Thailand has long captivated visitors with its stunning landscapes, deep-rooted cultural traditions, and the genuine hospitality of its people.

This year, the country known as the ‘Land of Smiles’ has even more reasons to put a grin on travellers’ faces.

Luxurious accommodations have been cropping up not only in the heart of Bangkok but also on Thailand’s lesser-known islands. The famous Khao Yai National Park has become a canvas for stylish lifestyle hotels, while the northern territory is attracting eco-conscious travelers with hotels that perfectly balance relaxation and environmental responsibility.

For those looking to travel beyond the well-trodden paths of this country, we’ve listed our favorite experiences that delve into the heart of Thai culture.

KOH YAO YAI

Located just 45 minutes by speedboat from the bustling island of Phuket, Koh Yao Yai is one of the few islands that have remained hidden from crowds, even among locals. With a handful of hotels and small fishing villages that lie scattered across the island, it offers a glimpse into the authentic Thailand that once existed before mass tourism arrived.

Simple activities such as cycling amid mangrove forestlands or finding deserted white-sand beaches takes center stage. Among the many beaches, Laem Had Beach stands out with its scenic sandbank and clear blue views of the bay.

Travelers seeking local traditions can partake in ‘na yone’, a local rice farming tradition which involves tossing rice saplings onto ploughed soil or visit one of the many rubber plantation farms. The small 25km-long island is also home to 18 mosques and several local restaurants serving halal food. Local dishes include freshly caught fish or seafood from the lobster farming village by the sea.

Where to Stay

Live on a coconut palm plantation: Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort

Nestled in between lush jungle-clad hills on the east side of the island lies Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas. Once a former coconut palm plantation, this 27-acre luxury hotel now offers over 1km of golden beaches and dramatic views of limestone islets from the surrounding area. Focused around outdoor living, guests can enjoy swimming in their private infinity pools at the penthouse suites, practice yoga and meditation overlooking the lagoon with a trained instructor or arrange private dinners on a cruise along with a private chef and butler.

KOH KOOD

Despite being the fourth largest island in Thailand, Koh Kood remains relatively undiscovered compared to other Thai destinations.

Because of the lack of development, the island offers a chance to experience unspoiled nature in its purest form. With dense jungles that make up the interior of the island, adventurers can spend their days hiking amid wild ancient trees, some of which are over 500 years old. Beyond the jungle, visitors can witness the many cascading waterfalls that spill into emerald pools or visit the many beaches which the island is known for.

Where to Stay

Experience “Intelligent Luxury”: Soneva Kiri

Soneva Kiri, located on the north-eastern peninsula of Koh Kood, promises a Robinson Crusoe-style experience. Created by the minds behind the famed Soneva Fushi in the Maldives, the resort embraces the philosophy of “intelligent luxury.” The concept includes high-end luxury but a strong focus on sustainability, which includes on-site biofuel production and food cultivation.

The resort comprises of a series of luxurious villas that are nestled within a jungle. Guests are encouraged to fully disconnect. Think shoe-free days, morning yoga and Pilates classes, and an exceptional spa offering a range of stress-melting treatments. On-site lies a state-of-the-art observatory where guests can stargaze at night, clear from light pollution and mainland cities.

EXPERIENCE TRENDY HOTEL STAYS AT KHAO YAI NATIONAL PARK

Thailand’s oldest and third-largest national park, Khao Yai, has long served as a green retreat for residents of Bangkok. Just a two-and-a-half-hour drive northeast from the bustling capital, this region is Thailand’s own version of the desert escapes that many UAE residents often seek during weekends.

However, for many years, international tourists would only make day trips to the park in the hope of spotting gibbons, elephants, or, if they were really lucky, bears. Hotels primarily consisted of modest lodges near the park entrance and left much to be desired. But the landscape has changed. A fresh wave of hotels has been emerging, making this destination not only appealing but also offering some really unique stays.

Besides safari adventures in the national park, visitors can also enjoy the many natural attractions that surround it. Those looking to immerse themselves in local culture can head to one of the many organic fruit farms. Here, you can pick fresh fruit straight off the tree while learning about farming methods from the farmers themselves. Mangoes, strawberries and grapes are local favourites.

Those interested in natural scenery will appreciate Khao Yai National Park’s impressive waterfalls. Many filmgoers will certainly recognize Haew Suwat Falls, the 25m high waterfall that appeared in the film starring Leonardo DiCaprio, “The Beach”. However, some may argue that the park’s most spectacular waterfall is Haew Narok. This three-tiered cascade plunges over 150m, making it the largest waterfall in the park.

Where to stay

Inside a train: InterContinental Khao Yai Resort

Just moments away from Khao Yai National Park lies the InterContinental Khao Yai Resort. Designed by award-winning architect and interior designer Bill Bensley, it draws inspiration from the area’s important role as a railway gateway in the 19th century.

Guest suites have been modelled after train cabins that look and feel like an Asian railway fantasy. Some suites feature swirling wood-carved headboards imported from Cambodia, while others have Laotian silk textiles or plush leather lounge booths – all whilst overlooking the estate’s five lakes. The dining options allow guests to experience the nostalgia of first-class train travel during the golden age. Diners can enjoy a fine dining experience on board an upcycled railcar or unwind at the on-site speakeasy inside a train.

Inside a converted barn: Roukh Kiri Khao Yai

Originally intended as a secluded getaway for its Bangkok-based owners, Roukh Kiri Khao Yai was later converted into a hotel for guests seeking a staycation from the city. The visionary design studio, Onion, crafted a unique blend of minimalism and rustic charm, drawing inspiration from European farmhouses. The property features twelve villas, each nestled amid wild gardens and offering panoramic views of green valleys and temple-crowned hills. While the white architecture might resemble a vacation home in Greece or Portugal, elements such as rattan furniture give the hotel a Thai ambience.

The all-white villas, punctuated with bamboo and wood, boast private gardens and an outdoor tub for stargazing. Additionally, the on-site kitchen offers traditional Thai dishes with a rural twist, using organic produce grown on the property. The boutique-styled layout, coupled with personal touches, makes this hotel feel both unique and personal, and a unique way of experiencing Thai hospitality.