Clare Meakins - Tunbridge Wells Branch • November 11, 2025
WHERE BAREFOOT LUXURY MEETS AUTHENTIC ISLAND LIFE
Our Thai honeymoon journey took us to two spectacular destinations – the serene shores of Koh Phagnan at the Anantara Rasananda and the vibrant metropolis of Bangkok at the Banyan Tree. Travelling in July proved perfect timing, as the East coast of Thailand enjoys ideal weather while the West battles monsoon season.
From the moment our journey began, luxury enveloped us. Whilst waiting for our speedboat transfer to the island, we relaxed in the Anantara lounge at the quayside. We were taken over to Koh Phangan and the boat literally dropped us at the shore where the hotel was located. The staff were waiting to greet us and carried our cases to our rooms. We were welcomed with a refreshing cocktail and our stay in paradise commenced. All rooms here have a private pool and we were taken to our pool suite, which was a perfect retreat to rest and relax. The relaxation continued down by the main pool which featured a pool bar so no need to leave the lovely cool water to get your Thai cocktail.
The great thing about this hotel is its location. Not only is it situated on the most gorgeous, white sand beach but within a couple of minutes, you are in the village centre. Here you will find a selection of restaurants and our favourite was Moonsoon, a Thai restaurant where one guy was serving who could hardly speak a word of English, but the food was to die for. The Rasananda has the most amazing jungle Spa. Nestled discreetly behind the resort, a collection of teak suites blends into the dramatic limestone landscape, each offering calming sea views and direct access to the gardens. This was most certainly the most relaxing experience I have ever had.
SKYSCRAPERS AND STREET MARKETS
After our stay in paradise, we took the boat back to Koh Samui to take our flight up to Bangkok for a 4-night stay. Bangkok is everything that I expected it to be. It's busy, hot and humid and completely fascinating. Our hotel was the Banyan Tree and this is a superb, modern property situated on South Sathon Road. There is an MRT underground station a 5-minute walk from the hotel so getting around is very easy. The Banyan Tree is a modern hotel and the rooms are beautifully furnished. After a long day exploring the city, you can relax up in the Moon Bar which is situated 61 floors above the city. The views from here are incredible and the cocktails are delicious.
A fun thing to do is to take a Tuk Tuk tour of the city which raced us around the bustling streets and stopped at the many markets. One of my highlights was the beautiful flower market where they taught us how to fold flower petals which is something that I never thought I would see my new husband do! If you are in Bangkok over a weekend, don't miss the Chatuchak Market which has over 8,000 stalls. It is split into sections so that makes it easier to find your way around. The best present I received was a £2.00 battery-operated fan as I was struggling to cope with the heat, but it was well worth the visit.
Thailand impressed me with its remarkable contrasts – from the serene sanctuary of a private pool villa to the vibrant energy of Bangkok's markets. This journey showcased why Thailand remains such a sought-after honeymoon destination, offering experiences that are truly distinctive.
Having experienced both the peaceful island retreat and dynamic city adventure, I'd be delighted to help plan your own Thai getaway. Visit our Tunbridge Wells branch for a chat, call me on 01892 357 500, or emailtw@ashdowntravel.co.uk– together we can create an itinerary perfectly matched to your preferences.
