Location: Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, Koh Samui, Thailand
Thailand will seduce you with its tempting tapestry of unsurpassed natural wonders, delicious cuisine, spiritual people and vibrant scenery. Couples honeymooning here should consider themselves very lucky, as this destination offers attractive diversions for every interest. Here you’ll find everything from glittering temples—known as wats—to elephant rides, beautiful beaches, jaw-dropping waterfalls, spectacular shopping, and of course, the Thai massage.
The cultural and commercial center of Thailand, Bangkok is known for Asian adventures, royal palaces and its shopping. Even if you don’t choose to stay at the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, which has hosted everyone from royalty to movie stars and famous writers, it is worth a visit. Offering legendary Author Suites, classes in Thai culture and a renowned cooking school, you might learn to make Pad See Ew, considered the ultimate comfort food, made with soft noodles and sweet black soy sauce.
Location: Aleenta Phuket, Phang Nga Resort and Spa, Phuket, Thailand
Located in the Gulf of Siam, Koh Samui is where you can snorkel, kayak and dive to your heart’s content. Be sure to visit the island’s most famous landmark, Big Buddha, but remember it’s forbidden to take any pictures. Accommodations are unparalleled at the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, whose impeccable service includes complimentary use of kayaks, boogie boards and paddle boards. Looking for something more contemporary? The W Retreat Koh Samui features ultra chic décor paired with their R&R&R&R philosophy: rest, relaxation, rejuvenation and revitalization. Another great choice for your stay is the more holistic Banyan Tree Koh Samui nestled cliffside overlooking Lamai Bay.
The oldest resort area in the country, Hua Hin is known as “Thailand’s Riviera.” Famous for its white-sand beaches, championship golf and luxury hotels, monastery-style AKA Resort Guti Hua Hin is comprised of luxurious accommodations, most of which have their own private pool. If you can steal yourself away, take a day trip to the royal summer residence known as Phra Ram Ratchaniwet near Phetchaburi.
Location: Aleenta Phuket, Phang Nga Resort and Spa, Phuket, Thailand
An island paradise, Phuket is blessed with golden sunsets, turquoise seas and warm sunny weather. Boasting the best beaches on the west coast, along with great nightlife and fine dining, Phuket is a favorite among international travelers. Don’t miss elephant trekking through the jungle thanks to Siam Safari Nature Tours. Consider staying at the Banyan Tree Phuket, cruising on its long-tail Sanya Rak boat where you will savor a sensational dinner while basking in views of the lagoon; it’s quite the enchanted evening. A well-kept secret to the area, and home of Aleenta Phuket, Phang Nga Resort and Spa, is Natai Beach. Known for its incredible sunsets, this resort was just awarded the title of Thailand’s Best Small Green Resort.
Located at the mouth of the Krabi river, the area known as Krabi features cozy coves, fishing villages and sandy beaches. Book your room at the five-star Rayavadee Krabi and be sure to try its Honeymoon Spa Treatment: a blissful bath, massage and facial.
Location: Rayavadee Krabi, Krabi, Thailand
What is the high point at Koh Phangan you ask? First, stay at the world-class Santhiya Koh Phangan Resort and Spa. Then, go diving at spots like Sail Rock and Ang Thong National Marine Park. You’ll be lured by the underwater spectacle, as well as the waterfalls and beaches.
The largest and most culturally-significant city in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai has more than 700 wats worth seeing, such as the famous Wat Chedi Luang. Here, take a rafting day trip, visit the eight-tiered Mae Sa waterfall, or the umbrella-making village of Sankampaeng. Then be sure to visit the night bazaar before retiring to your room at the Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi, Chiang Mai. Located within the Lanna Kingdom, the resort itself is designed to mimic a wat and is surrounded by paddy fields and exotic plantations spread over its 60 acres.
Location: Banyan Tree Phuket, Phuket, Thailand
Last, but not least, couples should beware that in Thailand, kissing and public displays of affection are frowned upon, so keep your passion alive in the privacy of your hotel room.
> Written by Debbi K. Kickham
