Explore nature in the Golden Triangle
The northern part of Thailand is often less explored than its beach counterparts in the south. However, the north is home to an entirely different natural surrounding and sub-culture which will stun and wow travelers upon visiting. Chiang Rai, located in the infamous Golden Triangle where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar intersect is a world unto its own, perfect for outdoorsy animal lovers who want to spend their days hiking, spending time and learning with Asian elephants, or simply cruising down the picturesque Mekong River.
Where to stay: The Four Seasons Golden Triangle Tented Camp is the perfect place to stay to explore the wonders of Chiang Rai.
Fifteen 580 square-foot tents which transports you into a luxe interpretation of Indiana Jones’s world are set upon a vast expanse of hilly land which doubles as an elephant reserve, giving you sneak peaks of the resident elephants who roam freely. Four Seasons works directly with the Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation which rescues abused elephants and giving them a loving home - so rest assured that all the elephants you meet are truly happy.
Apart from elephant-centric activities, such as a sunrise trek and dinner by their camp, you can also arrange adventure hikes in neighbouring Laos or spend a day in Burma with a wonderful multi-lingual guide. If chilling out is more your thing, the hotel’s outdoor spa which looks out to a foliage of tree tops is to-die-for, while the camp’s Burma Bar and Nong Yao restaurant will keep your stomach satisfied with bespoke cocktails and yummy food.
[Photo courtesy of Four Seasons]