Thailand: An Unforgettable Family Adventure

On this carefully curated family adventure, we’ll take you exploring along Bangkok’s elaborate waterways, walking alongside gentle giants in the Golden Triangle, picnicking beside waterfalls and hilltribe villages in Chiang Mai, and kayaking across Phuket’s glistening blue lagoons and mangrove forests. Tempted? Let’s get started.

GLIDE, DASH, AND WANDER THROUGH MARKETS AND TEMPLES

Touching down in Bangkok – a sprawling metropolis of glittering skyscrapers, bustling night markets, and towering Buddhist temples – you’ll head straight to Capella Bangkok, your home for the next few days. An urban oasis with panoramic views of the majestic Chao Phraya River, its collection of contemporary suites and villas are framed by lush tropical gardens, creating a cocoon of tranquillity. The perfect balm after a long flight.

After resting up at the spa or simply soaking in the views, alongside a local guide you’ll make your way into the city at dusk to explore during the ‘magical hour’, where temples are illuminated and the sound of tuk-tuks and jazz tunes are the rhythm of the night. Between seeing the layered, beautifully ornate spires and giant dvarapala (gate guardian) statues of the Grand Palace and the colourful floral murals of the Buddhist temple, Wat Arun, you’ll discover Bangkok’s renowned Na Na neighbourhood. A stone’s throw away from Chinatown, here you’ll find neon lights and glowing lanterns, sizzling noodle stalls and bars with tucked-away gardens beneath the stars.

Over the following two days, you can choose how you and your family dig into the city. By chaotic yet thrilling tuk-tuk rides, from the elevated rapid Skytrain, on foot, or by colourfully striped longtail riverboat. Or all four. One of our favourite ways to explore? On water. Gliding along the Canals of Thonburi and other lesser-known waterways by riverboat, you’ll weave your way through the foundation of the city’s early development – a melting pot of Chinese, Portuguese, Muslim and European influences blended with Thai communities. Here, traditional stilted houses and the elaborate porticos of Wat Suwan temple line the banks of an intricate canal system.

Stepping out of your longtail boat (and off the beaten track), you’ll visit Baan Bu – a hand-hammered bronze bowl factory tucked away down narrow side streets dotted with Victorian-style lamp posts. After learning the secrets of this centuries-old craft, you’ll return to the water and quietly cruise towards your lunch spot for the day. A ‘rewilding Bangkok’ project, Poomjai Garden is a sustainable lush oasis amid the hustle and bustle of the city. Between lychee orchards, bamboo structures, and the historic Bangkhuntien canal, you’ll dine on authentic local dishes like sweet coconut dumplings wrapped in banana leaves. With a mission to preserve native trees, plants and herbs, you and your loved ones will experience the traditional garden culture of past generations and Poomjai Garden’s desire to protect it. Fresh, beautiful, delicious.

WALKING WITH THE GIANTS OF THE JUNGLE

Waving goodbye to the glittering skyscrapers of Thailand’s capital, we’ll take you to the hills and mountains of its northernmost province – Chiang Rai. At the confluence of the Mekong and Ruak rivers, lies Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort . Throughout the hotel, wooden carvings and artwork reflect that of a Lanna palace, which seems only fitting as it is perched at the gateway to Indochina. Behind the dramatic column-lined entrance, you’ll find a traditional spa, an infinity pool, squash and tennis courts, a fitness centre, and a Thai cooking school. It’s safe to say, there’s something for the whole club. And here, everyone can do as much (or as little) as they like.

Over the next two days, you’ll spend your time making the most of the resort’s facilities and activities. Of those, we’d highly recommend walking with elephants. As you amble alongside these gentle giants, you’ll watch as they snack on branches, wander at their own pace through the jungle, socialise with each other, and bathe themselves in the river. Working alongside local charities and veterinarians, Anantara aims to educate and promote elephant welfare with their offer of sponsorships and learning-based experiences. And you can get involved. For the rescued elephants, it’s life changing. For your family, it’s a memory that’ll stay with you long after you return home.

DISCOVER ANCIENT RUINS, HILLTRIBE VILLAGES AND SIZZLING STREET STALLS

Your next destination? Chiang Mai. Specifically, the charming Mae Rim Valley. Serene rice fields, verdant vegetation, misty mountains – they’re all here. And so is Four Seasons Chiang Mai. Settling in for three luxurious nights at this enchanting resort, you’ll spend your time choosing between learning the ropes at its acclaimed Thai cooking school and unwinding in its world-renowned spa. Each room is classic and contemporary in design, with features made of tropical hardwoods, silk, and art.

Over the next few days, you’ll discover Chiang Mai City’s evening and daytime delights. In Thailand’s ‘rose of the north’, you’ll grab a tuk-tuk ride through the heart of the old town; stopping off at aromatic food markets set up between multi-tiered Lanna buildings. After you’ve tried and tasted to your heart’s content, indulging in sweet mango sticky rice, spicy Sai Oua (sausage wraps cooked with lemongrass and chilli), and fried quail eggs, you’ll explore the key historical sites of the city such as 700-year-old Wat Umong and the earthy-hued remains of Wiang Kum Kam (the ruins of a 13th century fortified city encircled by moats). We’ll take you to the granite peaks of Doi Suthep, where you’ll discover sweeping views of the city and ripe clusters of breadfruit trees, encircled by small shrines and countless Buddha statues.

Swapping cityscapes for forested hills, you’ll spend your last day in Chiang Mai navigating the green-coated slopes and tiered waterfalls of Mae Wang National Park. Within 700 square kilometres of golden cliffs, pine hill forests, and glistening rivers, you’ll trek between monkey-flower trees with scarlet red blooms and spear-like bamboo. Perfect for adventure seekers and gentle amblers alike, you’ll trek hard (or light) through the beautiful natural surroundings.

Between witnessing the way of life of a hilltribe village amid the greenery and taking a refreshing dip beneath one of the park’s many waterfalls, we’ll arrange for a picnic lunch beside a trickling stream. After spending time in the hilltribe village or trekking to Mae Wang Base Camp – or both – there’s time for the finishing touch. After all, there’s nothing quite like putting your feet up after a day of exploring – on a raft. As you float down the river – quietly, calmly – enjoy the leafy surrounds, watching as the rich forests slip by on both sides, offering shade and a chance to reflect on the day’s adventures.

KAYAK BETWEEN EMERALD ISLES AND GAZE UPON GLOWING CAVES

Leaving the mainland behind, we’ll take you to the sun-soaked shores of Phuket – Thailand’s largest island. Located in the Andaman Sea off the southeast coast, its green-blue waters lap against limestone karsts covered in jungle and tropical hills transcend into sea. Weaving your way between centuries-old ficus trees and dangling fishtail palms, you’ll head to a secluded cove along the northwestern shore to check in at Trisara. A collection of luxury terraced villas and residences artfully arranged within nature and offering breathtaking views of hillsides, gardens, and the sea below, it radiates blissful seclusion.

Over the following four days, you’ll spend your time exploring the resort and the surrounding area more thoroughly. Whether that be by kayak, jet ski, or private yacht. Or all three.
Setting off on a private boat excursion to Phang Nga Bay, you’ll hop into your own kayaks to get a closer look at the dramatic limestone karsts – mighty cliffs and towers formed over thousands of years of erosion. Seeking out hidden caves, blue lagoons, and the mangrove forests of Koh Panak and Koh Hong, the natural beauty here hits different. Especially at night. Once you’ve tucked into dinner, served at sunset as you float along tranquil waters, that’s when things start to get truly magical. Picking up your paddles once more, you’ll glide into caves illuminated by natural phosphorescent plankton – specks and streaks of glowing blue glistening like stars. It’s mesmerising – and unforgettable.

On your penultimate evening, for older families we’ll arrange a night out on the town at Phuket’s wildest cabaret – the Junkyard Theatre. Here, comedy, music, dance, mayhem (and sustainability) take centre stage. Props used in their productions are crafted from discarded ‘junk’ found around Phuket, transforming something ordinary into something extraordinary. For a night of live performance and a curated dining experience, look no further.

The following day, you’ll choose between trying your hand at a spot of tennis, relaxing with a spa treatment inspired by the surrounding ficus trees, taking a stroll along the private white sand beach or taking a dip in the 45-metre saltwater pool. You could kayak, you could simply soak in the views. It’s up to you – and your clan. No matter how little or big, this family adventure through Thailand will spark childlike wonder in everyone. In countless ways, and in countless places. Let’s begin.