Thailand has been on my top five list for some time. It rose to popularity over the past few years and became a bloggers paradise very quickly, I knew I needed to get there as soon as possible. With so many great cities and islands, Thailand caters to any type of traveler. Bangkok for the culinary enthusiast or history buff, Phuket for the beach party lover and Koh Yao Noi for the unexpected adventurer. I happen to enjoy all of the above so we decided to make our rounds through all the locations above and we were not disappointed. Read on below for my top wanderlust experiences while traveling through Thailand.

Wanderlust Hotels

Bangkok

So Sofitel - This stunning hotel overlooks they city of Bangkok and the park below with panoramic views. The tower is divided in different elements, offering its very own chocolate lab, double decker rooftop restaurant and bar, and the best breakfast buffet we had in Thailand. Upon check-in, the beautiful lobby on the 9th floor offers you an incredible first look at Bangkok and a special welcome drink worth videoing. This hotel offers affordable five star luxury and is an excellent option in the district when visiting Bangkok.

Avani - This hotel located in the old town district overlooks the river offering modern luxury with a new trendy rooftop scene. You’ll also be connected to shopping and stunning night views of Bangkok.

Anantara - I am a fan of the Ananatara brand, having previously stayed in Sri Lanka and again in Phuket, I highly recommend this brand as an option when traveling though Thailand. They offer five star service amongst a relaxing ambiance.

Phuket

Anantara Layan - Highly recommend the Layan resort in Phuket. You’ll enjoy your stay in a private pool villa with an insta worthy outdoor tub. This resort has a secluded private beach within a bay on the west side of Phuket. Being only 20 minutes from the airport this resort is also convenient if traveling within Thailand. You are also only 40 minutes away from Old Town or Patong Beach.

The Shore at Katathani - This hotel is more in south Phuket and closer to some of the more popular beaches, like Patong beach. You will stay in a private pool villa and this resort offers a long stretch of beach. This location is great for peace seekers and they don’t allow children under 12 to stay here.

Koh Yao Noi

9 Hornbills - WOW, this is not only a wanderlust hotel but also an experience. A true luxury glamping experience on the quiet island of Koh Yao Noi. If you are looking for a quiet, romantic getaway, 9 Hornbills offers the seclusion on top a hill overlooking Pang Nga Bay with a private pool, outdoor shower and a luxury tent making you feel like you are one with nature. The views from 9 hornbills do not get any better. You also have the privilege of sharing amenities with Koyoa Island Resort which overs a beach front Infiniti pool, paddle boarding, and kayaking. They will be opening a new restaurant next high season as well.

Six Senses - If I really cant talk you into the glamping experience, then this is your five star choice on the island. Six senses is a brand well known for their exotic locations, like in the Maldives. This resort offers an Infiniti pool looking out to the Pang Nga Bay as well.

Coastal Escape - This resort was a couple down from where stayed and we could see it from our beach walk. It’s a quaint resort offering beachfront private pool villas.

Ani - If you’re traveling with a group and are looking for the ultimate privacy, you can rent this private property. Well known to be booked by celebrities due to the privacy and luxury offered. Kevin Hart was staying here at the same time we were visiting 9 Hornbills next door.

Wanderlust Experiences

Bangkok

Night markets - You cant miss the experience of walking the old town night markets. The bustling late nights and street vendors are pouring over the sidewalks and is such a cultural experience that should be on your list.

Temples - Make sure to visit the architectural beauty of the cities many temples.

Thai massage - Before you head on to the next adventure stop and experience a true Thai massage. You cant pass a street without a massage parlor on it, and for $20 American dollars you can get a full sixty minute massage. We opted for the leg and foot massage after touring Thailand for a handful of days and it was perfect!

Phuket

Old town - Take a walking day tour thorough Old Town to shop markets, try street food vendors and experience the true history of Old Town.

Green elephant sanctuary - As you can see from our pictures, this is a must stop. The green elephant sanctuary is fairly new to Phuket but they are rescuing elephants from abusive situations and trying to save the elephant population. You can feed and bathe the elephants here. Just be sure to do your research when booking elephant interactions. If they are chained, poked or whipped, it is not a sanctuary.

Similan islands - Take out a long tail boat and visit the islands. They are closer than the Phi Phi islands so it is a great alternative if you are short on time will visiting Phuket.

Patong beach - Hop in a party cab and cruise on down here for nightlife, food and culture. Tourists flock here to enjoy cocktails, food, and dancing along the beach. It’s a must see!

Visit a non profit - It was my pleasure to visit a non profit, Phuket has been good to us, while visiting Phuket. This organization was founded after the devastating tsunami and has helped families provide education and shelter for their children so they can seek a better future. If you have the time, I highly recommend this experience.

Hire a Photographer - You are in a mesmerizing place and you should capture it! Find photographers through instagram and book a few hours for them to shoot you while you explore Thailand. You’ll cherish the photos forever.

Koh Yao Noi

Phi Phi Islands tour - These famous and stunning islands that flood your instagram, and it’s no mystery why. This would have to be one of my top three experiences while visiting Thailand. It just doesn’t seem real while you look out and view the landscape, it’s beyond beautiful. Visit Monkey Beach and the famed beach from the movie "‘The Beach’ and dive in for a swim in the clear deep turquoise waters.

Rent a motor bike and tour the island - This was so much fun! It was also an easy way to get around by ourselves and be on our own time. Most people travel by motorbike on the island so you will fit right in!

Paddle boarding/ Kayaking - Many of the hotels and resorts offer this water activities and the backdrop of Pang Nga Bay is unbeatable.

Wanderlust Cuisine

Bangkok

Park society - This swanky rooftop lounge restaurant is located in the So Sofitel hotel. It offers uninterrupted views of Lumpini Park and a social scene to keep you feeling sky high!

Seen - Wow, this place was trendy and the views were incredible. It you are looking for a lounge feel with incredible food overlooking the river. I highly recommend this rooftop restaurant, where you can go to be seen.

Jai Fay - This little street vendor became an overnight food sensation and earned her Michellin star while also being named the ‘Queen of Street Food’. This hole in the wall place offers some of the best crab omelettes and seafood Thailand has to offer. Just be prepared for the wait!

Phuket

Street vendors - This is the place to go explore the street food vendors and markets! You’ll get your fill of authentic and cultural cuisine experiences.

Dee Plee - This is the great authentic Thai restaurant located within our resort and it was a perfect place to dine while not venturing out the first night we arrived. It’s a plus when staying at the Anantara Layan.

The Tent - While running through the rain looking for shelter and food, we accidentally stumbled upon this cute breakfast cafe. Teepees lining the wall with cute dining tables. If you’re in Old Town, this cafe is an instagram worthy stop!

Koh Yao Noi

Para Bar - A treehouse vibe with true authentic thai food. We enjoyed trying multiple items on the menu and the jungle like atmosphere was quite romantic.

Charlie’s Bar - Loved this roadside stop while we were cruising the island. Pop in for a cocktail or food and enjoy the views!

Private BBQ at 9 Hornbills - If you make the decision to glamp and stay at 9 Hornbills, be sure to book the private BBQ dinner at your camp. This food was incredible and plenty!!

Thai Tea Stop - Lastly, you cannot visit Thailand while stopping for some Thai Tea! There are many street vendors offering this. We enjoyed ours while cruising in Koh Yao Noi.

Wanderlust Luggage

Wanderlust Itinerary

Bangkok

Day 1

9:45PM-Arrive Bangkok

Stay at Novotel Bangkok Airport

Maybe Dinner if we are hungry

Day 2

12:25PM Depart Bangkok

1:50PM Arrive Phuket

3:00PM Arrive Anantara Layan Resort

3:30PM Pool/Beach/Relax

8:30PM Dinner at Dee Plee

Day 3

RELAX OPEN DAY

Photoshoot

Dinner/Drinks at Patong Beach

Day 4

6:30AM Pick up from Hotel to Green Elephant Sanctuary

12:30PM Drop Off Back at Hotel

1:30PM Lunch at Anantara

2:45PM Depart for NonProfit

3:30PM Arrive Non Profit, Coconut Club

4:15PM Depart Non-Profit for Boat Dock

5:40PM Depart on Speedboat

6:30PM Check in 9Hornbills

8:00PM Dinner at Hornbills - Pumpui

Day 5

RELAX OPEN DAY (swim/coverup)

8:00PM: Dinner at 9hornbills - Island Dining

Day 6

7:00AM-5:30PM: Phi Phi Islands

8:00PM: Dinner at 9Hornbills - Private BBQ

Day 7

12:00PM Depart 9Hornbills

1:45PM Arrive Phuket

4:10PM Depart Phuket

5:40PM Arrive Bangkok

6:30PM Checkin SO Sofitel Bangkok

9:00PM Dinner at Park Society or Seen

Day 8

7:30AM Depart SO Sofitel

9:45AM Depart Bangkok

10:30PM Arrive DFW

We experienced so much along this trip and it’ll be one of my top favorites forever. Tasting the incredible culinary scene, bathing gentle giants, long-tailing the Phi Phi islands and glamping with views of Pang Nga Bay all topped m list of this mesmerizing place on Earth. I hope this blog inspired you to make a trip to this dreamy destination full of adventure. As always, please email me with any questions about this destination.

Stay Wandering!