Luxury Thailand Holidays

The relaxed city of Chiang Mai, in the mountainous north of Thailand, is home to over 300 ancient temples – some over 700 years old. From remote clifftop chapels to lavish golden temples in the heart of the old city, there are countless beautiful Buddhist sites to explore.

Thailand’s world-renowned cuisine offers a delicious variety of dishes to sample. Flavours and ingredients vary between regions but at its heart, Thai food balances salty, sweet, hot and sour flavours. Tuck in to aromatic curries, fresh salads, spicy noodles, hot soups and enticing rice dishes.

Elephants, tigers, turtles, whale sharks – Thailand is home to a captivating wildlife population. Spot exotic birds in spectacular forest parks, dive beneath the waves to view marine life or spend time at a peaceful wildlife sanctuary where you can observe and help with day-to-day animal care.

From traditional Buddhist festivals to wild Full Moon parties, Thailand celebrates a wide range of occasions throughout the year. Enchanting Loy Krathong (the Festival of Light) and playful Songkran (the Thai New Year Water Festival) are two of the best-known national events, but you can also discover some charming local festivals on your travels.

The tropical seas surrounding Thailand are scattered with an abundance of stunning islands – some beautifully unspoilt, others full of action. Hop from one to another, experiencing everything from white sandy beaches and colourful coral reefs to luxury hotels and indulgent spas as you go.

Discover Thailand’s rich heritage at this fascinating museum in the grounds of the opulent 18th century Wang Na Palace. Home to a huge collection of art, architecture and artefacts, it beautifully tells the story of Thai history through the ages.

Rising into the skies from a rocky outcrop just off the coast, this impressive 12 metre golden Buddha is one of the most famous attractions on the stunning island of Koh Samui. Built in 1972, it can be reached by causeway and is a symbol of resolute calm and enlightenment.

Northern Thailand’s Golden Triangle is the area where the Ruak River meets the mighty Mekong. Sharing a border with Laos and Myanmar, it’s a spectacular region full of traditional Lanna culture, dense jungles, mountain villages, temples and rice paddies. Chiang Rai is a wonderful base from which to explore.

Learn about the culture and history of Thailand’s hill tribes at this informative museum. Telling the story of six different tribes, through a mix of videos and anthropological exhibits such as clothing and weapons, it’s a wonderful way to gain insight into an ancient way of life.

Sitting on the banks of the Chaopraya River, to the north of Bangkok, this spectacular royal palace, with its vivid colours and intricate decorative features, is a beautiful place to spend the day. Also known as the ‘Summer Palace’, it is surrounded by leafy parks and tranquil ponds.

Explore Thailand’s vibrant street food scene and discover a world of relaxed eating and exciting flavours. With friendly food stalls on every corner, you’ll find a feast of down-to-earth dishes to sample from sizzling grilled meat skewers to spicy steamed dumplings.

Visit one of Thailand’s most sacred sites, Bangkok’s Wat Phra Kaew. Also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, it houses a beautiful 15th century relic carved from shining jade. The temple is set within the grounds of the imposing Grand Palace, royal residence of the King of Thailand.

Journey to the historic city of Phitsanoluk, 250 miles north of Bangkok, to visit this revered Buddhist temple. Inside the 14th century building, you’ll find a magnificent bronze Buddha statue, cast in the Sukhothai style.

Encompassing 16 exotic islands and a variety of different habitats, from jungles to coral reefs, Koh Lanta National Park protects some of the most stunning natural beauty in Thailand. Enjoy adventurous activities or simply unwind on golden beaches in this little piece of paradise.

Start by visiting the dazzling Grand Palace, a truly incredible architectural collection of colourful royal buildings including the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Not far from there you’ll find another highlight not to be missed - Wat Pho, the Temple of the reclining Buddha. Take in the bustling Chatuchak street market, then begin your nightlife adventure with a cocktail in a roof top Sky bar overlooking the vibrant city.

Thailand’s most famous festival is Songkran, celebrating the beginning of the Thai New Year. Over a number of days in April people visit temples and engage in exuberant water fights as they wash away the past and look forward to new beginnings during this important Buddhist festival.

Pad Thai is probably the world’s best known street food - with its spicy rice noodle stir-fry with shrimp, bean sprouts and egg. We recommend you start with this classic.

Make sure you try Som tam pu ma, the fermented blue crab papaya salad that is popular in specialist seafood restaurants.

Tom yum goong is a hot and sour Thai soup that’s usually cooked with shrimp and flavoured with lemongrass, lime juice and fish sauce.

A hugely popular dish in Thailand, pad kra pao features pork and fresh Thai basil in a stir fry, and is usually plated up with a healthy serving of jasmine rice.