Tourism

Best Resort Hotel to Book in Thailand For Songkran 2023

Thailand attracts millions of tourists every year. Pair it with the best family-friendly resorts in Thailand and Songkran festival (April 13-15), Thai new year, and you are ready for one of the most memorable trips with your loved ones.

What to look for in a family-friendly resort?

If you are travelling with your family to Thailand, it is important to look for certain features that cater to the needs and preferences of families. Some of the most important factors to consider are listed below.

Central location

When in Thailand, it is obvious that you will be moving around a lot to explore different places. Hence, it is important to ensure your choice of the resort is centrally located to avoid any issues while commuting with your family.

Family suites or rooms

Look for spacious suites which include two or more bedrooms and bathrooms along with a dining area. These are perfect for the whole family to spend time together.

Kids’ club

If you’re travelling with children, a resort with a kids’ club must be your pick. These clubs offer supervised activities for children of different age groups to keep them occupied while the parents relax.

Swimming pools

Who would not love to take a dip while on vacation? Look for resorts with family-friendly swimming pools that have a shallow section for children and deeper areas for adults. Some resorts also offer dedicated children’s pools with water slides that are sure to be a hit amongst the young ones.

Dining

Dining is one of the most important factors to consider while looking for a family-friendly resort in Thailand. Go for resorts where on-site restaurants offer children’s menus, high chairs for comfortable dining and even special meal times for families.

The best family-friendly resorts in Thailand for Songkran 2023

Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui

The Four Seasons Resort in Koh Samui, Thailand’s second largest island, is more than just a luxe resort. Known for offering best-in-class experiences to its guests of all ages, it is one of the best family friendly resorts in Thailand. The resort has a kids’ club and offers a complimentary Kids For All Seasons program with various recreational activities like arts and crafts, beach games, family cooking class, Maui Thai and more. The resort also has on-ground babysitting services.

It also provides a one of a kind fine dining culinary experience with many delectable options to spoil you.

Accommodation: Seven luxurious villas and six private residences

Nearby attractions: Na Muang Waterfalls, Santiburi Samui Country Club

Address: 219 Moo 5, Angthong, Koh Samui

Phone: +66 77 243 00

Soneva Kiri Trat

A picturesque resort offering luxurious experiences like no other, the Soneva Kiri at Koh Kood is perfect for families on their Thailand trip. Located 90 minutes away from Bangkok city, the resort spoils you with direct beach access and breathtaking views.

The Den by Soneva Kiri is specifically curated for children, where little ones are motivated to unleash their creative talents through music, arts and craft. Additionally, the resort also offers The Eco Den — a programme designed specifically for taking care of kids aged one to five.

Soneva Kiri also offers out-of-the-box dining experiences that you and your family might find intriguing. For instance, you can indulge in a seafood barbeque at Ao Salat hosted by a local family. Or you can set on a culinary journey with your family and enjoy delectable dishes as the gentle sea breeze brushes your skin.

Accommodation: 33 one to five-bedroom private luxury villas with pool

Nearby attractions: Khlong Han Beach

Address: 110, Tambon Ko Kut, Ko Kut District, Trat 23000, Thailand

Phone:+66 (0) 82208 8888

Banyan Tree Krabi Beachfront Resort

Spend a joyous family time amidst lush green jungles at the Banyan Tree Krabi beachfront resort. Flaunting 72 luxurious suites and villas, it is perfect for families looking for a comfortable stay in Thailand. Enjoy the mesmerizing views of the Andaman Sea as your personal chef curates scrumptious meals for your family in your suite or villa.

If your family is up for an adventure, the resort also provides several private cultural, shopping and dining excursions that are customizable to your liking. Banyan Tree also has a kids’ club that provides a mix of educational and recreational activities to keep your little ones entertained. Additionally, they can also have a gala time at the surrounding water park, which also has a serpentine slider and a shallow water plunge pool. The outdoor play zone has a climbing wall, zipline, rope bridge and even a Naga-themed cave.

Accommodation: 72 suites and villas with a private pool

Nearby attractions: Dragon’s Crest (Ngon Nak Nature Trail), Tubkaek Beach

Address: 279 Moo 3 Tambon Nongtalay, Amphoe Muang, Krabi 81180 Thailand

Phone: +66 75 811 888

Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, Chiang Rai

Nestled amidst the calmness of mountains and surrounded by a 160-acre bamboo forest in northern Thailand, The Anantara Golden Triangle Resort in Chian Rai province offers plenty of experiences for you and your family.

Overlooking the borders with Myanmar and Laos, the resort offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience of the Jungle Bubble, where you get to spend a night in the wilderness observing majestic elephants in their natural habitat. You can also enjoy exquisite meals cooked by the private chef at the Jungle Bubble Lodge as well as enjoy the outdoor deck area with a plunge pool and lounge.

Take your family out on a private long-tail boat ride and explore the Golden Triangle – where three countries converge. When it comes to dining experiences, you are in for a gastronomic treat. The resort has several restaurants specialising in different cuisine with endless delicious choices.

Accommodation: 61 rooms and suites with all amenities

Nearby attractions: Golden Triangle Park Hall of Opium

Address: 229, Wiang, Chiang Saen District, Chiang Rai 57150, Thailand

Phone +66 53 784 084

Avani Plus Khao Lak Resort

A majestic resort with world-class services, the Avani Plus Khao Lak Resort awaits to host you and your family. The resort has its own stretch of beach for you to sunbathe by the ocean. It boasts 327 rooms, villas and suites, along with a kids’ club called AvaniKids to cater to your little one’s needs.

Whether you are looking for a laid-back, lazy staycation with your family or an adventurous one, Avani + has something in store for everyone. You can book an excursion to explore some of the most spellbinding seascapes in the world like Phang Nga Bay or Koh Phi Phi. Or you can attend cooking classes at the property and take back home some of the most iconic Thai dishes. You can also explore the restaurants at the resort for a tantalising food experience.

Accommodation: Spacious rooms with garden or pool views

Nearby attractions: Bang Niang Market, Similan Islands, Phang Nga Bay, Khao Sok National Park

Address: 99 Moo 8, Tumbon Bang Muang, Amphur Takua Pa, Phang Nga 82190

Phone: +66 075 626 999

Dusit Thani Pattaya

If you plan on visiting Thailand’s shopping and dining hotspots, Dusit Thani in the coastal city of Pattaya is your place to be. Centrally located, this resort is the perfect amalgamation of city lights and peaceful nature. Set on the backdrop of Pattaya Bay, this resort offers all modern amenities and services to cater to travelling families.

It has 457 rooms and suites accentuated with modern decor and Thai accents. The resort also offers a kids’ club and babysitting services for adults to enjoy their time as highly qualified caretakers look after their little ones. Food choices are endless at their all-day restaurant. Additionally, you can also spoil yourself at the spa called Devarana Spa or go swimming in their outdoor pools.

Accommodation: 457 rooms and suites with modern amenities accented with Thai charm

Nearby attractions: Pattaya Beach, Art In Paradise Pattaya

Address: 240/2 Pattaya Beach Road, Pattaya City, Chonburi 20150

Phone: +66 3842 5611-7

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Question: What are the best luxury family resorts in Thailand?

Answer: Four Seasons Resort (Koh Samui), Anantara Golden Triangle Resort (Chian Rai) Avani + Khao Lak Resort (Phang Nga) are some of the best luxury family resorts in Thailand.

Question: What are romantic family resorts in Thailand?

Answer: Banyan Tree (Krabi), Soneva Kiri (Koh Kood) and Dusit Thani (Pattaya) are some of the romantic family resorts in Thailan

Tourism

Interior Ministry Introduces New 180 Day Destination Thailand Visa

People from more nations will be now able to enter Thailand without a visa beginning Monday. This is part of an effort to increase tourism and encourage visitors to stay longer, Interior Ministry spokeswoman Traisuree Taisaranakul said on Friday.

According to Ms. Traisuree, Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has signed four documents that will make it easier for foreigners to travel. These modifications will all take effect on Monday, provided they are published in the Royal Gazette.

The instructions include 93 more nations on the list of individuals who can visit Thailand without a visa, up from 57 previously. People from these countries can stay for a maximum of 60 days. Additionally, from 19 to 31, nearly twice as many nations will be able to obtain visas on arrival in Thailand.

To attract digital nomads, artists, and tourists interested in learning or practicing skills such as cooking and Muay Thai, the country will also introduce the Destination Thailand Visa service.

The new form of visa, which is valid for five years, allows travelers to stay for up to 180 days.

According to Ms. Traisuree, students holding visas for master’s degrees or higher will not be required to leave Thailand immediately upon graduation. They will be able to stay for an additional year to hunt for work or vacation.

In order to enhance the economy and tourism, the cabinet took a general decision on these additional measures in May. The statement was meant to be released in June, but it was pushed back.

Ms. Traisuree believes that this is the greatest sort of visa for persons who want to work from home in the Land of Smiles and explore the nation without the various restrictions and complications that come with conventional tourist visas.

Getting a DTV will give you a 5-year multiple-entry visa that lets you stay in Thailand for a total of 180 days a year, with the opportunity to stay for another 180 days.

Ms. Traisuree said that the Destination Thailand Visa is great if you want to work from home in the Land of Smiles and see the sights without the many restrictions and problems that come with a regular tourist visa. The Destination Thailand Visa will cost 10,000 THB.

Qualifications for the Thailand Destination Visa (DTV)

According to Thai Embassy, to be eligible for the visa, you must fulfill the following conditions (which could change):

You have to be 20 years of age or older
You have to be able to afford the cost of the visa
To sustain your stay in the nation, you must demonstrate that you have at least 500,000 THB in your bank account
Proof of your employment with a recognized company is required.

For digital nomads or remote workers who want to make the most of their travels and yet have the opportunity to work while they’re there, the Destination Thailand Visa is designed just for you. Additionally, it is ideal if you are traveling to Thailand in order to partake in any of the following activities:

Thai food prepared with Muay Thai
Instruction and conferences
Sports medicine therapy
International talent International music and art events

Thailand DTV Visa Benefits

Additionally, there is uncertainty about these details and they could change:

In comparison to other Southeast Asian nations that provide comparable visas, Thailand has less stringent income requirements and charges for the visa. For another 10,000 THB, you can extend the visa once, for a maximum of 180 days.
There are ninety-three foreign nations that qualify for the Thailand DTV Visa.
With this visa, you can lawfully operate remotely for foreign clients and companies while in Thailand.
Your spouse and any children under the age of twenty may accompany you.
You are exempt from paying taxes on your foreign income because the visa allows you to stay in Thailand for up to 180 days.

Drawbacks of a Thailand DTV Visa

You are unable to work for a Thai company that needs a Thai work visa, even though you are still able to engage in some activities and make money. Your DTV will end if you decide to change the kind of visa you are currently on.

Additional information on the visa’s release date and application process will be available in late June or early July of 2024. You will most likely be able to apply for it via the Thai immigration office, a Thai embassy, or a Royal Thai Consulate.

Tourism

Hotels in Thailand Fret as German Itravel Group Files for Bankruptcy

Thailand’s Hotels Association (THA) reports that another German tour operator has gone bankrupt, but that this will have a far less effect than the recent bankruptcy of FTI Touristik.

Following notification from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the Thai Hotels Association has now confirmed that the Cologne-based luxury tour operator Itravel Group has formally filed for bankruptcy.

Southern Thailand is home to numerous high-end resorts, which Itravel aims to attract, according to Thai Hotels Association president Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun.

As a result of Itravel’s bankruptcy, he said, the hotels association is currently collecting data from its members.

On Monday, the organization wrote to the TAT and the Foreign Ministry, requesting that they assist hotel operators in keeping up with legal developments surrounding the bankruptcy of the German tour operator FTI, which resulted in a loss of almost 111 million baht for hotels around the country.

Hotels having issues with Itravel

On Monday, during the THA monthly meeting, Mr. Thienprasit noted that they also emphasized the case’s urgency to Minister Sermsak Pongpanit of Tourism and Sports.

In response to allegations that hotel operators with business partnerships with Itravel were experiencing issues with financial transactions, the agency issued an alert to the industry, according to Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, TAT deputy governor for Europe, Africa, the Middle East and the Americas.

He speculated that the losses might be lower with Itravel, an online travel agency that focuses on the niche luxury market, than with FTI, the third operator.

According to the Bangkok Post, at Monday’s THA meeting, Mr. Sermsak stated that the ministry will look into measures to assist hotels, especially since the goal of 3.5 trillion baht in tourism earnings for this year is still very ambitious.

According to Mr. Thienprasit, the organization is opposed to the government’s plans to increase the legal foreign ownership of condominiums from 49% to 75%. This, he added, might lead to an increase in unlawful accommodations and make other condo residents feel uneasy about having more guests around the clock.

Unscrupulous investors

He said that some international investors are already breaking the law by renting out their rooms to day guests, even though the Hotel Act only permits rentals of at least 30 days.

An increase in the foreign ownership quota for condos, according to Mr. Thienprasit, could entice unscrupulous investors and lead to the construction of even more unlawful rooms, which now exceed the number of registered hotel rooms by a factor of two.

The success of Thailand’s hotel industry is highly dependent on the business of tour operators. These collaborations bring in a constant flow of visitors, particularly during busy seasons.

It is more convenient for passengers to book comprehensive packages offered by tour operators, which include hotel accommodations and activities. Because of this arrangement, hotels may anticipate a specific amount of bookings without having to spend a lot on advertising.

Additionally, hotels are able to provide more affordable rates, which appeals to guests who are mindful of their budget. But if tour operators go through slumps or start focusing on other places, this dependence might be disastrous.

Source: Bangkok Post, Thai PBS

Tourism

Embracing Paradise: Your Guide to an Unforgettable Vacation in Los Cabos

Nestled at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, Los Cabos emerges as a paradise where the desert meets the sea, offering a unique blend of natural wonders, luxurious accommodations, and vibrant culture. Whether you seek serene relaxation, thrilling adventures, or cultural explorations, Los Cabos promises an idyllic escape that exceeds expectations.

Discovering Pristine Beaches

Los Cabos is renowned for its stunning beaches, each with its own charm and allure. Sink your toes into the soft sands of Medano Beach, a bustling stretch perfect for sunbathing and people-watching. For a more secluded experience, explore the rugged beauty of Santa Maria Beach, ideal for snorkeling amidst vibrant marine life in crystal-clear waters. Enhance your beach experience with guided tours and snorkeling excursions offered by https://boattripsloscabos.com/, where you can explore the coastline and underwater wonders with expert guides.

Embarking on Aquatic Adventures

Venture into the azure waters of the Sea of Cortez and Pacific Ocean for thrilling water activities. Dive into snorkeling or scuba diving expeditions to discover underwater treasures like colorful coral reefs and curious sea creatures. Set sail on a whale-watching tour during the winter months to witness majestic humpback whales breaching against the backdrop of the Pacific horizon.

Exploring the Baja Desert

Beyond its pristine coastline, Los Cabos boasts dramatic desert landscapes waiting to be explored. Take an ATV or jeep tour through the rugged terrain of the Baja desert, where towering cacti and unique rock formations paint a striking contrast against the deep blue sky. Visit the Sierra de la Laguna Biosphere Reserve for hiking trails that lead to hidden oases and panoramic vistas of the surrounding desert.

Indulging in Culinary Delights

Los Cabos is a culinary paradise, offering a fusion of traditional Mexican flavors with international influences. Sample fresh seafood tacos at local taquerías or dine on gourmet cuisine crafted by world-renowned chefs at upscale restaurants overlooking the ocean. Savor authentic Baja cuisine with dishes like fish tacos, ceviche, and grilled octopus paired perfectly with locally produced wines and craft cocktails.

Experiencing Vibrant Nightlife

As the sun sets, Los Cabos transforms into a lively nightlife destination. Explore the vibrant nightlife scene in Cabo San Lucas with its array of beachfront bars, live music venues, and pulsating nightclubs. Dance the night away under the stars or enjoy a sunset cocktail overlooking the marina, where the atmosphere buzzes with energy and excitement.

Relaxing in Luxury Resorts

Los Cabos boasts a plethora of luxurious resorts and boutique hotels that cater to every traveler’s desire for relaxation and indulgence. Unwind in infinity pools with panoramic ocean views, rejuvenate with holistic spa treatments inspired by ancient Mexican traditions, or tee off on world-class golf courses designed by golf legends amidst stunning coastal landscapes.

Immersing in Local Culture

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Los Cabos with visits to historic landmarks like the Mission San Jose del Cabo Church or art galleries showcasing local and international artists. Browse through vibrant markets selling handmade crafts, textiles, and souvenirs, or attend cultural festivals and events celebrating Mexican traditions, music, and dance.

Planning Your Los Cabos Escape

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, Los Cabos offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion. With its breathtaking landscapes, diverse activities, and warm hospitality, Los Cabos ensures a memorable vacation that leaves you rejuvenated and inspired, promising a return to its paradise shores time and again.