Kaeng Krachan

Thailand

One of UNESCO’s newest World Heritage sites, Kaeng Krachan was inscribed in 2021 and presents a very unique biosphere located at the intersection of the Himalayan, Indochinese and Sumatran floral and faunal regions. Translation: lots and lots of rare animals, plants and scenery more than worthy of UNESCO protection and bragging rights exploration and viewing. Biodiverse (to say the least) and a bit out-of-the-box in Thailand’s fun-loving tourism zeitgeist, this park may single-handedly represent a new impetus to return to the peninsula, albeit for a much more naturalistic reason. Besides, being on a boat in the Gulf of Thailand? You’re already going to get in plenty of fun. Northrop & Johnson can help organize an approved, low-impact tour of the site along with all your other excursions.

Where to berth

South of Bangkok’s swirling metropolis and about an hour’s drive toward the coast from Kaeng Krachan, the beach town of Hua Hin has earned the reputation as Thailand’s “Hamptons,” if you will, and Racer Marina is the only game in town as the west coast of the Gulf’s only fully equipped yacht facility. 12.4077° N 99.9778° E

Overnight luxury

The legend of Chiva-Som should be fairly familiar to globetrotting sybarites. Just a casual stroll down Hua Hin’s gorgeous beach, the laid-back pavilions and accommodations here comprise one of the world’s most preeminent spa and fitness retreats, bar none. chivasom.com

Valletta

Malta

The fortified city of Valletta was granted UNESCO World Heritage status in 1980. Founded in the 16th century by the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, this “perfect” defensible seaside city has undergone very little alteration to its urban fabric and architecture. In fact, the entire island of Malta is generally an under-the-radar Mediterranean destination; all the better for those who discover and ultimately fall in love with it. In addition to Valletta’s scenic and historical imports, Malta is also home to some of Europe’s oldest Megalithic (some argue Neolithic, in fact) sites. And, of course, to counter your educational input, you can expect some of the Mediterranean’s best cuisine accompanied by exquisite beaches and water activities, given its unique location. Speaking of location, with Sicily and mainland Italy within easy striking distance, it is a perfect base of operations for waterborne Southern Mediterranean exploration in general.

Where to berth

The 250-plus berth Marina Di Valletta is the island’s premiere yacht facility, offering state-of-the-art amenities and services right in the shadows of the city’s antiquated walls and fortifications.

35.8943° N, 14.4986° E

Overnight luxury

A Leading Hotels of the World Property, The Phoenicia Malta defines an unmatched stay. Located amid tranquil gardens at the foot of Valletta’s ancient piazza, The Phoenicia guarantees a most welcome and luxurious experience. phoeniciamalta.com