Any first-time trip to Thailand will feature visits to Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and most definitely some beach time on the islands including Phuket or Koh Samui. For an unforgettable adventure, include a worthwhile detour to Chiang Rai in Northern Thailand’s Golden Triangle, named for the mountainous region where three countries meet: Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos.

During our recent trip to Thailand, after a few days in Bangkok, we flew to Chiang Rai airport and spent an unforgettable three days at one of Thailand’s top resorts, Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp, just a one-hour drive from the local airport. Nestled among bamboo forests, lush gardens, and rice paddies, a highlight of the stay is the opportunity to bond with the elephants that reside in the sanctuary adjacent to the property. Besides food and beverage, each night of your stay includes a choice of resort activities including spa services and elephant experiences.

This tranquil resort features modern and spacious rooms with indigenous artwork, traditional teak furnishings, and private balconies with day beds where we lounged in the afternoons taking in the tri-country views. We enjoyed excellent meals with Thai and international favorites served in the double story open-air pavilion resort restaurant with views of the mountains and Mekong River below. The resort infinity pool is ringed by cozy cushioned chaise lounges and was a great spot to relax and take in the colorful gardens that surround the property. One afternoon, we indulged in the resort spa which offers traditional Thai massage, yoga sessions, and healing treatments that soothe with the scent of lemongrass and the sounds of birdsong.

We chose “Walking with Giants” as our elephant experience – an opportunity to bond with these gentle giants in the caretaker village. We learned about the cultural customs of mahouts, the keepers who have for generations worked and lived side by side with these animals throughout South-eastern Asia. Our three-hour adventure included a walk through the jungle in the elephants’ footsteps observing them in their natural environment as they played in the mud, splashed in the river, snacked on leaves and figs they plucked from our palms, and socialized with their fellow elephants… and us! Our excellent guide was one of the veterinarians tasked with keeping the herd of 26 healthy and happy.

Looking for something extra special? Book a night in one of the resort’s Jungle Bubbles. Spend an unforgettable night observing the majestic creatures in their natural habitat from the comfort of an airconditioned, transparent one or two-bedroom fully furnished Jungle Bubble.

It’s never TOO early to plan your next adventure. Email me, mollie@herrickstravel.com and find out about upgrades, complimentary breakfast, special amenities, and VIP service for all Herricks Travel customers. To receive my blogs to your inbox, please enter your email address in the subscriber box, and respond to the confirmation email.