Discovering Thailand with EVA Air and TAT: Culture, Cuisine and Coastlines

Join our Head of Ground Product, Parul Jadav, on a Thailand Familiarisation trip. Explore Chiang Mai, Lampang, and Hua Hin - from elephant sanctuaries to luxury resorts - and discover Thailand’s world-famous food, temples, and culture.

I recently had the incredible opportunity to join EVA Air and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) London on a trip to Thailand. Across eight packed days, we explored the very best of Thailand – from Chiang Mai and Lampang’s ancient temples to Hua Hin’s pristine coastline. Read on to discover how this journey blended cultural discovery with culinary adventure.

Day 1: London to Bangkok – Luxury in the Sky with EVA Air                                                                                                                         

Our journey began at London Heathrow, flying EVA Air’s Royal Laurel Business Class on the Boeing 777-300ER. At Terminal 2, EVA’s partnership lounge - the Maple Leaf Lounge shared with Air Canada - offered a calm retreat before boarding, complete with complimentary drinks, freshly prepared food, quiet zones, and shower facilities.

Flying Business Class offered the perfect balance of comfort and privacy, thanks to the 1-2-1 cabin layout with direct aisle access. Each seat transformed into a fully lie-flat bed, complete with premium bedding for a restful journey. Passengers also receive pyjamas, noise cancelling headphones, and a Giorgio Armani amenity kit in a sleek hard case, containing a Giorgio Armani coin purse, as well as luxurious skincare products. 

Arriving in Bangkok well-rested, we were ready to take on Thailand! 

Day 2: Chiang Mai – A Warm Welcome to Northern Thailand 

After a smooth connection from Bangkok, we arrived in Chiang Mai, the cultural heart of Northern Thailand. Often described as the Rose of the North, Chiang Mai is nestled between mountains, blending historic temples with modern vibrancy. 

We checked into Dusit Princess Chiang Mai, a serene retreat in the city, perfectly located just steps away from the famous Night Bazaar and Wat Chedi Luang. The hotel’s spacious rooms, outdoor pool with stunning views, and warm hospitality gave us the perfect place to relax and recharge. 

That evening, our welcome dinner introduced us to Thailand’s signature flavours: spicy green papaya salad, green curry, and sweet mango sticky rice. Thai cuisine is all about balance - sweet, sour, salty, and spicy, and this meal set the tone for the culinary adventures to come!

Day 3: Lampang – Timeless Traditions by Horse Carriage

A short drive brought us to Lampang, a province that feels like stepping back in time. Here, horse-drawn carriages still ride the streets, offering a unique way to experience the town’s slower pace. 

We visited Wat Phra That Doi Phra Chan with its sweeping valley views, Wat Pong Sanuk - a UNESCO award-winning temple, and the Louis Leonowens House, the former residence of Louis, son of Anna Leonowens who became famous through The King and I. 

Dinner was at 137 Pillars House Chiang Mai, and it was a true fine dining experience. The menu reimagined local flavours with dishes like Khao Soi topped with coconut cream and crispy noodles served with mushroom cigarette rolls, fresh spring rolls, and pandan-infused desserts.

Day 4: The Bush Camp Chiang Mai – Ethical Elephant Encounters 

The highlight of our trip was undoubtedly The Bush Camp Chiang Mai, set on the banks of the Ping River. This eco-conscious retreat is redefining elephant tourism by focusing on ethical practices and conservation. We spent the day hand-feeding elephants, learning about mahout traditions, and watching these beautiful creatures bathe in the river. 

The meals were just as memorable: spicy nam prik ong (a northern tomato and pork dip), grilled fish, and sticky rice served in banana leaves for lunch; for dinner, we enjoyed a buffet of Thai and international dishes under the stars, complete with tropical fruit platters and freshly prepared stir-fries.

Day 5: Chiang Mai – Temples, Street Food & Riverside Dining 

We began the morning with traditional Thai coffee (kafee boran) and delicious coconut pancakes (kanom krok), made over charcoal fires. 

After exploring the spectacular Wat Phra Singh, we checked into Tamarind Village — a boutique retreat. This unique property is surrounded by centuries-old temples and charming shopping streets. Its name comes from a majestic 200-year-old tamarind tree, which casts a cooling shade over the hotel.

Dinner at Raya Heritage offered a refined twist on Thai classics - grilled river prawns, massaman curry, and beautiful desserts featuring pandan and coconut.

Later that night, the Wua Lai Walking Street Market came alive with street food stalls. From skewered meats and crispy spring rolls to pomegranate juice and coconut ice cream, it was a food lover’s paradise that perfectly captured Chiang Mai’s charm. 

Day 6: Hua Hin – From Cultural North to Coastal Bliss 

From Chiang Mai, we flew south to Hua Hin, Thailand’s oldest resort town, once a retreat for Thai royalty. We stayed at Anantara Hua Hin Resort, designed to resemble a traditional Thai village with lotus ponds, winding garden paths, and beachfront access. Rooms combined rustic charm with modern luxury, creating a tranquil atmosphere. 

We also visited Let’s Sea Hua Hin Al Fresco Resort, renowned for its romantic ambience, lagoon-style pool, and chic suites. 

That evening, we explored Cicada Market, where art, fashion, food, and live music blend together. From spicy sausages to freshly grilled seafood, every stall tempted us! 

Day 7: Cruising the Gulf of Thailand 

Our last day was spent aboard Sea-cret Cruises Hua Hin, a stylish catamaran that offered stunning views of the Gulf of Thailand. The experience was both relaxing and invigorating, a reminder that Thailand’s coastline is as captivating as its temples! 

 
That evening, our farewell dinner at Avani+ Hua Hin Resort captured the essence of Thai dining: tom yum goong bursting with lemongrass and chili, perfectly grilled sea bass with lime, and a Thai tea tiramisu that was both playful and indulgent. 

Day 8: Bangkok to London – Comfort in Premium Economy 

Our return journey with EVA Air Premium Economy was the perfect end to our trip. With wider seats, extra legroom, enhanced dining, and attentive service, the long-haul flight felt smooth and restful.

Final Thoughts – The Land of Smiles 

This trip reminded me why Thailand continues to top travel wish lists around the world. Thailand truly nourishes the soul - and delights the taste buds every step of the way! 

Our holiday packages to Thailand start from just £799 per person. Call us on 0208 819 0531 to speak to our Thailand specialist, who can help organise a dream holiday in the Land of Smiles!