Thailand is often painted with a brush of postcard beaches, vibrant street food, and temple-filled skylines. But for the discerning traveller, this jewel of Southeast Asia reveals far more beneath the surface. If you thought you knew Thailand, think again. Behind the smile of the Land of Smiles lies a world of exclusivity, prestige, and opulence - perfect for those who are seeking something beyond the ordinary.
Whether you're exploring royal retreats, enjoying jungle canopy dining, or surrendering to a wellness sanctuary hidden amongst lush hills, these are the ten things you didn't know about Thailand.
1. You Can Sleep on a Private Cove in Koh Samui
Thailand's luxury isn't merely found in exquisite interiors-it's woven into the natural settings that surround them.
Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui is set on a secluded cove, where each private villa features its own infinity pool and sweeping views over the Gulf of Thailand. Here, swaying palms and turquoise waters create the backdrop for tailored dining experiences, yacht charters, and tropical spa therapies.
![Outdoor Dining at Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui]()
Outdoor Dining at Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui
![One Bedroom Pool Villa at Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui]()
One Bedroom Pool Villa at Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui
2. The Royal Coastal Town of Hua Hin Has a Regal Past
Often overlooked in favour of Thailand's better-known islands,
Hua Hin is a coastal haven with a rich royal legacy. It was King Rama VII who built the Klai Kangwon Palace-'Far from Worries'-as a royal retreat.
This elegant summer residence, with its Spanish-style architecture and lush gardens, quickly established Hua Hin as a favoured getaway for the Thai monarchy and aristocracy. The serene atmosphere and beautiful seaside location offered a tranquil escape from the bustle of
Bangkok, cementing Hua Hin's status as Thailand's original royal resort town.
3. Street Food Is Michelin-Worthy (And World-Renowned)
In Bangkok, culinary luxury doesn't always come served on white linen. The city's vibrant street food scene offers some of the most authentic and celebrated gastronomic experiences globally.
For discerning travellers seeking a truly authentic
gourmet adventure in Thailand, exploring these world-renowned street food stalls is a must. Guests staying at
The Siam, a luxury boutique riverside hotel in Bangkok that oozes Art Deco elegance, will find this unparalleled culinary journey just a private boat ride away. Discover for yourself why Bangkok's street food is not just delicious, but a Michelin-worthy cultural highlight.
4. Thailand's Elephant Camps Offer Ethical Five-Star Encounters
Thailand's modern elephant sanctuaries are redefining
luxury wildlife travel, prioritising both conservation and unforgettable guest experiences. Gone are the days of unethical interactions; today's top resorts offer five-star elephant encounters rooted in welfare and respect.
A perfect example is the
Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort in
Chiang Rai. Here, guests can immerse themselves in nature by spending the night in transparent 'Jungle Bubbles', gazing at the stars as rescued elephants roam freely nearby. This unique offering provides a one-of-a-kind fusion of elephant conservation, secluded indulgence, and truly ethical wildlife tourism in Thailand. Experience luxury travel with a conscience, directly contributing to the well-being of these magnificent creatures.
![Jungle Bubbles at Dusk at Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort]()
Jungle Bubbles at Dusk at Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort
![Elephant experience at Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle]()
Elephant experience at Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle
5. There Are Over 35,000 Temples in Thailand
While Thailand is known as the 'Land of Smiles', it could just as easily be known as the 'Land of Temples'. With over 35,000 temples scattered across the country, each one tells a story of its own and showcases the rich culture heritage and spiritual significance of Buddhism in Thai society.
From the iconic Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok, which houses the revered Emerald Buddha, to the serene Wat Pho, known for its impressive reclining Buddha statue, each temple offers a unique glimpse into Thailand's history. From northern Thailand to Hua Hin, you can expect to see temples wherever you go. These religious buildings come in all shapes and sizes, an you could easily spend your entire trip exploring these sacred sites. .
6. Thailand's Most Elite Spa Escapes Are Tucked Away in Tranquillity
![Thailand massage]()
Thailand massage
![Thai Massage at Chiva-Som]()
Thai Massage at Chiva-Som
7. You Can Dine in a Jungle Pod Suspended in the Trees
Dining among the treetops is not just a fantasy in Thailand-it's an elevated reality. Treepod dining, available at a handful of luxury resorts, offers a gourmet meal served in a bamboo pod hoisted high into the rainforest canopy. With views of waterfalls, jungle canopies, and exotic birds, it's a dining experience designed for true adventurers with refined tastes.
8. Private Pool Villas Aren't Just for the Beach
While
Thailand's stunning coastline is widely celebrated for its luxurious beachfront villas, the country's enchanting inland regions offer an equally opulent escape. Discerning travellers can discover incredible private pool villas nestled amidst serene landscapes, far from the bustling shorelines.
At
Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, guests are treated to villas set among emerald rice fields, with sweeping mountain views and private plunge pools. Here, tranquillity and culture go hand in hand, whether you're cooking traditional Thai dishes or relaxing with open-air spa treatments. Why not experience a luxury inland holiday that offers a different, yet equally magnificent, side of Thailand?
9. Thailand's Islands Offer Seclusion and Sustainability
For the ultimate escape, Thailand's picturesque islands offer unparalleled seclusion and luxury, often with a strong focus on sustainability. Here, privacy reaches its peak, allowing guests to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in nature's beauty.
A prime example is
Six Senses Yao Noi, a multi-award-winning resort nestled within the breathtaking Phang Nga archipelago. This luxurious retreat provides a truly secluded experience in stunning villas crafted from sustainable materials, offering panoramic views of the iconic limestone karsts. Guests can expect impeccable service, including personal butlers, alongside exquisite organic cuisine and expertly curated wellness experiences. It's the quintessential setting for an unforgettable barefoot luxury holiday in Thailand, where indulgence meets environmental consciousness.
![The View of Six Senses Yao Noi]()
Six Senses Yao Noi
![Sunrise over the beach]()
Sunrise over the beach
10. Thailand's Festivals Can Be Celebrated in VIP Style
Experiencing Thailand's iconic festivals-like the floating lanterns of Yi Peng or the illuminated boats of Loy Krathong-needn't mean braving the crowds. Whether it's the vibrant celebrations in
Phuket or the enchanting spectacles of
Chiang Mai, with Elegant Resorts, you can enjoy these cultural events from the comfort of a private boat, a boutique rooftop, or with your own local guide. It's immersive, respectful, and entirely unforgettable.