Where to Play, Interact, and Spend Time with Elephants in Thailand
If you're planning a trip to Thailand, interacting with elephants might be at the top of your bucket list. If it is, make sure to read this post with information on the best place to ethically play, interact, and spend time with elephants in Thailand and why you should avoid others! Read on to get an inside look at the Elephant Nature Park of Chiang Mai, Thailand.
Where to Play, Interact, and Spend Time with Elephants in Thailand
You know that feeling you got when you were a kid and about to go to Disney World the next day? That feeling when you're not able to sleep because you're just so damn excited for the endless magical fun you're about to have the next day. That was me at 4:00AM on a Thursday morning in Chiang Mai, Thailand. I was wide awake, I couldn't stay asleep, and my mind was racing with anticipation of the day ahead of me. The seconds on the clock couldn't move faster towards 8:00AM. Only a few more hours until the best day of my life would commence and I'd get to be face-to-face with an elephant in Thailand...
Choosing Where to Go
Like any other person visiting Thailand for the first time, I knew I had a "list of things I must do" before returning home. I knew wanted to visit the temples, see the gorgeous beaches, try some street food, and--saving the best for last--play with elephants. I mean...after seeing tons of pictures online of other people interacting with elephants in Thailand, how could I not get in on that adventure?
RELATED: A Weekend Guide to Chiang Mai
The next step was figuring out the best place to have said elephant experience. I had seen pictures of other people riding elephants, playing with them in the rivers, and feeding them, so I thought, "Of course, that sounds great!" After doing some research, my naïve fantasies of what I assumed to be a harmless excursion with elephants quickly came to a much needed reality check.
I was down the Google rabbit hole when I happened to stumble upon an article about the dangers and effects of unethical animal practices in tourism and logging around Thailand. Thankfully (and to my surprise), I came to understand that riding elephants and engaging in any unnatural behaviors with them (i.e. trekking or seeing them in circus-type shows) is actually part of an ongoing problem in the region where companies will abuse, exploit, and mistreat these beautiful animals in order to make money from unknowing tourists whose sole desire is to play with an elephant on their vacation in Thailand. Sound familiar? That was almost me... But how could I have known if I wasn't educated on it first?
This beautiful elephant was rescued from the logging industry, where she was forced to work in the jungles and suffered an accident where she lost her back right hoof by stepping on an explosive.
I can't express how thankful I was to come across this information before my trip! I immediately knew I definitely could not support any type of organization that would do this sort of thing, so I started researching places that were ethically conscious and safe to visit and interact with elephants in Thailand. That's how I found Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai. After extensive research, I knew this was the one and only place I wanted to go for my elephant experience in Thailand.
About Elephant Nature Park
Located in the northern region of Thailand, Elephant Nature Park is a rescue and rehabilitation center where individuals can visit or volunteer to help not only elephants, but a number of other species that are also under their care. This organization was established in the 1990s with an aim to provide a true sanctuary and rescue center for elephants and other animals that are distressed, in need, or abandoned around the country.
Beyond acting as a sanctuary and rehab for endangered species, ENP also prides itself on being a leading example for Rainforest Restoration, Cultural Preservation, and Visitor Education. They operate independently from any political or pressure groups that often work to intimidate or motivate companies to use unethical practices for financial gain.
As we learned on site, one of ENP's biggest goals is to educate the public and the tourism industry that providing ethical and safe options for tourists to interact with these animals is not only the morally just thing to do, it's also the best long term solution for the environment and longevity of the species. They are also trying to expand their ways of practice to other sanctuaries and centers across Thailand with an emphasis on getting organizations to stop promoting elephant riding and trekking to tourists.
Planning Your Visit to Elephant Nature Park
Elephant Nature Park offers visitors a ton of great options for how to visit or volunteer on site. You can choose something as short as a single day visit, or something as long as a 7-day volunteer program. For our visit, we chose the Care for Elephants Single Day Visit and really felt like we had an excellent overall experience. I left practically in tears that I couldn't stay longer, but it was the perfect choice for our time in Chiang Mai and I highly recommend this one for adult travelers who want a more intimate experience with the elephants.
What to Prepare and Expect for Your Visit
If you're considering visiting Elephant Nature Park, here are a couple tips to keep in mind so you're aware of how to prepare and what to expect:
PLAN AS FAR AHEAD AS POSSIBLE! The reservations for these visits book up very quickly, so I recommend booking as far ahead as you can in order to get the experience you want.
Transportation to/from your hotel is included in the packages, which was such a time saver and relief. We were picked up early at our hotel by a luxury van and were able to get some information about the organization on the way to the park. We also learned about the sad reality of elephant abuse in Thailand and why ENP does what they do.
Dress for comfort and prepare to get dirty. If you're doing the Care for Elephants visit like we did, you're going to get very dirty and muddy throughout the day. Wear clothes and shoes that you won't care about if they get a little muddy or wet. We opted for t-shirts, shorts, and sandals. I wore sandals that had straps around the ankles so they would be more secure on my feet with all the walking we were doing.
Pack a small day bag if you'd like. I packed a towel, my camera, sunglasses, sunscreen, bug spray, and a change of clothes just in case. I don't think I even used the change of clothes, but the towel was nice to have after we jumped in the river to bathe the elephants!
Food and water bottles are provided. No need to bring your own food as you will be enjoying a lovely vegetarian picnic with your new elephant friends during the day!
My Experience with the "Care for Elephants" Visit
As I'm sitting here writing this, there's no other words coming to my head besides, "This was one of the best days of my life."
From the moment we were picked up by the ENP team, I was excited and ready to take in all the knowledge I could. Like I said earlier, on our way to the park, we were able to get a better understanding for what ENP is all about and the history of why they do what they do. We watched a video in the van about the sad reality of animal exploitation and abuse that runs rampant throughout the region, and it broke me apart. I'll admit, I cried like a baby watching the video. It's a hard pill to swallow... But I'm so thankful that I was able to learn that and understand how important it is to be aware and conscious of what types of organizations you're supporting when you travel.
As soon as we got to the park, we were introduced to the three elephants we were going to be caring for and spending the day with. Each of these elephants had been rescued from places that were abusing them for some sort of financial gain (usually through tourism or logging/hard labor). The elephants were so sweet and gentle that it hurts me to imagine that there were actually humans who were harming them at one point in their lives.
The goal of interacting with these elephants is to rehabilitate them through positive human interactions to demonstrate a different pattern than they have learned in the past. It's basically a big love fest all day between you and the elephants. You get to feed them out of the palm of your hand, walk side-by-side with them, watch them roam around, and even bathe them in the river! It was pure magic to be interacting with the elephants in such an intimate way.
By the end of the day, my heart was so full and overjoyed from the experience of giving care and love to these beautiful creatures. I was so thankful for finding Elephant Nature Park and learning about the work they do in order to rescue and protect as many animals that they can. I simply cannot give enough praise to this organization for what they do and the positive mission that they spread. I highly recommend Elephant Nature Park to everyone who is looking for where to ethically and safely interact with elephants in Thailand!
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A Weekend Guide to Chiang Mai
Nestled in the northern region of Thailand is the magical, historic city of Chiang Mai. Known for being Thailand's culture capital, Chiang Mai offers a wide variety of experiences, activities, cuisines, and sights. If you're planning your trip or looking for some inspiration, use this weekend guide to plan where to eat, sleep, and play on any budget in Chiang Mai!
A Weekend Guide to Chiang Mai
Nestled in the northern region of Thailand is the magical, historic city of Chiang Mai. Known for being Thailand's culture capital, Chiang Mai offers a wide variety of experiences, activities, cuisines, and sights. In one day, you can feed and care for rescued elephants, get a 60-minute Thai massage for less than the cost of lunch in New York, see the entire city from a temple on a mountain, and wrap up the day with dinner at a street vendor at the Night Bazaar. There is something that sparkles in the vibe of Chiang Mai, and this city guide will help you uncover that!
If you're traveling to Thailand, I highly recommend spending time in Chiang Mai during your trip. I was thrilled to visit this cultural hub for 4 days, but found that I could have easily spent 4 weeks and still felt like I wanted to see more! If you're planning your trip or looking for some inspiration, use this weekend guide to plan where to eat, sleep, and play on any budget in Chiang Mai!
GOOD TO KNOW INFORMATION BEFORE TRAVELING TO CHIANG MAI:
Currency: Thai Baht
Language: Thai, but English is widely spoken
Getting Around: Uber (extremely affordable from Western perspective), TukTuks (so fun and can be negotiable), Taxis, and Songthaews (the red bus shared taxis). You can also rent a motorbike to easily get around.
DO NOT--UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES--PURCHASE A BUDDHA OR IVORY SOUVENIR. Buying Buddha souvenirs in Thailand is considered extremely offensive. There will be plenty of vendors trying to sell these trinkets knowing that Western tourists want to have a little Buddha statue to go home with. Don't be that asshole. Also be cautious of the material that your souvenirs are made with and never buy products made from ivory. Ivory poaching is a serious problem in Asia and Africa and we need to spread the word so that more travelers gain awareness that purchasing these things is wrong and unethical.
Don't forget to pack: BUG SPRAY, some type of garment to cover your shoulders and knees in the wats (temples), comfortable walking shoes, and sunscreen.
Chiang Mai is perfect for: Solo travelers, couples, families, groups, foodies, and adventure travelers
If you're like me, you're probably thinking to yourself, "I loveeee Thai food! Can't wait to try the authentic dishes when I visit!" While this still held true during my visit (and the food absolutely exceeded my expectations), I was in no way prepared for the flavor and spice factor that was about to hit me when I tried food in Chiang Mai.
If you know anything about the history of the city, you'll know that Chiang Mai actually used to be its own kingdom and thus have its own cuisine and culture. That cuisine, from Western standards, is EXTREMELY spicy. I'm talking SERIOUS spice. Just be cautious of that when you go to a restaurant and think that just because you get extra jalapeños in your burrito at Chipotle that you can handle the spice in Northern Thai food.
That being said, the food in Chiang Mai did not disappoint. You really can't go wrong with anything you eat here. It's also pretty affordable to eat well here. For example, a high-end, luxury dinner in Chiang Mai can cost about the same as a regular mid-range restaurant in NYC.
Budget:
Chang Puak Gate, Chang Puak Gate -- So many delicious vendors all in one area. Make sure to try Khano Ko Moo from Khao Kha Moo Chang Phueak (the Chiang Mai cowgirl who serves up a delicious, slow roasted pig leg), Mango Sticky Rice (my personal favorite thing from Thailand), Tom Sab, Khanom Bua Loi, Sticky Rice, and Nam Tok Moo
The Hideout, 95/10 Sithiwongse Road -- Cafe, Vegetarian/Vegan options
Lemongrass, Loi Kroh Road 200 meters pass Royal Lanna Hotel towards the river -- Asian, Thai, Vegetarian options
Tikky Cafe, 2/2 Arak Soi 3, Sriphum -- Asian, Thai, Vegetarian/Vegan, Gluten Free options
The Night Bazaar, Chang Klan Road -- Bustling market where you can find some good, cheap eats and lots of shopping (don't be afraid to haggle with prices)
South Gate Market, Chiang Mai Gate -- Another market with delicious food to try like Sai Ua (sausage), Curry Noodles, Pad Thai, Khanom Krok, Hor Mok, and Grilled Eggs. You'll find one side of the market has more finger foods and easy bites, where the other side has larger bowls and plates that you can sit and enjoy.
It's Good Kitchen, 175/6 Ratchadamnoen Road, PhraSingh Subdistrict -- Asian, Thai, Vegetarian options
AUM Vegetarian Restaurant, 1/4 Suriyawong Alley, small alley opposite Chiang Mai Gate Hotel (20 M. from main alley) -- Vegetarian/Vegan, Gluten Free options
Khao Soi Khun Yai, Sri Poom Road, Just After Sri Poom 8 Alley -- Asian, Thai options
Reform Kafe, 1/4 Sripoom Rd. Lane 7 -- Asian, Thai, Healthy options
Rosy-Cheeks, 52/2 Village No.8 Soi 4, Soi Wat Umong -- Thai, Fusion, Healthy options
Cat House Restaurant, 8/5 Chaiyapoom, Soi 1 -- Cafe, Fusion, Vegetarian options
Pho Anh, 48 Charoenprathet Road, Muaeng -- Asian, Vietnamese, Vegetarian options
SP Chicken, 9/1 Sam Larn Soi 1, Phra Singh, Muang -- Asian, Thai options
Snooze Chiang Mai, 11/1 Chang-Moi Kao Rd -- Cafe, Healthy, Vegetarian options
Also try: Warorot Market (great place to immerse yourself like a local), Weekend Market at Soi Wua Lai (go on Saturday) and Soi Ratchadamnoen (go on Sunday), Siri Wattana & Thanin Markets (another very local experience), Kad Suan Kaew, Maya Shopping Mall, Pun Pun Vegetarian Restaurant
Moderate:
Woo Cafe & Art Gallery, 80 Charoen Rat Road, Wat Ket Subdistrict -- SUCH a cute coffee shop and cafe (might be one of my favorites I've ever seen). Even if you don't eat here, I highly recommend at least walking through to check out the space. It's adorable and incredibly tempting to go home with everything from their shop!
Sababa Israeli Restaurant, 183/1 Chang Klang Road -- Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, Healthy options
Ginger & Kafe, 199 The House, Munmueang Road, Siphum Subdistrict -- International, Thai, Vegetarian options
Eat Is Life, Nimmanahaeminda Road, Soi 12, Kantary Hills Terrace -- Japanese, Mediterranean, Thai options
Anchan Vegetarian Restaurant, Nimmanahaeminda Road, soi Hillside 2 condo, Opposite Soi 13 -- Asian, Thai, International options
SS1254372 Cafe, 22/1 Nimmanhemin Road, Soi 17, Suthep -- Cafe, Vegetarian, Vegan options
My Secret Café in Town, 175/12 Rachadamnoen Road, Phra Sing subdistrict -- Cafe, Thai, International options
Angel's Secrets, 27 Moon Mueang Road Soi 5 -- Cafe, Asian, Thai options
Dash Restaurant and Bar, 38/2 Moon Maung Road, Soi 2 -- Asian, Thai, International options
Ugo Restaurant, 47 Moon Muang Road (Next door Thapae Boxing Stadium -- Italian, Thai options
Paak Dang, 46/1 Wang Sing Kham Road -- Seafood and Barbeque options
La Fourchette, 162/2 Phra Pokklao Road, Phrasing Subdistrict -- Swiss, French, European options
Norden Restaurant, 11 Thasala Subdistrict -- European, Swedish, Scandinavian
Fern Forest Cafe, 54/1 Singharat Road, Sriphum, Mueang -- Cafe, Asian, Thai
DaDa Kafe, 20/1 Ratmakka Road, Phra Singh -- Cafe, Asian, Thai
Also try: Kalapela, Amrita Garden, The Vorra Bistro, Tanita Coffee House, Nakara Jardin Bistro, Rustic & Blue, Flight 52, El Patio, Free Bird Cafe, Beast Burger, Why Not?, and The Flying Pig
Luxury:
David's Kitchen, 113 Bumrungrad Road, Wat Kate Subdistrict
Le Grand Lanna, 5 1/4 Moo 1, Chiang Mai, Sankampaeng Road, The Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai -- You can also see authentic Thai dances performed here every week! Highly recommend!
Farang Ses, 5 1/4 Moo 1, Chiang Mai, Sankampaeng Road, The Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai
The Service 1921 Restaurant & Bar, 123- 123/1 Charoen Prathet Road Changklan Muang Chang Wat
L'elephant, 7 Sirimangkalajarn Soi 11, Suthep, Muang Chiang Mai
Also try: Le Coq d'Or Restaurant, Pakorn's Kitchen, Terraces, B Samcook Home 16, Fujian, Little Pork, Deba Osaka Style, Palette Restaurant, Akaligo (great breakfast buffet!), or Piccola Roma Palace
Finding fabulous accommodations in Chiang Mai is not a difficult task; however, narrowing down your choice of where you'll want to stay is. In this city, you'll find a wide range of options such as luxury escapes, wellness retreats, and budget friendly hostels. Each one has its own unique charm and personality. Browse some of my favorite choices at every budget below!
The historic luxury escape
The Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai, $$$$, 5 1/4 Moo 1, Chiang Mai - Sankampaeng Road | Tha Sala, Chiang Mai 50000, Thailand
If you've ever wanted to know what it feels like to travel back in time and become royalty of the Lanna Kingdom, check into the Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai. This luxury escape will give you the chance to visually experience what the city of Chiang Mai looked like once upon a time. For more information and pictures, read about my stay at Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai right here!
Also try: Rachamankha ($$$$) or Ping Nakara Boutique Hotel & Spa ($$$)
The trendy boutique oasis
137 Pillars House Chiang Mai, $$$$, 2 Soi 1, Na Wat Gate Road | Wat Gate, Chiang Mai 50000, Thailand
137 Pillars House Chiang Mai has grasped one of the coveted positions on T&L's Top 100 Hotels in the World multiple years in a row and it's easy to see why. This gorgeous hotel seamlessly integrates the old and new worlds of Chiang Mai and offers visitors a cozy oasis to rest their heads just outside the city gates. For more information and pictures, read about my stay at 137 Pillars House right here!
Also try: Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort ($$$), Akyra Manor Chiang Mai ($$) or Anantara Chiang Mai Resort ($$$)
The Mid-range hideaway
Tamarind Village, $$, 50/1 Rajdamnoen Road | Si Phum, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
Images via Tamarind Village
This quiet boutique hotel is nestled right in the heart of the old city. Great option to choose if you want to be right in the middle of the action!
Also try: Thai Akara - Lanna Boutique Hotel ($), De Naga Hotel ($), or Puripunn Baby Grand Boutique Hotel ($$)
The Budget Friendly artsy Hotel
Hotel des Artists Ping Silhouette, $$, 181 Chareonraj Rd. | T.Wat Ket , A.Muang, Chiang Mai 50000, Thailand
Images via Hotel des Artists
Not only is this hotel highly Instagrammable, it's also conveniently located in one of the trendy neighborhoods of Chiang Mai. Walking to and from the city center will be no problem staying here.
Also try: The Chiang Mai Riverside ($$), Art Mai Gallery Nimman Hotel Chiang Mai By Compass Hospitality ($$), or BED Phrasingh ($)
10 Things to Do in Chiang Mai:
1. visit the elephant nature park.
If seeing or interacting with elephants is on your to-do list for Thailand, look no further than the Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai. Elephant Nature Park is an elephant rescue and rehabilitation center in Northern Thailand where you can visit or volunteer. This place is the best option for tourists, travelers, and locals to ethically and safely interact with these beautiful creatures in a protected environment. Make sure to read the disclaimer I wrote below when choosing animal excursions in Thailand!
Visiting the Elephant Nature Park was literally one of the best days of my life. I got to live my dreams of cuddling with and taking care of elephants for a day! This organization does so much to rescue and protect these animals from the horrible conditions of animal exploitation in tourism throughout the region. They also do a great job educating the public about the harms of supporting companies who do not practice ethical behaviors.
RELATED: Where to Play, Interact, and Spend Time With Elephants in Chiang Mai
In my opinion, there is no other company that compares to Elephant Nature Park. We did the "Care for Elephants" Single Day Excursion and it was worth every single penny. I can't wait to go back to Chiang Mai and do it again!
IMPORTANT: Do Your Research Before Booking Any Tour Or Excursion! Since the tourism industry is a huge source of revenue, some companies and tour groups have resorted to selling or promoting services that are unethical, abusive, or exploitative in order to make a quick buck from unknowing tourists. Some examples of these services and excursions include the tiger parks, elephant trekking and elephant riding.
Long story short, there are companies that exploit and/or abuse animals in order to make money from naïve tourists who want to ride an elephant in Thailand or pet a tiger at a "sanctuary." You NEED to do your research before blindly signing up for these activities in order to avoid supporting companies who are putting these animals through this abuse and exploitation.
2. walk, shop, eat, and drink through the nimmanhaemin neighborhood.
Everyone loves a good trendy neighborhood that's full of fun little shops, quirky cafes and boutiques. In Chiang Mai, the Nimmanhaemin area is it. Take some time to stroll around this area and hop in any of the local spots that look appealing. There are so many small side streets and areas to explore that you could easily spend a whole day wandering around.
3. try the local cuisine and sign up for a cooking class.
You can't leave Chiang Mai without tasting some of the local Northern Thai cuisine. Make sure to add Khao Soi, Som Tum, and Mango Sticky Rice to your list! If you're feeling really adventurous, sign up for a Thai cooking class to get an authentic taste and learn how to make your own dishes at home. There are plenty of great options on TripAdvisor or through your hotel's concierge.
4. spend time at the local cafes.
Chiang Mai is very much a "cafe city," meaning there are tonssss of hip and trendy cafes to stop in and hang out. There are too many good ones to name, but I really love the recommendations from this post via Paper Planes and this post via A Blonde and Her Passport.
5. browse the local boutiques and galleries.
Besides the Nimmanhaemin neighborhood, there are plenty of other pockets around the city that have great little boutiques and places to shop. We actually stumbled upon some great stores and galleries just outside of the city walls. One of our favorites was a gallery/store named John Gallery along Tha Phae Road, which is owned by the artist John Monoon. His shop is full of beautiful pieces that he has hand drawn that often combine inspirational quotes drawn with landscapes, animals, and other things of his creation. We were so in love with his work we brought one home to New York with us!
6. get a thai massage.
You cannot leave Thailand without getting a Thai massage! You can find plenty of places throughout the city to stop in for a treatment as shops are basically as abundant as Starbucks in the states. Most places are extremely affordable too (usually costing under $5 USD per hour for some treatments), so it's hard to pass that up! If you want to opt for a little more luxury, my personal favorites were at the spas of 137 Pillars House and Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai.
7. shop and walk through the local markets.
You can't leave Chiang Mai without visiting one of the local markets. The most popular amongst tourists is the Night Market (aka Night Bazaar) along Chang Khlan Road. You can find tons of little chachkies and souvenirs here, as well as local street food from different vendors. If you're interested in a more authentic feel, then head to the Saturday market along Wua Lai Road and the Sunday market along Tha Pae Gate. This is where most of the locals and expats usually head for handcrafted goods, unique pieces of art, or street food.
IMPORTANT: As previously mentioned, do not under any circumstances purchase anything with the Buddha or anything that is made of ivory!
8. see the temples (especially wat PHRA THAT doi suthep).
The temples (aka wats) are a sacred place for Buddhist cultures, so you must treat visiting them with the utmost respect. These temples are a beautiful example of the Thailand's culture and history that shouldn't be missed. My personal favorite was Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, which is just a little bit outside of the city center (we took an Uber there). My recommendation is to go very early in the morning to beat the crowds and see the spectacular view of Chiang Mai from above. You'll have to climb some 300+ steps to get to the top, but it's surely worth it!
Be Prepared: Women always need to have something covering their shoulders and legs above the knees before entering the wats. I brought a long, lightweight scarf that I was basically able to make into a body wrap any time we visited a wat. You also need to take your shoes off before entering the temple, so having comfortable walking shoes that are easy to slip on and off are good to pack. Just follow the rules set outside the temple and you'll be fine!
9. take a day trip or Go on an adventure excursion.
Chiang Mai has so much to offer, but if you find yourself wanting to explore a little further, consider a day trip to one of these places: Chiang Rai, Chiang Dao, Pai, Doi Pui, or Doi Inthanon. If the adrenaline junkie inside of you is screaming to come out, look into an adventure excursion like ziplining through the jungle, kayaking through the Ping River, or hiking the mountains.
10. visit during one of the festive months.
If you have the flexibility of choosing when to visit Thailand, try to plan your trip around some of the country's more festive events like Songkran (Thai New Years) or Loi Krathong (the famous festival of lights in the fall with the glowing lanterns). We weren't able to visit at this time, but definitely hope to go back to experience it!
HAVE YOU EVER BEEN TO CHIANG MAI? WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE THINGS TO EAT, PLACES TO STAY, OR THINGS TO DO? COMMENT BELOW WITH MORE RECOMMENDATIONS!
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Where to Stay in Bangkok: The Siam Hotel
There are so many hotel options in the sprawling city of Bangkok that it can be hard to choose where to stay. Tucked away along the Chao Praya River in the Dusit district of Bangkok is an exclusive, stylish escape: The Siam. This Bangkok hotel is nothing short of a remarkably intriguing, one-of-a-kind work of art. There are touches of modern elegance and Art Deco design juxtaposed with eye-catching colors and rare antiques. If you're looking for where to stay in Bangkok, look no further than this artistic, urban sanctuary in the heart of bustling Bangkok.
The Siam Hotel: An Artistic, Urban Sanctuary in the Heart of Bustling Bangkok
“Sorry for the commotion—We’re in the middle of a photo shoot with the Prime Minister in the library and the Princess is arriving to check-in shortly!”
Did my ears hear correctly? The Prime Minister? The Princess? Did I somehow get passed the royal guards of a private palace in Bangkok?
Courtesy of The Siam
Not exactly... This was just another busy day for the staff members of The Siam in Bangkok, Thailand. And the busy days haven’t seemed to slow down (nor does it seem like they will) at all since this magical boutique hotel opened its doors in 2012.
For our first trip to Thailand, Jay and I knew we would need somewhere peaceful to rest our heads after 24 hours of traveling from New York City. We figured, "Why not splurge a little and go for the best to get our bodies acclimated?" I had seen photos of The Siam here and there, but I wasn’t at all prepared for the enchanting luxury experience that was awaiting us on the other side of the world in Bangkok.
ARRIVING TO THE RESORT
The Siam is an exclusive, stylish escape that is tucked away along the Chao Praya River in the historical Dusit district of Bangkok. If you’re lucky with Bangkok traffic, it’s a 45-minute drive from the Suvarnabhumi International Airport. If you need, the hotel is able to assist with private transportation—which I recommend doing ahead of time—to make sure you arrive safe and sound to your serene getaway.
The warm and friendly evening staff greeted us as our car pulled into the driveway just before midnight. “Sawasdee Krab, Ms. Dominguez and Mr. Schoen! We hope you enjoy your time with us at The Siam.” Even through the groggy haze of our intercontinental travel, we knew this was about to be a memorable place.
In all honesty, it’s almost impossible to find just one word that encompasses all that The Siam is. Maybe a phrase will do: The Siam is a remarkably intriguing, one-of-a-kind work of art. This creative oasis is no stranger to the occasional celebrity guest, dignitary, or royal family member. And they treat every single one of their guests like VIP.
Once you step inside The Siam, you definitely get a sense that this resort was built for the uber-chic and sophisticated world traveler. When the hotel lobby has the ability to take your breath away, you know you’re in for a real treat to explore the rest of the property!
An Elegant Dichotomy of Eccentric, Antique Treasures and Art Deco Luxury
As we walked through the bright and spacious atrium, we were greeted by an elegant, calming collection of plants that stood so high they seemed as if they could graze the glass ceiling right above them. The pop of green color in the plants really stood out in contrast to the stark white, black, and neutral colors that surrounded them. We quickly noticed this interesting color pattern was a common feature of the interior decor throughout the hotel.
To say that the design and decor of The Siam is spectacular is really selling it short. Krissada Sukosol Clapp, Bill Bensley, and Khemvadee Paopanlerd, the creative brains behind this property, really outdid themselves when crafting the unique guest experience of the hotel.
Each of the 39 rooms of The Siam (which include expansive suites, secluded pool villas, and a private cottage) is open and airy with just enough style and grandeur that it will make you reconsider your entire decor selection at home. There are touches of modern elegance and Art Deco design juxtaposed with eye-catching colors and rare antiques. The overall ambiance is meant to reflect the period of time when Bangkok was under the rule of King Rama V, around 1853-1910.
For our stay, we opted for The Siam Suite, which didn’t spare any luxury. Our two favorite aspects of this suite were the large soaking tub in the bathroom and the colorful sitting room we had towards the front of the suite. The massive king size bed—which would probably take up all the space inside our New York City bedroom—was sooo comfortable, which made acclimating to the 12-hour time difference pretty easy. As a matter of fact, give me that bed whenever I travel and I’ll never have any issues with adjusting to time zones again!
In addition to this gorgeous suite, we also had free WiFi throughout the property and our own personal Butler, who was SO helpful! The Butler staff here really goes above and beyond to make sure you’re all taken care of throughout your stay.
We were also able to enjoy complimentary boat service along the river between the hotel and the Saphan Taksin pier, as well as complimentary breakfast each morning in the restaurant. Breakfast came with a ton of different selections and was very tasty. I loved the unique juice combinations that you could order!
Courtesy of The Siam
Spend a Night at the Museum...Literally
I never thought it was possible for a building or hotel to have “personality,” but damn does this hotel have personality, character, and soul! I’m not kidding when I say that you can walk into every room and instantly feel like it has a story to tell. It’s incredible that a place that was only opened in 2012 can give off that kind of vibe!
A lot of this vibe is thanks to the marvelous antique collection housed around the hotel, which makes it so distinct and Instagram worthy. Every corner you turn, there is something different and captivating that you could stare at for hours. The history and stories behind each artifact and collectible makes you curious about where they came from and what they mean.
We were actually shocked to find out that Krissada Sukosol Clapp, whose brainchild was The Siam, was the main owner and collector of the art and antiques throughout the hotel. When he was developing the idea of The Siam, it was actually intended as a place to house all of his unique treasures from around the world. I’m so thankful that he decided to incorporate an experience like this into the hotel because each little detail makes The Siam feel like you’re actually living in a museum. It’s so incredible!
A stroll through the hotel’s library will give you a tiny hint of the attention to detail paid here at The Siam. Kriss is so meticulous about each and every little aspect of the collection, which really makes the experience so much richer. We were told that he still comes in throughout the month to add new pieces and treasures as he sees fit. I personally love when an owner is this involved in the experience because it helps you feel that soul, personality, and character behind the project. It’s the secret sauce that makes a hotel stand out like this one does.
HOW TO SPEND YOUR TIME HERE
Being that you’re practically in a museum when you stay at The Siam, it’s easy to wander the halls and get lost marveling at all the hidden gems around the hotel. I kind of felt like Alice in Wonderland when she was walking around saying “Curiouser and curiouser...”
BUT—there are so many other things you can do around the hotel in addition to wondering at the artwork! Here are my favorites:
Explore the Artwork Room by Room
The first thing we did after catching up on sleep from our insane jet lag was explore every inch of this hotel. We actually ended up spending most of our first day just admiring all of the artwork! Take a look through the library, the movie room, the restaurants, the spa, and more. Seriously, every nook and cranny is worth taking a look at.
Take the Complimentary River Cruise at Sunset
Every guest should take advantage of the complimentary river cruise, but it’s particularly special at sunset. You can even take cocktails on board with you to enjoy while you’re taking in the sights on the River of Kings. Schedules are available at the hotel and online.
Get a Sak Yant Tattoo from a Specialized Ajarn
I never would've thought that getting a tattoo would be on my list of things to do at a hotel, but The Siam proved me wrong! The sacred tradition of Sak Yant dates back over two millennia. Tribes around the Asian continent would use the intricate patterns of the tattoos to impart magical powers for protection, luck, fortune, charisma, and other powers to the wearer. If you want to make your trip to Thailand truly memorable, you can make arrangements at The Siam’s private Sak Yant Tattoo Studio, where you’ll be inked by the talented artist, Ajarn Boo.
Use The Siam’s Smartphone to Get Tips
In each guest room, you’ll find a special smartphone that will allow you to access information all around Bangkok without having to worry about your international connection or provider. This smartphone is already pre-programmed with tons of valuable travel tips for Bangkok, sample itineraries, and even immediate access to your Butler. It's the perfect pocket guide to take along when you’re out and about! We used ours to discover some nearby attractions and to learn some of the etiquette customs of Thailand.
Throw Some Punches in the Muay Thai Boxing Ring
Muay Thai Boxing is a popular traditional Thai sport that helps with overall fitness and wellbeing. The Siam has their own state-of-the-art Muay Thai trainers and boxing ring for you to practice your moves during your stay.
Courtesy of The Siam
Eat and Drink at the Restaurants and Bars On Site
Similar to other popular Thai hotels, The Siam offers guests a wide variety of drinking and dining options on site. Enjoy some authentic Thai cuisine in the Chon Thai Restaurant, which is set amongst three, century-old Thai Teakwood houses. Step back into the Jazz Age at the Deco Bar & Bistro for some international cuisines (and to catch a look at the incredible instrument collection). Last, sit down with a coffee and pastry at Café Cha, or sip a cocktail poolside at the Bathers Bar.
Indulge in a Thai Spa Treatment at the Opium Spa
You haven’t really been to Thailand if you haven’t indulged in at least one spa treatment. Step into The Siam's world-renowned Opium Spa and enjoy a full day of pampering. Sadly, we didn’t have time for a treatment during our stay, but we did have a look around the spa—which, at the very least, I highly recommend doing!
Sign Up for a Signature Cultural Experience
The Siam has taken the time to put together a curated selection of cultural experiences for all guests to enjoy during their stay. You can sign up for a hands-on cooking class, have a unique dining experience with The Siam Easy Weekend, or relax on a Private Dinner Cruise upon a fully refurbished teak rice barge. Make sure to book these things in advance, or check with your Butler upon arrival to see if they are available!
OTHER NOTABLE MENTIONS
Relax by the Riverside Infinity Pool.
Explore the nearby Dusit district. Check out local markets, the Grand Palace, the Dusit Zoo, temples, Vimanmek Teak Mansion, and other attractions.
Use the free river cruise to access the BTS Skytrain and MRT Subway to get around quickly in Bangkok.
Indulge in Happy Hour to get buy-one-get-one-free drinks.
Have Afternoon Tea at Café Cha or in the English Garden.
Take some treasures home with you by shopping in The Siam’s unique antique gift shop.
Rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul with their 4-Day, 3-Night Wellness Program, in partnership with Dr. Adrish Brahmadatta, a notable Ayurvedic doctor and yogi.
Workout with your own personal trainer at the gym.
Courtesy of The Siam
GOOD TO KNOW INFORMATION
In good traffic, the airport is about 45 minutes away. I would suggest arranging a car service before you arrive in Bangkok to take care of this. The Siam can assist with this if you need.
The downtown Siam Square is just 20 minutes away. You can get there by car, subway, or boat.
Take advantage of the free river cruise, which will take you to the nearby subway and skytrain stops. The nearest BTS station is the Saphan Taksin stop. The nearest MRT station is the Hua Lampong stop.
If you need to get around the city, Uber is very popular and inexpensive, and a little more reliable than a tuk-tuk. But, the tuk-tuk gives you an authentic experience...so you choose. You can use my Uber code right here to get a discount on your first ride.
There is an ATM in the hotel if you need to get any Thai Baht during your stay.
The hotel is pet friendly, which means you can bring your fur babies along for an additional fee per night.
Looking back, there couldn’t have been any better way to kick off our adventures in Thailand than staying at The Siam. We truly felt like royalty after leaving. This hidden gem in the heart of Bangkok set the bar so high for everything we experienced from there on out. The original architecture, art, hospitality, and overall ambiance of The Siam gave us a first-class, cultural experience that we will never forget. It left us wondering one thing: Is it really fair to have this much beauty under one roof?!
The Siam Hotel
3/2 Thanon Khao, Vachirapayabal, Dusit, Bangkok 10300, Thailand
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THIS HOTEL, PLEASE CLICK THE LINK BELOW
Thank you to The Siam Hotel in Bangkok for hosting our stay. And a special thank you to all of the incredible staff members who made our visit spectacular. This post may include affiliate links, which comes at absolutely no cost to you. All proceeds go directly back into maintaining this website and making it better for you. All opinions are my own.
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Hi, I'm Ana Rebeca! Welcome to The City Sidewalks. Here you’ll find tips on Travel, Lifestyle, and Wellness.
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