4 hidden Thai gems offering enriching experiences away from the crowds
Debbie WardSwitch up Thailand’s most popular resorts for hidden gems that will make your clients fall in love with the destination all over again
Thailand is such a well-loved destination, clients may be inclined to press repeat on their favourite places or think they’ve seen all it has to offer. But, mindful of sustainability and keen to show off lesser-visited areas at WTM London 2024, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has suggestions to entice travellers beyond the hotspots.
Northern Nan
The culture-rich northern city of Nan has a host of eye-popping temples. Your clients can spend a day admiring the beautiful hilltop Wat Phra That Chae Haeng and large golden Buddha at Wat Chang Kham. Recommend visiting Wat Phumin, as this famous temple is guarded by two large nagas – a half-human, half-serpent being – and appears to have been build upon their backs. Inside, visitors will find four Buddha images and impressive murals believed to have been created in the late 19th century. This famous building features a raft of stunning design features, and has even appeared on Thai Bhat banknotes.
The wider province offers sweeping views and eco-experiences. In fact, Nan’s commitment to the Global Sustainable Tourism Criteria (GSTC) has earned it multiple awards.
Part hotel and restaurant, part farm, Cocoa Valley Nan is a dream of an experiential travel resort. Here your clients can try their hands at chocolate making knowing their visit (and tasty purchases) are supporting local employment.
Southern sister
Phuket draws much of Thailand’s beach attention but a little further around Phang Nga Bay, Krabi is a long-established yet still lower-key alternative. Your clients can boat trip into the same epic limestone karst scenery plus enjoy lesser-known attractions like soaking in mineral rich Wari Rak Hot Spring amid jungle scenery.
TAT-certified accommodation includes Dusit Thani Krabi Beach Resort on relaxed Klong Muang beach and the more central Ao Nang Princeville Villa Resort & Spa, which has multiple room types.
Among sustainability-awarded options, clients can relax at Red Ginger Chic Resort, Varana Hotel Krabi or Zeavola on Phi Phi Don Island, which has achieved Travelife Gold certification.
Khanom on the south-eastern coast is home to Ao Khanom, which is the largest bay in the Khanom District, and features a series of beautiful beaches such as Hat Na Dan, Hat Nai Praet and Hat Nai Phlao – which is Khanom’s largest and the most popular beach. If they’re lucky, visitors may spot the unique pink dolphins that swim in the waters here, which are celebrated by numerous statues around the town.
Central cycling
Even the capital has accessible nature. Manmade island Bang Krachao sits in the province of Samut Prakan, an easy day trip from neighbouring Bangkok.
This designated sustainable tourism area can be explored by bike, with visitors stopping to indulge in a Thai massage or learn about local beekeeping and soap-making. It’s a handy place to relax and explore away from the city traffic with activities that support the community.
Eastern escape
Ko Mak, reached by ferry from the town of Trat, is the perfect getaway for those looking to escape the crowds. It may be Thailand’s fourth-largest island, but your clients won’t find bustling nightlife or flashy attractions.
Instead there are coconut groves, rubber plantations, unspoilt beaches and waters inviting snorkelling. Tourism here is centred on community. Days can be spent cycling around the island and stopping to enjoy fresh seafood.
It’s extra good to know Ko Mak was Thailand’s pilot island for waste management and has been internationally awarded for its efforts to become low carbon.
Find out more from the Tourism Authority of Thailand on stand N10-210 at WTM London 5-7 November 2024.
Further information
Find out more about Thailand and stay connected with the Tourism Authority of Thailand:
Website: fanclubthailand.co.uk
Phone: 020 7925 2511
Facebook, Instagram, YouTube & X: @fanclubthailand
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Debbie Ward
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