The Land of Lost Hopes and Renewed Dreams - Thailand

For tired minds and active bodies alike, Thailand is a great place that offers unique experiences. One of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia, Thailand has become a cultural hot spot, and for Indian tourists in particular, the country boasts a certain je ne sais quoi. While I dislike cliches, when the time came for me to ‘feed the soul’, I planned a quick trip to the land that continues to enchant millions of tourists every year. Prior to the trip, I was sure of certain aspects: I wanted some alone time, so I avoided popular destinations and booked places through Airbnb that offered an escape from the mundane.

Hyderabad to Phuket, Thailand

I caught a red eye from Hyderabad to Mumbai and then to Phuket towards the end of the first week of September. The flight fares were relatively inexpensive, and I focused on Southern Thailand to be close to nature and away from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok.

I spent the first three days in Phuket, resting and taking trips to Rawai Beach. There are various things you can do in Phuket that you cannot in India. For example, if you are a fan of martial arts, you can go to a Muay Thai event, as these are hosted almost every weekend.

Phuket to Ko Yao Yai

Phuket was merely a sojourn in Thailand. I was already eyeing my next destination; many tourists visit the beguiling Koh Phi Phi islands. However, I wanted to visit the understated Ko Yao Yai and had booked one of the best resorts on the island – the Santhiya Koh Yao Yai resort. After a long drive from Rawai Beach to the Ao Po Grand Marina, I caught a speed boat to Ko Yao Yai.

The breathtaking views from the resort, overlooking the Andaman Sea and the panoramic skyline, soothe and caress your soul.

The resort stretches along the coastline and offers indelible views that captivate and mesmerise even the most ardent sceptic. As the only way to reach the property is through a speed boat arranged by the resort, it is remote and offers complete privacy.

Sunsets along the pier are incredibly scenic, while the resort offers Muay Thai, yoga, and private Thai dance classes.

Ko Yao Yai to Ko Lanta

After spending two highly rewarding days at the resort, my next destination involved two speed boat rides to Koh Lanta. I first had to go to Koh Phi Phi and take another speed boat to reach my destination. Thankfully, the property I booked through Airbnb was right next to the beach; in fact, it had its own private beach.

This unique listing is a glass house along Quiet Beach near Sala Dan Pier, allowing you to take long, quiet walks in the evenings.

As luck would have it, the tides came in on the morning of my last day in Koh Lanta. The waters reached the beach house, offering views and an experience that is impossible to describe.

I had to take a speed boat back to Phuket and spent my last day in Thailand in yet another remote but scenic villa.

Ko Lanta to Phuket

I found yet another hidden gem in Phuket, offering a private villa at an affordable price with a private swimming pool. Ideal for unwinding and relaxing before a long flight back home, the villa provided all the modern amenities you would need. I spent the evening in the pool, enjoying the rustic and quaint scenery.

Phuket to Mumbai, India

I caught the morning flight back to India and landed in Mumbai by the afternoon. From a traditional and cultural standpoint, Thailand, like India, remains steadfast in preserving its identity. You will find traditional architecture, mural artistry, and wooden carvings in various places, while Thailand is also famous for its Buddhist temples. If you want to take in incredible views and indulge in activities such as snorkelling, Thailand is one of the best places in Asia.

You can plan a trip within budget with proper planning and using apps like Grab and Bolt. However, you must know why you want to visit Thailand – to party and experience a unique nightlife, be one with nature, or get away from the crowd and rejuvenate yourself.