Travel Diary: Bangkok Bliss

Bangkok Bliss: A Honeymoon Journey Through Thailand

Location: Thailand (Bangkok, Koh Samui and Chiang Mai)

Name of Reader Submitting: Sarah Schmidt

Who Went: My husband, Thomas and I

Hotel Recommendations:

Bangkok: SO/Bangkok offers chic, modern luxury with stunning skyline views and the most impressive breakfast buffet we’ve ever seen.

Koh Samui: Royal Muang Samui Villas is nestled in a breathtaking crystal-clear cove with a pristine white sand beach, making it the ultimate island escape. Our private villa came with its own pool, adding an extra layer of luxury and seclusion that made our stay even more special.

Chiang Mai: Rachamankha is the epitome of refined elegance. This quiet, family run and owned luxurious retreat in the heart of the city feels like stepping into a world of timeless sophistication. The serene courtyards, traditional Lanna architecture, and impeccable service make it a haven for those seeking tranquility.

Where to Eat:

One of the absolute musts in Thailand is the street food - it’s what the country is known for! The best meals we had weren’t in fancy restaurants but from sizzling woks on bustling sidewalks, where the aromas of garlic, chilies, and fresh herbs filled the air. The best way to experience it all? A guided food tour! Locals know the hidden gems, the stalls with the longest-standing reputations, and the must-try dishes unique to each city. We mostly ate street food, and it was nothing short of amazing.

Bangkok: For a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience, Gaggan Anand takes you on a 24-course journey of playful, artistic, and boundary-pushing dishes that redefine Thai and international cuisine. Thipsamai is legendary for its pad Thai.

Koh Samui: Fisherman’s Village is the place to go for beachfront dining with a mix of Thai and international options. We had everything from local curries to wood-fired pizza!

Chiang Mai: Blackitch offers an intimate farm-to-table dining experience with a seasonal, 14-course menu that is both creative and delicious. For a true taste of Northern Thailand, Khao Soi Khun Yai serves the best khao soi - Chiang Mai’s signature curry noodle dish - but get there early before they sell out!

Favorite Historic Landmark:

Our exploration of Thailand’s magnificent and historic Buddhist temples was a definite highlight of our trip. In Bangkok, the Emerald Buddha at Wat Phra Kaew within the Grand Palace is a revered figure, carved from a single block of jade and adorned in gold garments, set the tone for our temple adventures. Each subsequent temple we visited was so unique, with its own story and beauty. Exploring these sacred and historic spaces is an absolute must for anyone hoping to truly understand Thai culture. Then there was Wat Pho, home to the massive Reclining Buddha – that golden statue was absolutely awe-inspiring! Up in Chiang Mai, we explored Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, perched on a mountaintop with breathtaking panoramic views. And further north in Chiang Rai, the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) was a surreal and unforgettable experience, while the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten) captivated us with its vibrant and modern artistic style.

Favorite Local Attraction:

Elephant Freedom Village in Chiang Mai completely stole our hearts - this was hands down our favorite experience of the entire trip. The village is run by a local family that has been caring for elephants for generations, and their love and dedication to these gentle giants was truly inspiring. What made this experience so special was the intimacy of it all. There were only four of us, and we got to spend the entire day with just seven elephants, trekking openly through the jungle right beside them. No chains, no barriers - just us, the elephants, and the wild beauty of northern Thailand. We stopped for a homemade lunch in a treehouse overlooking the forest. Plunging into the river with the elephants! Watching them splash and play while we waded and scrubbed them clean was absolutely surreal. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that left us in awe.

A Great Experience Off the Beaten Path:

Our private sailing yacht trip around Koh Phangan felt like something out of a dream. We snorkeled in a secluded private cove, surrounded by crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. As we lounged on deck, we were served handcrafted cocktails, and to top it all off, our Italian captain prepared a homemade multi-course meal right on board - it was beyond delicious! We even got to take part in putting up the sail, which made the experience feel even more immersive and special. It was the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and luxury!

Worth the Splurge:

If there’s one thing we’d absolutely splurge on again, it’s personalized private or small group tours. Having a knowledgeable guide made all the difference - they knew the best local spots, helped us navigate cultural nuances, and shared insights we never would have discovered on our own. These experiences felt effortless, allowing us to be fully present and soak in every moment.

Were there any language barriers, and how did you navigate them?:

There were some minor language barriers, but they never became an issue. Most people we encountered, especially in tourist areas, spoke enough English for basic communication, and everyone was incredibly kind and patient. We also made an effort to learn a few key Thai phrases, which locals always appreciated. When words failed, we relied on Google Translate and simply pointing - especially at street food stalls where menus weren’t always in English.

We Would Suggest this Trip to Others Because:

Thailand is one of the most affordable destinations once you arrive, making it easy to experience luxury, adventure, and incredible food without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking for bustling cities, serene beaches, rich history, thrilling outdoor activities, or world-class street food, Thailand has something for everyone. We wanted a destination that had a perfect balance of adventure, culture, and relaxation, and Thailand delivered in every way.