Ferran Travels - Thailand

FERRAN Travels – Our trip to Bangkok and Koi Samui, Thailand

June of 2023, long before the airing of "The White Lotus" (HBOMax 2025), with a friend’s business connection and invite to Bangkok, four of us began planning a trip to Thailand. (January 2024). Digging through saved articles, I came across a printout from over a decade ago about the “Queen’s Museum” within the Grand Palace. Having knowledge of the archival viewing in years past, I was able (with relentless persistence) secure an appointment. How is it as a former student of Art History, History of Architecture and Decorative Arts – I know my French Louis’s and Italian Renaissances. How is it that Thailand was not a part of my curriculum?

Bangkok: A Curated Journey Through Culture, Craft & Contemporary Elegance

Bangkok blends tradition with innovation, featuring modern designs alongside golden temples and rich artistic heritage. For the discerning traveler with an eye for aesthetics, it’s a sensory journey through opulent palaces, riverside ateliers, contemporary galleries, and the timeless beauty of handwoven silk.

A city of architectural splendor, artisanal craftsmanship, world-class hospitality, and immersive cultural moments—all wrapped in effortless style of a bustling city. From serene temple mornings to boutique shopping afternoons and rooftop evenings under the stars, Bangkok is awe-inspiring.

 

The Grand Palace: Regal Splendor in the Heart of Bangkok

Thailand’s most iconic landmark and a breathtaking testament to centuries of Thai craftsmanship and grandeur. Once the official residence of the Kings of Siam, this magnificent complex is an essential stop for the traveler seeking a deeper connection with Thai heritage—wrapped in gold, jade, and architectural finesse.

Highlights:

• The Emerald Buddha: Housed in Wat Phra Kaew, this revered statue carved from a single block of jade is both a spiritual treasure and a stunning work of art.
• The Queen’s Museum: Just within the back wall of the palace is the Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles, with a retail space offering everything from rich silk scarves and fashion pieces to the Queen’s signature Matt Mii woven silk by the meter.

 

Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon (Wat Pho): A Tranquil Icon of Thai Elegance

Just steps from Bangkok’s Grand Palace lies Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhlaram, more elegantly known as Wat Pho—a sanctuary of serenity and refined beauty. This historic temple is home to the magnificent 46-meter Reclining Buddha, a gilded masterpiece that draws visitors from around the world, yet offers a peaceful escape from the city's energy.

Highlight: The Reclining Buddha: Clad in shimmering gold leaf, this colossal statue exudes grandeur, with intricate mother-of-pearl details on its soles.

 

 

 

Wat Arun: The Temple of Dawn

Gracefully rising above the Chao Phraya River, Wat Arun Ratchawararam, or Wat Arun, is one of Bangkok’s most breathtaking architectural gems. Known as the Temple of Dawn, it captivates visitors with its shimmering porcelain spires and ethereal beauty, especially when bathed in the golden light of sunrise or the soft hues of twilight.

Highlight: Architectural Opulence: Climb the central prang for panoramic city and river views, surrounded by elaborate mosaics crafted from Chinese porcelain and seashells—every detail a testament to timeless craftsmanship.

 

The Jim Thompson House:

Tucked away in a lush enclave amidst Bangkok’s urban energy, the Jim Thompson House is a sanctuary of timeless Thai elegance and global intrigue. Once the home of the American silk entrepreneur and art collector Jim Thompson, this beautifully preserved estate offers an intimate glimpse into traditional Thai architecture, Southeast Asian art, and the mysterious legacy of one of the 20th century’s most fascinating expats.

Highlights:

• The House (s): The house itself is a work of art—six traditional teakwood Thai houses seamlessly merged and elevated with elegant touches of Western refinement. Lush tropical gardens and koi-filled ponds add to the tranquil charm.
• Artful Living: Explore Jim Thompson’s private collection of Southeast Asian antiques, Buddhist sculptures, Chinese porcelain, and hand-painted Thai murals.
• Silk Shopping: Adjacent to the house is the Jim Thompson boutique, a retail space offering everything from rich silk scarves and fashion pieces to bespoke home décor.

 

Koi Samui - A Private Oasis in the Gulf of Thailand

We stayed at the Vana Belle Resort, which is perfectly tucked into a lush tropical hillside that gently slopes down toward a white sandy beach. From the moment we arrived down the long driveway, the feeling was of a private sanctuary. Towering palms, the sound of waves, and a warm breeze greeted us as we stepped into the open lobby.

Our private villa was exceptional. Think plunge pool with views of the ocean, outdoor rain shower, and interiors that perfectly balanced modern luxury with traditional Thai design. And yes, we had Butler Service—every little detail was looked after with thoughtfulness and warmth.

Now, the food. I almost cried—literally—because the curry was that good. Fragrant, rich, and perfectly spiced, it was like a hug in a bowl, using local ingredients that tasted incredibly fresh. Whether it was breakfast by the sea, a lazy lunch by the pool, or an elegant dinner under the stars, the culinary experience was unforgettable.

But what really elevated the entire trip was the Thai hospitality we experienced. Every person we met was kind, generous, and genuinely eager to make our stay perfect. From remembering our favorite drinks to surprising us with little treats in the room, they created an atmosphere of effortless luxury and heartfelt care.

We went to Koh Samui in search of a reset—and what we found was something deeper. Peace, beauty, connection. It was hard to leave, and even harder not to dream about going back.

If you're ever looking for a place to pause, breathe, and just be, Koh Samui—and especially Vana Belle—is a destination that will leave a lasting imprint.

 

Kathryn's points and miles game - 

FLIGHTS: Our travel – per person using airline miles (Around the world in First and Business Class for $500)

Outbound -USA:  New York to Paris– Air France, Business Class

Transferred from AMEX to Virgin Atlantic – 48,500 miles + $275 tax

Paris to Bangkok – Air France, Business Class

Booked with Delta 76,500 miles + $6 tax

AMEX points eared from card spend and Rakuten www.rakuten.com/r/KKAYAJ3?eeid=28187

Return – We made a couple of stops on the way home

Bangkok to Doha – Qatar, First Class (Upper deck A380)

Booked with American 50,000 miles + $23 tax

Doha to Madrid – Qatar, Business Class (Q-Suite)

Booked with American 42,500 miles + $37

Madrid to New York – Iberia, Business Class

Transferred from Capital One to British Airways (Avios) 35,000 miles + $162

American airlines miles earned from the AAdvantage Chrome extension – https://www.aadvantageeshopping.com