Discover the Enchanting Allure of Thailand: The Land of Smiles An unforgettable Journey with Designer Travel & Pure Luxury

Discover the Enchanting Allure of Thailand: The Land of Smiles An unforgettable Journey with Designer Travel & Pure Luxury

Day 1: Wednesday, 19th June Our adventure began with a warm welcome at London Heathrow courtesy of Thai Airways.

We headed for breakfast and had a brief overview of the airline itself, followed by a full exclusive aircraft visit prior to boarding. On board, due to seating availability, we had been allocated a complete row of 3 each in the Economy Cabin, so plenty of room to stretch out and lie out fully to get some well needed rest on the 11h30 flight. At one point, I enjoyed my office in the sky, with laptop, etc, catching up on outstanding work, aided by a cold refreshing Gin and Tonic. Service on board throughout was excellent and food was plentiful.

Day 2: Thursday, 20th June Arrival in Thailand and Journey to Phuket

As the sun rose over Bangkok, we touched down, buzzing with excitement despite the early hour. Going through a very quick transit channel (We all had to be stickered to show we were in transit –I felt a little like the reduced aisle bargain in the supermarket!) we were boarding our flight to Phuket. A snack and a bottle of water passed the 1h30 flight. The weather was not so kind to us on the approach, and I experienced my first ever aborted landing! All was well and the pilot in full control – just extremely poor visibility due to a passing storm as we were about to land. Another 25 minutes in the air and we were down successfully. Met by the Ground handlers at Destination Asia, and guide Seth, in 2 luxury minivans, we headed north a further 1h30 to our first hotel on the itinerary.

Devasom Khao Lak Beach Resort & Villas

Our first destination was the breathtaking Devasom Khao Lak Beach Resort & Villas.

Nestled between lush mangroves and the azure waters of the Andaman Sea, this resort is a slice of paradise. Devasom Khao Lak is renowned for its architectural beauty, inspired by the ancient maritime Silk Road. The resort seamlessly blends traditional Thai elements with modern luxury, offering 69 elegant rooms, suites, and villas, each designed to provide a private sanctuary with stunning ocean views. After a warm welcome by the staff, we did a site inspection of a couple of rooms and facilities, before regrouping for drinks and canapes. The property offers Thai boxing, Yoga, bike tours, cookery class (group and private options, some chargeable) ,Spa treatments and meditation, Explorers Kids Club and daily transportation to nearby Khao Lak 3 times a day, taking 15 minutes. With a little free time on our hands, we explored the resort in more depth with its lush gardens, and elegant pool—a perfect introduction to Thailand‘s natural beauty, before heading to the Meditation Sound Bath that had been organised for us all. Having never experienced this, I soon found myself to be very relaxed, and nearly drifting off to sleep! It certainly worked for a colleague of mine, who was well away within minutes it seemed! The resort’s dining options are exquisite, with The Beach Grill, located right by the ocean, it is ideal for a relaxed meal with your feet in the sand. The Takola Restaurant & Wine Bar, which offers a refined culinary experience with a focus on authentic Thai cuisine and fresh, local ingredients, was where we were to be hosted for dinner. A beautifully decorated table welcomed our arrival, and we were joined by the hotel manager, plus a couple of the Front Office management. The menu had been specially created to showcase the best of Thai food – I was in my element!

Day 3: Friday, 21st June Exploring Takuapa's Natural Wonders

The morning began leisurely with breakfast, either buffet or you could order from the A La Carte. So much choice! Seth, our guide was on time as we headed out on an ECO Plus half-day tour, known as Little Amazon. venturing into the jungles and serene canals of Takuapa. This region is a hidden gem, where time seems to stand still amidst the towering trees and tranquil waterways. On arrival the heavens opened so Seth gave us all colourful ponchos! Looking oh so glamourous we glided through the canals in the inflated kayaks, with our own guide. We were surrounded by dense foliage and the distant calls of exotic birds, feeling utterly immersed in nature, spotting snakes coiled around branches and huge age old banyan trees. My exit from the kayak was not at all elegant, and I nearly headed back into the canal for a second time! Our next stop was Tam Nang Waterfall. From the carpark, we walked along a pathway for 500m, and as we got nearer, the roar of the falls were heard. Most of the group went in for a dip to cool off. All that excitement had made us all hungry – Seth had arranged a fantastic Thai feast, at a traditional Thai outdoor restaurant/kitchen, in what seemed like the middle of nowhere overlooking a river. Chicken fried rice, spicy chicken and ginger soup, vegetables plus much more…. The food just kept on coming, all washed down with the biggest bottle of Singha beer I’ve ever seen! Time to then head back to the hotel for a freshen up before our next hotel visit for the evening… La Vela Khao Lak The resort's modern architecture and vibrant atmosphere offered a stunning contrast to our earlier experiences. Located along Bang Niang Beach, La Vela seamlessly blends contemporary design with the natural beauty of Khao Lak. A site inspection showcased its unique amenities, including a beachfront pool and great dining options. The Kokulo Beach Club, offers a great spot to enjoy cocktails and beautiful food while watching the sunset over the Andaman Sea. Dinner here was a self-serve buffet followed by their special for that evening… lobster. Great atmosphere throughout, followed by a fire show and barmen recreating their Tom Cruise in the film Cocktail.

Day 4: Saturday, 22nd June Cultural Immersion and The Sarojin

After a relaxed breakfast, we checked out of Devasom Khao Lak, ready for the next chapter. Our journey to The Sarojin included cultural stops that enriched our understanding of Thailand. We visited Koh Panyee, a charming village perched on stilts in Phang Nga Bay. This unique community, built entirely over water, offered a fascinating glimpse into the local way of life. Next, we explored the Monkey Cave Temple, a mystical site nestled within a limestone cave. Playful monkeys greeted us as we marvelled at the ancient statues and serene atmosphere. Arrival at The Sarojin Late afternoon we arrived at The Sarojin, a sanctuary of elegance and tranquility. Tucked away in a lush tropical garden, this resort exudes luxury and charm. The hotel was brand new and nearly ready to open when the devastating Tsunami wiped everything out and they had to start again. They name the rooms after the original staff that worked so tirelessly to open this beautiful property. Run predominantly by a local team, supported and rewarded by the hotel there is a strong sustainability message throughout. A site inspection revealed the resort's commitment to personalized service and attention to detail, from its stunning infinity pool to its secluded beach. The Sarojin's Ficus Restaurant, nestled beneath the canopy of an ancient ficus tree, offers a magical dining experience with a menu that combines Thai and Western cuisines. Dinner was a hosted affair, where we savoured exquisite dishes and shared stories of our day's adventures with the management. A couple of weeks before this trip, we lost a lovely colleague to cancer at just 54 years old. Angela loved to travel and was a previous guest at The Sarojin. The hotel had arranged along with Hannah, our host, for us to have a candle ceremony in her memory. A very touching and emotional tribute, and one that will stay with me forever. The rest of the evening was ours, a perfect opportunity to relax and reflect, and raise a glass to Angela.

Day 5: Sunday, 23rd June Luxury and Leisure

Sunday morning was a leisurely affair, with an all day breakfast should we have needed it, followed by free time to indulge in The Sarojin's impressive facilities. For some it was a rejuvenating spa treatment at the Pathways Spa or a dip in the infinity pool. I headed to the local Sai Rung waterfall ( a 5 min taxi or 25 min cycle away) within a stunning oasis. Then took a walk along the huge stretch of beach. The Little Shore Khao Lak by Katathani Late afternoon, we departed for The Little Shore Khao Lak by Katathani. A resort perched on a hill overlooking the Andaman Sea, The Little Shore offers breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere. The site inspection revealed a blend of contemporary design with traditional Thai elements, creating a harmonious and tranquil environment. The resort's restaurant, The Nest, provided a memorable dining experience with its gourmet dishes crafted from the freshest local ingredients.

Day 6: Monday, 24th June A Scenic Route to Banyan Tree Phuket

Our final full day in Thailand began with breakfast at leisure, Our next destination was the Banyan Tree Phuket but not before a couple of picturesque stops. Samet Nangshe Viewpoint is a 800-metre-high viewpoint offers beautiful panoramas of the surrounding scenery and the vast expanse of the Phang-Nga Bay with its still, turquoise waters, and backdrop of striking, craggy limestone peaks towering over vivid green mangrove forests. We had a beautiful lunch here and with this view as a backdrop was just perfect! Sarasin Bridge, connecting Phuket to the mainland, provided another perfect photo opportunity with its stunning views.. Banyan Tree Phuket Late afternoon, we arrived at Banyan Tree Phuket, a pinnacle of luxury and serenity. Nestled within a lush tropical lagoon, this resort is a haven of tranquility. A site inspection highlighted its world-class amenities, from its award-winning spa to its gourmet dining options. Dinner was amazing – a private dining experience, featuring a fusion of international and Thai flavours.

Day 7: Tuesday, 25th June Farewell to Thailand

Our final morning in Thailand was bittersweet. After breakfast, we checked out and headed to Phuket Airport for our return flights home. From the lush jungles to the crystal-clear waters, from cultural landmarks to luxurious resorts, our journey through Thailand was nothing short of magical. Each day brought new experiences, exquisite flavours, and breathtaking sights.