When I turned 60, we decided it was time for an adventure like no other. Barry and I wanted to visit places we’d never been before, and Thailand had always been on our bucket list. Elaine had previously helped us plan a fantastic holiday to Crete, so we knew we were in good hands to create a memorable journey for this milestone.
Our two-week adventure started with a two-night stopover in Dubai. We stayed at the stunning JA Ocean View Hotel, where we were greeted with a private transfer and a warm welcome.
The hotel was gorgeous, with a sea view that set the tone for our trip. A sunset cruise was the highlight of our time here - it was magical to see the city skyline from the water. We spent the rest of our stay exploring the area and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
From Dubai, we flew to Bangkok, and the buzz of the city hit us immediately. It’s a mad, incredible place, and we loved it!
Our stay at Century Park Hotel was the perfect base for exploring. We visited the Grand Palace, cruised the Chao Phraya River, and wandered through the lively train market. Each moment was an experience in itself, and the energy of Bangkok left a lasting impression.
The real magic began when we arrived at Elephant Hills, following a smooth journey via Phuket. We didn’t know exactly what to expect, but it exceeded anything we could have imagined.
The jungle surroundings, the incredible lake and the elephants themselves were just breathtaking. Our accommodation was fabulous - beautifully designed and nestled in nature.
The food was out of this world, and every activity, from feeding the gorgeous elephants to the lake and jungle trek, felt like a dream. If we could have stayed longer, we would have!
Next, we travelled to Koh Samui, the last leg by an excellent ferry journey, where we stayed in a lovely bungalow at the Peace Resort. The setup was perfect - private, peaceful and right on the beach. The relaxed vibe was exactly what we needed after our busy start.
We spent our days enjoying the beautiful beach, trying the amazing food and exploring the Fisherman’s Village, where we found some great local restaurants.
One of our standout experiences in Koh Samui was the day trip to Ang Thong National Marine Park. We were picked up by speedboat and spent the day snorkelling, kayaking, and exploring caves - firsts for me! The beaches were stunning, and the whole day felt like something out of a movie.
Throughout the trip, we were blown away by the kindness and warmth of the local people. From hotel staff to guides, everyone went above and beyond to make us feel welcome.
Elaine had planned every detail to perfection, from great flights and seamless transfers to the fantastic hotels and experiences. She even stayed in touch throughout the trip, which gave us such peace of mind.
Reflecting on our journey, it’s hard to pick a favourite moment because the whole trip was so special. That said, Elephant Hills holds a particularly magical place in our hearts. It’s a place we’ll never forget and would return to in a heartbeat.
Elaine’s attention to detail and personal touches made this holiday unforgettable. We can’t thank her enough for helping us create so many happy memories. If you’re thinking about planning your own adventure, we can’t recommend Elaine enough - she’s simply amazing!
Sharon & Barry
