Evocative and enchanting all at once, the tropical charm and graceful hospitality of Thailand and its people blend seamlessly in the ‘land of smiles’. Brimming with renewed fervour and buzzing with a bold new focus, Thailand has reemerged in 2023 as a trendsetter once again for global tourism. “Four Seasons Resorts Thailand offers an unrivalled panorama of the finest that Thailand has to offer including cuisine, wellness and destination exploration,” shares Sean Mosher, general manager, Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai and Tented Camp Golden Triangle. Jasjit Assi, general manager, Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui adds, “From a seaside extravagance in Samui and a wellness haven in Chiang Mai, to edge-of-the-jungle adventures in the Golden Triangle, the resorts offer a variety of experiences for both families and couples looking for the extraordinary.”
Seascapes and white sand beaches
With magnificent cliff-side vistas overlooking the azure blue waters of the Gulf of Thailand, Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui is the perfect setting for an dream island getaway. Here, the Private Retreats collection – ranging from two to five bedrooms – oozes tropical charm. With intuitive service, including a dedicated personal attendant to cater to guests’ specific needs, complimentary spa and dining experiences, and a private barbeque at the residence, “The Private Retreats – Reunite and Reconnect package is perfect for multi-generational travel, offering the very best of resort experiences,” says resort manager, Alessandro Baccarelli. Convenient inclusions such as round-trip airport transfers, daily breakfast, evening sundowners and more make for an ideal family vacation. “For couples looking for an ‘island romance’, an intimate dining experience on your private deck and even a rose petal and candle-lit bath for two awaits,” he shares. Sundown is always special on Koh Samui, and guests can chase the perfect sunset aboard the private yacht, or simply cruise the turquoise waters around Ang Thong Marine National Park. “A private cinema just for you or a Beach Picnic can be arranged to maximize quality time together,” adds Assi.
With executive chef Ruslan Shipunov’s wide range of expertise in French, Italian, Russian and Middle East cuisines, complemented by executive sous chef Shanmuga Raja Ravi’s focus on Mediterranean, Italian and French Riviera-style cuisine, the team of chefs at the resort curate personalised menus. Besides the themed pop-up dinners across the resort, the culinary team specialises in pre-booked in-residence dining, which can be designed to suit specific dietary expectations.
As a haven for wellness experts, Samui’s reputation as a destination for spa seekers is renowned. The Secret Garden Spa at the resort champions traditional Thai philosophies with signature therapies, drawing on the richness of authentic traditions. The experiences are inspired by local herbs, some of which are grown within the resort’s premises.
Wellbeing at a countryside idyll
Swathed in a verdant green and embellished further with a little Bill Bensley flourish, Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai is situated in an enchanting landscape at the base of Thailand’s mountainous North. Imagined and designed to be an ode to Northern Thailand’s magnificent ‘Lanna’ past, quilted gardens wrap around tiered rice paddies to showcase Mae Rim valley for its intrinsic natural beauty. Here, opulent Private Residences are ensconced within the paddy-fields and tropical gardens, highlighted by expansive social spaces and private pools. “Guests who stay here enjoy privileges including an in-residence private banquet dinner and spa experiences,”
shares resort manager, Anthony Tschudin, highlighting the Private Retreats – Reunite and Reconnect offer.
With a riot of textures and exotic umami flavours, Thai cuisine has earned its reputation as one of the most celebrated cuisines worldwide. Here in the ‘cultural capital of Thailand’, the resort’s chefs have mastered traditional techniques to recreate heirloom pan-Thai recipes at Khao by Four Seasons (recommended in the Michelin Guide 2023). At North by Four Seasons, guests can look forward to a superior grill and barbeque experience, where the focus is farm-to-table fare and the highest quality meat. Inspired by traditional Lanna teak-houses of the nobility, the Rim Tai Kitchen sets the stage for an intimate Chef’s Table and or a cooking session where guests can learn first-hand the secrets of Thai cooking. “For couples looking for something more intimate, we recommend a moonlit dinner for two at the outdoor sala, or a meal at the sensational Orchid Nursery – both unforgettable experiences specially curated for you,” adds Tschudin.
Inspired by the spiritual aspects of Eastern medicine and wellness, Wara Cheewa Spa offers intuitive therapies that can be tailored to meet specific needs. “Guests can experience the ‘art of mindful living’ with special dietary recommendations, healing, and spa programmes for lasting health benefits,” Tschudin shares.
As a crafts-lovers’ paradise, Chiang Mai’s old town and Nimmanhaemin Road offer a generous dose of retail therapy for visitors looking to buy hand-crafted art, textiles and more. “Our concierge will be delighted to organize personal shopping experiences as well as local gems that can’t be missed when you stay with us,” smiles Tschudin. For those who would like to get a first-hand experience of the local arts and crafts, the cultural centre Chaan Baan offers a range of experiences including clay modelling and tie-and-dye.
Glamping in jungle-cloaked tented luxury
Further North and nestled in lush bamboo jungles, Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle presents the perfect ‘off the grid’ experience for both families and couples. The Explorer’s Lodge can be turned into a private jungle hideout for families who choose to occupy all the accommodation. “The Explorer’s Lodge is the ultimate expression of glamping with two bedrooms, a private deck, and an infinity pool overlooking the jungle,” shares Macall Newman, camp manager. Couples can enjoy a three-night adventure in a Deluxe Tent, highlighted by maximum privacy and an outdoor hot tub. “Whether it is a breakfast at the Camp Peak or a dinner by the riverside, the glamping experience promises memories of a lifetime,” she adds. With a Camp Guide to take care of every aspect of the itinerary, guests can discover the unique heritage and authentic local experiences of the region through destination exploration, hiking, biking and more. Digital detox comes naturally here as the tree-fringed and open to sky jungle spa invites guests for more than one session of pampering. “In harmony with nature, this is a unique and sensory spa experience with special signature therapies using traditional massage techniques together with the healing properties of mountain herbs and local spices sourced from within the camp,” shares Newman.
“With a wealth of natural beauty and creative vision, ‘Thailand by Four Seasons’ is an easy choice for travelers seeking transformational experiences,” she affirms.