Open your mind

For those who are desperate to see the famous sights and hidden treasures of this bustling capital city, but don’t want to miss the joys of exploring paths less travelled (nor objectively epic beaches), a Thailand tour will open eyes, and minds, to it all. In Bangkok, call The Siam home for a few days, a calm urban haven on the banks of Chao Phraya River filled with vintage heirlooms and uniquely-themed, enigmatically-elegant suites and villas. Here, experiences are designed to awaken the senses; join a Muay Thai trainer in the hotel’s boxing ring and explore riverside temples and shrines.

Next: north, to the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar (Burma) collide and where lush plantations, artisan textiles and handcrafted jewellery abound. Retreat, after mountain treks and leisurely river outings on the Ruak and Mekong, to the enchanting Four Seasons Tented Camp; bed down in an inviting king-size bed after a swim in the outdoor pool and sundowners in the tub on your spacious veranda. The charming city of Chiang Mai – although it translates as ‘new city’, it was founded in 1296 – entices and impresses, with its ancient Buddhist temples, cooking classes and museums.

The Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai showcases the landscape around the city – lush greenery, rice terraces and the Suthep Mountains – as well as delighting with delicacies ranging from Peruvian to Indian, two pools, floodlit tennis, yoga classes and bikes for guests to borrow.

Of course, no Thailand-traversing journey can end without sand between one’s toes so, to the province of Krabi for awe-inspiring R&R in the form of karst limestone formations, eerie sea caves and expanses of impossibly soft golden sand. Leave, having jumped feet first into the kingdom’s classic sights and opened your eyes to its myriad of hidden delights.