gai coconut curry noodle soup.
As your trip winds down, escape to Ko Yao Noi, a quiet island in Phang Nga Bay where you can relax on white-sand beaches and swim in clear waters. There’s sea kayaking and cycling available or visit nearby villages to see life as it’s truly lived: farmers tending rice paddies and rubber plantations, buffalo in the fields, and stilt houses along canals that give way to mangrove forests as the sea encroaches.
Luxury Thailand is a journey defined by access, expertise and quality –where exceptional accommodation, expert guidance and thoughtful experiences create a more informed, refined way to explore the country.
Highlights
Explore Bangkok’s royal palaces, markets, and riverside neighbourhoods with an Insider
Take a day trip to Ayutthaya and Bang Pa-In Summer Palace
Meet elephants in an ethical environment
Take a private, northern Thai cookery class in Chiang Mai
Relax on Ko Yao Noi’s beaches with optional kayaking and spa
What’s included?
Breakfast every day, three lunches, and two dinners
Three full-day experiences, two half-day experiences, and one evening experience
All entrance fees to sites included in guided experiences
All internal transport and accommodation
“Thailand’s finest accommodation redefines luxury. Wake to ocean views, dine by candlelight, and indulge in a massage. Service is personal, the atmosphere effortless, and every moment feels quietly indulgent.”
BANGKOK
CHIANG MAI
YAO NOI
Plan my trip
Kingdoms of Thailand
days / 9 nights
Discover the beginnings of Thai culture through the ruins and relics of Ayutthaya, Chiang Mai and Sukhothai, with expert guides, delicious food, and a generous sprinkling of modern comforts along the way.
Price based on accommodation
3*
This itinerary traces the evolution of Thai’s identity through three former capitals and centuries of shifting power.
Begin in Bangkok, where you’ll explore places tied to the city’s working life and spiritual traditions. Walk through residential neighbourhoods to sample mung bean crêpes and spinach dumplings, stop in at Buddha-maker workshops and visit Chinese tiger gods shrines. Later, visit two of the capital’s most significant sites: the Grand Palace, seat of Thai royalty since the 18th century, and Wat Pho.
In Ayutthaya, tuk-tuks take you through a landscape of crumbling red-brick monasteries and whitewashed spires, remnants of a kingdom that thrived from the 14th to 18th centuries. You’ll continue by longtail boat to the Bang Pa-In summer palace, where a Chinese-style hall stands alongside European statues and a Gothic-style chapel. The day ends with dinner on a converted rice barge.
Sukhothai, founded in 1238, is considered the first true Thai kingdom, marking the consolidation of Theravada Buddhism and introducing the Thai alphabet. Explore its historical park, including the lotus-bud-shaped stupa of Wat Mahathat, the seated Buddha of Wat Si Chum, and lakeside Wat Sa Si. The Ramkhamhaeng Museum adds further context to the rise of Thai script and religion.
In Chiang Mai, embark on a city safari, using multiple forms of transport to take you between the city’s main monuments and lesserknown sights; a songtaew to the ruins of Wiang Kum Kam (a settlement that was wiped out by a flood 700 years ago), a boat to cruise down the Mae Ping River, one of Thailand’s ubiquitous samlors (three-wheeled bicycle taxis) to Wat Chedi Luang and a tuk-tuk to Waroros Market.
Chiang Rai brings a different perspective. Samlor taxi bike rides, market visits, and a trip to the intricately designed White Temple (some say it’s gaudy, others, gorgeous). Finish at the Golden Triangle, once a centre of empire and trade of the Lanna Kingdom, now a mountainous crossroads between Myanmar, Thailand and Laos.
Highlights
Explore Bangkok’s communities and temples with an Insider guide
Take a guided tour of the ruins of the Sukhothai Historical Park
Cycle through the “lost city” of Wiang Kum Kam by bicycle
Explore the Golden Triangle where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet
What’s included?
Breakfast every day and six lunches
Experiences: three full-day, six half day
All entrance fees to sites included in guided experiences
All internal transport and accommodation
“ Right next to the Royal Palace, Wat Pho is my favourite. Take a slow walk around the temple – the Reclining Buddha, murals, and gilded statues are rich and exquisite. It’s a space that really makes history feel present.”
Nicole Asia specialist
BANGKOK
AYUTTHAYA
SUKHOTHAI
CHIANG RAI
CHIANG MAI
Taste of Thailand
Savour Thailand’s flavours from street bites to Michelin-starred dinners, cookery classes, rum tastings, and night markets across Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Sukhothai, and Phuket.
Price based on accommodation
3* from $6,800 pp 5* from $11,400 pp 4* from $8,500 pp
Green curry and pad thai are just the first course of Thailand’s full menu. Coffee, tea, rum, noodles, street bites, Michelin-starred dinners – you name it, we’ve included it – and on this trip, you’ll try it all.
You tasting tour begins in Bangkok, a city where food is tightly woven into the structure of daily life. Travelling by Skytrain, river boat, metro, tuk-tuk and longtail, you’ll explore the capital: sipping traditional kafae boran coffee, slurping pad thai at lunch, and trying your way through noodles, dumplings, soups, pancakes and desserts under neon-lit awnings. Alongside the food, you’ll explore a former silk merchant’s home, a mosaic-covered temple, and Bangkok’s labyrinthine canal network. To round things off, dinner is served at nahm – a Michelin starred restaurant.
You’ll travel north to Sukhothai via Uthai Thani, with time to visit its riverside market and local wats. On arrival in Thailand’s first capital, stretch your legs with a late-afternoon cycling tour through the historical park’s ruined stupas and ornamental lakes. The following day, join Miss Na in her garden kitchen for a hands-on cooking class, preparing Sukhothai recipes passed down through generations.
Chiang Mai offers a slower pace, but no shortage of flavour. You’ll learn to cook over charcoal at an organic farm, travel by Vespa through fruit orchards and tea plantations, and try regional snacks like coconut pudding and deep-fried taro on a night-time street food tour. The city’s spiritual side comes into focus too, with visits to jungle temples, mountain villages and sacred sites – all accessed by saleng motorbike, train or songtaew pick-up truck.
In Phuket, the focus shifts to southern flavours. Explore the local take on Thai cuisine with a street food tour of khao kaeng rice curries and rum tastings direct from the distillery.
Highlights
Dine at nahm: one of the 50 best restaurants in the world
Take a boat tour of Bangkok’s labyrinthine canal district
Learn to cook Sukhothai classics in a local home
Mix rum cocktails at the Chalong Bay Distillery
Relax on Phuket’s beaches
What’s included?
Breakfast every day, seven lunches, three dinners
Experiences: nine half-day, two full-day, three evening
All entrance fees to sites included in guided experiences
All internal transport and accommodation
Insider tip:
“ If a dish is marked “spicy”, take it slow! Add the heat gradually, or you’ll end up like me, celebrating the flavour while desperately chasing it down with ice cream. Even after, my lips were still tingling.”
Asia specialist
Grant
BANGKOK
SUKHOTHAI
CHIANG MAI
PHUKET
Plan my trip
Wild Thailand Family Adventure
Often called the world’s friendliest country, Thailand is a top choice for family holidays, with fairy-tale palaces, animatronic dinosaurs, wildlife experiences, family-friendly hotels and delicious Thai food.
This family adventure through Thailand combines hands-on activities, wildlife encounters and time to relax together.
It begins in Bangkok, on a route with younger travellers in mind. Sure, it includes landmarks like the Royal Palace, but told through a fairytale vision of golden spires and guardian demons. We also include the Jurassic World exhibit, where life-sized dinosaurs offer curious minds respite from the city.
Next, travel south to Phetchaburi. At the Wildlife Friends Foundation sanctuary, you’ll meet rescued animals, including elephants, gibbons and lorises. Spend the night in an ecolodge, falling asleep to the hoots and calls of the forest and its animals.
Continue to Kui Buri, a village sandwiched between pineapple and rubber plantations at the edge of a national park. Kui Buri’s elephant herds are famous, with the highest concentration of wild elephants in Thailand. Look out for bisonlike gaur and packs of golden jackals too.
A train ride south brings you to the coastal town of Khanom, where a population of endangered pink dolphins call home.
This trip wouldn’t be complete without more elephants! In Khao Sok National Park, meet gentle giants alongside their mahout carers, and sleep in jungle camps and floating lodges, complete with beds and bathrooms.
The journey ends in our family favourite beach spot, Khao Lak. With restaurants and amenities close by, there are quiet stretches of sand and day trips to waterfalls and caves. Or simply settle on the beach, drink in hand, and watch the sunset together.
Get to know Thai culture with a city tour for kids
Soak up the scenery of the beautiful south, with beaches, jungles, and a scenic train ride
Immerse yourself in wildlife at Kui Buri National Park and the Wildlife Friends Foundation
Spot pink dolphins from a longtail boat
Meet elephants in an ethical environment
What’s included?
Breakfast every day, five lunches, two dinners
One full day experience and four half-day experiences
Three-day stay at Elephant Hills with wildlife activities
All entrance fees to sites included in guided experiences
All internal transport and accommodation
Insider tip:
“ Elephant Hills is a must. Comfy tents, amazing food, and respectful elephant encounters set against Khao Sok’s limestone peaks and rainforest. Fun, effortless, and unforgettable. Thailand’s wildlife doesn’t get better than this.”
Rhys Southeast Asia specialist
Active Southern Thailand
This trip is about getting the blood pumping. Kayaking through mangroves. Climbing up cliff faces. Exploring caves deep in the rainforest.
Begin in Krabi. This stretch of Thailand’s coast is a must for our active travellers. Start with heading out into the mangroves. You’ll kayak narrow channels through tangled roots and sea caves, spotting monkeys and rare birds as you go (scarlet, punk-haired roulrouls or technicolour kingfishers, perhaps). Then it’s on to Railay, one of the most iconic climbing destinations in Asia. Whether you’re new to the sport or looking for a challenge, you’ll find hundreds of routes with ocean views and expert instructors. Between climbs and paddles, there’s still time to swim or rest on the beach.
Next up is the wilds of Khao Sok National Park – a rainforest region known for its towering limestone karsts and remote, lake-dotted landscape. Cheow Lan Lake is your base, and from a floating lodge you’ll spend your days hiking to jungle lagoons, swimming and kayaking in bright green waters, and gliding by bamboo raft into the Coral Cave. Wake to the sound of gibbons in the treetops and fall asleep with the stars overhead.
You’ll end in Phuket, where adventure begins offshore. A longtail boat takes you into Phang Nga Bay – a maze of limestone islands, coves and coral reefs. You’ll swim and snorkel in glassy clear water, then return to a quiet stretch of the mainland coast. We’ve chosen accommodation away from the busiest beach zones so you’ll avoid the tourist throng while still accessing sun, sea and super-fresh seafood. If you want to end with a celebration, Phuket’s nightlife is close enough to seek out, but never in your way.
Highlights
Cruise through limestone caves and karst pinnacles on Cheow Lan lake
Scramble up the world-famous cliffs of Railay Beach
Kayak among the twisted roots of Krabi’s mangrove forests
Explore Phang Nga Bay islands by longtail boat
What’s included?
Breakfast every day, five lunches, two dinners
Three full-day experiences
All entrance fees to sites included in guided experiences
2 night stay on Cheow
Lan Lake in a floating accommodation, with activities
All internal transport and accommodation
“ I’m no regular climber, but this spot had me hooked. With routes for all abilities and expert instructors, anyone can reach the top, and the views over Thailand’s limestone cliffs make every effort worth it.”
Charlotte
Southeast Asia specialist
KHAO SOK NP
KRABI
PHUKET
Plan my trip
Thailand with Teenagers
Get ready for Thailand’s ultimate family adventure: Skytrain rides, waterfalls, “mad monk” tunnels, hidden lagoons, and plenty of delicious Thai food to keep energy high.
Price based on accommodation
This family adventure through Thailand blends cultural discovery, time in nature, and activities designed to keep teenagers engaged.
Kick off in Bangkok – a city of temples, palaces and canal networks. Ride tuk-tuks, longtails and the Skytrain between parks, fruit plantations and the jewel-encrusted spires of Wat Pho and the Grand Palace. Dare the skywalk at Mahanakorn Tower, a glass-floored observation deck. Create personalised souvenirs at a craft studio and burn off some energy with a Muay Thai masterclass – Thailand’s “art of eight limbs.
From the city, daytrip to Ayutthaya’s UNESCO ruins by train. Explore tamarind-fringed ponds and temples with a candyfloss roti in hand.
Head northwards to the orchards and rice fields of Ahsa Farm Stay. Your hosts Thoo and Aong will lift the lid on daily village life, take you tea picking and accompany you to the early morning monk procession, where you can make your offering.
A quick stop overnight in Chiang Rai gives you time to take a samlor around town, heading to the local night bazaar for dinner (from fried insects to hot and sour soup – the choice is yours!)
A morning on the road via the weird and wonderful White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) will bring you to Chiang Mai – a laid-back city where trendy art galleries co-exist with centuriesold temples. Go see the elephants in a high-welfare sanctuary before visiting the PooPooPaper, where dung is transformed into craft paper. In the evening, ride pillion on a Vespa, weaving through the city and stopping for dinner and drinks along the way.
The trip ends in Ko Samui, for final days lounging, swimming and playing on the beach.
Highlights
Explore Bangkok for teenagers, with glass skywalks, Muay Thai masterclasses and colourful temples
Take the train to Ayutthaya to explore UNESCO-listed ruins
Experience a family-hosted farm stay in the foothills of the Doi Mae Salong range
Learn all about elephants, from meeting them in person to making paper from their dung
Relax with a few days in the sunshine on the Ko Samui coast
What’s included?
Breakfast every day, five lunches, two dinners
Experiences: two full-day, five half-day, two evening
All entrance fees to sites included in guided experiences
All internal transport & accommodation
“Thailand is perfect for families, but don’t rush. We knew the kids would love interacting with elephants, riding tuk-tuks, and playing in the pools (and they did). But a real highlight was watching them play with local children in rural rice paddies, in those moments in between.”
Tyler Asia specialist
BANGKOK
KO SAMUI
CHIANG RAI
CHIANG MAI
FARM STAY
Plan my trip
Classic Thailand with a Twist
11 days / 10 nights
From Bangkok’s temples to hilltop hikes, river cruises, and local meals, this authentic Thai adventure blends iconic sights with everyday life and genuine Thai hospitality.
Price based on accommodation
This is Thailand beyond the usual postcard sights: classic street flavours, centuries of history, and close-up glimpses of everyday life.
Your journey begins in Bangkok, best discovered with a local guide. At dawn, visit the Royal Palace and Wat Pho for the monks’ morning prayers, before indulging in a massage by a blind masseur. Visit a language school operated by a social enterprise for a lesson in Thai that will set you up for the rest of your trip, starting with ordering your lunch at the local market.
Leaving Bangkok, journey through jungle-clad mountains to Kanchanaburi. Here, explore the tragic history of the Death Railway and its bridge, built under Japanese command at the cost of over 100,000 lives. Cool off in the emerald pools of the seven-tiered Erawan Waterfall, before riding the railway through Kwai Noi Gorge, carved by prisoners of war.
Next, travel to Ayutthaya. Nicknamed the ”Venice of the East”, its location between China, India and the Malay Archipelago made it a magnet for international trade. Explore ancient monasteries side-by-side with modern cafés, try candyfloss roti in the Muslim quarter (a local favourite), then cruise the Chao Phraya by longtail boat to Bang Pa-In, where Chinese pavilions and European design reflect centuries of cultural exchange.
The journey ends in Chiang Mai, a lively city that maintains a relaxed pace. Wander teak-lined backstreets, browse markets rich with herbal remedies and Hmong textiles, cycle among the ruins of Wiang Khum Kham, and share a khantoke meal (a traditional meal on a low tray) with a local family. After a blessing at Wat Umong, venture into the mist-laced landscapes of Doi Inthanon National Park, crossing bamboo bridges, hiking past waterfalls, and visiting hilltribe villages where gibbons swing above.
Highlights
Explore Ayutthaya UNESCO ruins and cruise to Bang Pa-In by boat
Discover the Death Railway’s tragic story and ride the historic line
Hike Doi Inthanon and visit hilltribe villages
Guided street-food walks in Bangkok
What’s included?
Breakfast every day and seven lunches
Experiences: four full-day, six half-day
All entrance fees to sites included in guided experiences
All internal transport & accommodation
“ Expect Kanchanaburi to be sobering historically, but also incredibly relaxing. Unwind by the river with a book, explore waterfalls and trails, let tiny fish nibble your toes as you take a dip… it’s an underrated corner of Thailand.”
Insider tip:
Jarrod
Southeast Asia specialist
BANGKOK
AYUTTHAYA
KANCHANABURI
CHIANG MAI
Trails of Northern Thailand
10 days / 9 nights
A challenging, culturally rich trek through northern Thailand, combining jungle hiking, Karen and Akha village stays, and time in Chiang Mai. A deep dive into the region’s landscapes and hilltribe cultures.
Price based on accommodation
3* from $3,900
from
This is northern Thailand at its most raw and rewarding: a journey built around serious trekking, remote landscapes and meeting hilltribe communities.
Begin in Chiang Mai, where you’ll ease into the slower, more traditional rhythm of the north. Explore the city by songtaew tuk-tuk, and longtail boat, cycling through the rediscovered ruins of Wiang Khum Kham and turning off into quiet neighbourhoods far from the Old City crowds. A full day in Sri Lanna National Park combines hiking, kayaking on Mae Ngat Dam Reservoir, and a climb up the limestone “sticky waterfalls”, before lunch at a floating rafthouse.
From here, head south into the Mae Wang district for the heart of the trip: a demanding five-day trek through jungle-covered foothills of Doi Inthanon. Walking village-to-village, you’ll follow forest trails and streams, pass waterfalls and smallholdings and spend each night in a different Karen and Akha community. Accommodation is simple, bamboo huts and village homes, but evenings are rich with homecooked meals, conversation and the sounds of the forest. Expect long, challenging days on foot, rewarded by some of the most remote scenery in northern Thailand.
Return to Chiang Mai, where you’ll have a final day to explore the town and recover from your hike with some Thai massage, before heading home.
This is a trip for walkers who value cultural depth as much as physical challenge and don’t mind earning their comforts along the way.
Highlights
Explore Chiang Mai by bike, songtaew, longtail boat, samlor and tuk-tuk
Trek through jungles and farmland of Doi Inthanon National Park, staying at Karen minority villages on a 5-day adventure
Learn how traditional handicrafts are replacing poppy farming
Explore Sri Lanna National Park by bike and kayak
What’s included?
Breakfast every day, seven lunches, and four dinners
Two full-day experiences and a five-day guided trek
All entrance fees to sites included in guided experiences
All internal transport and accommodation
Insider tip:
“ Visiting northern Thailand isn’t complete without venturing into the mountains, where foggy mornings drift over rice paddies. Sharing stories over meals with locals in their homes makes you feel connected, humbled, and truly alive.”
Asia specialist
Robyn
MAE WANG
CHIANG RAI
CHIANG MAI
Plan my trip
Thailand Honeymoon
Kayaking, biking, jungle spa relaxing, mountain-top sunsets and barefoot walks along the beach. Nowhere does honeymoons quite like Thailand. 14 days / 13 nights
Price based on accommodation
from $5,100 pp
from $7,200 pp
from $10,300 pp
In our opinion, this trip is peak romantic adventure. A week city sightseeing and a week on two of Thailand’s best beaches, with plenty of relaxing and adrenalineinducing activities throughout.
Kick off in Bangkok with a more romantic city sightseeing tour. Take a longtail boat trip along the khlongs (canals) to see a quieter side of the city and see Bangkok’s famous Wat Arun temple, lit up by night.
Journey north to a more chilled-out Chiang Mai, with a cookery class at our favourite cookery school, Grandma’s. Under an expert chef’s guidance, you’ll whip up northern Thai dishes that are sure to become anniversary classics for years to come. You’ll venture into Sri Lanna National Park, hiking, biking and kayaking through farmlands, rice paddies and fruit orchards.
You can’t visit Thailand without visiting the elephants – the Thai national symbol of strength and luck. Stay in a glamping tent just metres from the gentle giants and head up to the The Bush Camp’s mountain-top for a sundowner, with views over the Ping River.
Fly south to Krabi, where both quieter and more popular beachfronts are set against limestone karsts. By night, visit Ao Nang for evening markets, seafood and nightly fire shows. By day, head to a hot spring spa, for a soak in naturally fed thermal waters before a traditional Thai massage. But it’s not all relaxation: kayak through the Hong Lagoon on Ko Hong island, and snorkel over coral reefs.
You’ll putter across Phang Nga Bay by longtail boat, to the island of Ko Yao Yai. Despite meaning “big long island” in Thai, Ko Yao Yai is only 30 km from tip to tail. Borrow a kayak or a bicycle from your resort and discover the island under your own steam – there’s plenty of romantic spots to discover.
Highlights
Meet the elephants that call The Bush Camp home
Ramp up the adrenaline with kayaking and cycling trips
Find honeymoon bliss with a jungle spa and two beach stays
Explore the waterways and temples of Bangkok with an expert guide
What’s included?
Breakfast every day, six lunches and two dinners
Three full-day experiences, two half-day experiences, and one evening experience
Overnight stay at The Bush Camp
All entrance fees to sites included in guided experiences
All internal transport and accommodation
“Anything can feel romantic in Thailand. Whether that’s browsing markets for decor to fill your home, or strolling hand in hand along the beachfront after dinner, this is honeymoon memorymaking at its finest.”
Charlotte Southeast Asia specialist
10 Days in Thailand
Got 10 days to spend in Thailand? We’ve got the trip for you. Covering city, beach and national park, this is our Thailand highlights reel. 10 days / 9 nights
Price based on accommodation
Pairing Bangkok and Chiang Mai with Khao Sok National Park and coastal Krabi, this trip proves that just because you’re time-constrained, doesn’t mean you have to miss out.
You’ve got 24 hours in Bangkok so we’ll make sure you won’t waste a second. Your local guide will show you flagship sights like the Grand Palace, built in 1782 when Bangkok was named as the capital, and the quieter Thonburi district from a khlong (canal) boat trip. Stay up late if you can – not just to beat jetlag, but for our tasty evening street food tour. We recommend the smoky charred guay tiew kua gai noodles.
Fly to Chiang Mai, the cultural and artistic centre of northern Thailand, for local coffee houses, another river cruise and a samlor tricycle zip across the city to Wat Phra Singh temple. Your guide will introduce you to Wororot Market, a local haunt selling everything from traditional handicrafts to vegetables. Taste a few more street food dishes here, before heading to one of our favourite cookery schools in Thailand. You’ll wow your friends with your take on tom ka kai (coconut chicken soup) back home.
It’s all about the nature in Khao Sok National Park. Take to the water with a gentle kayak paddle, then, sit back on the balcony of your floating villa or jungle treehouse and listen to the hoots of gibbons and the calls of wild elephants.
Krabi’s 150 km coastline made up of sandy beaches, mangrove forests and limestone cliffs means there’s plenty to explore. We’ll tailor your beach stay to suit you, whether that’s a more secluded boutique resort or a town centre hotel. You’ll spend your final day on a longtail boat around the Hong island group in the National Marine Park.
Highlights
Compare and contrast cities with visits to both Bangkok and Chiang Mai
Discover Thailand through its food (both tasting and cooking!)
See some of Thailand’s most striking natural sceneries – Cheow Lan and Khao Sok National Park
Take to the water, travelling along Bangkok’s khlongs (canals) and on a boat trip along the Krabi coast
What’s included?
Breakfast every day, three lunches and four dinners
Two full-day experiences, four half-day experiences, and one evening experience
All entrance fees to sites included in guided experiences
All internal transport and accommodation
“ When the sun dips in Krabi, head to the night markets. It’s the perfect spot to pick up souvenirs, catch a fire show and try ice cream rolls – cream poured onto a freezing plate and frozen into ice cream right before your eyes.”
tip:
Charlotte Southeast Asia specialist
Highlights of Thailand
Small but perfectly formed, this pocket-sized trip to Thailand packs scenic and cultural highlights into a short space, perfect for those short on time but wanting the best experience.
3*
Don’t expect to stray far from the beaten track, but do expect to see classic destinations reimagined, from gliding through Bangkok’s khlongs by boat to escaping into the forested hills beyond Chiang Mai.
You’ll start in Bangkok, but it’s not the golden temples or Grand Palace we’re focusing on first (though there’s time for those too). Instead, begin your day with Portuguese pastries in Kudichin, then take to the city’s hidden canals khlongs by boat, watching daily life unfold from wooden stilt houses and riverfront kitchens. Lunch is among coconut palms and lychee trees at Poomjai Garden, and your afternoon brings a quieter side to Bangkok’s temples – once the camera-clicking crowds have cleared out.
In Chiang Mai, the city’s character shifts with the sunset. You’ll explore by tuk-tuk after dark, stopping at glowing temples and sizzling food stalls, trying pork knuckle or mango sticky rice, ending with a cocktail overlooking the skyline. The next morning trade city for jungle in Sri Lanna National Park, where a longtail boat takes you past rice paddies and water buffalo to a floating restaurant. You’ll return in time to discover more of Chiang Mai’s independent arts scene – ceramics, jewellery, or weaving.
Down in Khao Lak, life slows right down. Thailand’s southern coastline has more than enough beach to go around, and your hotel is all about food, comfort and spa indulgence. After a few beach-filled days, take a longtail boat to Khao Lak’s local coral reefs, teeming with life. Snorkel in quiet coves, spot hawksbill turtles and neon nudibranchs, then return to Khao Lak for dinner and one last pre-flight beach day.
Explore Bangkok’s khlongs by solar-powered boat and discover the Portuguese-influenced Kudichin quarter.
Tuk-tuk by night around Chiang Mai’s temples and markets
Khao Lak’s reefs, spotting
Soak up the sun on the
What’s included?
Breakfast every day, three lunches and two dinners
Three full-day experiences and two evening experiences
All entrance fees to sites included in guided experiences
All internal transport and accommodation
“ Exploring Thonburi’s khlongs by longtail boat is the best way to discover Bangkok’s quiet, overlooked corners, where stilted homes, tiny temples, and sunbathing monitor lizards line serene waterways.”
CHIANG MAI
Snorkel
turtles and nudibranchs
famously beautiful Khao Lak beaches
Insider tip: Erin
Southeast Asia specialist
Plan my trip
Cultural experiences
Ancient to modern history
● AYUTTHAYA
Ruins of Ayutthaya
Explore Ayutthaya’s UNESCO-listed ruins with an expert guide, following wood-panelled lanes to crumbling chedi and temples housing hidden Buddha images. Once Siam’s capital, the city’s architecture reflects influences from Britain, Persia and Japan. This is a must-see Thailand experience for history lovers.
● KANCHANABURI
Bridge over the River Kwai
Discover Kanchanaburi’s sombre past as you visit the Bridge on the River Kwai and monuments commemorating thousands who died constructing the Death Railway. The Railway Museum offers detailed, first-hand accounts, making this a sobering yet essential insight into Thailand’s WWII history.
● SUKHOTHAI
Sukhothai Historical Park
Explore Sukhothai by tuk-tuk, uncovering the 700-year-old city where Thai culture began. Wander among nearly 200 temples and spires set within trees, paddies, ponds, and villages. Trace the origins of the Thai alphabet, Theravada Buddhism, and a golden age of the arts.
● BANGKOK
Day with an Insider guide
Explore Bangkok with a knowledgeable Insider guide on a tour tailored to you. Sample street food, visit temples and museums, or follow a family-friendly path: teenagers hitting Instagram hotspots, younger kids exploring a Jurassic World exhibit. Tell us what excites you, and we’ll make it happen.
Food & drink
● CHIANG MAI
Araksa Tea Garden
Spend a morning at one of Thailand’s oldest tea plantations in Mae Tang’s evergreen hills. Watch farmers harvest, knead, and roast organic tea leaves, taste some of the tea for yourself, and finish with a set lunch surrounded by the tranquil plantation.
● CHIANG MAI
Grandma’s Cookery School
Start the morning selecting fresh market produce, then return to cook northern Thai dishes using your finds and seasonal ingredients from the school’s organic farm. Learn Thai cooking tips, hear personal stories from an expert chef, and share the meal you’ve prepared.
● BANGKOK
Street food touring
Spend an evening discovering Bangkok’s flavours on a tuk-tuk and walking tour. Sample dishes such as papaya salad and pad krapow weave through the lively streets and markets, and stop for a drink with your guide, who’ll offer their personalised recommendations.
● PHUKET
Chalong Bay Rum Distillery
Spend the afternoon at Chalong Bay Rum Distillery, learning the history of rum and classic production techniques. Craft tropical cocktails under a mixologist’s guidance, explore the distillery, taste award-winning Thai rum, and finish with a blind tasting paired with tapas.
Only in Thailand The great outdoors
● BANGKOK
Muay Thai masterclass
Experience Muay Thai, Thailand’s “Art of Eight Limbs”. Train with a local coach, sneak backstage to see the pros warm up, watch the ring-sealing ritual, cheer ringside during the fight, and grab a photo with the champion. This is your chance to see Thailand’s national sport up close.
● CHIANG RAI
Art scene of Chiang Rai
Get beneath Chiang Rai’s eccentric art scene, from the kitsch brilliance of the White Temple to the dark intrigue of the Black House and the contemporary artistry of the Blue Temple. You’ll have lunch with a local art expert, then visit a potter’s hilltop home and gallery.
● CHIANG MAI
Chiang Mai’s spiritual side
With your local guide, trace Chiang Mai’s spiritual heritage from city-centre chedis, up the longest naga stairway in Thailand to one of the North’s most sacred sites. Stop at the jungle temple of Wat Pha Lat, then reach Doi Suthep for the evening ceremony as monks’ chants drift across the sunset.
● KHAO SOK NATIONAL PARK
Meet the gentle giants of Elephant Hills
Elephant Hills combines safari-style luxury with an ethical elephant sanctuary. Meet and interact with rescued elephants, explore rainforest rivers by canoe, and unwind lakeside, all within a wildlife-focused eco-lodge set among limestone peaks and jungle.
● ANDAMAN SEA
Island hopping in the South
Spend a day island-hopping in Thailand’s beautiful south, cruising by boat between jungle-clad islets, hidden coves and pearl-white beaches. Swim among coral reefs, try fresh seafood, and get a feel for the rich variety of islands that make this coastline world-famous.
● BANGKOK
Half day khlongs tour
Explore old Bangkok by longtail boat on a half-day journey through Thonburi’s khlongs canals. Drift past teakwood houses and temples, then visit Wat Arun and the Grand Palace. This is a slower-paced side of the city and its royal heritage.
● CHIANG MAI
Trekking in northern Thailand
Walk through rolling countryside, forested hills, and remote minority villages in Thailand’s green north. Your trek will be tailored to you, with gentle or challenging routes, visits to traditional communities, and the choice to stay overnight in guesthouses or return to your city hotel.
● MAE HONG SON
Nature of Mae Hong Son
Bamboo raft through a 1.5km cave system, watch as thousands of bats and swifts fill the air at dusk, and visit a village of the Black Lahu tribe who’ve adapted to use ecofriendly tourism to support their traditional lifestyle. This is a slice of northern Thailand at its most natural and beautiful.
Where you’ll stay
Whether you’re drifting on a floating hotel, unwinding by a jungle pool, or sipping cocktails on a riverside terrace, Thailand’s hotels are part of the experience itself. From cosy farm stays and boutique lodges to stylish resorts and luxury hideaways, each property blends comfort with its own distinct sense of place.
Expect thoughtfully designed rooms, local artwork, pools, spas, and excellent dining, all set against Thailand’s natural landscape – be it jungle, riverside or beach. We handpick hotels across every grade, helping you decide where to indulge and where to keep things simple.
Smart, simple and full of character
Our moderate hotels are clean, comfortable and well-located – a reliable 3★ standard with a few surprises. Most are independent or locally run, offering a more personal experience than the big chains. Rooms tend to be generous in size (over 20 sqm), with air-conditioning and occasionally a pool. They’re great for travellers who want to keep costs down without compromising on quality.
Elephant Hills
Deep in Khao Sok National Park, Elephant Hills offers African-style safari tents with en-suite facilities and proper beds. Swim in the pool beneath soaring limestone cliffs, surrounded by misty rainforest.
Ahsa Farm Stay
Hosted by Thoo, Aong and their family, this simple farm stay near Doi Mae Salong offers cosy en-suite rooms, home-cooked northern Thai meals, and plenty of activities to get stuck into. If you want to get a true feel for Thai rural life, with 360 jungle views, book here.
Panvaree the Greenery
This isn’t any hotel. Set on the water, quite literally, this floating hotel has air-conditioned, en-suite rooms, each featuring a balcony or terrace. You couldn’t be closer to jump onto a kayak or cruise boat for the day and evening meals are served in the on-site floating restaurant.
●
Anurak
Community Lodge
Set within Khao Sok’s tropical rainforest, this sustainable ecolodge of stilted bungalows offers a secluded stay and a base for exploring the park and Cheow Lan Lake, with one of the best breakfast views we’ve seen.
● KHAO SOK
● MAE CHAN DISTRICT
● KHAO SOK
KHAO SOK
Boutique style and rural wow-factor
Our superior hotels offer something extra: a bit more polish, a few more facilities, and a distinct sense of place. Think 4★ boutique hotels in great locations, or stylish rural lodges that feel far from the crowds. Rooms often feature local design touches, pools are more common, and you’ll usually find extras like spas or excellent dining.
Named after a 200-year-old tamarind tree planted in one of its garden courtyards, this charming boutique hotel offers tribal-inspired rooms, a spa, outdoor pool, Thai-inspired afternoon tea, and a restaurant serving Thai and international dishes for perfect relaxation.
Pullman Phuket
Arcadia Naithon Beach
Overlooking the crystal waters of the Andaman Sea, this stylish resort offers a cosmopolitan escape with an awardwinning spa, and direct access to the golden beach below. Perfect for sitting back with a book and a drink in hand.
This boutique hotel features light and bright rooms, each overlooking the river or city. There’s a pool, terrace, and bar, all just steps from a ferry jetty and minutes from Khao San Road. You’re not far from the city, but you’ve got enough distance to feel relaxed, and secluded.
Set on Shell Fossil Beach’s headland, this boutique resort offers bright coastalinspired rooms and villas with terraces or balconies. It’s got pools, a spa, restaurant, bar, and activities including kayaking, cycling, and water sports.
● CHIANG MAI
Tamarind Village
● PHUKET
● BANGKOK
Riva Surya
● KRABI
The ShellSea Krabi
Big names and bold stays
Deluxe hotels in Thailand come in all shapes and sizes, from elegant 5★ city landmarks to remote island resorts. What unites them is the level of design and service. Think spacious rooms, indulgent spas, excellent dining and plenty of on-site facilities. Some are international classics, others homegrown hideaways with real wow-factor.
Set amid coconut groves in Krabi Marine National Park, Rayavadee offers jungle-style pavilions and villas, four restaurants, a wellness centre, a lagoonstyle infinity pool, water sports, and three beachfronts – perfect for a morning swim before breakfast.
The Siam Hotel
Bangkok’s ultimate luxury boutique hotel, The Siam, blends art-deco glamour with Thai antiques. The owner’s collection makes the hotel and rooms feel like a living museum, and everything is riverside: the pool, spa, and restaurant in reconstructed teak houses.
137 Pillars House Chiang Mai
Steeped in history, 137 Pillars House blends colonial charm with modern comforts, including afternoon tea in 1880s teak halls, Michelin-listed dining at Palette, suites overlooking manicured gardens, and a pool tucked behind a lush plant wall.
Anantara Riverside
Overlooking the Chao Phraya, this riverside escape offers sunsets over the river, poolside cocktails, and rejuvenating spa experiences after a long day exploring the capital. Each Thaiinspired room has a private balcony and staff can arrange boat trips to the city.
● KRABI
Rayavadee
● BANGKOK
● CHIANG MAI
● BANGKOK
FAQs
Is my booking financially protected?
All of our trips are fully bonded via ABTOT (Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust), or ATOL (Air Travel Organiser’s Licence), for your financial protection and peace of mind.
What vaccinations do I need to travel to Thailand? What visas do I need to travel to Thailand?
Most visitors to Thailand (including those from the UK, EU nations, US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand) do not need a visa for visits of up to 30 days. Individuals are entitled to up to two visa exemptions per calendar year. Your passport must be valid for at least six months after entry.
For the most part, the vaccinations recommended for travel in Asia are the same standard vaccines recommended in the US, UK, Australia, Europe, Canada, and New Zealand. There are some additional vaccinations/medications required when visiting certain areas or participating in certain activities, so, we recommend checking with a travel health professional well in advance of travel.
Is Thailand safe?
In a word, yes. The crime rates are relatively low and aside from usual precautions against petty crime, there’s not too much to be concerned about day to day in the cities. Plus, we handpick each of the suppliers and accommodations we work with to ensure you have a safe, enjoyable holiday.
Yes! Thailand is a great country to visit with kids in tow, (as Asia specialist Tyler found on his family trip) along with many other Southeast Asian countries. Speak to us to book the rooms, transport and experiences that will make your family holiday a dream.
Is Thailand easy to travel around?
Will my dietary requirements be catered for?
Why should I use a tour operator like InsideAsia? Is Thailand too touristy? Is Thailand a good destination for a family holiday?
Can we get family or adjoining rooms?
Yes. Across several accommodation grades and in many of the more popular locations, we work with properties that can either guarantee a pair of connecting rooms or have family suites with multiple bedrooms as one.
For many people, Thailand is their introduction to Southeast Asia. Thailand first began welcoming tourists back in the 1970s, long before its neighbours, and while this mean it’s by no means untouched (in fact, it’s one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world), it does mean that this is one of the most well-connected, well-developed, and all-round delightful places to travel in the whole of Asia.
Thai people are long accustomed to foreign tourists, which means that many people understand English, Westerner-friendly food is readily available, and every town has a proliferation of guides and operators ready to sell you cultural experiences, historical tours and outdoor adventures. It does also mean that you’ll have to contend with some pushy touts, tourist tat, and occasional crowds – but that’s the price you pay for beauty, ease and comfort.
Thailand’s tourist industry grew at breakneck speed, before the world really knew about the perils of unregulated mass tourism, and that legacy lingers. Everyone has heard about the overdeveloped and overcrowded beaches, unethical elephant camps and tiger-petting experiences, the drug-fuelled full moon parties, the infamous ping-pong shows and the thriving sex tourism industry. These things do exist, but they’re easily avoided.
The good news is that, while Thailand has its detractors, we feel that it’s a case of a minority of bad actors garnering an outsized reputation. Thailand has learned a lot from the past 50 years of tourism, and things are improving all the time. Logging is now entirely banned, and eco-lodges, sustainable travel companies and community-based tourism initiatives are popping up like daisies (or orchids, perhaps). Also, everyone is just really friendly.
A wide variety of dining options are available throughout Thailand. We can help you plan a trip to meet almost any dietary requirement, while while eating and drinking your way through the country. Some destinations are a little more challenging for certain dietary requirements, but if you let us know what you need, we can plan ahead so you have a delicious trip.
Working with a tour operator like InsideAsia takes the stress out of travel, from the earliest planning stages to your return home. Our experts will share in-depth knowledge about the areas we love, and connect you with experiences you couldn’t arrange by yourself. Meanwhile, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that all the details are taken care of – with your booking protected and your money safe in case plans need to change.
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Serene Koi ponds, ancient Buddhist temples, Zen gardens. Conveyor belt sushi, ramen bars and charcoal-grilled chicken skewers. Cities awash with neon, giant screens on every corner and 200mph bullet trains. This is Japan, and if you’ve been dreaming of exploring the land of the rising sun then InsideJapan can take you there.
Over the past 25 years we’ve helped over forty thousand people get beneath the surface on our award-wining Self-Guided Adventures and Small Group Tours. Experience one of the world’s ultimate cultural adventure destinations with the world’s ultimate Japan travel brand.
