SAFFRON ROBES & BEACH SANDALS

Bangkok is a perfect introduction to Thailand as it offers a bit of everything, from ornate palaces and temples to opulent 21^st-century hotels. See the Grand Palace, former home of the royal family, and marvel at the Emerald Buddha. Enjoy a cruise on the Chao Phraya River, passing by the glittering temple of Wat Arun (the Temple of Dawn) on the waterfront. Feast on a wide range of delicious temptations, from Michelin-starred cuisine to sensational street food, and shop ‘til you drop in designer boutiques and centuries-old floating markets. Your hotel, AriyasomVilla, is set in a timber-framed villa with beautiful interiors and a pool to relax in after your flight.

Kanchanaburi is known for its tragic WWII history. Experience a train ride on the Death Railway, named after the many prisoners of war who died during its creation. See the bridge on the River Kwai, made famous in the book and subsequent film of the same name, and pass through lush green forest. To find out more about the building of the railway, visit the JEATH War Museum and the Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum, where around the area you can still see the remains of the construction of the railway tracks. Imbibe more of the beautiful landscapes in Sai Yok National Park and see the pretty Sai Yok Yai waterfall. There’s also a chance to explore the spectacular rock formations at Lawa Cave, and active types may like to go canoeing or mountain biking. Take a boat ride to the Mon Tribal Village to meet the Mon tribe, watch traditional dancing and sample local specialities. Stay at Dheva Mantra, a colonial-style resort set in pretty gardens, looking out over the mountains.

The next stop is the historic city of Ayutthaya, which was founded in 1350.  Formerly Thailand’s capital and one of Asia’s most significant trading ports, it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Buddhist temple of Wat Chai Wattanaram, which was built by King Prasat Tong, a commoner who overthrew the previous king and took his throne. This is a lovely place to take in the natural beauty and peace of Siam. Another beautiful sight is the Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, a former summer palace for Thai kings, which has been restored to its former glory. Enjoy a tour around the ancient city and its parks, and visit in the evening to see the ruins lit up at night. Your hotel, Sala Ayutthaya, is a stylish oasis beside the Chao Phraya River, with Ayutthaya Historical Park just nearby, and you can enjoy views over the temples. Borrow a bike to head out and explore.

Koh Samet’s beaches of fine white sand, hidden coves and aquamarine waters make it a heavenly spot to relax. Enjoy colourful traditional performances and beach barbecues at sunset, enjoy snorkelling, kayaking or sailing off the coast, or simply find a secluded beach to have all to yourself and soak up the peace and tranquillity.   Luxuriate in your private villa at the Paradee, an exclusive, beautiful island escape sitting on the powdery white sands of Ao Kiew Beach, overlooking the Gulf of Thailand and surrounded by tropical jungle landscapes.