Thailand Resort

Travelers are sure to be pleased with many options for staying in a Thailand resort, with the country's world-famous cuisine, excellent spas and hot springs, white-sand beaches, and expert masseuses. Whether you are looking to stay in one of the beach resorts in Thailand, with easy access to swimming, diving, and other water sports, or in one of the renowned Thailand spa resorts where relaxation is paramount, there are plenty of choices for you. Read on for information about some of the best resorts in Thailand, from Phuket to Chiang Rai.

As one of the most sought-after tourist destinations around the globe, Thailand has its fair share of luxury resorts. The Mandarin Oriental in Chiang Mai is a world-famous institution, built to resemble a traditional Thai palace. With villas that include everything from private massage tables, pianos, and outdoor Jacuzzis, and suites with private pools, the Mandarin Oriental is truly a decadent Thailand resort. It includes a Thai culinary school and beautifully landscaped grounds with rice paddies, gardens, a shrine, and a spa modeled after a Burmese palace.

Another Thailand resort that caters to the well-heeled traveler is The Banyan Tree in Phuket, one of the best Thailand spa resorts. The Thai-style villas have attracted several Hollywood celebrities, as have the Banyan Tree's matchless spa treatments and beautiful grounds. The Banyan Tree also boasts appeal among the eco-conscious—its environmental awareness programs benefit communities all around the area, safeguarding the environment by planting trees, reducting carbon emissions, and rehabilitating polluted areas.  The Banyan Tree also supports local handicrafts, and trains and hires employees from the local workforce.

For those who are looking for a Thailand resort that is more off the beaten track, look no further than the unique Four Seasons Tented Camp in Chiang Rai. Located in the Golden Triangle, the luxury tents available at this Thailand spa resort are decorated in a style reminiscent of nineteenth-century expeditions and come equipped with hand-hammered copper bathtubs, private decks, and a host of spa treatments and excursion opportunities. For instance, if your idea of a resort stay includes elephant trekking, the Four Seasons Chiang Rai may be one of the best resorts in Thailand for you.

Many beach resorts in Thailand offer access to Thailand's pristine beaches at more reasonable prices than the high-rolling luxury hotels. The Evason Hua Hin is close enough to the beaches on Koh Samui to make it convenient to go there for a dip, but its private villas are set back far enough from the main drag that guests can easily get a little peace and quiet, and its unique beehive-shaped mud rooms are the setting for eco-conscious spa treatments. The Sarojin in Phuket is also a popular choice among beach resorts in Thailand, with villas and suites within a few seconds' walk of the beach, along with the requisite culinary and spa wonders.

Mid-range and budget beach resorts are to be found on most of the main tourist beaches, on Phuket, Koh Samui, the beaches of Krabi (with budget accommodation popular on Rai Leh), and along the coast of Phang Nga. For a budget alternative to the resorts on Koh Samui, many budget travelers and backpackers head to Koh Phangan, an island close to Koh Samui, where very reasonably priced beach resorts can be found, as can budget beach bungalows. Naturally you will sacrifice some comfort, service, and convenience for lower prices, but if your goal is simply to lie on a beach, they will certainly fulfill your expectations. Many budget hotels and resorts also offer massages and spa treatments for reasonable prices, though for fully equipped spas and serene atmospheres you will likely have to look to one of the more expensive Thailand spa resorts.