The Best of Thailand for your Family Holiday
Thailand is a destination that truly has something for everyone; lone travellers, honeymooners, and families alike can all enjoy the most magical of times in this diverse kingdom. Each year we see more and more families turning to Thailand as their holiday destination of choice, and it’s not hard to see why. With its fascinating culture, beautiful beaches, exciting wildlife, and so much more, there really is something to please everyone in Thailand. If you’re wondering how you can get the most out of Thailand on your next family holiday, just read on.
Bangkok
Why: Thailand’s lively capital city, there are all manners of attractions available in Bangkok that will keep both parents and children alike entertained. Whether you want to inject some culture and history into your trip with visits to the many stunning temples dotted around the city, shop ‘till you drop at the many malls and markets, or opt for a day out at Siam Ocean World or one of the many other popular tourist attractions, there is never a dull moment in Bangkok. When the sun goes down parents should take advantage of their hotel’s babysitting service if offered as this city truly comes alive at night with lively restaurants and bars to be found everywhere.
Stay: You will be spoilt for choice when it comes to where to stay in Bangkok with there being plenty of fantastic options available. Our favourite places for families are the more resort-style hotels that offer plenty to keep you entertained if the bustling streets ever become too overwhelming. We recommend the Mandarin Oriental which caters to adults and children in equal measure with its plush rooms, excellent service, and amazing facilities for children, including a kids club packed full of fun, cultural, and educational activities.
Phuket
Why: Who doesn’t love a trip to the beach? Thailand is home to some incredible beaches (you can read more about that here) however for great family options our recommendation would be Phuket. Phuket is all about having fun; spend your days enjoying some quality family time on the beach, partaking in some thrilling water sports and visiting exciting attractions such as Splash Jungle Water Park and other family-friendly options. This is a great place for simply spending some time together and creating perfect family holiday memories that will last a lifetime.
Stay: Where you stay really depends on what you’re after, with there being a fantastic selection of resorts as well as private villas. For those who want to bring along the extended family and enjoy some time together on Thailand’s beaches, we suggest a stay at a luxurious villa property such as Iniala where you’ll have complete privacy, as well as a great team of staff and amazing activities and facilities all at your disposal, especially for children.
Koh Samui
Why: While Phuket is great, for a more relaxed option particularly suited to families with older children, Koh Samui is another dream beach destination. With luxury resorts complete with decadent spas, stretches of pristine white sand, and views unlike any other you’ll see on earth, Koh Samui is the perfect option for a blissed-out beach break. Lounge in the sun, splash in the shallows, jump on a jet ski or venture further into the deep for some diving, we love Koh Samui for the variety of options it offers that are suitable for all ages.
Stay: If a stay at Koh Samui is supposed to be all about relaxing, then it is only fitting that your resort should be a tranquil haven offering the perfect circumstances to do just that. We love the extensive range of beautiful villa accommodation on offer which is ideal for a peaceful break and makes it easy to bring along the extended family too. Our top picks for those who want the ultimate indulgent holiday have to be Upni Duniya and Samujana which both offer unrivalled opulence.
Chiang Mai
Why: For those who want to get to know about the more traditional side of Thailand’s culture, a visit to the Northern parts such as Chiang Mai is a must. In this more rural area, you can really get to grips with the traditional way of life, whether staying in an authentic homestay or a luxury hotel that keeps in with the traditional style. Activities such as visits to the local hill tribe villages are a great way for both adults and children to immerse themselves in traditional Thai culture and see the local way of life, while countryside walks can also be a lovely way to get closer to nature and enjoy each other’s company.
Stay: Depending on the kind of experience you would like to have there are a range of different options available to you. For those seeking an authentic experience, we urge you to give a homestay such as Golden Teak Home a try which is a traditional Thai home that also caters to families. Alternatively, if you would like something a little more luxurious (and air-conditioned) we love The Dhara Dhevi which has excellent facilities in place for children.
If you are interested in enjoying a family holiday to Thailand, get in contact with our travel experts by clicking here or calling 020 7843 3531. Alternatively, visit our Thailand supplement page for more information on this incredible destination.