Tailor-Made Holidays to Thailand
Thailand is a country in South East Asia bordered to the north by Burma and Laos, to the east by Laos and Cambodia, to the south Malaysia and to the west by the Andaman Sea and the southern extremity of Burma. Here you can experience heavenly white sand beaches and turquoise waters, a mass of rich culture and heritage, bustling cities and tropical jungles and some of the friendliest people in Asia. Thailand has all the perfect ingredients for the holiday of a lifetime.
Luxury Thailand Honeymoon
This 14 night/15 day alternative Thailand honeymoon offers you a good mix of activities and relaxation. The tour takes in the excitement of Bangkok, the mountains of the north with its hill-tribes and sweeping scenery and the quiet, stunning beach . . . Read more... |
Thailand Elephants & Beaches Holiday
This 14 night/15 day tailor made holiday to Thailand takes in the sights and sounds of this beautiful and friendly country. Start with time in the vibrant city of Bangkok where you will enjoy a sumptuous dinner on the Chao Phraya River while takin . . . Read more... |
- Khao Sok National Park
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Elephant Hills ***Elephant Hills Camp is made up of 30 luxurious tailor-made tents set in the largest area of rainforest in Southern Thailand. Each tent features twin beds, fan, kettle and a luxurious bathroom with toilet and hot/cold shower. The tents provide ample . . .
Read more... - Bangkok
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The Sukhothai *****A stunning hotel situated in 6 acres of grounds in the heart of Bangkok. The Sukhothai has 210 rooms, all tastefully decorated with the finest of silks and cottons one would expect. The Sukothai Bangkok is a peaceful and stylish hotel set in prett . . .
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Shangri-La Bangkok *****Firmly established as one of the city's leading hotels, the Shangri-La has a fantastic riverside location. Guestrooms in the Shangri-La Wing are spacious and well-equipped and enjoy a river view. . . .
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Bel Aire Princess ***The Bel Aire Princess is a small, boutique hotel located just off the busy Sukhumvit Road. It is well located for major points of interest ranging from shopping and dining to nightlife via the Bangkok Transit System (Nana Skytrain Station), which i . . .
Read more... - Chiang Mai
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The Chedi *****The Chedi Chiang Mai brings a contemporary Asian style to Thailand’s second city. Set on the banks of the Mae Ping river, the 52 stylish Deluxe rooms and 32 Chedi Club Suites all have private courtyard entrances and spacious bedrooms connected t . . .
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RarinJinda Wellness Resort & Spa ****RarinJinda is Chiang Mai's latest exclusive health Spa and hotel. By the meandering Ping River, with breathtaking views of the majestic Suthep Mountains, RarinJinda urban health spa in Chiang Mai offers clients wellness, good health and luxurious p . . .
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Lisu Lodge **This 5* resort is perched on a high ridge overlooking the hills of Myanmar and Laos offering fantastic views of the surrounding area. The hotel offers a combination of rooms and suites, all decorated in traditional Thai materials. . . .
Read more... - Chiang Rai
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Anantara Golden Triangle *****This 5* resort is perched on a high ridge overlooking the hills of Myanmar and Laos offering fantastic views of the surrounding area. The hotel offers a combination of rooms and suites, all decorated in traditional Thai materials. . . .
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Khum Lanna **Khum Lanna (or Lanna Farm) is set in a small valley surrounded by mountains, located in the village of Phrao, an hour and a half’s drive from Chiang Mai. . . .
Read more... - Kanchanaburi Province
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River Kwai Resotel Resort ***The River Kwai Resotel offers modern residential comfort amidst unspoiled nature on the banks of the Kwai Noi River. The resort is well-secluded and tucked away in the middle of beautiful mountains and perched directly on the riverbanks. Ideal for . . .
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River Kwai Jungle Rafts **River Kwai Jungle Rafts is completely unique, allowing guests to experience a stay in floating houses on the River Kwai within the beautiful natural surroundings. Adjacent to the native Mon Village, with lamps used instead of electric lights, the R . . .
Read more... - Hua Hin
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Evason Hua Hin *****Evason Hua Hin embodies the Evason philosophy of redefining experiences, and as such presents a refreshing reinterpretation of a five star resort designed to appeal to today's more sophisticated travellers. . . .
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AKA Resort ****AKA Resort is an exclusive all private villa lakeside retreat located in the historic seaside resort of Hua Hin, one of Thailand's oldest and most traditional resorts for both Thais and overseas visitors. Voted in the top ten for boutique resorts i . . .
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Sofitel Centara Grand Resort & Villas ****The Sofitel Centara Grand Resort & Villas, Hua Hin, was first opened in 1923 as the Railway Hotel and now offers 207 luxurious rooms, suites, Sofitel Club rooms, 4 pools, and an excellent beachfront location, making it a destination of choice for t . . .
Read more... - Koh Samet
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Paradee Villa Resort *****Located on the less visited island of Koh Samet, the Paradee Villa Resort is a beautiful 5* Resort famed for its tranquil and secluded location. The name ‘Paradee’ means Sixth Heaven, which is what the Resort endeavours to offer guests during t . . .
Read more... - Koh Chang
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Kacha Resort & Spa ***The Kacha Resort & Spa is an idyllic resort, perfectly located in the centre of Koh Chang’s famous White Sand Beach. Set amid harmoniously landscaped gardens, the 89 beautifully designed rooms and villas feature contemporary Thai design and furni . . .
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Aiyapura ****84 villas set in a stunning location, overlooking the Bay of Klong Son Bay, the Aiyapura Resort & Spa is the perfect place to spend your honeymoon or relax for a week with your partner. . . .
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Amari Emerald Cove ****The Amari Emerald Cove is located 30 minutes by ferry from the mainland, on the beautiful island of Koh Chang. The hotel has 165 rooms and suites offering spacious bathrooms with bathtubs and corner showers, as well as all the other comforts of hom . . .
Read more... - Koh Samui
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Tongsai Bay Resort *****For over two decades, Tongsai Bay Resort on the beautiful island of Koh Samui has remained the leading family-owned resort. Located in one of the most breathtaking bays on the island, Tongsai Bay is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and its . . .
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Santiburi *****A top quality resort in a quiet location, the Santiburi Resort is surrounded by 23 acres of attractive beach-side tropical gardens. . . .
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Baan Taling Ngam Resort & Spa *****The Baan Taling Ngam Resort & Spa is located on Koh Samui's secluded and tranquil western coast. The resort sits on a hillside amidst a coconut plantation down to the beach. . . .
Read more... - Krabi
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Pakasai ****A charming hotel with a good standard of accommodation just a short walk uphill from the shops, restaurants and beach at Ao Nang. The room décor is probably the most stylish in Ao Nang and rooms are comfy and spacious. . . .
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Rayavadee *****Rayavadee is located within the spectacular scenery of Krabi’s marine National Park, at the end of an isthmus, reachable only by boat. The 98 individual pavilions and pavilions are spread out on 26 acres bordered by three stunning beaches, and be . . .
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Tubkaak Boutique Resort ****This beautiful property sits a 25 minute drive from Krabi on the stunning white sand Tubkaak Beach. One of our absolute favourite properties, the Tubkaak overlooks the magnificent Hong Islands in a picture postcard setting. . . .
Read more... - Phuket
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Chedi Phuket *****Surrounded by azure waters of the Andaman Sea and the tranquil Pansea Beach, The Chedi Phuket is the gateway to a tropical island paradise. 108 thatched cottages sit under a canopy of coconut groves, where landscaped slopes gently descend to meet a . . .
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Mom Tri’s Boathouse ****This is a small and friendly property with an emphasis on personal service, good food and good wine. . . .
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Evason Phuket & Six Senses Spa *****Located on Rawai Beach on the south-eastern side of Phuket Island, this Evason property offers everything you would expect from Evason properties and is set amongst 64 acres of landscaped tropical gardens facing the beautiful Andaman Sea. . . .
Read more... - Khao Lak
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The Sarojin *****The Sarojin in Khao Lak is the most luxurious of the 5 Star Hotels in Khao Lak and is situated on the coast of the Andaman Sea. The area surrounding the Resort is skirted by a dense jungle and so visitors can enjoy the beauty of the sea and the jun . . .
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Haadson Resort ***Haadson is a modern Thai style beach retreat. Family managed and locally staffed, Haadson is simple, stylish & unpretentious with only 39 guest rooms & villas. It is situated on 19 acres of land with tropical casuarinas trees, a natural salt water . . .
Read more... - Koh Phi Phi
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Zeavola ****The only luxury resort on Phi Phi Island, Zeavola Resort is the perfect beach getaway to relax, recharge and reinvigorate in Thailand. The Name ‘Zeavola’ is taken from the exotic Scaevola Taccada tree (Half Flower Tree), better known as ‘Rak . . .
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Holiday Inn Phi Phi ****This charming small hotel sits on what is probably Phi Phi Don's best beach. The bungalows are simple but comfortable set within attractive landscaped gardens. . . .
Read more... - Koh Lanta
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Layana Resort & Spa *****The Layana Resort & Spa is an adults only hotel featuring 50 luxurious guestrooms and suites comprising 44 Garden Pavilion rooms, 3 Beach Suites and 3 Ocean Deluxe Suites. All are designed in contemporary Thai style, complete with large balconies, . . .
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Pimalai Resort & Spa ****The Pimalai Resort & Spa, Koh Lanta is set in acres of tropical forest on Koh Lanta Yai Island. It has direct access to the unspoiled pristine sandy Ba Kan Tiang beach. Rooms are spacious and luxuriously designed in a contemporary Southern Thai sty . . .
Read more... - Koh Racha
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The Racha *****Situated on the Island of Koh Racha Yai, the Racha has 70 villas all beautifully decorated with private terraces and spacious bathrooms offering both an indoor and outdoor shower. The Racha is the perfect place to relax. You can walk around the Is . . .
Read more... - Koh Yao
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Paradise Koh Yao Boutique Resort & Spa ****Located between Krabi and Phuket on the lesser known Thai island of Koh Yao, the Paradise Beach Resort & Spa is a beautifully rustic boutique retreat. With only 60 rooms, the resort is a haven of tranquillity and relaxation. Guestrooms include supe . . .
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Krabi It is quite impossible to describe effectively the natural beauty of the Krabi Peninsula. Here, green forest clings precariously to dramatic limestone outcrops, which explode from the rolling landscape. Off-shore uninhabited islands with small white-sand coves are surrounded by warm emerald and turquoise seas - perfect for snorkelling and scuba diving. |
Bangkok Once called the ‘Venice of the East’, the Thai capital is today a bustling metropolis with elevated roads, high-rise buildings and non-stop action. The glorious temples, local markets and friendly locals are a joy to discover. The Royal Palace complex is one of Bangkok's most popular attractions and includes the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Phra Kaen, on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Further Buddhist temples of note include Wat Arun and Wat Pho, the largest temple in Bangkok, housing an impressive 46 metre-long gold reclining Buddha. Other popular attractions include the National Museum (near the Grand Palace), Jim Thompson's House (a museum dedicated to an American who helped revive the silk industry), and floating markets such as Damnoen Saduak, where colourfully clad merchants paddle along congested canals in sturdy canoes laden with fresh fruit and vegetables. |
Chiang Mai Thailand's second largest city is only a fraction of the size of Bangkok and a great place to potter either on foot or by bicycle. Founded in the 13th Century the city has numerous ancient Buddhist temples and other monuments attesting to a distinguished past. In addition, since long before tourism the city has been a centre of excellence for handcrafted pottery, weaving, umbrellas, silverwork and woodcarvings and these cottage industries can still be discovered today in and around the city. There are also some interesting local day markets and a very large night market catering mainly to the visitor. There are plenty of places to eat including riverside bars and restaurants. Chiang Mai is a good base to explore Northern Thailand and the Golden Triangle - ask us for more details. |
Koh Chang The island of Koh Chang is a tropical marine national park. Its hinterland consists of over 70% virgin rainforest and is the best preserved tourist holiday destination in Thailand. Situated to the east of the country in the province of Trat on the Cambodian border, it's Thailand's second largest island after Phuket. With its chain of white sandy coves and beaches, pristine rain forests and abundance of wildlife and marine life, coral reefs, high mountain peaks, several scenic waterfalls and a rich variety of cuisine, Koh Chang is a good choice for a peaceful holiday. |
Kanchanaburi Kanchanaburi, which is located where the Khwae Noi and Khwae Yai rivers converge into the Mae Klong river, spans the northern banks of the river and is a popular spot for travellers, its location at the edge of a mountain range keeping it much cooler than the other provinces of central Thailand. For most visitors the main sight of interest is the Bridge over the River Kwai, the start of the infamous World War II Death Railway to Myanmar, as well as its associated museums. Kanchanaburi is also the gateway to the surrounding province of the same name. More foreign visitors are discovering why Thais know it as one of the most beautiful provinces in the country with its easily accessible waterfalls and national parks. |
Hua Hin Hua Hin has long been a favourite of the Thai Royalty, in fact they are often in residence at their seafront summer palace close to the town. The town is a busy place with an economy based mainly on fishing. It has a comfortable mix of local and tourist facilities but without the nightlife, and thus the excesses, of other Thai resorts. There is a wide range of restaurants from seafood to Italian and a bustling night market. |
Koh Samui An excellent choice for a laid back relaxing holiday, the island of Koh Samui is very scenic with great beaches. Located close to Ang Thong Marine National Park, the area is perfect for snorkelling and scuba diving. Arguably the best beach on the island is Chaweng, a sun worshippers paradise. Venture a little further to discover the quieter areas of the island. Whether you're looking for tranquil seclusion or a bit more action, Koh Samui won't disappoint. |
Khao Sok National Park Khao Sok national park is located in Surat Thani province in Thailand. The park comprises the largest area of virgin forest in Southern Thailand and is a remnant of rainforest which is older and more diverse than the Amazon Rainforest. The wild mammals include, Malayan Tapir, Asian Elephant, Tiger, Sambar Deer, Bear, Guar, Banteng, Serow, Wild Boar, Pig Tailed Macaque, Langur, White handed Gibbon, Squirrel, Muntjak and Mouse Deer. |
Khao Lak Located on the sunset-side of the Andaman Sea in the Phang Nga province, Khao Lak is one of Thailand’s best kept secrets. Located 90 minutes north of Phuket on the mainland, if offers 60kms of coastline to enjoy There is excellent snorkelling, forest trails, sea cliffs and fabulous beaches just waiting to be explored. |
Koh Lanta Located in the Koh Lanta National Marine Park, Koh Lanta Yai is accessible by a two-hour road and boat trip from Krabi. The Island is long and thin and traversed by a mountain range covered in virgin rainforest and is still relatively undeveloped. It is however home to some fabulous boutique resorts, perfect for honeymooners or those just wishing to escape it all. |
Koh Phi Phi The Phi Phi islands form part of a protected marine park and are famous for their white sandy palm fringed beaches and stunning monoliths rising from the Andaman Sea. They consist of the larger inhabited Phi Phi Don and the smaller Phi Phi Lei The famous island featured in the hit movie 'The Beach'. |
Koh Yao Koh Yao is a group of islands located between Phuket and Krabi. There are two main islands, Koh Yao Noi ("Small Long Island") and Koh Yao Yai, with Noi being the more developed of the two. The island offers pristine sandy white beaches where the clear, clean waters of Phang Nga Bay gently break on shore. One of the main attractions is the limestone rock formation at the north end of the Island. These dramatic cliffs are common throughout the Phang Nga Bay area. Koh Yao is a quiet refuge that feels far removed from the crowded areas in Phuket. |
Useful Information for Thailand
PASSPORTS
Please ensure that your passport is valid for six months after your return date.VISAS
Visas are not required for entry into Thailand for stays up to 30 days for UK passport holders – all other nationalities please check with the Thailand Embassy:Thailand Embassy
AIRPORT TAX
Departure taxes are now included in your international airfares to/from Thailand.HEALTH REQUIREMENTS
Although no vaccinations are officially required for entry to Thailand, they are highly encouraged. Visitors are advised to check with their doctor or a travel immunization clinic regarding protection against malaria, Japanese Encephalitis, typhoid, tetanus, hepatitis A and B. Any essential medications should be brought with you as there is no guarantee that they will be available in Thailand.CLIMATE
Thailand has a tropical climate, with high temperatures and high humidity levels throughout the year. Temperatures in the capital, Bangkok, range between 68°F (20°C) in December and 95°F (35°C) in April. January and February are normally dry, March to May is the hottest time of year, June to October tends to be the wettest season (with 90% of the country's rainfall occurring in this period), and November and December are the coolest months.Monsoons occur usually between June and October, and in September and October, much of the country experiences flooding, especially in the north, north eastern and central areas. Travel to Thailand is at its peak from November to February as this is when it tends to be coolest and most bearable for visitors.
CURRENCY AND EXCHANGE
The main unit of Thailand currency is the Baht - Baht notes available are 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1,000 Baht notes. Baht can be used in other South-Eastern Asian countries. There are 100 satang to one Baht but you never really have to pay less than one Baht for anything. There 25 or 50 satang coins. 10 Baht coins are slowly replacing the notes. Newer coins have Arabic numerals (ie 1, 2 etc) as well as Thai numerals on them which makes it easier for Westerners to identify coins.You can use debit or ATM cards at some Thai banks to withdraw Thai Baht only directly from your account at home with no charges or commission.
CUSTOMS AND FORMALITIES
Enhance your Thai experience and make some new friends along the way by keeping in mind these simple Thai Customs during your stay.- The Thais are known to be tolerant people but there are things that they consider universally sacred to them that any sign of disrespect may cause a grave offence. First of all, you should never express any disrespect for the King or any member of the Royal Family. To most Thais, the King and his family are the living embodiment of their nationhood. Be prepared to stand up whenever the national anthem or the royal anthems are played.
- Thais also regard Buddhism with the highest respect. They consider all Buddha images as sacred and so are the monks. Therefore, you should not wear shorts and sleeveless shirts when visiting any temple and shoes should be left at the entrance.
- Despite Thailand being known for its thriving sex industry, the majority of the population is actually fairly conservative. A modest way of dressing will gain you more friends than baring your flesh.
- The head, being the most sacred part of the body, should never be touched (do not attempt to pat even the heads of children). The feet, being the lowest, should never be pointed at other people, much less to a Buddha image.
- Lastly, avoid showing any sign of anger. You should also avoid initiating confrontation. Thailand isn’t called the ‘Land of Smiles’ for nothing. Keeping yourself cool is essential. The Thais have a special expression for that - jai yen, which translates to ‘cool heart’. They also have the phrase mai pen rai which means ‘no problem’, which could lead you to a better understanding of sanook, the quintessential Thai word for ‘fun’.
FOOD
Thailand is famous for its fantastic food so any trip to the country can only be enhanced by enjoying the local cuisine be it street food or the modern hotel and restaurant offerings.Thai food is most commonly eaten with fork and spoon. Hold the spoon in your right hand and use it to eat, and reserve the fork for piling food onto your spoon. Chopsticks are only employed for noodle soups and East Asian-style dishes.
Thai food is meant for sharing. Everybody gets their own plate of rice and tiny soup bowl, but all the other dishes are laid out in the centre of the table and you're free to eat what you wish. Though some people believe that taking the last piece from a shared plate is considered slightly unlucky, and you may hear people make wishes for others to compensate for their own misfortune — a popular wish is that "may my girl/boyfriend be beautiful"!
Food is also generally brought out a dish at a time as it is prepared. It is not expected for diners to wait until all meals are brought out before they start eating as is polite in western culture. Instead they should tuck into the nearest meal as it arrives.
GENERAL ADVICE
- Drink lots of water. Purified, bottled water is available everywhere. Never drink tap water.
- Use an insect repellent against mosquitoes. It is the only way to be sure of protection against mosquito-borne diseases.
- Since Thailand has a hot and humid tropical climate, casual and lightweight clothing is best. Clothing made from natural fibers is the best option. A jacket might be needed on cool winter evenings or in hotels and restaurants using excessive air-conditioning.
- A hat and high-factor sun block is advisable as protection against the hot sun when sightseeing outdoors.
- When visiting temples or pagodas, shorts and T-shirts are acceptable. Shoes (as well as hats) are generally removed at the entrance to pagodas.
- Colour standard films (such as Kodak, Konika or Fuji), slide film, video film and camera batteries are widely available. Photos are inexpensive to process in Thailand. Any specialised photo or video equipment should be brought with you. Photography and video in airports, railway stations and near any military installations is forbidden and discretion should be used when photographing people, particularly monks and those in hill tribes.
INTERNET
Internet access is available throughout Thailand in readily available internet cafes and major hotels. The internet cafes are often very reasonable priced.LOCAL TIME
Thailand runs at GMT +7 hours.Read more...
Odyssey World - Luxury Tailor Made Holidays
to the Far East & South-East Asia
Odyssey World - Luxury Tailor Made Holidays
to the Far East & South-East Asia












