Bangkok Luxury Travel Information
A thrilling mix of modern business and ancient tradition, Thailand's sprawling capital of Bangkok is the first step on a much larger travel experience.
Bangkok is Thailand's largest and most densely populated city with 10 million residents (over 15 percent of the country's population lives within the city limits). Divided into 50 different districts, the country's sprawling capital covers over 600 square miles. Unlike many Southeast Asian countries, Thailand was never colonized by the West. Today, the city is a unique blend of dynastic heritage and modern development that offers a distinct flavortravelers on luxury tours of Thailand avidly consume.
A modern mecca for tourism and business, there's a plethora of sights and activities for travelers on Thailand tours to experience. The amazing sights and experiences in the Bangkok region include The Grand Palace, The Thonburi Canals, Wat Pho or the temple of The Reclining Buddha, Wat Arun, the Royal Barge Museum and Wat Phra Kaew.
Best Time to Visit Bangkok
: Bangkok is a busy, international city that draws throngs of visitors year-round for tours and business. The high season runs from November through February, but the rains in July and August are a welcome relief from the high summer temperatures for travelers and the natives alike.
How to get to Bangkok
: Serviced by two airports, Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Muang Airport, providing international and domestic flights, Bangkok is well connected to the rest of the world.
Bangkok Highlights
: Bangkok is a must for any international traveler. Offering a mix of distinct cultural heritage and modern convenience, Bangkok's streets hold wonders waiting to be explored.
Appropriate Attire: While Bangkok is a modern metropolis, many of the city's tourist attractions are temples and other sacred places. For most outings western dress is perfectly acceptable, but if you're heading to a shrine or other holy site, it's best to dress conservatively by covering your shoulders, arms, and legs. Many temples and shrines also require visitors to remove their shoes upon entrance.
Chiang Mai Luxury Travel Information
Offering a distinct mix of cuisine, language, and culture, Chiang Mai blends these unique flavors into an East meets West, ancient meets modern cocktail delightfully consumed by travelers on luxury tours of Thailand.
The capital of Chiang Mai Province, and the economic seat of power for the Golden Triangle Region (where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet), Chiang Mai’s history dates back to the 13th century when the capital of the Lanna Kingdom was moved here by King Mengrai.
Travelers here enjoy the luxury and opulence found in Bangkok while experiencing the distinctive cultural flavors of Northern Thailand. The food and architecture, influenced by trade with China, Myanmar, and Laos, is as distinct as the Northern Thai dialect spoken in outdoor bazaars by the vendors on Walking Street.
With the lush, green mountains as a backdrop, visitors have access to a plethora of activities in Chiang Mai. The amazing sights and experiences in the Chiang Mai region include Doi Inthanon National Park and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.
Best Time to Visit Chiang Mai
: The best time to visit is November to February to enjoy the surprisingly brisk weather near the mountains. August through September rains make the jungle bloom with life.
The Songkhran festival, April 13-15, is particularly popular time to come to Chiang Mai for the Thai lunar calendar New Year. For three days the so called ‘Rose of the North’ celebrates the end of the summer heat with a city-wide water fight.
How to get to Chiang Mai
: Located in Northern Thailand, the best way to reach Chiang Mai is via flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai International Airport.
Chiang Mai Highlights: The unique blend of old Thai culture and modern development make Chiang Mai a must-see destination for tours in Thailand.
Appropriate Attire: Western wear is acceptable for most excursions, but if you plan to visit any of the hundreds of temples in the area, it’s best to dress conservatively covering shoulders, arms, and legs.
Chiang Rai Luxury Travel Information
Part of the Golden Triangle region, where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos converge, Chiang Rai is the capital of Thailand’s northernmost province of the same name.
Heralded as the gateway to the North, Chiang Rai province and the city of Chiang Rai are cultural strongholds for hill tribes and other ethnic groups in Northern Thailand. These distinct cultural flavors can be found in the food, language, and faces of the people here.
The amazing sights and experiences in the Chiang Rai region include Wat Rong Khun and the Hill Tribe Villages.
Wat Rong Khun (The White Temple) is a particularly unique monastery created just before the millennium by a Buddhist artist turned architect. From a distance, this modern reimagining of a traditional Thai temple looks like an ice sculpture.
Best Time to Visit Chiang Rai
: The rains June through October are light. The best time to visit is during the temperate season running from November through January as the highest temperatures are February through May.
How to get to Chiang Rai
: Thailand’s northernmost province and its capital city are best accessed via a flight from Bangkok to Mae Fah Luang-Chiang Rai International Airport, which is just a few miles outside of the city.
Chiang Rai Highlights
: Cultural enthusiasts looking to sample the distinct flavors of Northern Thailand spiced with hints of China, Myanmar, and Laos find this destination particularly attractive on their Thailand tours. The relaxed atmosphere makes Chiang Rai a great place to see by bike.
Appropriate Attire: Western wear is fine in town, but if your itinerary plans should bring you to any temple grounds, or if you’re planning a visit to the hill tribes, it’s best to cover your arms, shoulders, and legs as a sign of modesty.
Ayutthaya Luxury Travel Information
Ayutthaya can be added to any Easy Tours Journey.
The city of Ayutthaya was the capital of the former Siamese kingdom of the same name for centuries before a Burmese invasion sacked the city in 1767.
The stone temples and palaces of the former city were the only structures to survive the fires set by the Burmese. Today travelers come to Ayutthaya to explore what remains of what was one of the world's greatest trade cities.
Travelers stroll through this UNESCO World Heritage site leisurely feeling the presence of antiquity on their luxury tours of Thailand. Not far from the city, The Ayutthaya Historical Park houses 100 full-scale replicas of the ancient city's temples and palaces.
Best Time to Visit Ayutthaya
: Although it is hot from April to June, and rainy from July to September, it is okay to visit the area anytime of the year but best to visit from October through March for the best weather during a luxury tour in Thailand.
How to get to Ayutthaya
: About 30 miles north of Bangkok along the Chao Phraya River, Ayutthaya is best reached by private car using Thailand's modern roads.
Ayutthaya Highlights
: Rich in cultural antiquities and natural wonders, guests on Thailand tours feel like they could spend weeks in Ayutthaya and leave still wanting more.
Appropriate Attire: Though most of the temples are in ruin, it’s still best to dress conservatively by covering your shoulders, arms, and legs in keeping with local tradition.
Kanchanaburi Luxury Travel Information
Kanchanaburi can be added to any Easy Tours Journey.
Located at the convergence of the KhwaeNoi and KhwaeYai rivers, Kanchanaburi offers travelers on luxury tours of Thailand an escape from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok.
The amazing sights and experiences in the Kanchanburi region include Death Railway Bridge, usually referred to as the Bridge over the river Kwai, and the Erawan National Park. Full of ecological and geographical wonders, Kanchanaburi Province is home to splendid conservation areas. Visitors on tours of Thailand can enjoy elephant treks, swimming in clear pools beneath waterfalls, and river cruises while staying in Kanchanaburi.
The province also played a pivotal role in Japan’s war efforts during World War II. The area is home to the Bridge over the River Kwai, immortalized by a book and film of the same name, and the Thai-Burma Death Railway. Hurriedly constructed by the Japanese using Allied prisoners of war and conscripted laborers from Southeast Asian countries, thousands of workers died building the bridge due to the brutal and unsanitary living conditions.
Best Time to Visit Kanchanaburi
: Rains falling in July and August, and high temperatures from March through June mean fewer crowds and easier bookings. Kanchanaburi’s high season runs from October to February with the best weather.
How to get to Kanchanaburi
: About a 3 hour drive north from Bangkok, Kanchanaburi is best reached using a private car on Thailand's modern roads.
Kanchanaburi Highlights
: The wealth of ecological sites draws travelers from across the globe to the beautiful national parks found here.
Appropriate Attire: Dress for a hike, and a swim, as most of your excursions in the area will have a place to dip in and cool off.
Phuket Luxury Travel Information
Phuket is available as an extension on our regular tours.
Phuket is the ultimate Thai beach destination. The island situated off the southern coast of Thailand in the Andaman Sea has a long history as an international destination. The mixed architecture of Phuket City’s historic district where Chinese row houses are nestled beside European style homes and Portuguese villas is a great place to absorb the island province’s mercurial history.
Thailand’s richest province, and largest island, Phuket is home to a diverse range of activities available to travelers on luxury tours of Thailand. The many spas in the area are heralded as some of the best in the world, and throngs of Thai and international tourists come here for pampering.
The emerald waters of the Andaman Sea make snorkeling, diving, yachting, and surfing popular and readily available maritime activities. The island also offers numerous beaches ranging from secluded to bustling depending on guests’ tastes.
Off the beach, nature preserves like Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife Park lure travelers on Thailand tours into the jungle to visit waterfalls and see diverse wildlife. Elephant treks and jeep safaris into the deeper forests are popular excursions. Phuket’s Big Buddha (an alabaster statue nearly 150 feet high) sits quietly atop the Nakkerd Hills offering a stunning view of the island.
Family oriented attractions are plentiful on the island. Dinner shows like Phuket FantaSea’s pyrotechnic-filled animal extravaganza is a popular itinerary item on tours of Thailand, and Splash Jungle (Thailand’s largest water park) features water cannons, slides, and a wave pool that will have children and adults squealing in delight.
Best Time to Visit Phuket Beach
: The island’s best weather is from November to March when the beaches sparkle like gold in the sun. Annual rains fall from April to October and can cause the seas to be choppy, but the forests are at their lushest during this time of year.
How to get to Phuket Beach
: Lying in the Andaman Sea off the coast of southern Thailand, Phuket Island can be reached by private boat launching from beach destinations on the mainland like Krabi, or domestic and international flights to Phuket International Airport.
Phuket Beach Highlights
: With a range of activities both luxurious and family friendly, Phuket has been the top beach destination in Thailand for decades that no traveler on a tour of Thailand should miss.
Appropriate Attire: Beachwear is a must while visiting this island paradise, but if you plan to visit any of the temples or other religious sites, it’s best to dress modestly in clothing that covers shoulders, arms, and knees.
Krabi Luxury Travel Information
Krabi is available as an extension on our regular tours.
Krabi is a quaint town nestled among the craggy karst rock formations of the Andaman Coast in Southern Thailand. It’s the capital of Krabi province, and one of the most visited destinations on the Andaman Coast.
Krabi is small, only 25,000 residents call the town home, but it’s a busy place due to its proximity to popular destinations like the Phi Phi Islands and Ao Nang City. Ferries and chartered boats launch regularly from here heading towards the 150 islands in the archipelago chain offshore.
Though not off the beaten path, Krabi is still a quaint Thai town with an authentic atmosphere. The local motto “Lively town, friendly people” perfectly defines the perceptions of travelers on luxury tours of Thailand as they stroll down the quiet side streets, and take in the leisurely pace of life here.
Wat ThamSeua (Tiger Cave Temple) is a popular destination just outside of town. The hill and cave temple is a sprawling complex of shrines and Buddha images hidden in limestone enclosures. Diving, snorkeling, and kayaking are popular and readily available activities in Krabi, and it’s not uncommon for travelers on Thailand tours to see climbers scaling Krabi’s famous karst rock formations.
The many waterfalls and caves of Khao PhanomBencha National Park are also popular destinations for tours in Thailand. The jungle forests of this park team with wildlife and the buzz of insects, and the trails that wind through this 20 square-mile national park are a rare treat for nature enthusiasts.
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Best Time to Visit Krabi
: The best time to visit Krabi is during the temperate season running from November to March when the beaches are the most beautiful. The heaviest rain falls from April to October and can cause choppy seas.
How to get to Krabi
: Krabi Town is the capital of Krabi Province in Southern Thailand. It’s best reached by flight from Bangkok.
Krabi Highlights
: While Krabi is often used as a stepping stone to reach the hundreds of bleach-blonde beaches in the Andaman archipelago, travelers often modify their Thailand tour itineraries to enjoy this quiet and scenic town longer.
Appropriate Attire: Dress for the beach, or a hike depending on your excursion plans, but travelers visiting any of the temples in the area should wear clothing that covers shoulders to knees while on holy ground.
Koh Samui Luxury Travel Information
Koh Samui is available as an extension on our regular tours.
Long stretches of peach-colored beaches, turquoise waters, luxurious spas, sea cruises, and elephant treks are just a few of the diverse attractions that Koh Samui offers guests in the Gulf of Thailand.
One of Thailand’s most developed islands, Koh Samui’s activities and beaches are as diverse as the travelers who flock to this well-established tropical paradise. Manicured golf courses are almost as common as palm trees, and there are more opportunities for sea kayaking, day cruises, and spa pampering than can be easily counted.
Nearby islands Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan are easily reached from Koh Samui, and the bright coral reefs and shimmering multi-hued schools of fish residing in the blue-green waters make for some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving the Gulf of Thailand has to offer.
The interior of the island has several excellent viewpoints worth hiking to, and The Secret Buddha Garden is a popular stop filled with intriguing sculptures of Buddhist legends.
Enjoying the sunset from a luxury catamaran, and boat tours of Ang Thong Marine National Park are two popular excursions that no luxury tour of Thailand would be complete without.
Best Time to Visit Koh Samui
: Koh Samui’s beaches and sea are largely unaffected by monsoons, which means this busy, year-round destination is the perfect place for a little fun in the sun regardless of the season.
How to get to Koh Samui
: Just a few miles off the coast of Surat Thani Province in Southern Thailand, Koh Samui is easily accessed by flight to Koh Samui International Airport.
Koh Samui Highlights
: A range of family friendly and sun-soaked activities make Koh Samui a top destination on tours of Thailand.
Appropriate Attire: Beachwear is a must for most activities, but if you’re planning on doing any of the trekking excursions it’s best to dress for a hike.
Koh Lanta Luxury Travel Information
Koh Lanta can be added to any Easy Tours Journey.
Koh Lanta is possibly the most under rated beach destination in Thailand. Located near the southern end of Krabi province, it is a large island that maintains a very relaxed vibe. Lanta is a very good destination for families to visit for two reasons. (1) It has some the calmest water you will find anywhere in Thailand. Most of the beaches are rock free and have very gradual grades into the water. Swimming is both enjoyable and safe for kids. (2) It maintains a relaxed and conservative atmosphere. While nightlife is certainly present on the island, it is not pervasive as in many destinations. The best beaches hence most of the development is on the west side, while the east side is home to several traditional Thai villages.
Getting There: Koh Lanta is reachable by vehicle, as there are car ferries that take you across the small inlet that separates the island from the mainland. Visitors will fly into either Krabi or Trang.
Weather: As it is located on the Andaman Sea side of Thailand, the weather on Koh Lanta is best between November and March. From April through October is the rainy season and the beaches are sometimes not at their best. During this season, rough seas sometimes interfere with boat trips in the Bay of Phang Nga.
Accommodation: For its size, there are not a large number of resorts. Koh Lanta is not as developed in terms of hotels and resorts as many other islands, which contributes greatly to its charm. Several of the resorts that are present are superb and considered among the best in all of Thailand.
Activities: While Phuket and Krabi visitors often take day trips to Phi Phi and other islands in the bay, Lanta has its own different set of islands available for day trips. These islands, such as Koh Kradan, are very sparsely inhabited, and offer some of the best beaches and water in the entire country. Snorkeling and diving is top notch in these locales. Koh Lanta also has many inland activities including exploring the island’s traditional Thai east side and jungles by bicycle, elephant trekking, and hiking to waterfalls. The town known as Ban Saladan offers plenty of civilization, modern conveniences, and restaurants.
Beaches: Khlong Dao - This long beach located near the town of Ban Saladan is the most active on the island. The water is excellent for wading and swimming and there are plenty of opportunities for water sports and people watching.
Khlong Dao - This long beach located near the town of Ban Saladan is the most active on the island. The water is excellent for wading and swimming and there are plenty of opportunities for water sports and people watching.
Khlong Jak - Located on the southern part of Lanta’s west coast is this true little gem. The beach and water here are simply beautiful, and this is an ideal place to spend the day sunbathing and swimming.
Khlong Kantiang - home to one of Thailand’s best resorts, this is a superb beach. It was once voted “Thailand’s Best Beach” by a major British newspaper. It has excellent sand, great swimming, and postcard views.
Koh Phangan Luxury Travel Information
Koh Phangan can be added to any Easy Tours Journey.
Just a 30-minute ferry ride from the major tourist hub of Koh Samui is the home of the famous Full Moon Parties. These are rather wild affairs with people partying until early morning. As such, the island tends to carry a party vibe during all phases of the moon; i.e., all the time. Ironically, the other thing Phangan is known for is wellness programs. There are several resorts on the island that cater to guests seeking to recharge their body and mind and participate in cleansing / detoxification programs. The island is not much smaller than Koh Samui, but far less developed. The topography is mountainous, and traveling around the island can be somewhat of an adventure as the road infrastructure is not modern.
Getting There: There are more than 20 daily flights from Bangkok to Koh Samui. There are also flights from Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi, and internationally from Hong Kong and Singapore. Once on Koh Samui, there are several ferries throughout the day, which take approximately 30 minutes to reach Koh Phangan.
Accommodations: In recent years, Koh Phangan has seen a dramatic increase in tourism and hotels. There is quite a large selection of accommodation, although far less than Samui. Most hotels are of a lower quality and price category as they cater to a young demographic there to experience the Full Moon Parties. There are however, a select few resorts that meet our standards.
Activities: All of the standard beach and watersport activities are available, as well as hiking. In addition, Koh Phangan does have good snorkeling on some of its beaches. A fun thing to do is rent a moped and explore the mountainous terrain and beaches.
Beaches: Haad Rin – Located on the southeastern corner of the island, this is the sight of the Full Moon Parties. In terms of wow factor, it is really just an average beach, but it is always the center of the action on Phangan.
Thong Nai Pan – This is actually two separate bays on the northeastern side of the island. This area feels more isolated, although there are traces of civilization, restaurants, and nightlife. This is a great area for swimming, canoeing, and snorkeling, and also happens to be where some of the best resorts are as well.
HaadKhom / Bottle Beach – These two beaches on the north shore of the island are ideal for escaping the crowds and enjoying their clear, still water and relaxed atmosphere. This also is a great area for snorkeling and swimming. Provisions are available here, but not in large quantity as it is a relatively undeveloped part of the island.
West Coast Beaches – There are a myriad of beaches along the west coast that are popular spots. Many of these offer a nice package of great sand, snorkeling, and swimming. There is good infrastructure on this side of the island, making it good for those who want to spend some time on the beach but not too far away from a large selection of restaurants and services.