One of my favorite parts of being on Team Nellie is that I get to connect humans through travel. Recently, I introduced my family to a part of the world I fell in love with at 16—about the same age my twins are now. While they’ve grown up traveling, this was their first trip to Asia. With its charming people, rich history, stunning nature, and delicious food, starting with Thailand was an easy choice.
Bangkok: A Vibrant Introduction
Colorful and culturally rich, Bangkok is a history buff’s dream. We kicked things off with a short historical tour (just right for teens!). Some highlights: practicing the meditation of the lotus flower offering in the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and a longtail boat ride to the tucked-away Artist House, where locals and visitors gather to sip tea, draw, and bead.
Not surprisingly, Bangkok is a foodie’s dream. Its streets came alive on our walking food tour, tailored to satisfy curiosity and slightly picky palates at the same time. Navigating the neon-lit maze of sizzling woks and spice-filled stalls, we sampled bite after fantastic bite with our excellent guide, capping off the evening with rooftop drinks overlooking Wat Arun, which glows after dark.
The Kimpton Maa-Lai was our haven in the middle of the city’s buzzing energy. The residence suites are great for families (in-room washing machines are a bonus!). Breakfast was a standout, with its abundant spread of international and Thai flavors fueling us for our days ahead. We also loved the gym’s Muay Thai space and the hotel’s rooftop bar, perfect for a nightcap for Mom and Dad.
Chiang Mai: Beauty, Adventure, and Northern Thai Cuisine
Next stop: the relaxed charm of Chiang Mai. The Anantara Chiang Mai was our gateway to this enchanting city—a gorgeous property set on the river. Their outdoor restaurant served the most exquisite Khao So we’ve ever had.
Exploring the ancient walled town was an adventure in itself. We loved our tuk-tuk tour of temples, markets, and artisan workshops. At sunset on our first day, we embarked on a paramotor flight over the Golden Triangle, which was just as exhilarating as it sounds! Soaring over the hills and rice paddies as the sun cast its golden glow across the landscape was pure magic.
The next day, our guide led us into the hills for a private visit with a family of elephants. Watching them roam, feed, and bathe in their natural habitat was deeply moving. Hiking through the jungle to a waterfall and floating down the river on traditional bamboo rafts gave us a real appreciation for the land and the people who care for it.
The Andaman Sea: An Underwater Wonderland
For our family of scuba divers, spending a few days in the Andaman Sea was a must. Teeming with abundant marine life, healthy corals, and anemones, it’s a paradise for snorkeling, diving, and exploring the small islands in between. The magnitude and diversity of aquatic life made this one of our most unforgettable family experiences. We mixed adventure with luxury at Aweil Pila, a boutique eco-resort on a pristine private island in Myanmar’s Mergui Archipelago.
If you prefer a Thai destination on the Andaman Sea, we recommend the Rosewood and Anantara Layan in Phuket, as well as The Sarojin in Khao Lak. These luxurious coastal properties offer stunning beachfront settings, world-class amenities, excellent cuisine, and a host of activities for families with older children.
Bangkok: A Riverside Retreat
We ended where we began—Bangkok— this time at the Peninsula, the perfect finale to our journey. We especially enjoyed the hotel’s water taxi, a delightful way to navigate the Chao Phraya while being captivated by the captains’ local tales.
Reaffirming Why I Love What I Do
Travel connects us to new places and cultures, but also to each other. Just as Thailand sparked a lifelong curiosity about the world for me, I hope this trip ignited that same sense of wonder for my teens. And I hope it inspired you to explore far-off places, too.
Tips for your Thailand adventure
- Consider visiting during cooler months (November–February) for great weather, or during Songkran (Thai New Year in April) for a festive but rainy experience
- From tuk-tuks to longtail boats, Thailand’s public transportation is not to be missed and a great way to see the country like a local
- Consider side trips to Ayutthaya for ancient ruins or Khao Sok National Park for a unique nature experience