Thailand was always on the top of my must-visit list, but this trip was actually taken on a whim after my wife and I were invited to join a group of friends for 10 days. So I took a break from running my creative agency, Zio & Sons, and got ready for a little adventure. While Thailand is quite big, we were determined to visit Phuket, Krabi, and Bangkok. Each city was completely different, with an array of tourism options. We honestly still can’t decide on any favorites. Whether you’re a beach bum or craving a unique cultural experience, Thailand is simply magical.
Our first stop was the beautiful Hong Island. These old, long-tail boats were not only functional but entirely photogenic. The island has a beautiful, sandy beach with incredible snorkeling just a few meters away.
It wouldn't be a vacation without a little day dreaming. Krabi made that easy.
We hit Maya Bay on our second island hop and every jaw dropped for the clear water and still lagoons. The color palate of these limestone rocks was completely inspiring.
During our Bangkok City Tour, we weren't quite prepared for the Grand Palace, which was built in 1782 and home to the most recent kings. Above all, the gold-painted—yes, real gold—walls and intricate details were spectacular. The walk through the inner and outer courtyards seemed never-ending. We were architecturally inspired around every corner.
Hong Island Lagoon was a major highlight of our boat tour. Speedboats and long-tail boats alike release their anchors so passengers can get in the water and float, admiring the height of the islands surrounding them. Grab a Chang beer, hang on to a life jacket, and stay a while.
Koh Daeng is a lovely rock island surrounded by clear blue water and rock formations. The small forest is great for exploring, but we found joy in sitting still together, in awe and admiration.
Hotel room serenity. Nothing like a little R&R after a long day of island hopping. At the beach oasis, Bliss Resort in Krabi.
Right before arriving to the Phi Phi Islands, we passed several small “floating” islands—each one only standing because of the stillness of the water. These rock islands make Thailand stand out among any other place we've traveled.
Outside Bangkok is the Talad Lomhob, or "Train Market." Along the train tracks, we encountered more fish and squid than we'd ever imagined. Twice each morning (at 8 a.m. and at 9 a.m.), a train comes right through the center of this market, and all of the vendors pack up upon announcement. We couldn't help wondering, "Why not move the market?" But the experience of watching the train come through and everyone scurrying out of the way was really something.
At the Train Market.
Outside the Train Market—or anywhere in Thailand—it's not uncommon to find a family of three or four on a scooter or motorcycle, without much protection.
Damnoen Saduak, a town outside of Bangkok, has a floating market that should not be missed. Palm trees line the canal, while vendors on boats—some moored, some passing—announce their goods for sale. If you're interested, they release a long, hook-like rod and pull you into their boat or booth where you can buy goods ranging from local beer to chicken skewers, leather bags, and modern paintings.
On the long-tail boat, slowly exploring the floating market in Damnoen Saduak. Looks like womenswear and trinkets up ahead!
In the floating market, we tasted several different local treats. This boat had Thai chicken skewers, which the vendor placed on her tiny grill after we ordered. They were fantastic!
All gold everything, literally top to bottom and side to side, at the Grand Palace in Bangkok. It felt like an intensified Disneyland, except everything is real. Our cameras were clicking nonstop and from all angles.
We thought we knew Thai food. Then we got to Thailand and noshed on fresh herbs and flavorful noodle bowls and green curry, which became our trip staple. Pad Thai will never be the same.
In Phuket, fruit markets line the sides of the main road. We bought a few of these bananas to feed the monkeys across the street.
Nai Harn Beach, at the southernmost tip of Phuket, is complete with still water and velvet-like sand. It is also less crowded than those to the west, like Patong. The Nai Harn, one of our favorite hotels, overlooked this beach from a forested hillside.
Nai Harn Beach offers more than just swimming, with a long market of foods and dry goods. You can also get a traditional Thai massage, right on the beach, for $10.
The Nai Harn hotel and restaurant overlook the beautiful beach and market. Every room has an ocean view, and the restaurant’s food and wine list are incredible. We were surprised to find our favorite French wines and enjoyed them as the sun went down.
