THAILAND – Idyllic Island Retreats

Thailand takes hold of even the most seasoned traveler’s imagination.    The cities of Bangkok and Chiang Mai are the stuff of legends, where ornate temples, floating markets and bustling night bazaars converge but you will also find a wealth of options off the mainland’s shimmering shores.  The islands of the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Siam serve as utopian beach outposts framed by the iconic limestone massifs, hidden lagoons dotted with long tail boats and pristine coral reefs.  I will highlight three of Thailand’s finest island getaways, including ultra-luxurious lodgings that stand out among the rest.

Phuket is Thailand’s largest island, and my favorite.  It is home to some of the most glorious beaches on earth, along with Michelin starred restaurants and five star hotels.  A shining example of this resplendent indulgence is the luxury boutique hotel Trisara set over a serene bay along the island’s northwest coast.   In Ocean Front Pool Villa No. 407, situated on the beach front and nestled in a secluded garden, you can take a dip in your private infinity pool while your personal chef prepares your lunch or luxuriate in your pedestal tub surrounded by verdant gardens.   For supreme pampering, enjoy the signature six handed Royal Trisara massage, which involves three therapists kneading your muscles in tandem – head to toe – at Trisara Spa.

To get a sense of the sheer magnitude of the Limestone cliffs jutting majestically out of the emerald green horizon, take a private helicopter fight over the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Phang Nga Bay Marine National Park or, charter a yacht in the late afternoon for a romantic sunset sail through these sublime waters.  Phuket serves as an epicenter for world class underwater exploration.  Enjoy year round crystal clear waters surrounding Racha Yai and Noi Islands, just off Phuket’s main diving port. Chalong Bay.   Or, drop anchor at Shark Point, Anemone Reef and the King Cruiser wreck for some world class diving, teaming with lionfish, wrasses, eels and the beautiful non-aggressive leopard shark, without venturing too far from shore.

For a little cultural immersion, head to Old Phuket Town to meander along Dibuk and Krabi roads lined with 100 year old shop houses and Simo-Colonial mansions.   In Phuket’s most famous beach towns of Patong get ring side seats for a Muay Thai, Thai kickboxing, the country’s national sport.  Shop in bustling Bangla Road or step up the beach pace with an evening of dining and dancing at one of the town’s lively ventures.    We always have clothes made when we are there; fantastic prices and they do a wonderful job.   Another great buy was jade, which I bought from the sea gypsies at one of their floating villages.   On my last trip I got some very unusual lavender jade items.

Koh Samui - Located in the Gulf of Siam, approximately 50 miles from the mainland’s southern coast, the coconut palm strewn Koh Samui is Thailand’s second largest island, yet it can be seen around in less than an hour.   Setoff on a motor scooter to explore the 32 miles of coastline.   Two great beaches are Chaweng and Lamai.  Go visit a butterfly farm in the jungle interior or the Secret Buddha Garden nestled atop Tai Nim Waterfall peak.   Bi Buddha, a 40 foot tall golden status in the posture of purity and enlightenment, is less of a secret at Koh Samui’s most sacred monument.   Pay a visit to the temple at dawn as monks make their offerings.

Another utopian hillside hideaway is Napasai by Orient Express.   Nestle into a beachfront villa suite where a scattering of fresh flower petals lead you into the warm teak contemporary interiors.  While seeking Chai yen (Thai iced tea) on your private terrace, you will likely spot a herd of water buffalo ambling amid the cashew trees, heightening this exotic experience even more.    A visit to Koh Samui would be remiss without a stop to Ang Thong National Marine Park, an archipelago of 42 small islands.

I recommend two or three nights in Bangkok.  My favorite hotel is the Mandarin Oriental - I absolutely love the lobby with its magnificent teak lanterns.

This is a wonderful destination for a honeymoon.

Maureen Jones is president of All Horizons Travel  at 160 Main Street. Members of her staff are experts in business travel, cruises, and all types of leisure.