Escape Magazine- Autumn 2025_Spreads

THAI PARADISE ISLANDS UNCOVERED

A perfect place for Asian adventures, it’s easy to see why Thailand is a favourite for so many. Bustling Bangkok , charming Chiang Mai , and sheltered beaches beside lively towns draw visitors in their droves. But what’s beyond the crowds? Can you still go off the beaten track in the Land of Smiles ? With over 1,400 islands across the Phang Nga Bay , the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand , the answer is ‘yes!’. There’s a Thai paradise for everyone – all we need to do is find yours. For animal lovers, it might be the scuba and snorkelling hotspot of Koh Tao , around two hours from Koh Samui . Here,

sea turtles swim in warm waters at world-class dive sites close to boutique accommodation like the Haad Tien. Near Krabi , the protected marine park around Koh Lanta’s Andaman archipelago sees rays and whale sharks during the early months of each year. The main island’s jungles are also home to macaques , monitor lizards , mountain frogs and more. Explore from luxury hideaways, including Layana Resort & Spa and Pimalai Resort & Spa . Or how about Koh Chang ? Civets, mongooses and barking deer are the reward for trekking in its rainforests. If you can bear to leave your pool villa at the Santhiya , that is.

TREEHOUSE VILLAS KOH YAO NOI

ANANTARA RASANANDA, KOH PHANGAN

Forty minutes by boat from Phuket, islanders still work the land with water buffaloes on Racha Yai . Another great destination for divers, complete with eco-friendly retreats on quiet coves – The Racha being a standout. This convenient location offers away-from-it all moments, even when time is short. On honeymoon? Try the twin islands of Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi . Locally run restaurants and fishing villages provide a romantic backdrop to pampering spa hotels, such as TreeHouse Villas Koh Yao Noi and Anantara Koh Yao Yai . Family escape? Elegant resorts like Anantara Rasananda blend safe sanctuary with thrilling activities close to the powdery sands, golden temples and monkey filled forests of Koh Phangan. And these are just a small selection. Koh Phi Phi. Koh Lipe. Koh Samet. The Similan Islands. For a paradise island in Thailand, you’re spoilt for choice.

DAMNOEN SADUAK FLOATING MARKET, BANGKOK

LAYANA RESORT & SPA, KOH LANTA

SCAN TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THAILAND

SANTHIYA, KOH YAO YAI

10

OUT THERE MADE EASY 11