Thailand attracted one million British tourists in 2025, fueling a record 10 million long-haul visitors amid the buzz from shows like ‘White Lotus.’ Popular destinations such as Phuket, Koh Samui, Chiang Mai, and the Phi Phi islands draw massive crowds, but the country’s vast landscapes offer serene alternatives for a peaceful getaway.
Khao Lak: Tranquil Beaches Near Phuket
A mere 90-minute drive north of Phuket airport, Khao Lak delivers pristine white-sand beaches lined with palm trees and backed by the Andaman Sea. Development remains low-key across expansive areas, keeping beaches uncrowded even during peak season. Families and relaxation seekers favor this accessible yet remote paradise, complete with a quaint town and night market for downtime after exploring elsewhere.
Where to Stay
Nestled between a lagoon and the sea, Devasom Khao Lak offers 69 luxurious rooms with sea views, balconies, and outdoor tubs. Opt for beachfront pool villas featuring private pools, living areas, and outdoor showers steps from the water. Amenities include an infinity pool, gym, restaurants, spa, library, bar, and trips to Similan Islands or Khao Sok National Park.
Khao Yai National Park: Nature’s Retreat from Bangkok
Thailand’s oldest national park, just two to three hours north of Bangkok, spans over 2,000 square kilometers with hiking trails through dense forests, grasslands, and waterfalls like the 20-meter Haew Suwat from ‘The Beach.’ Few international visitors explore here, making it an ideal urban escape. Nearby, vineyards, organic farms such as Tawe Farm & Café, and the open-air Khao Yai Art Forest add cultural appeal.
Where to Stay
The InterContinental Khao Yai, themed around a historic railway depot by designer Bill Bensley, features ticket-office-style reception and rooms in vintage rail carriages. Enjoy the Poirot railcar restaurant, heated pool, and lakeside paths. For a vineyard stay, GranMonte—led by winemaker Nikki Lohitnavy—offers winery tours, cycling, local produce tastings, and six cozy bedrooms amid vines, plus flavorful salads and curries at its restaurant.
Golden Triangle: Adventure in the North
Travel north to the Golden Triangle, where Thailand meets Laos and Myanmar along the Mekong River, for stunning views across borders. This culturally vibrant region boasts river cruises, hikes, elephant sanctuaries, temples, and bold cuisine like spicy larb salads and fermented pork sausages.
Where to Stay
The Four Seasons Tented Camp provides 15 luxurious jungle tents with antiques, teak furnishings, and river-view tubs overlooking Myanmar. It partners with the Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation to shelter rescued elephants. Highlights include an outdoor spa, pool, Northern Thai-Burmese dining, and activities like hiking and local weaving workshops.
Koh Yao Yai: Undeveloped Island Bliss
Just a 40-minute ferry from Phuket, spacious Koh Yao Yai remains remarkably untouched. Rent a scooter to roam rubber farms and villages, ending at beach shacks for fresh fish and lobster. Beaches vary with tides, suiting low-key explorers over beach purists.
Where to Stay
Anantara Koh Yao Yai, opened in 2023, harmonizes with its semi-private beach setting. Choose from lagoon-view pool villas, family pools with slides, penthouses, or beach hideaways. Facilities feature a spa, pools, gym, and restaurants serving Thai fare, seafood, and sushi, plus Phang Nga Bay boat trips and island cycling.
Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat): Isan’s Foodie Gateway
As the entry to Isan near Khao Yai, Nakhon Ratchasima—or Korat—sees few tourists but excels in authentic Isan cuisine, including Michelin Bib Gourmand spots. The RN Yard night market immerses visitors in local specialties amid friendly locals, despite limited English.
Where to Stay
Centara Korat offers modern rooms and a rooftop pool, linked to Central Mall for shopping. A standout breakfast buffet rotates local dishes, even featuring a Michelin partner one day.
Natai Beach: Quick Phuket Alternative
Only 30 minutes north of Phuket airport, Natai Beach stretches 10 kilometers of pristine sand and turquoise waters, dotted with boutique luxury stays but no high-rises or bars. Nearby Khok Kloi provides dining; Phuket’s old town lies an hour away for more action.
Where to Stay
Iniala Beach House limits to 10 suites on flawless sands, from three-bedroom villas to a penthouse and pool residences. Savor Michelin-starred tasting menus at Aulis by Simon Rogan, highlighting Thai wagyu, local fish, and Katian Farm produce. Anaalā beach barbecue by Ian Kittichai serves fresh Thai seafood.
