EXOTISSIMO
Experts in Asia - in Asia
TRAVEL
Exo Travel Guides
Thailand www.exotissimo.com
Introducing Thailand The country’s beating heart, Thailand’s capital city is home to diverse and varied cultures, languages and people. On the surface Bangkok is now a modern Asian mega city with towering steel and glass skyscrapers and a justified reputation for traffic and smog, but scratch through the veneer and a gentler, peaceful and very oriental face is revealed.
Many people rush in and out of Bangkok on their way to beaches or to Chiang Mai or Indochina where they expect to discover the real Asia. Those in the know will tell you that the real Asia is right here in Bangkok. We recommend you to spend at least two and preferably three nights here to get below the surface of our amazing capital city.
Bangkok is not just one of Asia’s most exciting cities; it is a great place to discover a unique culture. Where else can you take a canal-boat from your ultra-swanky designer hotel to a floating fruit market around the corner before arriving at a golden Buddhist temple? Shop, spa, eat, drink, party: Bangkok has it all.
Where to stay in Bangkok? There is a wide spectrum of accommodation choices so let us advise you on the best. First decide if you want to stay by the river or in the city. Then whether you want a big smart address or a boutique residence. We have been getting very good feedback from clients who have booked our interesting independent hotels listed below.
Near the River If it’s your first visit to Bangkok and you are visiting purely for leisure you really should stay on the riverside. There is a wide choice of big name hotels offering various degrees of comfort but for an intimate encounter with Thai hospitality why not try Navalai, a new mid-range property situated close to the Grand Palace and Wat Po. For a step up in luxury, we highly recommend the new Hilton Millennium and the classy The Peninsula. Le Bua, with spacious rooms and super-hip restaurants such as Sirocco and Breeze, is a great place to base yourself while discovering the City of Angels. Also recommended in the old town and not far from the river is the eight-room Old Bangkok Inn. The Marriot Riverside is also a very pleasant lowrise resort on the river offering all the necessary facilities.
City Hotels In the city center several boutique and modern options can be found. For a unique and eclectic stay at a reasonable price, we recommend The Heritage Baan Silom. A more upscale boutique hotel is The Eugenia, a charming property with loads of character. Families, business travelers, or those seeking a bit more independence will enjoy Bandara Suites which come equipped with kitchenettes and living room areas right in the heart of Bangkok. For modern options with a touch of style, we highly rate The Sukhothai and the smart Metropolitan, sister hotel of the London style-setter. We also like Triple Two on Silom Road while further east is the lesser-known The Davis, which offers excellent rates. If you want to stay in a brand name five-star then Sofitel Silom offers everything you could possible need, including a fabulous wine bar with great city views.
What to see in Bangkok? To complement the modern travelers’ love affair with the unusual and experiential travel, Exotissimo offers a range of new and interesting tours in Thailand that take you off the well-worn tourist trails and focus on the wonders of Thai culture. First time visitors should undoubtedly see The Grand Palace but you should also join one of our many day trips, which involve canalboats, a walk through the markets or a visit to a little known museum. If you have enough time in the capital then take a day trip by boat through the canals to Koh Kret island where you can explore the old pottery villages by foot or bike. Try and join at weekends when the island’s market is at its liveliest. Otherwise a great day out is a tour up to Amphawa, visiting the famous floating market area and beyond to the little known villages, orchards and temples that surround Bangkok. More glamorous, and just as rewarding, is a day trip aboard one of the many luxury cruise boats to Thailand’s ancient capital city of Ayutthaya. For your first dinner in Bangkok we suggest joining an evening dinner cruise on the Manohra Boat in Bangkok.
Around Bangkok Looking for nature but don’t have the time to fly to the north of Thailand? Kanchanaburi (a couple of hours’ drive from Bangkok) offers great jungle accommodation where you have a real wilderness feeling and can do long or short treks and even elephant riding or bamboo rafts. If you need your comforts then stay at the charming River Kwai Resotel, or if you are looking for adventure try the Jungle Rafts or even Hin Tok River Camp, a small, newly built tented resort on the river side that offers luxury tents (including air-conditioning, timber flooring and shower with hot water) and an excellent choice for nature lovers. For a real adventure try going as far as Sanghklaburi. The accommodation is a
little basic but the rewards are great scenery, charming towns and a combination of Thai, Burmese, Mon and Karen culture. We have a number of package tour ideas or build a visit to Kanchanaburi into your tailor-made tour of Thailand. Khao Yai National Park is another excellent place to experience Thailand. You can trek through the jungle to see wild elephants and a wide range of flora and fauna. Alternatively you can spend the day cycling through vineyards and sampling award winning wines at the various different wineries in the area. Our accommodation recommendations include The Village Farm and
Winery or the luxurious and beautifully designed Kirimaya Resort, which is complete with an 18-hole golf course designed by Jack Nicalaus. For those in search of a truly romantic and luxurious experience, a three-day, two-night cruise to Ayuthaya aboard the well appointed Manohra Song teak rice barge is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Enjoy exquisite candlelit dinners, morning temple tours and cruising along the fascinating River of Kings. Or why not take the Mekhala Cruise, another rice barge but a more affordable option, to Ayuthaya and then continue touring through Central Thailand.
Chiang Mai & The North Chiang Mai, Thailand’s second-largest city, is the gateway to the country’s north. Chiang Mai has grown rapidly into a large and dynamic city in recent years but it still retains a great deal of charm within its ancient walls and has much to offer visitors. Much more compact and easier to navigate than Bangkok, it is here that visitors come to immerse themselves in some of Thailand’s extraordinary culture. Whether chatting with Buddhist monks, observing the skilled artisans, riding bicycles through the surrounding villages, flying in hot-air balloons or white water rafting, there is plenty to do and see in the north of Thailand. Exotissimo is one of few international standard tour operators that have a fully staffed office in Chiang Mai. Our team, which includes expatriates as well as local Lanna and hill tribe people, has developed many new and interesting sightseeing tours and round trips but have been working closely with local communities, lecturers and museum owners to develop tours where you
learn and experience Chiang Mai rather than just see Chiang Mai. A week in the region will give you time to see all the sights of Chiang Mai and the Golden Triangle as well as to take in a 2 or 3-day trek. Or, if you are feeling independent, why not take a 5-day self-drive tour from Chiang Rai and along the mountain roads to Mae Hong Son, in addition to a few days of enjoying the delights of Chiang Mai?
Where to stay in Chiang Mai? Chiang Mai has plenty of accommodation choices, ranging from small, charming, boutique hotels to super luxury resorts.
ties are outstanding choices for lovers of boutique accommodation blended with a sense of home. They feature all of the comfort and luxury of a great little hotel.
The boutique offerings in Chiang Mai are numerous and although the designs and styles of these hotels are charming, great differences are found in the level and quality of service. For the perfect combination of style and service, we recommend Rachamanka, Puripunn, Yaang Come Village, and Tamarind Village. These proper-
At the top of the luxe list are the Oriental Dhara Dhevi and the Four Seasons Chiang Mai. Both are a little out of town and are high on luxury. The Oriental is top of the charts when it comes to facilities while the Four Seasons is considered by many a more authentic experience. If you are staying at these resorts you should bal-
ance your time in Chiang Mai so you can both get out and see the sites and spend some quality time enjoying the five-star services and facilities. The Chedi, with its compact design, is the in-town choice for the style-conscious, while the riverside Rati Lanna is another good deluxe option.
What to see in Chiang Mai?
to develop sustainable tourism projects with Thai and Shan villages in the mountainous areas of north Thailand. The facilities might be basic but the experience will be unforgettable and for just one night it should be possible to live without modern hotel facilities. A Shan Homestay at Tad Lod is one of our favorite places in Thailand. Spend a few days walking through the hills and learn how the Shan people live. Closer to Chiang Mai we highly recommend a night at Mae Kampong, a beautiful Thai village in the hills where you stay as guests of a local family in their teak house.
If you are only spending a few days in Chiang Mai then a visit to Doi Suthep is a must. A morning with the monks is also a great way to discover the culture or why not take a biking trip, a balloon ride over Chiang Mai or even learn to become a mahout. A visit to an elephant camp is an interesting day out, especially if you have kids with you. Chiang Dao Elephant Camp is our favorite as it is set in spectacular natural countryside and has fewer tourists than those close to town. There are also some smaller camps with just a few elephants such as Patara Elephant Farm on the foothills of Doi Suthep where the concept is really to act as if you were the tuskers’ owner. The Elephant Nature Park is a unique project established with the aim to provide a sanctuary and rescue centre for elephants in Thailand. The park is a project rather than a camp - the owner has rescued over 30 distressed elephants throughout the country. In the evening, you should enjoy dinner by the river and then take a tuk tuk ride to discover the famous night bazaar.
Trekking and Homestays Spending a night in a home stay village is one way to really learn and understand how the people live. Working with locals on community-based projects, Exotissimo has developed relationships with ethnic hill tribes
The trekking we are able to offer around Chiang Mai and across the north has also taken on a new dimension and is no longer an activity suitable for backpackers only. A trekking tour of two days/one night organized by Exotissimo includes a trekking guide, porters, all meals, and sleeping materials in a local village (basic but clean accommodation) and guaranteed an unforgettable experience. The trekking is not very difficult and can be done by anybody with a normal physical health and a bit of adventurous spirit. More comfortable but still rewarding home stay experiences can be found at Lisu Lodge or Khum Lanna, countryside resorts where the emphasis is on seeing, learning and experiencing. Hmong Lodge is also a nice out-of-town experience and recommended for families. We have a number of packages including these properties or you can simply ask us to include them into your tailor made itinerary.
Where to stay in Chiang Rai and the Golden Triangle? In Chiang Rai we really like the stylish The Legend Resort, which is located on the river but still in the city. La Lunna is also charming and offers very good value. The Golden Triangle area at the far north of Thailand is home to the very top-end Four Seasons Tented Camp, where guests can enjoy fabulous excursions during the day and luxurious tents to return to in the evening. The delightful and also deluxe Anantara Resort and Spa has a great elephant camp nearby.
Chiang Rai & Golden Triangle The area earned its name due to the wealth that opium trading used to bring. Nowadays the opium has gone but the area still retains an allure. The mountains of Myanmar and Laos are easily visible and ruined cities such as Chiang Sean and The Hall of Opium Museum offer evidence of a long and checkered history. The area around the museum is a bit touristy but once you are on a boat trip on the Mekong River you can dream away while closely passing Burmese and Laos countryside and even make a stop on the Lao side of the river and sip Beer Lao or send a postcard from Laos before heading back to the Thai side.
Touring Pai and Mae Hong Son
The area around Chiang Rai has been cultivated using organic, sustainable agricultural techniques and is farmed by the hill tribe people of the area. It is a great place to explore on an elephant’s back, and is the picture-postcard vision of verdant Thai rice terraces and orchid-clad hillsides. The Mekong River forms the border with Laos for a few hundred kilometers from the Golden Triangle to the south offering a scenic route to access the beauty of northern Laos and the city of Luang Prabang by river. From the border town Chiang Khong, there are several
boat options to cruise the Mekong River, allowing you to sit on the deck and enjoy one of the most stunning views in the world surrounded by blue sky, brown river water and lush jungle on both sides of the river. Take a look at one of our tour modules featuring Chiang Rai and the Golden Triangle or ask your travel consultant to include a few days in your tailor made tour.
Heading west towards Myanmar, the delightful towns of Pai and Mae Hong Son are picturesque and charming. Pai is the hot new destination for backpackers and travelers looking for that essential ‘Thai travel sensation’. It is a charming town in a scenic valley with lots to do during the day: biking, rafting, trekking and cafes and bars to enjoy in the evenings. There are now daily flights from Chiang Mai if you don’t want to brave the four-hour drive up winding roads in the mountains. The delights of Mae Hong Son are a very under-rated and often missed part of the Thai tourist trail. The town has interesting Burmese and Shan architecture in many monasteries as well as wonderful countryside and trek-
king opportunities. A drive to Nai Soi Village, where you can meet the Padaung, or long neck people, is a highlight and an educational experience for many travelers. The ideal tour is to spend two days driving along one of the most scenic roads in Asia with an overnight stop in Pai and then fly back after a night in Mae Hong Son. If you are traveling between June and December, a rafting trip on the Pai River is a highly recommended experience for adventurous travelers. In Pai stay at Belle Villa Pai or Baan Krating Pai, both a little out of town with nice rural ambiance or the new town centre hotel The Quarter. In Mae Hong Son we use the eco-friendly Fern Resort for almost all our clients. Adventurous travelers can continue to Mae Sariang, which is deep in Karen country and close to the Salween River. The scenery here is rugged and beautiful and the people are especially welcoming. Then drive back to Chiang Mai via Doi Inthanon. If you are feeling independent why not try and drive the northern loop yourself? We will deliver the car to you, book your hotels, supply a map, road book and provide directions for you.
Accommodation in the more remote destinations is not as varied or luxurious as it is around Chiang Mai, however, that does not mean you have to suffer backpacker standard guest houses either. We always use the best available hotels and will do our best to reserve the best rooms in the house. Sometimes even in the most remote areas we can find a true hidden gem such as Bo Klua View Resort in Nan province or Phu Phu Nam Resort in Loei. If you want to see the real Thailand you really should make the effort to see places like Nan and Loei where the modern world has not yet arrived and neither have the tourists. A million miles from Phuket and Pattaya, it is in places like these where you will find those special and memorable experiences that live with you forever.
Further afield to the Unseen Thailand For more intrepid travelers the stunning scenery and natural charm of Nan and Loei are definitely worth visiting. The mountains of the north-east are home to many charming towns, each with a laid-back atmosphere and constitutes a fascinating part in the history and culture of the region. Phrae and Nan are particularly alluring and the surrounding mountain scenery around Loei is simply outstanding, but the real reward for the traveler in this region is in meeting the smiling, friendly people who live here.
Sukhothai really should be compared to its more famous neighbor in Cambodia as a truly world class heritage site and visitors to Thailand who don’t make the effort to go are really missing out on something special. Between Sukhothai and Ayuthaya, the cities of Lopburi, Kampaeng Phet and Uthai Thani are all historical treasures lying in the Chao Phraya River basin waiting to be discovered. Lopburi rose to ascendance in the 10th century when it was under the influence of the Khmer kingdoms and the ruined sandstone temples are still very much in evidence and worth visiting. Be warned that monkeys have taken possession of many of the ruins so keep an eye on your cameras.
Sukhothai & The Center New resorts opening in Sukhothai are going to help lure tourists to one of Asia’s most under-rated world heritage sites. Although not as extensive as Angkor Wat,
Kamphaeng Phet can be visited on the way to Sukhothai or as part of a day trip from Sukhothai and has an interesting historical park with numerous chedi and stupas - one of which once contained the famous emerald Buddha. Uthai Thani is a beautifully preserved Thai town located on the Sakae Krang River, a tributary of the Chao Phraya River with interesting temples and a vibrant market place. Once a resting place for Rama IV, Uthai Thani is an ideal stopping point on the way north from Bangkok and with comfortable accommodation now available as well as interesting river boat rides - it is the perfect place to immerse yourself into the real Thailand. Driving at a leisurely pace you can visit Ayuthaya, Lopburi, Uthai Thani, Kamphaeng Phet
and Sukhothai in about four days from Bangkok. Chiang Mai is another day or two’s drive after Sukhothai. Look at some of our Classic Thailand overland tour modules or ask your travel consultant to build these fascinating destinations into your tailor-made itinerary.
tions. The riverside provincial capitals of Nong Khai, Nakhon Phanom and Mukdahan all exude charm and relaxed touring. While the city of Ubon Ratchathani not only provides a gateway into neighboring Laos but also can act as a base to explore the eastern area of Isaan. An added incentive is the delightful Tohsang Khongjiam Resort which is a true gem and you could easily spend from anywhere between two nights and a week discovering the surrounding area.
Isaan If you are searching for true Thai hospitality you should look no further than northeastern provinces of Thailand, also collectively known as Isaan. Often overlooked in favor of the more obvious charms of Chaing Mai and the north, what Isaan lacks in genuine tourist attractions it makes up with its old world charm. The people of Isaan are by far the friendliest in Thailand, which is quite a claim to fame, and the food is simply outstanding as long as you don’t mind it hot! The main attractions are the Khmer temples in Phimai, Phanom Rung, Muang Tam and Khao Phra Viharn to name a few heritage sites located along the southern corridor. While in the far east, the Mekong River provides a continually scenic backdrop for your explora-
A two or three-day tour of Isaan taking in all the main temples before spending two nights in Ubon Ratchathani and then flying back to Bangkok is a different way to visit Thailand before heading to a beach. Or you can
continue your travels through southern Laos and even Cambodia as these sites are a perfect primer before a trip to Cambodia to see the crown jewels of Angkor Wat. Those with more time might want to travel north through Phanom Rung and up to Nong Khai where you can cross into Laos or even keep traveling through Loei and on to the north of Thailand. The choices for spending quality time in Thailand are almost endless so please let your travel consultant help plan the perfect tour for you.
The South Most tourists heading to the south of Thailand have only one thing on their mind - the beach. However a drive down the south coast can be a great way to discover Thailand. Peninsula Thailand has good, fast roads and fabulous beaches as well as some great national parks such as Kraeng Krachan, Thailand’s biggest park, or Sam Roi Yot, arguably Thailand’s most scenic with its hundreds of limestone peaks and caves waiting to be explored. Another gem waiting to be discovered is Khao Sok National Park. Well known to the backpackers, this unspoiled rainforest is close to Phuket, Samui and Krabi, yet is rarely visited by the hoards of tourists that flock to the beaches. Elephant Hills, an eco-resort on the
edge of Khao Sok, is a fantastic place to spend a few days. Exotissimo can offer a range of tours that include Khao Sok. A really nice touring journey is to drive south to Pranburi and visit Sam Roi Yot National Park, continue to Chumphorn and then onwards to Khao Sok via Wat Suan Mok temple or Surat Thani monkey training school. After a few days exploring khao Sok head to any one of the beaches of Krabi, Khao Sok, Phuket or Samui. Alternatively fly to Phuket and then take a self-drive tour of the south. We will book your hotels, deliver the car and provide a map and roadbook. So Easy! So Exotissimo!
Thailand’s Beaches Thailand’s beaches are the stuff of legend. Whether you are looking for a classic palm-fringed hideaway, a friendly family resort or all night partying, Thailand has it all. And there is quite a wide range of choices too. Everybody has heard of Phuket and Samui, but the last decade has seen the growth of many new beach destinations, such as Krabi, Koh Lanta, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Yao, Koh Chang and Koh Tao and it is often at these lesser known beaches where the real paradise feeling can be found.
Phuket for pure luxury, great facilities, lots for kids to do, wide choice of restaurants and plenty of nightlife.
Khao Lak for pristine beaches, lazy days and early nights, wide choice of resorts and some shopping.
Koh Yao for pristine beaches, lazy days, early nights and luxury resorts.
Krabi for deluxe resorts, activities, shopping and nightlife if you want it.
Koh Lanta for pristine beaches, lazy days, moderate nightlife.
Phi Phi for diving, quiet resorts (around the edge) or backpacker mayhem (in the middle).
One of the neatest things about heading for a Thai beach is the fact that with two weather systems which bring the tropical rains at different times of the year, it’s possible to enjoy Thailand’s beaches year-round. From January to September you can choose a beach in Koh Samui or Koh Phangan where you will have the best chance on sunny and dry weather while from October to April a beach like Krabi, Khao Lak or Koh Samed and Koh Chang offer the best chance of getting an even tan. To try and make your decisions just a little easier here is a super fast guide to Thai beaches:
family and want lots of facilities. It is not the place to find small charming hotels at reasonable prices.
Trang for remoteness and comfort. Koh Hai for real remoteness.
Phangan for pristine beaches and backpackers.
Hua Hin for great hotels, restaurants and shopping but only average beaches.
Koh Chang for pristine beaches, lazy days, moderate nightlife, wide choice of resorts and some shopping.
Phuket Phuket is Thailand’s number one beach resort and one of the world’s most famous holiday destinations. Here you find the best of the best. Super luxury hotels, yachts, restaurants, fine wine, golf courses, shopping and miles and miles of great beaches.
Samui for a hip-beach scene, boutique resorts and lots of nightlife.
Koh Tao for great diving, good beaches and lots of backpackers.
Koh Samed for pristine beaches, lazy days, moderate nightlife and only a short drive from Bangkok.
Yes Phuket is full of tourists and you will see tour buses all over the place but this is a big island (the size of Singapore) and there are plenty of places to hide away if you want. Phuket is the place to head to if you are looking for a luxury destination or if you are with your
The best beaches and most of the best hotels are in the north of the island. The southern beaches of Patong, Kata or Karon are busy, noisy and not very classy. Hotels we recommend to our luxury clients are Trisara and Amanpuri, where the elite traveler will be treated to top service and extraordinary luxury. After that you should try the Trisara and Sri Panwa both of which are fabulous options for a stylish stay. Other favorites include Indigo Pearl, SALA Phuket, Mom Tri’s Villa and Vijitt Resort all of which offer great value and lots of class. Although not on the beachfront, we like the beautiful Twin Palms while those traveling on a budget will enjoy Adamas Resort and Andaman White Beach for a beach getaway.
Krabi The beaches in Krabi area were first discovered by the backpacking crowd and have developed slowly into international standard resort destinations while retaining plenty of charm. Krabi is home to a string of beaches and islands. The scenery is amazing with limestone karsts exploding out of the sea and jungle everywhere. The Phra Nang peninsula is an idyllic retreat, and the beaches of Railey are among the most beautiful in Thailand. The Rayawadee is a magical combination of luxury and nature. Accessible only by boat, giving a true ‘desert island’ ambience you stay in a villa surrounded by coconut palms and towering limestone cliffs. The
rest of Railey beach is lined by family run resorts the best of which is Railey Bay Resort with Sea Sand coming next. Rock climbing has become a hugely popular activity in this area and Phra Nang is now recognized as one of the hottest climbing spots in the world and the islands and mangroves make for superb sea kayaking opportunities. The new international airport at Krabi has seven flights a day to Bangkok, making the entire area easily accessible. Ao Nang is still the vibrant tourist centre of Krabi but the beach can be disappointing and the village is crowded. The best option here is Krabi Resort as it has its own beach. Further north Khlong Muang has become the choice for those seeking an up-market resort. One of our favorites in the area is the Tubkaak Resort, a hip luxury resort, providing a touch of class and style that make Khlong Muang an exciting new beach destination. Just south of Krabi on an island of its own is the charming Koh Jum Resort. Managed by a French couple this is one of those great little secrets you hope stays just the way it is. Backpacker Deluxe is a good way of explaining the style and comforts. If you don’t need an Aman but want to get away from the crowds this could be for you.
far for Phuket day-trippers); it is an attraction for feeding whale sharks and mantas as well as divers. The islands still retain a rustic charm - Koh Lanta had no telephones before 2001 and electricity only arrived on the island a short time before that! Luxury lovers should check in to the exclusive Pimalai, especially the new pool villas. Lanaya Resort is also a good choice as is the more relaxed Sri Lanta. For those with a tighter budget, we like Royal Lanta and Lanta Casaurina Resort.
Koh Lanta In the south of Krabi and not far from the airport, Koh Lanta, is gaining a reputation as the Thai island of choice for those looking for a balance between island charm and sophisticated accommodation. ‘Laid back’, ‘Thai style’ and ‘chilled’ are words that are often used to describe the atmosphere on Lanta Island and it is hard to disagree. This is where the swaying palms and wide sandy beaches are found without the traffic or nightlife of Samui or Phuket. World class hotels such as Pimalai and Layana combine stunning locations with five-star services, while the diving here is also outstanding with the pinnacles of Hin Daeng and Hin Muang within easy daytrip range from Lanta (but too
Phi Phi The islands of Phi Phi have been immortalized by many Hollywood movies, most recently the Beach starring Leonardo Di Caprio. Badly damaged by the tsunami in December 2005, Phi Phi is now almost recovered and is back in business and welcoming tourists. The beaches are cleaner than ever and the small town in the centre has reestablished itself - although it must be said it is something of a scruffy backpacker’s ghetto. On a secluded beach the Zeavola has established itself as the best on the island and offers a nature-chic alternative to the more established choices such as Phi Phi Island Village Beach Resort. Avoid the backpacker throng in the centre of the island, unless of course you are a backpacker.
Khao Lak Also devastated by the tsunami but now very much back on the scene is Khao Lak. The clean-up of the beaches of Khao Lak has been incredible and apart from a few monuments of the wave, such as the Thai navy boat that was washed a kilometre on-shore and is still lying on its side close to the main road through Khao Lak, there is little evidence of the tsunami. By far, our favorite is Sarojin Resort. Best suited for honeymooners, the secluded Sarojin doesn’t allow kids.
Koh Yao Koh Yao, which means ‘long island’, is the two islands (one long and one not so long) in between Phuket and Krabi in the heart of Phang Nga Bay. Just a few minutes by boat or seaplane from Phuket, Koh Yao is and hardly noticed until recently. Koh Yao has had none of the development of its larger neighbour and is still a real tropical hideaway. We still love Koh Yao Island Resort, which was the original Robinson Crusoe resort on the island but with lots of style and more than adequate comfort. Smaller, but also highly recommended is Koh Yao Paradise Resort, with different room categories located in a beautiful bay with a stunning cliff at the
edge of the beach. Offering substantially more comfort is Six Senses Evason Hideaway which was built with environmentally-friendly materials and occupies an idyllic stretch of property on the waterfront.
Trang and the Far South Even further south, Trang province has even more attractions and even less tourists. With clear waters and limestone islands dotting the horizon, it is easy to see why travelers are beginning to discover Trang. The Anantara Resort is a fabulous luxury accommodation - the best in the area. There are also some charming resorts on the island of Koh Ngai (pronounced and sometimes spelt Koh Hai). This is where you really get the desert island treatment. Stay at Thapwarin Resort or Koh Hai Fantasy.
Samui If the Andaman Islands are paradise for just flopping on a tropical beach, Samui is heaven for the active traveler (although of course there are plenty of beaches to flop on too). There are literally hundreds of activities and attractions on Koh Samui, from diving in the pristine waters of the marine park to learning how to be a sealion trainer! Avoid crowded Chaweng and Lamai beaches, unless you don’t mind the occasional sleepless night listening to techno music, and head for Cheonmong, Bophut or Mae Nam Beaches on the north of the island. New world-class five star resorts such as Napasai, Four Season, and Zazen are all top choices and definitely top-end. Karma Resort is also highly recommended and they have a great choice of villas for families or larger groups. New Star Resort also a great choice. One resort on Chaweng that does stand out from the crowd is the Library which features a sleek modern design. The luxury market is quite new for Samui but the island is quickly adapting itself to cater for the tastes of a more discerning crowd. Santiburi golf course is one of the best and one of the most difficult in Asia and there are a preponderance of new up-market restaurants and night clubs, including the trendy Q-Bar.
Samui has established itself as one of South-East Asia’s leading destinations for wellness and therapeutic retreats, and its hotels, day-spas, yoga and meditation centers have become a Mecca for stressed out visitors from around the globe. Our pick of the wellness resorts is Kamalaya.
Koh Phangan Just a short boat ride away is Koh Phangan. Although best known for its full moon parties, which attract thousands of travelers from all over the globe, there is a lot more to stunning Koh Phangan than partying all-night on the powder-soft white sand. The island has swathes of beautiful beaches, great walks, adventurous boat and fishing trips, fabulous diving and even kite-boarding. Some new and interesting resorts have recently opened on the quiet but beautiful beaches lining the north of the island bringing Phangan onto the radar for more than just backpackers. Avoid Haad Rin Beach as it is little more than a party venue and the only place to stay is Santhiya Resort in Thong Nai Pan Noi on the north of the island. It is quite an adventure to get to and it will not get on the Conde Naste list but Santhiya, is another great little Thai beach secret.
Koh Tao Koh Tao, which means Turtle Island, is one of Thailand’s premier diving locations and those willing to make the journey by boat from Samui or Chumporn on the mainland are rewarded with gorgeous beaches, great viewpoints and hospitable locals. If you are a diver, Koh Tao is the perfect destination as it really does have the best diving in the Gulf of Thailand. If you are not a diver then be warned there are lots of divers here and the island can feel a little crowded as there are a lot of small backpacker resorts selling cheap dive packages. The main beaches, Saree and Mae Had are noisy at night and dive boats chug noisily around the island all day. Koh Tao is not for everyone and best suits divers or those looking to revisit their backpacker experiences. The best places to stay is Charm Churee Resort, while serious divers should consider Koh Tao Coral Grand Resort.
Hua Hin, Cha Am and Pranburi On the mainland, Hua Hin and neighboring Cha Am have great family appeal, with a bucket-and-spade atmosphere and plenty to entertain every member of the family. Located just a couple of hours’ drive from Bang-
kok and a long-time favorite with the Thai royal family, Hua Hin is easily accessible, even to those with limited time in the kingdom. A wide choice of hotels, including no less than six five-star hotels, and small independent resorts makes it an attractive destination for a wide range of tourists. Recently Hua Hin has shaken off the sedate seaside town image and taken a cool contemporary feel. Trendy restaurants and cool resorts have sprung up all over the town and the annual Jazz festival has added certain vibrancy.
In Hua Hin there are five or six big five-star hotels, of which our favorites are the Anantara Resort and Aleenta Resort. For those on more of a budget we recommend Baan Talay Dao. In neighboring Cha Am, we like Veranda as it has a great beachfront with a lot of style, and the sophisticated Alila Cha Am.
Koh Samed Also easily accessible from Bangkok is the local’s favorite is the island of Koh Samed. Although just a couple of hours from the capital, Samed has some of the best beaches in Thailand and all the atmosphere of a tropical island escape - it is not too touristy. Hotel choice is not too bad either with the new Paradee Resort at the top of the list and offering real barefoot luxury with its own private paradise beach. We also like Sai Keaw Resort which has great charm although it is fairly basic. Otherwise Ao Prao Resort and neighboring Le Vimarn are good options.
Koh Chang Further east close to the Cambodian border is Koh Chang, Thailand’s third largest island. Although there are no serious luxury resorts here, the Amari Emerald Cove will not disappoint. Koh Chang Paradise Resort is also nice and Aana Resort is one of our favorites even if it is not right on the beach.
A Few Suggestions There are many ways to see Thailand. Take a look through our offerings on the website; let us know what you think and then one of our knowledgeable travel consultants will be pleased to work through you tailormade touring itinerary. Combination tours with other exotic destinations in Southeast Asia
Thailand is an ideal destination to combine with other exotic destinations in the region and Bangkok is a major hub to start your trip to Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam. Do you want to combine Thailand with one of these destinations? Exotissimo Travel has offices in all above mentioned countries and your travel consultant can help you making all arrangements in all these destinations. If you decide to travel to only one of the Exotissimo destinations the travel consultant of that country will be in direct correspondence with you. If
you want to combine destinations the travel consultant of the destination you will arrive first will coordinate all arrangements in all destinations and send just one itinerary and one invoice - it is easy for you to combine! Please don’t hesitate to ask us for any other combinations within different countries- our travel consultant will be happy to assist. We hope that this latest information has given your
some better thoughts about what to do and where to visit and where to stay in Thailand. Thailand is a big country and has plenty of cultural, natural, adventurous and relaxing experiences to offer but new as traditional ones.
Thailand - FAQs AIRLINES International: Major airlines flying to Thailand include Thai Airways, Air France, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Luftansa, Qantas, Singapore Airlines and many more. Domestic: Six domestic airlines are currently operating in Thailand: Thai Airways, Thai AirAsia, Bangkok Airways, Nok Air, One-Two-Go, Orient Thai, PB Air, Phuket Air and Thai Airways. AIRPORT TAX Airport taxes are included in all international and domestic flight tickets. Any additional airport fees are also included so there is no additional payment needed at the airport. ARRIVAL IN THAILAND BY AIR: Bangkok is one of Asia’s largest air hubs, so it is very well-connected to the rest of the world. Besides Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok, the airports in Chiang Mai, Hat Yai, Koh Samui, Phuket and Pattaya
are served by international flights directly. Consult your local travel agent for routings, fares and availability on flights to Thailand. Discount websites and flight search engines may offer some good deals. BY LAND: Thailand shares borders with Myanmar to the north-west, Laos in the north-east, Cambodia to the east and Malaysia to the south. From Laos: The Friendship Bridge across the Mekong River between Vientiane and Nong Khai is the busiest crossing. The Second Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge now links Savannakhet with Mukdahan. It is also possible to cross the borders at Houey Xai / Chiang Khong, Nakaxeng / Kaenthao, Pakxan / Bungkan, Thakhaek / Nakorn Phanom. From Myanmar: Visitors can cross into Thailand from Tachileik to Mae Sai (Chiangrai) and from Kawthoung into Ranong. For the border checkpoints at Mae Sot / Myawaddy and Three Pagoda Pass at Sangkhlaburi / Payathonzu, foreigners can only access them from the Thai side, so it will be impossible to cross into Thailand from Myanmar at these points. From Cambodia: There are six border crossings linking Thailand and
Cambodia. The highway linking Siem Reap and the Angkor temples leads to Aranyaprathet via Poipet and it is a popular crossing. From Malaysia: There are four crossings linking Thailand with Malaysia, namely Padang Besar and Sadao in Songkhla province, Betong in Yala province and Sungai Kolok in Narathiwat province. ARRIVAL FORMALITIES Upon arrival in Thailand, all visitors must complete an entry/exit form including a customs declaration. It is important that your copy of this form is kept safe with your passport while in Thailand and is presented to the customs and immigration officials on departure. In case you are obtaining your pre-arranged visa on arrival please proceed to the Visa counter and read the visa section below. (Note: overland entry procedures change from time to time according to the immigration office) If you have booked a transfer from Exotissimo we will provide you with information on where to meet your guide/driver as well as a 24-hour phone number to be used in case of difficulties. ARRIVAL TRANSFERS FROM EXOTISSIMO Clients that have booked a transfer will be met by an Exotissimo representative holding an EXOTISSIMO or YOUR COMPANY signboard with the client’s group or
name clearly displayed.
BUSINESS HOURS
Please note that Suvarnabhumi is a single terminal airport with THREE entrances from the secure area into the public arrivals hall. Domestic arrivals will enter through Gate A. International arrivals will enter through Gate B or C.
Most businesses are open from Monday to Friday. Government offices are open from 08:30 to 16:30 with some closing for lunch from noon to 13:00. Many retailers and travel agencies are also open on Saturday and most shops are open on Sundays.
After clearing immigration, retrieving baggage and passing through Customs, please continue to the arrivals hall where your guide will be waiting with a sign with your name. Please take the exit which is nearest your luggage belt and turn left. If you do not see your guide in the arrivals hall, please proceed to either ATTA Exit 6 (Association of Thai Travel Agents) or ATTA Exit 10, depending on which is closest. You may ask an ATTA officer to call your guide at their mobile number.
CLOTHING
ATMs ATMs for withdrawing Thai Baht are widely available in major airports, shopping malls, hotels and almost all provincial banks in Thailand. For most banks there is a maximum withdrawal of 20,000 THB per transaction; however several withdrawals may be made in a single day. Ask your tour guide for help when you need to locate an ATM.
Comfortable lightweight clothing in natural fabrics such as cotton is most suitable for traveling in Thailand. The dress code is fairly casual as in most parts of the tropics but it is advisable to cover arms and legs in the evenings against biting insects. A lightweight raincoat is a good idea in the rainy season. During the winter months from November to February, warm clothing is needed for visiting northern Thailand. Visitors should not wear shorts, short skirts or other skimpy clothing when visiting religious buildings and shoes should be removed before entering a private home.
CREDIT CARDS VISA and MASTERCARD are the most widely accepted, but most other major credit cards are also accepted in Thailand. Not all shops and restaurants will accept credit cards, so do check with the cashier before making any purchases. Bear in mind that some places may
pass onto you the fee imposed on them by the credit card company (approximately 2.25% to 3.5%, depending on card type), so you may want to pay by cash instead of credit card in some instances.
ELECTRICITY Thailand uses 220V (50 cycles per second) but the plugs are not standardized. It is recommended to bring a universal plug adaptor.
ENTERTAINMENT There are plenty of entertainment options in Thailand and restaurants/bars and nightclubs open until late at night/early in the morning. A wide variety of restaurants are on offer with everything from Thai, Chinese, Italian, French cuisine, etc. to fast food.
FOOD The basis of a Thai meal is rice, usually steamed although it can be made into noodles, while glutinous or sticky rice is preferred with some specialties. Accompanying the rice are main dishes featuring vegetables, meat, seafood, egg, fish and soup. Although Thais generally prefer hot, spicy food, not all dishes are so intense and there are grades of hotness as Thai food can be modulated to suit most tastes. Thailand is also the
perfect place for a large choice of tropical fruits such as mangoes, pineapple, bananas, longan, mangosteen, jack fruit, as well as the famous durian, dubbed ‘the fruit of the gods’ for its very special smell and taste. We have a ‘Restaurant & Shopping Guide’ which showcases our preferred restaurants and bars in Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket. Feel free to request a copy!
HEALTH No vaccinations are required except for yellow fever if you are coming from an area where the disease is present. However visitors should be inoculated against typhoid, cholera, hepatitis A & B, tetanus and polio. Malaria is present in most of the region and it is advisable to take precautions especially if traveling off the beaten track. The standard of medical facilities is generally good and Thailand has a growing medical tourism industry. It is advisable to take out a good medical insurance policy before traveling in case evacuation is needed.
MONEY The currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). US Dollars and Euros are accepted in many hotels, restaurants and shops. Banks are open Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 05:00 and some on Saturday morning. In the major cities, some exchange offices open long
hours near places frequented by tourists and most hotels will change US Dollars and Euros at very reasonable rates. For everyday expenses, we recommend carrying a mix of US Dollars and VND in cash. For larger items or when the exchange rate works in your favor, use US Dollars. For cyclos, local food stalls and small purchases, it’s best to use VND. In either case, make sure you always have a stock of small notes so that you don’t have to worry about change.
INTERNET Internet cafes are widely available everywhere and are easily found in major towns and cities. Prices are reasonable but may vary from 10 - 60 baht an hour. In many Internet cafés, you can buy pre-paid international phone cards to dial from a computer to a landline or mobile phone worldwide. Most Internet cafés are equipped with webcams, headsets and microphones. Wi-Fi hotspots are becoming increasingly available in hotels and public spaces in Bangkok. Many hotels also have Business Centers with PCs connected to the Internet or in-room broadband access- please note that this service is not always free and the rates are usually cheaper at internet cafes.
LANGUAGE
PHOTOGRAPHY
April 13-15 Songkran Festival, Thai New Year
The most widely spoken language in Thailand is Thai, a complicated language with a unique alphabet. Beside the numerous hill tribe dialects, other languages spoken include Lao, Khmer and Chinese. Most Thai people, especially in the major cities, speak English and tourists should have no troubles with communication in these areas.
Photo developing labs are common in Bangkok and the rest of Thailand, providing normal print films as well as professional quality films (like slide films). Digital photos can easily be downloaded and loaded onto a CD-Rom in case you run out of memory.
MONEY
Postcards are sold at all main tourist sites and stamps are available from post offices and some hotel reception desks. A postcard to Europe costs 15 baht to send and can take up to two weeks to reach the country of destination.
May 17 Visaka Bucha Day
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS 2011
August 12 H.M. Queen’s Birthday
The currency in Thailand is the Baht. Banks, which are open Monday to Friday from 8:30 to 15:30, give the best exchange rates. (Some banks in the central business areas or in department store extend business hours until 18:00) You will receive a better exchange rate in country than overseas so it is advisable to wait until reaching Thailand to exchange your money. At the Bangkok airport arrival area there are banks offering the same rate as you will find in the city center. In tourist areas, there are also currency exchange outlets that stay open later, usually until around 20:00. ATM machines are found throughout the country and most will accept foreign ATM cards. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants and other businesses.
POSTAL MAIL
January 1 New Year’s Day January 3 Substitution New Year’s Day (Saturday 1 January) February 18 Makha Bucha Day April 6 Chakri Day
May 2 Substitution for National Labor Day (Sunday 1 May) May 5 Coronation Day
July 15 Asaraha Bucha Day
October 24 Substitution for Chulalongkorn Day (Sunday 23 October) December 5 King’s Birthday December 12 Substitution for Constitution Day (Saturday 10 December)
December 31 New Year’s Eve
RELIGION Theravada Buddhism is practiced by about 95% of Thais. Every Thai male is expected to become a monk for a short period in his life. There is also a large Muslim minority in Thailand’s four southernmost provinces of Yala, Narathiwat, Pattani and Satun.
SAFETY Thailand is a safe country to visit. As a global rule, never leave your belongings unattended and always maintain eye contact or a firm grip on cameras and shoulder bags. Do beware of scams and touts that remain fairly common in popular tourist destinations. As in any country, demonstrations do occasionally take place however they are usually in isolated areas away from the major tourist sites and has little, if any, affect on travelers.
SHOPPING Textiles are possibly the best buy in Thailand and Thai silk, considered the best in the world, is very inexpensive. The Thai shoulder bags known as yâam are generally well made and come in many varieties, some
woven by hill tribes. Other items to look out for include gems and jewellery, silverware, bronze ware, woodcarvings, lacquerware, celadon pottery, leather goods and tailoring.
TELEPHONE Most hotels have offer international dialing and fax facilities although be warned that these services are expensive in Thailand. The best way to stay in touch is to buy a local SIM Card for your mobile phone at a convenience store. They cost approximately 150 THB and offer international dialing rates as low as 5 THB per minute and free incoming international calls. Internet cafes usually offer cheap web-phone call systems as well, however the quality is often poor.
TIME Thailand is GMT + 7 and does not operate on a daylightsavings system.
TIPPING Tipping for good service is not expected but is always appreciated in Thailand. It is customary, though not compulsory, to tip tour guides and drivers at the end of a tour. Hotel and station porters should also be tipped a small amount for their troubles.
TRANSPORTATION Those possessing a valid International Driving License will be able to rent and drive a car. Road signs and maps are commonly displayed in the English language and international car hire companies such as Avis and Hertz also operate in major tourist destinations such as Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Phuket and Samui Island. It is also easy to rent a car with a driver. Getting around town there are several options. The ubiquitious three-wheeled Tuk Tuks are fun for short transfers while metered taxis offer a nice (and cheap) air-conditioned ride. In Bangkok, the public transportation includes River Boat, a Skytrain and Underground Metro which are easy to use, reasonably priced and link most major tourist areas! A great way to avoid the city’s infamous traffic jams.
VISAS Citizens of 56 different countries can enter Thailand without a visa and be granted a free visa at the airport for a 30-day stay. (NOTE: Most overland arrivals only receive a 15-day visa) Next in length of validity is the tourist visa which is good for 60 days and costs approximately 25 USD, depending on the country of application. Three passport photos must accompany all applications. Please check the Thai Ministry of Foreign
Affairs website for the latest information and full details of your country’s visa agreement: http://www.mfa. go.th/web/2637.php
WEATHER The best time to visit Thailand is from November to February when the weather is dry and the temperatures are not too hot. During these winter months, the temperatures in the far north can drop down to freezing during the evenings, so trekking and camping trips in these areas are not recommended. From March to June, the heat returns with temperatures soaring to over 40 degrees Celsius during the day time. However there is rarely any rain during this time and the humidity is low. Thailand’s rainy season begins toward the end of June and continues until October. During this time the humidity can be stifling as it rains on a daily basis, usually in the afternoon, but it is also the quietest time for travelers meaning hotel prices drop and popular tourist spots are blissfully uncrowded. The Southern Thai beaches are faced with two weather systems which bring the tropical rains at different times of the year, so it’s possible to enjoy Thailand’s beaches year-round. From January to September you can choose a beach on the east coast such as Koh Samui or Koh Phangan where you will have the best chance on sunny and dry weather while from October to April the west
coast, including Phuket, Krabi, Khao Lak, , Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta offers the best chance of getting an all over tan. Some beaches can be visited all year round such as Hua Hin, Koh Samed, and Koh Chang
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