Fascinating culture and art, gorgeous architecture, glorious beaches, five-star hotels and resorts, scintillating nightlife and some of the finest cuisine in Asia – Thailand has it all. Thailand is often called “The Land of Smiles” because the mostly Buddhist people are extremely affable and hospitable. The Kingdom of Thailand, formerly known as Siam, was one of the few Asian countries that was not colonized by the West. As such, its rich culture is largely free of European influence. Thailand is quite modern, relative to some of its neighbors (particularly in cosmopolitan Bangkok), and is one of Southeast Asia’s economic powerhouses, with first-rate hospitals and other international-level facilities.
The weather in Thailand is hot and humid for the most part.
There are three seasons: November to February, which is the “cool” season, with temperatures of around 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C), lower humidity, and sunny skies. In the north at this time of year, nights will be chilly, and you will need a sweater. March through May is the hot season in which temperatures can rise above 100°F (38°C), and it can be very hazy.
From June to September is the rainy season, with temperatures ranging between 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C), high humidity, and heavier rainfall.
The south sees heavier rain than the north, and the Andaman Sea has drier and better conditions in the early part of the winter than the Gulf of Thailand.
Tourist Visa for US Citizens: Not required for stays under 30 days.
US Department of State Thailand Information
Koh Kood
Size: 34 rooms
Style: Contemporary
Designer/Architect: Contemporary
Possibly the best resort in Thailand.
Serene and secluded, Soneva Kiri offers unforgettable, authentic Thai experiences. Thirty-six ultraspacious pool villas, ranging from one to six bedrooms, offer the ultimate privacy at this luxurious hideaway on Koh Kood. Spend your days hiking through the lush jungle, swimming in nearby waterfalls, or snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. Savor candlelit dinners at Benz’s, arguably the best Thai restaurant in Thailand, or marvel at the view from the spectacular Treepod Dining. Wherever you turn, Soneva Kiri inspires the imagination. It’s barefoot luxury at its best.
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PART OF MY SPECIAL PLACES PORTFOLIO
Hua Hin
Size: 54 rooms
Your path to total well-being starts at Chiva-Som International Health Resort. Here, on seven beachfront acres overlooking the Gulf of Thailand, guests are greeted with a healthy drink and a personalized wellness consultation. Goals are then transformed into reality with delicious wellness cuisine and rejuvenating treatments, including spa, fitness, holistic health, physiotherapy, and aesthetic beauty. In addition, all guests can enjoy complimentary daily activities, such as meditation, tai chi, and aqua fitness. The 54 Thai rooms feature a host of comforts, including your favorite scent for the oil burners, making you feel at home.
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Duration: 11 days / 10 nights
Embark on an 11-day journey that travels Thailand from top to bottom to its premiere destinations. From the exciting capital city of Bangkok, to the mountainous Chiang Mai and jungles of Chiang Rai in the north, down to palm-fringed paradise island of Phuket, all while staying at world-class resorts, experience the best this Southeast Asian country has to offer.
This itinerary is an example. All trips are 100% bespoke.
My Virtuoso Thailand Information Page
Here is a good place to start for some additional information on quality Hotels, Water Adventures and Activities.
WIKIVOYAGE: Thailand Page
A great resource for all the basic information you need for Thailand.
Bangkok General Information Page
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page updated: May 2023
images courtesy: Thailand Tourism Board
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