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Bangkok, Where Every Meal Becomes an Experience

admin — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 03:17:36 +0000

Bangkok: Where Every Meal Becomes an Experience

28 January 2026

In Bangkok, every meal tells a story – sometimes rustic, sometimes avant-garde – but always grounded in the city’s vibrant cultural tapestry.

Bangkok has long enchanted travelers with its explosive street food – wok-fried noodles slurped on rickety stools, papaya salad bok bok’d tableside to your spice preference, coconut ice cream savored walking along canal paths. Yet over the past decade this city has undergone a subtle yet profound metamorphosis: from a must-visit for casual food lovers into a bona-fide global capital of gastronomy where culinary innovation, heritage and luxury coalesce.

Here, the familiar and the extraordinary share the same streets. You can wander past bustling stall after stall of steaming dim sum, satays and grilled seafood, breathing in the scent of chilis and lemongrass as local families and Michelin inspectors alike tuck in. Then, just minutes away in sleek interiors with hushed service and sommelier-led wine pairings, you can experience cuisine that is rewriting the narrative of Thai food on the world stage.

The Street That Never Sleeps – and Never Stops Wowing

There is a primal joy in Bangkok’s food culture that even the world’s most exalted restaurants can’t replicate: the delight of simply eating with the city. In neighbourhoods like Chinatown (Yaowarat), where lanterns flicker and sizzling woks beckon into the night, traditional eats remain unwaveringly compelling. A crisp oyster omelette from an unassuming cart, fiery bowl of boat noodles holding court at a roadside stand, or tender grilled pork on sticky rice delivered while tuk-tuks whiz by – these are the tastes that first put Bangkok on the map for many travelers.

Markets such as Jodfair Night Market pulse with energy long after sunset, serving up classics like spicy som tum and fragrant curries alongside creative spins on familiar favourites. These aren’t just cheap thrills, they are the heartbeats of the city’s culinary identity, where locals rule the roost and visitors are initiated to the authentic flavors that define Bangkok.

Walking these street corridors at dusk, when candles are lit, steam rises from pots, and the air hangs heavy with aromas, is as much a part of Bangkok’s culinary allure as any tasting menu.

From Street Legends to World-Class Tables

As remarkable as Bangkok’s street food is, it’s the city’s rise in the world of fine dining that signals a profound shift. In the 2025 edition of The World’s 50 Best Restaurants, Bangkok had more restaurants listed among the top 50 than any other city in the world, a milestone that eclipses traditional culinary capitals such as Paris, Tokyo, Madrid and Palma, and cements its global stature.

Names that now resonate in the pantheon of extraordinary dining experiences include Gaggan, Potong, Sorn, Sühring, Le Du and Nusara – each presenting a radically different interpretation of cuisine that nonetheless feels unmistakably rooted in Asian sensibilities. Gaggan, known for its playful, multisensory tasting menus, stands proudly in the top ranks, while restaurants like Sön and Sühring anchor their offerings in soulful interpretations of Southern Thai and European-inspired cuisine infused with local ingredients. The result is a constellation of world-class dining experiences that reward curious, adventurous palates.

Then there are the smaller, less rehashed by international publications and new restaurants like Small Dinner Club, Aksorn, Samrub Samrub Thai and Sakot which are quietly raising the bar further.

What makes this achievement especially striking is not just the number of Bangkok entries on this list, but the breadth of approaches – from cutting-edge conceptual cuisine to deep reflections on Thailand’s culinary heritage – testifying to the city’s breadth and ambition on the world stage.

Chef Pam – Bangkok’s Culinary Luminary

In the constellation of Bangkok’s gastronomic stars, few shine as brightly as Chef Pichaya “Pam” Soontornyanakij, whose ascent has become emblematic of the city’s new culinary era. Chef Pam, the driving force behind Potong, has not only transformed Thai-Chinese heritage into a globally celebrated fine-dining experience, but also earned the title of The World’s Best Female Chef 2025, a groundbreaking accolade that marks her as the first Asian and Thai chef ever to receive this honour.

Potong itself is more than a restaurant; it is a narrative woven through space and flavor. Set within a beautifully restored ancestral building that once housed her family’s Chinese herbal medicine pharmacy, the multi-course tasting menu is guided by Chef Pam’s “five elements and five senses” philosophy, each dish a thoughtful interplay of salt, acid, spice, texture and the Maillard reaction that captivates all the senses.

Her journey, from the Culinary Institute of America to training under globally renowned chefs, and back to Bangkok to shape her own visionary path, mirrors the evolution of the city’s culinary identity itself. Beyond accolades, Pam actively champions the next generation through initiatives like her Women For Women scholarship and internship programme, fostering opportunities for rising talent in Thailand’s culinary arts.

Potong’s prominence on the world stage, ranked among both Asia’s and the world’s best, and Chef Pam’s personal accolades speak not only to her exceptional talent, but also to the creative daring and cultural confidence now pulsating through Bangkok’s gastronomic soul.

A Symphony of Flavours, From Humble to Haute

What sets Bangkok apart is the effortless coexistence of vibrant street culture and refined gastronomy. In the span of one day – or even one evening – a visitor might feast on fiery street noodles, wander through markets bursting with seasonal produce, and then step into an elegant dining room where the chef’s creativity turns heritage into haute cuisine. This is a city where fresh ingredients, bold flavors and cultural dialogue are paramount, and where food is both a celebration of tradition and a canvas for innovation.

Whether you’re lingering over a steaming bowl of boat noodles at a market stall, indulging in a meticulously crafted tasting menu that pushes culinary boundaries, or toasting with sommeliers over a thoughtfully curated wine list, Bangkok invites you to explore, discover and fall in love with every bite.

The Ultimate Culinary Destination

In Bangkok, culinary excellence is not confined to one style or one district, it radiates across neighbourhoods, generations, and cultural influences. The city’s ability to balance legendary street eats with world-class gastronomy has elevated it to the rarefied ranks of the world’s great food destinations. For the discerning traveler who savors authenticity alongside innovation, Bangkok is not just a stop on the itinerary, it is a destination where every meal becomes an unforgettable chapter in a lifelong culinary story.

Ready to learn more about food in Central Thailand?

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The post Bangkok, Where Every Meal Becomes an Experience first appeared on Smiling Albino.

Beyond Phuket: Discovering Thailand’s Emerging Coastal Alternatives

admin — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 05:40:59 +0000

Beyond Phuket: Discovering Thailand's Emerging Coastal Alternatives

25 November 2025

When one thinks of Thailand’s beaches, Phuket tends to dominate the conversation. For good reason – its international airport, polished resorts, and world-class dining make it easy to love. But at Smiling Albino, we’ve always believed that the most memorable journeys begin where the crowds end.

These days, as Phuket faces the challenges of overtourism – traffic tangles, crowded beaches, vanishing tranquility – something remarkable is happening: Thailand’s lesser-known coastal communities are beginning to shine.

Phuket’s neighbours, Khao Lak, Krabi, and even Trang province are stepping into the light, offering not only natural beauty and cultural depth, but space to exhale. We’ve spent years building relationships with local hosts, luxury resorts, artisanal guides, and conservation groups in these areas, and now more than ever, these quieter corners are welcoming travellers eager for something more grounded, more personal, more… Thai.

Smiling Albino specializes in curating journeys that connect you to the soul of a place. Here’s some of our favourite accommodations that help travellers sidestep the Phuket buzz and rediscover the beauty of Thailand’s coastal south.

Khao Lak: Understated Luxury with a Sense of Place

Just a short drive north of Phuket’s International Airport, Khao Lak is a gentle coastal escape defined by long, golden beaches, national parks, and a more local rhythm of life. It’s where Thai families still fish off the rocks at dawn and jungle trails lead to hidden waterfalls.

The Sarojin - Boutique Refinement with Heart

Tucked into a grove of sea almond trees and lush gardens, The Sarojin has long been one of our go-to properties for honeymooners, romantics and couples looking to disconnect. With just 56 rooms, it’s intimate without ever feeling cramped. Breakfast is served all day (with champagne, naturally), and spa pavilions float over a lily-covered pond.

What makes The Sarojin special is its ability to feel both polished and personal. Private dining by waterfall (below)? Check. Snorkelling the Similan Islands with your own guide? Easy. Their “Imagineer” concierge team makes it happen, and with a quiet adults-only policy, peace is always part of the plan.

Aleenta Phuket - Wellness on the Water's Edge

Aleenta was one of the first to spot Natai Beach’s potential, and their pioneering vision shows. Recently refurbished, this beachfront property blends clean design with a focus on sustainability, wellness, and gastronomy. Their Ayurah Spa is a destination in itself—offering everything from Thai bodywork to IV vitamin therapy and holistic health retreats.

For travellers who want their beachfront bliss paired with health-forward dining and a sense of mindful retreat, Aleenta hits the mark with Seasons, a vegan restaurant with a focus on plant-based cuisine. And yes, the villas are as photogenic as they are peaceful, particularly their 2-4 bedroom pool villas right on the beach.

Iniala Beach house - Design, Detail & Michelin Dining

If Aleenta is serenity, Iniala is a statement. Each of the ten suites here was designed by a different world-class talent, resulting in a stay that’s as much about art as it is about indulgence. Families love the private cinema and kids’ club; couples swoon over the oceanfront pools and over-the-top design.

Culinary travellers are especially well taken care of: Aulis by Simon Rogan offers tasting menus worthy of a flight detour, while Thai celeb chef Ian Kittichai lends his flair to beachfront dining. For guests wanting something rare, beautiful, and deeply curated—this is it.

Krabi Province: Nature's Amphitheatre with Boutique Style

Krabi is where nature turns up the drama. Towering limestone cliffs, emerald lagoons, nuclear sunsets and jungle-fringed beaches make it one of Thailand’s most visually stunning destinations. And while Ao Nang and Railay draw crowds, there’s another side to Krabi—quieter, more refined, and just waiting to be explored.

Banyan Tree Krabi - Cliffside Escape with Panoramic Views

Overlooking peaceful Tubkaek Beach, Banyan Tree Krabi offers a modern interpretation of tropical luxury. All rooms are suites or villas, each with private plunge pools and spectacular views. The spa is inspired by Thai mythology and the dining is on par with the best of Bangkok.

We often recommend this for couples celebrating something special – or just needing space to breathe and reconnect.

Tubkaak Boutique Resort - Simplicity and Serenity

Next door is one of our favourite hidden gems: The Tubkaak. With warm service, wood-accented Thai design and a beach that feels all your own, this boutique stay has a quiet magic to it. The in-house spa and Thai-Italian fusion dining round things out beautifully.

Koh Jum Beach Villas - a True Barefoot Getaway

Set on a tranquil and overlooked island between bustling Ao Nang and Koh Lanta, it’s a place where life slows to the rhythm of the tides. Beautiful privately owned-and-furnished wooden villas peek out from behind coconut palms, and chef-led seafood dinners, and island-style sustainability make it a favourite among our guests who seek solitude with soul. Spend the morning kayaking through mangroves, the afternoon learning to cook southern Thai dishes with a local auntie, and the evening doing absolutely nothing under a sky full of stars.

Pimalai Resort - The Soul of Koh Lanta

Finally, for those willing to go a little further, Pimalai on Koh Lanta is the crown jewel. Accessible by private van and boat transfer from Krabi, this expansive 40 acre hillside resort is tucked into lush jungle on a perfect crescent beach. There’s an effortless grace here – private villas with panoramic sea views, impeccable service, and experiences that go beyond the expected.

Beyond Phuket, Something for Every Taste

We love arranging private snorkelling trips, hidden mangrove paddleboard outings, and market visits led by locals who’ve lived here for generations.

For locals, this increased attention is both opportunity and responsibility. Our role is to ensure these communities don’t simply become “the next Phuket,” but rather benefit from tourism that uplifts and empowers. That’s why our journeys focus on supporting local enterprise, preserving tradition, and offering our travellers the rich, nuanced, real-world experiences they come to Thailand for.

Phuket will always have its place. But if you’re ready to step off the well-trodden path and into a side of Thailand that’s more intimate, more sustainable, and infinitely more rewarding – let us take you there. The future of Thai coastal travel is happening quietly. And it’s absolutely stunning.

So why travel with Smiling Albino?

When you travel with us, it’s never just about the hotel. It’s about how you experience the destination. Whether it’s arriving at The Sarojin with a surprise beachside sundowner waiting, or enjoying a chef-led market tour before your dinner at Iniala, we weave local culture, thoughtful luxury, and seamless logistics into every moment.

Khao Lak and Krabi offer a rare kind of luxury – the kind that comes with silence, space, and authenticity. For travellers ready to go beyond Phuket’s crowds, these are Thailand’s most rewarding coastal escapes.

Let us help you discover them, your way.

Ready to learn more about travel in Southern Thailand?

Looking for more?

see what's happening in thailand

Bangkok, Where Every Meal Becomes an Experience

Beyond Phuket: Discovering Thailand's Emerging Coastal Alternatives

Turning 3 Stars into 5

The post Beyond Phuket: Discovering Thailand’s Emerging Coastal Alternatives first appeared on Smiling Albino.

A Beginner’s Guide to Bangkok Street Food

smilingalbino — Mon, 25 Sep 2023 02:00:21 +0000

A Beginner's Guide to Bangkok Street Food

We may be biased here, but we think Thai food is some of the world’s best. But no matter how good your local Thai joint is, the best place to find the tastiest, most authentic eats in Bangkok is on the streets.

There are hundreds of dishes, and dozens of varieties of each one – we’ve been here for almost 15 years and we have found some of our favorite street hotspots but are also continually finding new places to grab amazing food on the street.

What the Guidebooks Say

Many guidebooks list dire consequences for eating unsanitary food, and from a western point of view, some street food restaurants look a bit dodgy. But as true fans of Thai food who have eaten at every type of place from five-star hotels to no-star food stalls, that even Google Maps couldn’t find, we can assure you that if you have an adventurous spirit and follow our few simple rules, you shouldn’t have any problems.

Adjustment Period

What you must keep in mind is that you’ll almost certainly have an adjustment period. Even if you’re eating the cleanest food cooked in the most hygienic kitchen in Asia, the water it’s cooked in and the soil it was grown in are different, so some tummy rumbling is not uncommon. Unless you start to feel really sick though, this is not cause for concern. To be extra-safe, eat at food stalls that cook the food when you order it. Stalls that offer trays of pre-cooked food are usually alright, but just to be safe, avoid them when you’re first tucking in.

The First Rule of Street Food

The first rule of Thai street food is: if you see Thais eating there, it’s probably safe – street food vendors rely on regular customers so it’s not in their interests to make people ill! If you see a lot of Thais eating there, it’s probably really good, too. Thais seem to eat nonstop, and some travel miles out of their way to hit their favorite food stall. No matter if you’re jonesing for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or any manner of snack in between, you’ll find something to satisfy you.

How is Thai Food Cooked?

Most Thai street food is cooked to order in steaming woks, bubbling cauldrons of broth, or smoking grills over red-hot coals. Rice, of course, is a staple, and you’ll find it served with almost every dish. Most meals are eaten “Thai-style” – that is, several dishes on a table, which everyone shares. If you’re sitting at a table with a few Thai friends, remember this before you order!

Table Savvy

On the table you’ll also usually see a selection of condiments, which change based on what you’re eating. These include vinegar with chilies, fermented fish sauce, sweet bean sauce, spicy pastes, chopped peanuts, whole cloves of garlic, and even cups of sugar! And don’t expect no hifalutin cloth napkin either – one singular aspect of Thai street food dining is the single sheets of one-ply tissue on the table. The most common reason is that Thais see a napkin as dirty once it’s used – why use a huge cloth when a little dab will do?

One thing to keep in mind is that unless you’re eating noodles, Thais use a fork and a spoon to eat their food – the fork to push the food on to the spoon, and the spoon to do the rest, so don’t worry if your chopstick game is weak.

Mai Poot Thai

When it’s time to order, most street food stalls – at least the ones near to tourist areas – will usually have a menu with some basic English on it and often even pictures (don’t worry if you see “rice with crap meat,” which should be “crab” – at least they’re trying). If there is no menu, most street kitchens have their ingredients on display in front of the cooking area and a quick glance should give you a pretty good idea of what they’re making. And if there’s any doubt, don’t forget that Thais are friendly! It’s fine to stand in front of a stall to see what’s up. Take a look around you to see what people are eating, and when the time comes, don’t forget the great equalizer – sign language. Start out slowly, accept a bit of help, be a bit adventurous, and soon you’ll be searching further and further afield for more street food adventures. Trust us – it’s a very rewarding pursuit.

Quick Thai Food Words

To help things along, here are a few phrases that might come in handy when ordering:

I don’t want… (mai ow…)

I’m allergic to… (paeh…)

…meat (…neua)

…chicken (…gai)

…pork (…moo)

…beef (…neua)

…shrimp (…koong)

…nuts (…tooah)

Not spicy (mai pet)

Water (nam plao)

Ice (nam kaeng)

Bathroom (hong nam)

…and perhaps most importantly, Beer (beeah)

For more about Smiling Albino’s Thailand adventures, visit our Thailand page.

The post A Beginner’s Guide to Bangkok Street Food first appeared on Smiling Albino.

Thailand’s Top 10 Villas for Post-COVID Travel Privacy

admin — Wed, 13 Jan 2021 03:42:19 +0000

Smiling Albino's Top 10 Thailand Villas

12 january 2021

Privacy and seclusion are 2021 buzz words. What better way to avoid the crowds than with your own oasis? We've put together a list of our favorite villas around Thailand to highlight the best of the best of where to stay in Thailand.

Villas are the ultimate travel experience. Resort facilities meet your own private space.

When most people think of villas and Thailand, the first thought is usually a beach villa. Don’t worry, we’ll get to that! But, we kick off the list with two of the country’s most unique luxury villas, and they are located in Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai!

Pa Sak Tong | Chiang Rai

A secluded luxury estate set among acres of sprawling gardens, ponds, and rice fields in Chiang Rai town, Pa Sak Tong offers privacy and world-class service in the picturesque heart of northern Thailand. A host of amenities, including a private chef, butlers, private pools, gym, and spa await you.

Well-appointed and with tasteful decor involving Thai and Burmese antiques, this stunning estate provides ample opportunities for fun, romance, relaxation and exploring.

Fun Fact: Pa Sak Tong is the home of Northern Thai fine-dining sensation “Locus Food Lab.” For foodie travelers, this will absolutely be a highlight. People fly from Bangkok to Chiang Mai just to have dinner there, so staying at the property and having the restaurant just outside the door is pretty special.

Villa Mahabhirom | Chiang Mai

Villa Mahabhirom, or “a villa of great pleasure,” as it translates in Thai, was conceived with the simple imagination of creating a place where friends, couples and families can come and enjoy their time together. The property is a sophisticated, comfortable setting that threads history, culture, community, art, craft, and a sense of peace and well-being.

Each villa offers a garden, courtyard plunge pool, and views of the main swimming pool or surrounding mountains. Some villas feature a covered, open-air living room on the ground level decorated with objet d’arts and antiques from the owner’s Private Collection.

Location: Villa Mahabhirom is located on the road to the historic Wat U Mong Temple, against the mountains of Doi Suthep. It is a mere 10-15 minute drive to downtown Chiang Mai and the chic Nimmanhaemin neighbourhood.

Moving on to beach beach villas, travellers are spoilt for choice in Thailand and it’s often hard to decide. We’ve spotlighted our favorite villas that have a unique edge and dynamic personality. These are the kind of places people usually wouldn’t think of themselves, and thank us for the recommendation later!

Iniala Beach House | Phuket

Iniala is an exclusive luxury beach experience on quiet Natai Beach. Stunning, creative villas have been exclusively designed by an impressive host of internationally-acclaimed designers and craftsmen. Each villa is unique in style, boasting decorations ranging from futurist living to Thai living, to East & West infusion and eclectic living.

The property’s restaurant is overseen by Eneko Atxa, whose latest restaurant in Spain received three Michelin stars. Plus, there’s even a Kid’s Hotel designed especially for younger guests with plenty of structured activities and interactive stories to be told under the watchful eye of the Iniala children’s butlers.

A stay in these exclusive villas comes with a driver, butler, chef, spa therapist, and housekeeper. Iniala represents a new class of ultra-luxury retreats. Each villa has a dedicated team including 24-hour assistance from the residence’s fully staffed reception and concierge, a driver, butler, chef, spa therapist, and a housekeeper.

Location: Iniala Beach House is situated on the golden sands of Natai beach in Phang Nga, approximately 30 minutes’ drive north of Phuket Airport. Taking an excursion to the Similan or Surin islands is convenient from here.

The Resort Villa | Rayong

With 14,000 square meters of tropical property and 60 full-time staff located a 5-minute walk from the beach, The Resort Villa is a secret paradise that offers unforgettable experiences for those that seek a luxurious private getaway. Located in the non-commercial region of Rayong, Thailand, The Resort Villa boasts infinity saltwater pools totaling 1,000 square meters. The property’s 7 individual villas, 9 dining areas, 4 bars, a fully equipped gym, a full-service spa, a home cinema, and much more, make it the perfect property to keep your whole crew entertained.

There are a total of 8 individual villas and the property is only sold on a buyout basis. So it is best for big groups, (it can accommodate up to 16 guests), such as multi-generation families or groups of friends.

Andara Resort Villas | Phuket

Nestled amidst lush tropical surrounds overlooking the Andaman Sea on the Central West Coast of Phuket. Created by Allan Zeman’s Hong Kong-based Lan Kwai Fong Group, Andara Resort is an ideal luxury getaway. Stunning sea views, private infinity pools with resort facilities second to none, and a range of accommodation options ensure an unforgettable stay. Nearby, guests will find a variety of restaurants, boutique shops, golf courses, and other island activities.

Location: Andara Resort & Villas is approximately 28 kilometers from Phuket international airport.

Trisara | Phuket

Trisara is a handful of luxury villas and residences artfully arranged in old growth trees and gardens. Here you will find true privacy, rare for Phuket. The property oozes luxury with a boutique feel. All guest rooms have their own pool and stunning sea views.

Full amenities such as tennis courts, kayaking, jet skis, and an amazing spa offer great activity options, and yachts are available for charter. The resort’s private beach is compact, but the 45-meter saltwater pool with loungers and daybeds are quite inviting for those looking to leave the privacy of their villas.

Location: Situated on Phuket’s northwestern coastline, Trisara is located approximately 15 minutes drive from Phuket Airport. Location is absolutely secluded and provides total privacy.

The Slate | Phuket

A combination property that offers both hotel rooms and villas, The Slate was born from the creative genius of Bill Bensley, who infused his [non] traditional styles with the theme of all things steel, conjured from the owner’s personal history. The expansive property is recluse from the nearby beach with plenty of space to unwind.

The property’s most secluded spaces are found within its on-site villas. One, two and three-bedroom pavilions offer guests a personal oasis. The walled villas are complemented by large pools and separate living and sleep areas. The Slate’s multiple connecting villas are perfect for groups.

Location: Situated on Phuket’s northwestern coastline, The Slate is located approximately 15 minutes drive from Phuket Airport.

Good to know: The Slate’s connecting villas are perfect for groups.

Six Senses Samui | Koh Samui

Six Senses Samui offers outstanding tropical luxury accommodation with an often-photographed infinity pool. The hotel has a very natural feeling – all woods, bamboo, and natrually-inspired decor. It’s quiet and unique with nice sitting and dining areas.

Lose yourself while gazing out to the sweeping panoramas of the Gulf of Thailand. Laze, graze and refresh by a vast infinity pool, which blends seamlessly with the distant horizon.

Location: The resort is just a 15-minute drive from Samui Airport and located on a secluded beach.

We include Six Senses Samui in our top ten because we’re excited by their new two-bedroom villa “The Beach Reserve” which checks all the boxes for a luxurious villa with direct beach access for families.

Having covered the best of the best in top luxury villas, we also want to note our two favorite “remote” island villa destinations. While they take more time to get to, it is absolutely worth it and guests feel that they have their own slice of undiscovered paradise.

These are not “top luxury” but are a great option for those seeking barefoot luxury, off-the-trail, secluded islands and beaches, at an affordable price

Koh Jum Beach Villas | Krabi

Koh Jum Beach Villas is a hidden gem where nature, relaxation and comfort combine. This boutique eco-chic resort offers individually designed villas directly located on a seven-hundred-meter-long beach or in lush tropical gardens. Beautiful sunset views overlooking the Phi Phi National Park in the distance and Koh Phu Mountain in the foreground can be relished from many vantage points.

In the villas you can expect open architecture, natural ventilation, locally-inspired art and antiques, open-air showers, spaciousness, privacy, and access to lush gardens all around. While creature comforts of all sorts are available, there are no televisions, and guests are encouraged to fully embrace the natural feeling of seclusion. The resort excels at reducing its eco-footprint and supporting the local community.

Location: Koh Jum is just one hour away from Krabi International Airport. It is one of few easily accessible islands where overdevelopment has been kept at bay, so it is ideal for those looking for a castaway feel while also offering a base for exploring Krabi’s amazing natural beauty.

Award! Koh Jum Beach Villas recently was awarded the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Responsible Thailand Awards for 2020 in the Eco Lodge / Hotel Category.

BABA Ecolodge | Koh Phra Thong

If you despair of the rampant developments found on better-known Thai islands like Phuket or Samui, then Ko Phra Thong is the right location for you. Away from the tourist crowds, this remote island remains barely inhabited and gloriously unspoilt. Built on the edge of the national park, BABA Ecolodge is a collection of 28 wooden houses, carefully designed in a traditional style, and generously dotted along the shoreline. The resort is happily located on two seas, the sheltered bay and a beautiful and deserted 12-kilometre beach, fringed by coconut trees.

BABA Ecolodge’s villas are built of wood and follow a traditional Thai design, which allows optimal air circulation, and creates generous lounging areas both inside and outside. Electricity is running at the resort 24 hours per day. In addition to which some of the houses have their own solar installations with the benefit of hot water.

While there is no air conditioning at the resort, all the houses are fitted with ceiling fans and mosquito nets. With no WiFi in the homes, this is the perfect place for a detox from the hustle and bustle of modern living elsewhere

We complete our list with one of the most unique villa offerings in Thailand, including a property exclusively available to Smiling Albino guests: the luxurious private home of highly acclaimed Hotel Designer Bill Bensley and husband Jirachai.

Rose Cottage at Baan Botanica | Bangkok

BONUS VILLA! Bill Bensley’s Bangkok home is lovingly named Baan Botanica in tribute to the more than 15,000 species of plants growing in the gardens. There, Bill and his partner, designer and horticulturist Jirachai Rengthong retreat from the bustle of a busy studio with their 6 Jack Russell Terriers, amidst exotic objects and mementos from travels all around the world.

The property is the test canvas for Bill’s funkiest design ideas, and on the weekend, the property is often found welcoming friends or hosting wild parties in the garden oasis.

Read a great article about this one-of-a-kind property here.

There is only one-bedroom available for use so this is ideal for couples that want an intimate experience at the private home of Bensley. It works fantastic in an itinerary if combined with stays at Bensley designed hotels in the region — Four Seasons Tented Camp, The Slate, Shinta Mani Wild, The Siam, to name a few.

Are you ready?

Travel is more than a luxury for most of us. For many of us, it’s a lifestyle. An adrenaline rush that you feel when you step off an airplane in a new country. It’s the euphoria and “wind in your hair” freedom that you feel driving through winding lanes in an open-air tuk tuk. It’s the giddy feeling you get when you see a golden-clad temple for the first time – or one-hundredth! For many of us, travel is living, and we’re ready to start living again!

Ready to start planning private villa getaway?

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Bangkok, Where Every Meal Becomes an Experience

Beyond Phuket: Discovering Thailand's Emerging Coastal Alternatives

Turning 3 Stars into 5

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The post Thailand’s Top 10 Villas for Post-COVID Travel Privacy first appeared on Smiling Albino.

Smiling Albino Named #Experientalist Awards Finalist

admin — Mon, 07 Dec 2020 02:18:20 +0000

Smiling Albino Shortlisted for the inaugural #Experientialist Awards by OutThere

15 december 2020

We're excited to be nominated alongside our friends at The Siam, Bangkok, for OutThere's The Culturalist Award

A vaccine is in the works, travel bubbles are opening, some countries are welcoming back international tourists and others are tirelessly working on how to reopen safely.

With light at the end of the tunnel, we’re thinking ahead to all the reasons why 2021 and 2022 travel will be some of the world’s best! Read along, share your travel dreams, get in touch with us, and star planning!

The Culturalist Award

The Siam x Smiling Albino is one of the 6 finalists for The Culturalist award.

From Our Application:

Understanding that the guest experience expands beyond the boundary of the hotel’s grounds, The Siam has long since partnered with entrepreneur, host, professional fun-haver and Conde Nast Traveler Travel Specialist Daniel Fraser and his team at Smiling Albino. Like a fine whiskey, the team at Smiling Albino crafts opportunities that allow guests to experience Bangkok’s ends, from well-known sights to back-alley hidden corners in an immersive, sustainable, community-orientated approach where ‘luxury meets local’. Their exceptional team of hosts assists each guest to explore the city’s famed cultural landmarks, timeless neighborhoods, or the creative district filled with eclectic hole-in-the-wall galleries and trendy dive bars, all conveniently accessed via the hotel’s private shuttle boat, a walking journey, or an iconic Tuk-Tuk ride. Guests are also able to opt to explore the spiritual and mystic side of Bangkok with a focus on religious shrines, spiritual art, and local worship ceremonies. For Smiling Albino, the guest experience means participating, not observing. Creating unparalleled experiences that are unique, behind-the-scenes, and impossible to duplicate are their ultimate goal. Whether it’s exploring the city’s klongs (canals), cycling Bangkok’s unexpected pathways, an evening food safari, or searching for Bangkok’s most Instagrammable sights, each Smiling Albino experience has a set of ‘bragging rights’; a series of must-share moments that guests can’t wait to take back home.

These six shortlisted brands have and celebrate “culture” at their very heart, not just limited to the Arts, but also the local community and destination that they’re in.

About

The Experientialist Awards by OutThere was born during the time of COVID-19, seeking to recognise and champion creativity, innovation, resilience and stewardship in the luxury travel industry.

The Experientialist is our response to everything that is happening right now, our ‘pop-up platform’ to bring feel-good factor, optimism and news to our readers, followers and the luxury travel industry at large under the banner of #KeepYourMindTravelling. We also aim to aid positive mental health – through inspiring and feeding wanderlusts – during the quarantine and highlight the amazing and selfless travel brands that are putting the needs of their staff, customers and the public ahead of their own

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Smiling Albino Named #Experientalist Awards Finalist

We're excited to be nominated alongside our friends at The Siam, Bangkok, for OutThere's The Culturalist Award

The Culturalist Award

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