Thailand
Northern hills, temple mornings, and the softest coastline in Asia.
The Region
Thailand rewards a slower shape of trip — a few nights in Bangkok, a week in the north around Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, then a quiet island stay in the Andaman. I favor the smaller resorts and the shoulder months when the coast empties out.
Where to be
Neighborhoods
Old City, Chiang Mai
Wooden temples, morning markets, and the country's best cooking schools.
Charoenkrung, Bangkok
Riverside galleries and the new generation of Thai chefs.
Koh Yao Noi
A slow island between Phuket and Krabi.
Where to stay
Favorite Hotels
- Amanpuri, Phuket
- Six Senses Yao Noi
- Rosewood Luang Prabang (nearby)
- The Siam, Bangkok
What to do
Favorite Experiences
- A private long-tail morning through Phang Nga Bay
- A market-to-table cooking day in Chiang Mai
- Alms at dawn in a working temple
A short list
Where to Eat
- Le Du, Bangkok
- Sorn, Bangkok
- Blackitch Artisan Kitchen, Chiang Mai
Season
Best Time to Visit
November through February.
Notes from the studio
Travel Tips
- — Fly, don't drive, between regions.
- — Book a driver, not a rental car, in the cities.
- — Bring layers for the north from December to February.