They call Thailand the ‘Land of Smiles’, and after reading about our Asia Expert Aaron’s travels there, we can see why! Read all about his trip and discover why you too should make this destination your next one to visit.
Hi Aaron! Thank you for sharing details about your recent trip to Thailand. Which destinations did you visit, and how would you describe your overall experience?
I visited Phuket, Khanom, and Koh Samui and enjoyed nine unforgettable nights in Thailand. The trip was filled with luxury accommodations, incredible food, and memorable excursions. The service and dining at each resort were exceptional and consistently impressive—I felt truly pampered. I must also commend EVA Airways; we flew premium economy, which offered ample space and comfort on a 12-hour flight, allowing me to stretch out, enjoy great food and service, and even get some rare in-flight sleep!
Could you highlight some must-do experiences at each destination?
- Phuket The James Bond Island and Sea Kayaking tour is a must, along with a day trip to Old Phuket to admire the colonial architecture and colorful buildings. I also recommend the Reflections bar at the Nai Harn Hotel, where you can sip cocktails with a beach club vibe, enjoy freshly shucked oysters from the resident oyster man, and watch a stunning sunset.
- Khanom Don’t miss the Pink Dolphin tour and the hike to Khao Wang Thong Cave, both of which offer a unique chance to experience local wildlife and enjoy some adventure. At the Aava Hotel, a beachside evening is a must—cocktails followed by a candlelit dinner, savouring great food as the waves gently lap the shore.
- Koh Samui A visit to the Haven Samui Elephant Sanctuary is highly recommended, where you can feed and observe rescued elephants in a respectful, ethical environment. At Sala Cheongmon, I enjoyed a cooking class with Head Chef Max, where we prepared Tom Yum soup, Penang curry, Laab, and Pad Thai, and then got to feast on our creations for lunch!
Throughout our stay, we were also treated to several relaxing massages that kept us refreshed and ready for each day’s adventures.
How did the destinations complement one another?
Each destination offered a unique atmosphere and range of activities. All had stunning beaches and exceptional hotels, but each had its own appeal:
- Khanom features unspoiled scenery reminiscent of Thailand 25-30 years ago.
- Koh Samui has excellent snorkelling and diving spots and vibrant night markets, especially in Fisherman’s Village.
- Phuket offers a lively nightlife and an array of exciting excursions.
Exploring these locations together allowed us to experience a well-rounded view of Thailand’s beauty and culture.
What were your top dining experiences at each property?
- SALA Phuket Mai Khao Beach Resort, Phuket The 100 Candles Dinner on the beach (weather permitting) is unforgettable. The Thai fusion meal served family-style featured an exquisite Lamb Massaman Kae curry that melted in my mouth.
- The Nai Harn, Phuket Rock Salt restaurant provided oceanfront dining with a Thai/Mediterranean menu, fresh seafood, and a refreshing Sgroppino (lemon prosecco sorbet) to finish.
- Aava Resort And Spa, Khanom A private beach dining experience under the stars and a full moon featured Nouvelle Cuisine in a perfect, serene setting.
- SALA Samui Chaweng Beach, Koh Samui Sexy Fish restaurant served a seven-course menu of fresh seafood with Thai/Asian fusion flavours.
- SALA Samui Choengmon Beach Resort, Koh Samui Our Thai cooking class meal was my favourite here; it was a fun and satisfying lunch that our entire group enjoyed together.
Who would be the ideal guest for each property?
All the hotels we stayed at are perfect for couples and honeymooners, as they cater largely to that market. Families would also be welcome at each property, but specific options stand out:
- SALA Samui Chaweng Beach offers spacious family rooms and a separate kids’ club.
- Aava Resort And Spa has large duplex rooms, free babysitting, a kids’ club, and calm beachfront waters, making it an ideal choice for families with young children.
What activities or attractions did you enjoy the most?
My favourite experiences were the cooking classes and the visit to the elephant sanctuary. As an avid cook, learning authentic Thai recipes from expert chefs will definitely elevate my Thai cooking skills at home. Being up close with the elephants was an unforgettable experience, giving me a profound appreciation for these magnificent animals.
Do you have any tips or advice for travellers?
One of my top tips is not to shy away from travelling during shoulder seasons as I did; it offers more affordable rates, fewer crowds, and still fantastic weather. I also recommend using Thailand’s ferry services—they are affordable, convenient, and a great way to explore nearby islands. For instance, a ferry from Samui to Koh Phangan makes for an easy day trip, and the short ride from Samui to Don Sak pier opens up access to Khanom’s natural beauty. Finally, consider a multi-destination itinerary to fully experience Thailand’s diverse offerings.
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