Planning the Perfect Getaway
Every year, my family and I carve out time to explore new destinations, both as a couple and with our kids. There’s something truly refreshing about stepping out of the daily grind and immersing ourselves in a place we’ve never been before. This year, a spin of the globe landed us in Thailand, our next exciting destination! We dove into the planning process with enthusiasm, scouring YouTube videos and reading countless travel reviews on Trip Advisor. With my husband’s limited vacation days as a nurse, we decided to focus on three key locations in the lower part of the country.
The Vibrant Streets of Bangkok
Our adventure began in Bangkok, where we embraced the city’s energetic pace. We zipped through the bustling streets on tuk tuks, marveling at the grandeur of the temples and empires. Street food became a delightful daily ritual—I even braved a scorpion on a stick! We stayed at the charming ibis Styles Bangkok Khaosan Viengtai, a boutique hotel perfectly situated in the heart of the action. Despite initial concerns, we had no issues with language barriers. We made a point to learn some basic phrases, which the locals greatly appreciated, though many spoke English fluently.
Tranquility in the Kanchanaburi Rainforest
After the city’s vibrant chaos, we sought tranquility in the Kanchanaburi rainforest, just north of Bangkok. A long boat ride down the River Kwai brought us to our next stop—a floating resort. The Floating House Resort was a paradise of natural beauty, with the sounds of the rainforest and river creating a serene backdrop. My mornings on the private dock, coffee in hand, were a favorite. The kids loved the swing on the dock, and we all enjoyed floating down the river. While the idea of swimming in the black water was initially intimidating, it turned out to be a thrilling adventure. We also explored the area with a travel guide, visiting stunning waterfalls and hiking through the lush landscape. The highlight for the kids was our visit to the Elephant Sanctuary, where we fed and walked with the gentle giants through the jungle, ending with them bathing in the river—a truly peaceful experience.
Beach Bliss at Centara Grand, Krabi
Our final destination took us to the coast, where we indulged in beach time at the Centara Grand Beach Resort in Krabi, Thailand. Accessible by boat from Nopparat Thara Pier, this secluded retreat was a dream. The resort, nestled in a private bay framed by limestone cliffs, offered breathtaking sunsets. To reach the nearby town, we hiked a monkey trail, with playful primates swinging above us. Ao Nang, the town at the end of the trail, featured nightly outdoor vendors offering delicious street food and crafts. We savored dishes like pad Thai, Pa Thong Ko (donut holes), and chicken satay kabobs, while the kids delighted in sipping fresh coconut water. The adults enjoyed local Chang beer. A long boat excursion took us to nearby islands, where the clear, warm waters of the Emerald Sea invited us to swim and snorkel. Hong Island was a standout, with its pristine beauty and freedom to explore. Back at the resort, the kids had a blast at the beachfront pool, and we ended the day with a buffet dinner under the stars and birthday cake in our room—an unforgettable celebration during spring break.
Reflecting on a Trip to Remember
Our nineteen-hour flight home on EVA Airlines was a breeze, with excellent service and a choice of Western or Asian cuisine to keep us comfortable. As I reflect on this incredible trip, I’m reminded of why Thailand is known as the Land of Smiles. The warm and welcoming locals truly embody this name. Khob Khun Ka, Thailand—you’ve left a lasting impression on our hearts.
Cover Photo Courtesy: Kandice Rice | Andaman Island Tour to the Hong Islands
