ELEPHANTS & ISLANDS

Bangkok offers endless attractions round every corner, from sprawling market stalls piled high with colourful wares to grand palaces and temples with huge gold Buddhas. The children certainly won’t be bored here – or hungry either, as there is every variety and style of food on offer, guaranteed to tempt even the most fussy of palates – and you can watch local delicacies being prepared as you explore the characterful streets and winding alleys. 

The Mandarin Oriental is a luxurious haven by the Chao Phraya River in the centre of the city, and provides an ideal base for sightseeing. A cruise along the river is an ideal way to see experience Bangkok, and we recommend venturing further afield on the waterways to see houses on stilts and floating markets. Discover why Bangkok is known as the 'Venice of the East' and travel by boat along the klongs, where as well as the bustling waterways, you can stop off at the Temple of Dawn, and finish off the day with visits to the Grand Palace and the Emerald Buddha. 

For a day with a difference, head to Kidzania, where your children can try out a range of ‘jobs’ and activities in a model city, from policing the streets to learning how to make sushi like a master chef – perfect for budding Jamie Olivers.

The Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Myanmar and Laos meet, has beautiful mountain and rainforest landscapes. The luxurious Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort has an unbeatable (and beautiful) location on a hilltop overlooking the point where three countries and two rivers meet.

Choose from a range of daily activities here, from a day tour in the Golden Triangle, visiting three countries in one day, to exploring the jungle with elephants and their mahouts, helping to bathe them and finding out all about these gentle giants. You can also visit the Hall of Opium Museum, right opposite the hotel, or learn the secrets of Thai cuisine at Anantara's cooking school. Unwind afterwards in the spa and enjoy a gourmet dinner in the restaurant. 

Head to the island of Phuket, where your base for four nights is the elegant Rosewood Phuket, which sits in lush green jungle on the shores of the beautiful Emerald Bay, which has plenty to keep younger members of the family entertained, including a children's pool and arts and crafts activities. 

During your stay here, enjoy a sea canoeing trip around Phang Nga and its national park, where you'll get to canoe around mangrove forests, visit Khao Ping Gun Island, better known as James Bond Island, and explore the island village of Koh Panyee, home to sea gypsies, on a traditional longtail boat. There will also be plenty of time for swimming and relaxation on Naka Island. Return for some delicious pizza in the hotel's Italian restaurant.