In our ongoing Bangkok Getaway series, we’ve highlighted easy escapes from the Thai capital by car. All have been within an easy three-hour drive. This article will look at some of the top destinations reached within a 1-1.5 hour direct flight. Having two airports, Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang, is a huge benefit of living in Bangkok as you can find yourself gazing across azure seas or lush green mountains within a few hours. And with over 25 destinations around Thailand accessible by direct flights from the capital, you have plenty of choices. Here are some top picks.

Phuket

Thailand’s largest island and the Andaman Sea beckons. An hour flight south, and you can be checking in to your weekend getaway. Perhaps a luxury wellness resort perched hillside overlooking the ocean or comfortable digs close to lively restaurants, bars and shops. The western beaches are most popular, and weather is the most favorable from November until April. Take your pick Kata or Karon, Patong, Kamala, or perhaps Bang Tao.

Phuket has a good road network, and exploring by car or motorbike is easy. Wander the streets of Old Phuket Town’s featuring picturesque Sino-Portuguese architecture. Surrounding islands are easily accessible; visit the famous ‘James Bond Island’; Koh Hong or Koh Maiton just 15 minutes by speedboat. International and Thai restaurants are in abundance, and after dark, Bangla Road kicks off for those looking for lively music and entertainment.

Koh Samui

While some say you can drive Koh Samui‘s ring road in two hours, in reality, few would, as there are too many distractions. Beautiful beaches including Chaweng, Lamai, Bophut, Maenam and Lipa Noi beckon with beachside restaurants, deck chairs and umbrellas, and many water-based activities. Who can resist dipping into the clear blue ocean?

Pay a round of golf, or try frisbee disc golf or go-karting for something less serious. Visit the Secret Buddha Garden or check out the air traffic in and out of Samui airport from Pagoda Khao Hua Jook. Whatever your fancy, there’s a good chance of finding it on Samui. This international tourist destination offers accommodation, restaurants, markets, shopping and entertainment. December until March is the optimal time to visit, with the best weather, calm seas and little rain. Bangkok Airways own Samui airport and therefore are the sole domestic carrier with regular departures from Suvarnabhumi Airport.

Krabi

With a choice of six airlines from either of Bangkok’s airports servicing Krabi and an abundance of activities available, it’s a great choice. Located on the west coast of Thailand, the province has mangrove forests, distinctive craggy limestone karsts and over 100 nearby islands, including the world-renowned Koh Phi Phi Don or Koh Lanta

Due to its extensive tourism infrastructure, many head to the resort town Ao Nang just 18 km from Krabi Town. Others prefer Railay for its wide long sandy beaches, fantastic rock climbing, water sports, resorts. Accessible only by boat, it has that island feel while still being on the mainland between Ao Nang and Krabi.

Lazing at the beach, visiting the stunning Emerald Pool and Hot Springs, stepping up 1200 steps at Wat Tham Seua for majestic views and island hopping are just some options. Krabi Town is worth visiting, and bicycling on Koh Klang is richly rewarded. Eat some fiery southern cuisine and ‘Phu Dam’ (black crab), for which Krabi is famous. The weather is most settled from November until March.

Chiang Rai – Mae Salong

Experience a ‘tree change’ instead of a ‘sea change’. Chiang Rai and its immediate region can easily keep you busy. Alternately, arrange a car, and within an hour’s drive of Chiang Rai airport, you are in the Mae Salong region, renowned for its hill tribe villages, tea plantations and cherry blossoms. Sip hot tea in the design winning award cafe, with stunning views over the Choui Fong Tea Plantation.

Travel Route 1130 through beautiful landscapes to 101 Tea Thailand featuring Oolong tea. Wait, there’s more; further on is Santikhiri Village, home to ethnic Chinese (Yunnan) people. The village has narrow streets, simple restaurants and teahouses serving delicious Chinese and Thai food. An overnight stop is ideal for soaking up the foggy mornings and cooler temperatures, especially in the winter months.

Chiang Mai

Capital of the Lanna Kingdom in 1296, Chiang Mai is steeped in history. The once walled city has many temples, structures, and remnants. Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang are must-visit. Thailand’s fifth-largest city, Chiang Mai, has a relaxed and cosmopolitan feel, especially around Nimmanhaemin Road with oodles of eateries. Fabulous markets await your exploration, including the nightly Chiang Mai Night Bazaar and Sunday Walking Street Market.

Many people journey to the surrounding mountains to see Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep with its large gold-plated chedi visible on a clear day. Onward travel to the Bhuping Royal Palace Gardens and a hill tribe village make a great day trip. Elephant sanctuaries, water rafting, trekking and cycling are popular.

Several airlines operate from both Bangkok airports, and with diverse accommodation choices, plenty to keep adults and kids entertained, Chiang Mai is an ideal getaway. November to February are the cooler months; however, the ‘burning season’ peaks around February to April and is best avoided.

Bangkok Getaways – Choices Abound
Bangkok is indeed a fantastic place to live and work with a never-ending list of attractions, entertainment, dining and other activities. Getting away to somewhere different can also energise, revitalise, and be just downright fun. It gives a break from routine and provides an opportunity to explore Thailand’s diversity – its cuisines, cultures, and places.

Bangkok residents or those looking to live there have all the city offers and many varied and appealing getaways. Whether by air or road, within a few hours, you can feel like you are worlds away from the hustle and bustle. You have the best of both worlds
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