Thailand is a tourism destination that’s famous for igniting passion. Here couples have the utmost sense of freedom, with options for romance and relaxation that are endless. Whether it’s lounging on beaches, crossing wilderness or spiritual journeys, there’s something for everyone. Exotic scenery from lush mountains to ocean allow lovers to rediscover seclusion and intimacy.
By Wanida Tardivel & www.luxurysocietyasia.com team
So if you’re looking for somewhere to pop the question, or somewhere to celebrate after saying “I do”, here are some of the most exhilarating activities in destinations around the Land of Smiles:
Wining and dining in Bangkok
Big city life does not get much better than Thailand’s capital, where lovebirds can revel in the excitement of nightlife, gastronomic fine dining and more. Bangkok is home to Asia’s best restaurant on the acclaimed San Pellegrino list, Gaggan. The ultimate hotel for a good party, Bangkok’s premiere clubs, Rooftop bars like Sky Bar at Lebua and Vertigo Bar at Banyan Tree are the perfect setting for romance, while those who are looking for a more underground and intimate experience might check out J. Boroski Mixology – a secret bar (that’s still easy to find) where no two cocktails are made the same.
Scuba diving in the Similan Islands
This archipelago of nine islands is renowned as Thailand’s ultimate spot for scuba diving. Palmy, white beaches give way to calm turquoise waters throughout this national park. Couples start off by sharing the experience of completing a PADI scuba diving course togethe. Plenty of dive companies on Phuket and Khao Lak offer overnight trips around the islands, sleeping on liveboard diving boats. Sunrise Divers in Phuket, for example, offers a unique night dive experience, starting with a romantic sunset over the water. Watching the exotic nocturnal fish come out to play is extraordinary.
Water sports in Phuket
For couples that are into an adrenaline rush, hitting the water in Thailand will be an experience that brings you closer. Phuket has a wealth of options for those interested in aquatic adventure, from jet skiing to wakeboarding, kite surfing, windsurfing, water skiing and more. Luxury hotels have tour operators they work with closely to provide such activities, and conveniently coordinate pick-ups and drop-offs at your leisure. Anthem Wakepark and Phuket Water Ski Cable Way are both popular spots for getting some H2O action.
Detox retreat in Hua Hin
There’s no better way to become closer to a loved one then kicking back and indulging in health for the mind, body and soul. Hua Hin, only two hours from Bangkok, is home to Chiva Som International Health Resort, Thailand’s foremost detox and wellness retreat. This renowned resort offers comprehensive cleansing programs and tasty spa cuisine to awaken and invigorate the senses. Couples can embark on a romantic journey towards being in better shape in bespoke pavilion-style villas with a private garden and Jacuzzi.
Sailing and speedboating in Phang Nga Bay
Located in the heart of the Andaman Sea, between Phuket, Phang Nga and Krabi, this bay is a wonder for sailing and speedboating. There’s much to explore including tiny, uninhabited islands and limestone rock formations that seem to defy gravity. The area is also known for hongs – open-air caves, from the Thai word for room. Couples can charter a boat and a guide from various companies, and hit the water for an adventure of their own choosing – jumping off the boat to explores hongs, islands and other scenery purely at their leisure.
Trekking in Chiang Rai
Near to the Golden Triangle, this northern town is the perfect base for discovering the Thai jungle. Local Alike (Travel Social Enterprise) and Thailand Hilltribe Holidays are both socially sustainable tour companies offering trekking tours to hill tribe villages. The Four Seasons Tented Camp is a luxury resort known for providing an unbeatable “glamping” experience. Guests sleep in luxuriously furnished deluxe tents, and can enjoy elephant trekking followed by holistic spa treatments in the resort’s open-air jungle sala.
Yoga retreat in Koh Samui
Koh Samui’s praised for having some of the most lavish yoga retreats in the entire world. Samahita is a luxury resort that does balanced wellness programs for couples, combining detox, relaxation and meditation during the day to give way to passion at night. Kamalaya is a hidden-away resort bursting with good energy – it’s located next to a cave that was once a meditation temple for Buddhist monks. It offers a couples retreat that’s perfect for a honeymoon getaway, guaranteed to shed all the stress that builds up during a wedding. Conrad Koh Samui is one of great resort’s facilities for couple.
Camping in Khao Yai National Park
This national park is becoming a major up-and-coming destination in Thailand, especially for couples seeking a memorable escape into fresh mountain air. The park is known for its waterfalls, exotic and vibrant flora and fauna, and wild animals from elephants to gibbons. Kirimaya and Muthi Maya are both rustic boutique hotels offering reprieve after the camping experience are over. A golf course, spa and fine-dining restaurants are just a few of the amenities that guests can look forward to.
Sailing, Kayaking in Krabi
This beautiful island in southern Thailand is best discovered with a paddle and kayak. Here you can find impressive limestone rock karsts and sceneries that vary from flat rice paddies to unruly primeval forest. Kayaking routes dip in and around lagoons and hidden inlets covered in mangroves, and paddling is easy to pick up with no experience at all. Your Krabi is a local tour group that offers kayak trips paired with sunset BBQ dinners and stop
Horseback riding in Chiang Mai
Northern Thailand’s jungles make for a fantastic romantic escape, with lush greenery and plenty of seclusion to explore. For over a decade, Thai Horse Farm has been offering horseback jungle treks in the Sri Lanna National Park. It’s a thrilling, unforgettable experience for first-time riders and seasoned pros alike. The horses allow access to trails off the beaten track, and couples can get away from it all on a private camping tour of just a day to a number of weeks.