From Thai Street Food to Sanctuaries: Journey Through Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket

Bangkok

Wat Pho: Skip the crowds, head to the massage school. $12 for an incredible massage by students learning traditional techniques. Leaning Buddha here is stunning — way cooler than the big reclining one.

Grand Palace & Wat Arun: Both stunning — the Palace is mindblowing but crowded. Wat Arun is more chill.

Markets:

• Damnoen Saduak: Tell your boat driver you want the local route. They'll take you through the quiet canals where people live. Way better than the tourist section.

• Maeklong Railway Market: Super touristy but honestly amazing. The precision when vendors move their stuff for the train is wild.

• Pak Khlong Talat: Huge flower market. Fascinating glimpse into local life.

James Fashion: Got three custom suits here. Great quality, fast turnaround. They will even come to your hotel to do the final alterations! Book ahead.

Creative District: Warehouse 30 and ATT 19 are full of cool art galleries and cafes.

Chiang Mai

Patara Elephant Farm: You get to ride bareback — no seats/chains. They teach you how to care for them first. Most ethical elephant experience around.

Temple Must-Sees: Doi Suthep and Wat Suan Dok. Both beautiful and peaceful.

Baan Hongnual: Private cooking class in a family home. Learned everything from scratch - curry paste included.

One Nimman: Total Brooklyn vibes. Filled with local designer boutiques and cute cafes. Great spot to grab coffee and shop.

Night Tour with Andy Ricker: He took us to this village outside the city — ate at someone's house and tried dishes I've never seen on menus. Total highlight.

Athithan Massage: Local spot, nothing fancy but incredible massages.

Phuket

Six Senses Yao Noi: Serious splurge but worth every penny. Get a pool villa.

Bangkok

Casual Eats

• Thip Samai: Bangkok's most famous Pad Thai spot — worth the inevitable queue (or go in the mall to skip the lines).

• Prachak Roasted Duck: A local institution serving perfectly crispy duck.

Fine Dining

• Le Du: Modern Thai cuisine that elevates traditional flavors to new heights.

• Charmgang: Innovative take on Thai curry dishes in an intimate setting. You almost feel like you are on the lower east side of Bangkok.

Drinks

• Teens of Thailand: Creative gin cocktails in a speakeasy atmosphere.

Chiang Mai

Coffee & Casual

• Nine One Coffee: Exceptional locally-sourced coffee in a serene setting.

• Khao Soi Khun Yai: The city's best khao soi served in a humble setting.

• Khao Soy Nimman: Modern take on the traditional northern Thai dish.

Dining

• Maadae Slow Fish: Our absolute favorite meal in Thailand.

• Dash: Contemporary dining showcasing local ingredients.

Drinks

• North Country: Craft cocktails with northern Thai ingredients from a famous NYC bartender.