I’m very excited to be hosting an exclusive, in-person client event on Wednesday 20 November at the Nascot Arms in Watford.
Having had the privilege of visiting Thailand many times, including four times in the last year, I have become familiar with some wonderful hotels and resorts.
I have also been working closely with the team at the Tourism Authority of Thailand and I am thrilled that their highly knowledgeable Trade Manager, Betsie Barr, has kindly agreed to join me, and a handful of lucky clients, for a personal and informal evening, which includes authentic personal insights from us both into some awe-inspiring locations.
Thailand is a unique country with amazing diversity, stunning natural landscapes, warm hospitality and a captivating blend of vibrant cultural traditions.
Whether you are interested in incredible islands, beaches, spa breaks, activity holidays, eco-tourism, honeymoons, family getaways or mouthwatering cuisine – an enchanting experience awaits visitors of all ages.
Just a one-hour flight north from the capital city of Bangkok will take you to Chiang Mai, the country’s adventure capital, and an hour south you can reach the sands of Phuket and Ko Samui - just two of the islands amongst Thailand’s 2,500 miles of gorgeous beaches.
Many of my clients choose to do a stopover or two when travelling to Thailand. This may include starting in Bangkok, moving up to the north for a few nights and then choosing to end with some R&R on the beach. You may also wish to consider Elephant Hills in between, one of the most special experiences I could possibly recommend.
I will be divulging more, sharing useful tips and suggested itineraries to consider along with introducing some fantastic places and behind the scenes footage.
Here's a quick taste of what you can expect to learn about and who you will meet at this select event...
Elephant Hills
There is one experience that should be on every Thailand visitor’s bucket list: Elephant Hills is a sustainable camp located in Khao Sok National Park, a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Phuket and one of the most incredible sanctuaries for clients looking for inspiring adventures.
Khao Sok is one of Asia’s premier natural wonders and while much of it is carpeted in rainforest, you’ll also see vast limestone mountains that dominate the view at every turn, deep valleys, tumbling waterfalls and beautiful lakes.
Elephant Hills combines the idea of an African safari with the Thai tropical rainforest and offers a luxury camping experience in the jungle or floating on a lake within the rainforest.
If like me, you are horrified at the mere thought of camping, then this is most definitely for you. It is incredible. I loved it so much, I returned at the first opportunity and this year I also got to visit The Bush Camp Chiang Mai, its sister resort, nestled in the lush landscapes of Northern Thailand. I can’t wait to introduce you to what awaits.
The Sarojin, Khao Lak
Nestled along an idyllic 11km stretch of secluded beach, The Sarojin is a tranquil boutique resort just an hour from Phuket.
With only 56 rooms, this five-star hideaway offers year-round swimming, watersports and access to some of Thailand’s most iconic natural wonders, including the Similan & Surin Islands, national parks, and the limestone formations of Phang Nga Bay.
Renowned for its exceptional personalised service (which I can personally vouch for!), The Sarojin curates bespoke experiences - from candlelit jungle waterfall dinners to private yacht charters and gourmet riverside lunches. Guests can also immerse themselves in Thai culture with unique excursions and sustainable tourism initiatives that support local communities.
I loved wandering through the manicured gardens, relaxing by the stunning pool and indulging in the all-day à la carte breakfast. The beachside spa is a serene haven, where the sound of the waves enhances the tranquillity of the massage experience. And the sunsets? Absolutely breathtaking!
The Sarojin has firmly earned its spot in my Top 10 hotels in Thailand.
Anantara Koh Yao Yai
The Anantara Koh Yao Yai experience begins even before you arrive at the resort, with a private departure lounge at Phuket Pier offering snacks and beverages. A 30-minute speedboat ride follows, and once you step onto the island, a golf buggy awaits to whisk you away to reception - it’s James Bond style!
This island escape seamlessly blends luxury with nature, offering stunning views of Phang Nga Bay and ample space to unwind. Whether it’s strolling along the tranquil Laem Had Beach or exploring the crystal-clear lagoons of Hong Island, every moment feels like an adventure. You can even embark on a unique sidecar tour through lush rubber plantations.
With luxurious suites, family-friendly pool villas and dedicated wellness retreats, Anantara Koh Yao Yai provides everything for a peaceful and memorable getaway. The recently opened sushi restaurant, with its mouth-watering offerings, has definitely left me eager to return for more!
Cape Kudu, Koh Yao Noi
When a General Manager is so passionate about his resort that he learns fluent Thai, you know you're in for something special! Antoine and his team go above and beyond to ensure that Cape Kudu leaves a lasting impression - just as it did for me.
Tucked away on the serene island of Koh Yao Noi, this tranquil paradise offers spacious rooms and villas with rustic yet chic décor, private pools and breathtaking views of the Andaman Sea. Whether you’re sipping cocktails by the infinity pool or embarking on a long-tail boat excursion, Cape Kudu invites you to unwind at your own pace.
Complimentary cultural excursions allow guests to experience local life, from wandering through tranquil rice fields to trying your hand at batik painting or discovering the island’s hidden beaches.
The Hornbill restaurant serves up sensational meals, and trust me, you won’t want to leave without sampling their delicious house-made cakes and cookies!
Other properties I will be discussing and sharing personal experiences of include:
The Siam
A stunning privately owned 38-suite-and-villa low rise luxury retreat located in Bangkok’s royal Dusit district. This is an urban sanctuary that is hard to imagine being in the middle of busy Bangkok. It is so tranquil and is perfect to return to after a hectic day exploring the city.
I spent a recent birthday there and was delighted to discover a new happy place – The Vinyl Room!
Meliá Phuket Mai Khao
Located on the pristine Mai Khao Beach north of Phuket, this elegant hotel combines the serenity and natural beauty of the island with the sophistication of luxury accommodation and fantastic wellness facilities.
Devasom Khao Lak Beach Resort & Villas
Devasom Khao Lak Beach Resort & Villas is located on the beachfront with the waters of a natural lagoon to one side and the shores of Khao Lak's most stunning sunset beach to the other - this is a unique spot where two worlds meet.
Each of the beautifully designed 69 luxury guest rooms, pool suites and beachfront villas reflect Southeast Asian architecture and culture, and offer spellbinding sea views.
So, with these magnificent hotels, one incredible resort, the chance to hear from a destination specialist, and my own personal experiences, if Thailand is on your wish list, this event is for you.
Spaces for this event are extremely limited, so please let me know as soon as possible if you are interested in joining what promises to be a fascinating escape from the UK.
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