Recharge and Reconnect With Thailand's Tranquil Retreats
Three amazing destinations where you can unplug from the daily grind and rediscover Thailand's laidback charms, immersing yourself in serene landscapes and the unhurried pace of local life.
From Chiang Dao’s rustic charms to Sakhon Nakhon’s cultural heritage and Songkhla’s vibrant mix of history and art, each offers a unique experience that invites you to slow down, savour the local life and immerse yourself in Thailand’s natural bounty and rich traditions.
Chiang Dao – For hot springs, mountain caves and crafts
Though just an hour north of Chiang Mai, the mountain retreat of Chiang Dao feels a world removed. Rustic guesthouses sit among fruit plantations in the shadows of Doi Luang Chiang Dao, the stunning, mist-shrouded peak, attracting a crowd that thrives on the back-to-nature energy.
Staying in Chiang Dao is all about exploring caves, going mountain biking and hiking, soaking in free-access hot springs and lounging in hammocks in your downtime.
If you want to hike Doi Luang, book early. The trail is only open from November 1 until March 31 each year, access is limited to 150 visitors per day and guides are required.
There’s plenty to do besides this hike, though. Explore Tham Chiang Dao, with its towering stalactites and stalagmites, and the peaceful temple beside the entrance to the cave. Or trek up the 500 steps to Wat Tham Pha Plong Temple, a mountainside temple that overlooks the nearby valleys. Afterwards, soak away the soreness at the free-to-use Chiang Dao hot springs.
On Tuesday mornings, check out the flea market spanning both sides of Route 107, then slow down to explore Chiang Dao’s budding crafts scene: Musashi for pottery, Shack Cats for snacks and handmade goods and Studio Chiangdao Blue for hand-dyed indigo.
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Staying in Chiang Dao is all about exploring caves, going mountain biking and hiking, soaking in free-access hot springs and lounging in hammocks in your downtime.
Sakhon Nakhon – For a Snapshot of Isan Diversity
Sakhon Nakhon has long been known for two things: indigo and beef. But the peaceful northeastern province has much more to offer, including unique cultural activities.
Start in Tha Rae. Located on the north side of Nong Han Lake, the town was settled by Vietnamese Catholic immigrants in the late 1800s. This heritage lives on in buildings such as St Michael’s Cathedral and faded yellow French-style colonial offices, dishes such as khao piak sen (pho-like rice noodle soup) and its colourful annual Christmas parade – a can’t-miss in December.
Across the lake, get a pick-me-up at Nap’s, a coffee roaster with beans sourced from across Isan - a perfect spot if you wish for some downtime and a good book. Then stroll through Rueang Sawat, a road lined with wood-framed shops and houses that converges with the gilded Wat Phra That Choeng Chum Worawihan.
Make time to explore Phu Phan National Park and hilltop temple Wat Tham Pha Daen. Or, for an easier day trip, hire a boat to cruise around Nong Han Lake.
No Sakhon Nakhon trip is complete without indigo and beef, though. Purchase beautiful, handmade indigo products at Mann Craft, or join a dyeing workshop at Mann Gardens (advanced booking required). Then eat at Moong Yod for local Pone Yang Kham beef shabu with jaew khom (local bitter dip).
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Songkhla – For a Melting Pot of Food and Culture
For visitors, all roads lead to Songkhla Old Town. Nakhon Nok Road, Nakhon Nai Road and Nang Ngam Road are filled with beautiful Sino-Thai and Chinese commercial buildings. Many have been given a fresh look with street murals, making them suitable for a slow walk to appreciate these masterpieces by local artists.
Landmarks like the striking red rice mill Hub Ho Hin and Chinese-style Songkhla National Museum, are unmissable – all the better if you see them in a rickshaw, or pedicab, ride.
After touring the heritage buildings, explore Songkhla’s emerging arts and culture. Community spaces such as Aeyspace and SKA Heritage have breathed new life into Songkhla with workshops, events and one-of-a-kind souvenirs rooted in southern Thai traditions. For a hands-on trip to the past, why not join a book-binding workshop at the Yip In Tsoi Library?
Every trip must include a visit to the freshwater Songkhla Lake and unwinding on the local beaches, including Chalalat, as well as delicious breakfasts at old-school spots such as the Chinese-style café Hub Seng, where you can read today’s papers while indulging in freshly made toast and a cup of Thai-Chinese style coffee to start the day.
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Enriched by its Thai, Chinese and Malay heritage, Songkhla has in recent years emerged as a budding travel destination with a brilliant art scene, an amazing food culture and distinct crafts – perfect for those yearning for some relaxing time away from the city.
