STEAL THIS TRIP
A dream cultural adventure in Thailand
Planned by Robyn Asia Specialist
Thailand has a long history as a dream travel destination – and, as it maintains its popularity, it’s working hard to make tourism as sustainable as possible.
The crowds may have eroded its character in some spots, but all you need is a bit of planning to seek out the quieter, more serene destinations in Thailand. And you won't need to scrimp on adventure.
The travelers
Jessica got in touch to plan a long overdue trip with her mum, Lyn. When she suggested Thailand, Lyn’s mind went straight to backpacking, and that she didn’t want to sit on a beach for two weeks. It was my job to convince her that there's more to Thailand.
The trip
Jessica and Lyn were seeking a slice of Thailand's pure, natural beauty. So, I built a trip that would get the pair exploring West Thailand in depth – from jungles to islands, beaches to bat caves – rather than spending too much time transferring. Here's a taster of what we planned.
The adventure
Khao Sok National Park – explore a wildlife rich jungle
This national park should be far more famous than it is (but we’re glad it’s not!)
With 739 sqm of protected forests, Khao Sok National Park is thought to be one of the oldest forests on Earth – three times older than the Amazon. It’s insanely rich with wildlife that are on the endangered or vulnerable species list, such as wild Asian elephants, clouded leopards and sun bears.
Paddling across the great lake studded with karsts is the ultimate way to appreciate the scale and beauty of the park, before heading into the thick of the jungle.
The park guides have been introducing people to Khao Sok for decades – and their knowledge and love for the animals is infectious. At the start of an afternoon jungle trek, Jessica and Lyn's guide will say a quick prayer to the jungle’s spirit house before heading into the trees - hunting down waterfalls, visiting bat caves, and, hopefully, glimpsing elephants stomping through.
Meet the elephants in Khao Sok
Elephant Hills is a genuine elephant sanctuary in Khao Sok that is gold standard when it comes to conservation. The elephants are retired from working in industries like logging, or are rescued from unethical tourism. These gentle giants always come first.
Each elephant has a special relationship with their own, dedicated mahout (elephant carer). Seeing this unique bond, especially after learning about the elephants’ difficult pasts, is beautiful.
Now, rather than being forced to perform or join groups, the elephants are given a choice about every interaction they have with humans – and encouraged to behave, as much as possible, as they would in the wild. No elephant rides here.
If they’re lucky, Jessica and Lyn might get a chance to watch the elephants taking a dip – splashing around, throwing water over themselves, and communicating with their mahout in their own unique ways.
Sleep on Cheow Lan Lake
Elephant Hills is also Thailand’s first luxury tented jungle camp – combining a safari camp feel within the tropical evergreen forest of Khao Sok. Tents come complete with comfy beds, canopy-style roofs, and huge windows to look out at the surrounding trees.
After two nights in the jungle, Jessica and Lyn will move from land to water. Another luxury tent on the river Khao provides a cosy space to sleep, and also the opportunity to wake early, get on a canoe, and glide across the waters as the sun rises. They’ll hear elephants shouting, see monkeys popping in and out through the trees, and of course, spot the occasional lizard.
Krabi – retreat into the hot spring spa
In keeping with a chilled trip, the transfer to Krabi is just 1 hr by road.
It’s a popular spot with yes, some backpackers, but Jessica and Lyn will skip the crowds of Ao Nang, retreating to a quieter, coastal hotel.
There are boat trips a-plenty, perfect for exploring this dramatically beautiful coastline by sea. But you can grab a canoe too, to feel more at one with the water. For the adrenaline seekers, there is brilliant rope climbing up the karsts.
Taking advantage of their time together, Jessica and Lyn can pause for an afternoon at the natural hot spring spa behind the Krabi mountains. They’ll treat themselves to a massage in the deep of the forest, soaking in the mineral rich waters.
Ko Lanta - a peaceful coastal spot
Ko Lanta is a gorgeous island that’s a drive and a ferry away from Krabi, which means it’s a lot less trampled by tourist feet!
Instead of the jet skis of Phuket, they’ll hear the call to prayer from the muezzin. Rather than bumping shoulders with the bar-hopping crowds of Ko Pha Ngan, they’re more likely to cross paths with a wandering goat.
Ko Lanta is a great place to dial back on the activities and embrace the slower pace of life. But, as Lyn and Jessica love to explore actively, I imagine they’ll spend as much time in the water as possible – with a chance to spot manta rays, leopard sharks and sea horses. It’s the perfect place for a final day of beach relaxation, sipping their last coconut drink before catching their Krabi flight home.
Meet Robyn
Robyn lived and worked in Thailand for a year, when she spent all her free time exploring every nook and cranny of the islands and beaches, getting to know the warm and compassionate people. Her favorite place is Khao Sok National Park - no wonder it's the first place she sends Jessica and Lyn!
Did you know?
Thai people don’t tend to use chopsticks, as many people believe they do. They favour the fork and spoon, using their fork to scoop and arrange food onto the spoon, which they then transfer to their mouth.
Thailand’s secret power:
Spirit houses are shrines that are believed to house the protective spirits for every building and landmark in Thailand - including the caves and jungle entrances. Thai people pray and make offerings to their spirit houses every day to encourage good fortune at home and in business.
Did you know?
Thai people don’t tend to use chopsticks, as many people believe they do. They favour the fork and spoon, using their fork to scoop and arrange food onto the spoon, which they then transfer to their mouth.
Thailand’s secret power:
Spirit houses are shrines that are believed to house the protective spirits for every building and landmark in Thailand - including the caves and jungle entrances. Thai people pray and make offerings to their spirit houses every day to encourage good fortune at home and in business.