Mindful Travel in Thailand

Tag: #thailand

  • Mindful Journey in Thailand – White Lotus Edition

    Whether you’re a fan of The White Lotus or not, you must have heard of the “White Lotus Effect”—how the show sparks global travel trends wherever it’s filmed. With Season 3 set in Thailand and centered around themes of health and mindfulness, it’s no surprise that travellers are now curious about where to stay, where to retreat, and how to experience Thailand in a more meaningful way.

    Plot Highlights from The White Lotus Season 3

    The season opens with a serene meditation session inside a glass pavilion at a luxury resort—abruptly interrupted by the sound of gunshots outside. It’s a dramatic start that sets the tone for what may be the most introspective and wellness-focused season yet. Returning from Season 1 is spa manager Belinda Lindsey, now leading a wellness worker exchange program at the resort. Meanwhile, new characters arrive in search of healing and renewal—from the Ratliff family embarking on a digital detox, to Piper on a journey of self-discovery, to a trio of middle-aged childhood friends indulging in a luxurious retreat to celebrate life’s milestones.

    “Every symbol has a meaning. It’s a collective of unconscious.” – Carl Jung

    A Thought-Provoking Take on Wellness

    While Season 3 has been critiqued as a thought-provoking take on wellness tourism, it also showcases some of Thailand’s most breathtaking destinations—many of which are ideal for mindful travel. Here are the highlights:

    Where to Stay: Mindful Luxury

    Several seaside luxury resorts with peaceful atmospheres serve as the primary settings for the season, including:

    • Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui
    • Anantara Lawana Koh Samui
    • Anantara Bophut Koh Samui
    • Anantara Mai Khao Phuket
    • Rosewood Phuket
    • Cape Panwa Phuket

    These properties offer more than just luxurious accommodation—they emphasis wellness, tranquility, and immersive experiences, making them ideal for mindful travellers seeking calm, clarity, and connection.

    Mu Koh Angthong Marine Park near Koh Samui

    Beyond the Resorts: Locations for Reflection and Connection

    Mu Koh Angthong Marine Park (Near Koh Samui)
    An archipelago of 42 islands, this protected park is a haven for nature lovers. With its emerald lagoons, limestone cliffs, and secluded beaches, it’s perfect for kayaking, hiking, or simply sitting still and soaking in the beauty of the moment.

    Choeng Mon Beach (Koh Samui)
    A quieter corner of Koh Samui, this beach is ideal for early morning meditation, sunset walks, or a mindful swim in gentle waves.

    Haad Rin Beach (Koh Phangan)
    Though known for its Full Moon Parties, Haad Rin also offers tranquil mornings and stunning sunrises—a reminder of duality and balance. During the day, it becomes a peaceful retreat suitable for mindfulness practices.

    Wat Phu Khao Thong (Golden Mountain Temple), Koh Samui
    Set on a hilltop, this serene Buddhist temple offers panoramic views and a contemplative setting—perfect for meditation and spiritual reflection.

    Dusit Dhewa Cultural Center, Koh Samui
    A lesser-known gem, Dusit Dhewa features a spiritual garden filled with Thai, Khmer, and Burmese-inspired statues and structures. Ideal for slow, thoughtful walks and quiet exploration, it’s a place that inspires introspection and appreciation for cultural beauty.

    Yaowarat

    Scenes in Bangkok:

    Bangkok also plays a role in the series, with several visually striking scenes filmed at spiritual and cultural landmarks:

    • Yaowarat Road (Chinatown)
    • Wat Pho Pier and Chao Phraya River, with Wat Arun in the background
    • The canals of Thonburi, offering a slower, more traditional pace of life and Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen, home to the giant Buddha
    • Murals at Wat Suthat and Wat Suwannaram, featured in the show’s opening credits
    Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen in Bangkok
    The canals of Thonburi in Bangkok
    Wat Arun, taken from Wat Pho Pier

    Themes of Wellness and Spirituality

    Throughout the season, yoga, meditation, and monk chats are referenced and shown. These moments highlight Thailand’s long-standing traditions of holistic healing, spiritual guidance, and inner balance—making the country a perfect setting for mindful travel.

    The White Lotus challenges the notion that wellness is merely about luxury, self-pampering, beauty treatments, or physical health. Through sharp storytelling, it shows that true well-being stems from emotional awareness, mental resilience, authentic connections, and confronting one’s inner truths. While the show is fictional, the places it highlights are very real—and offer transformative experiences for travellers seeking to slow down, reconnect, and embrace the present moment. It’s a powerful reminder that real self-care begins within.

    Have you watched Season 3 of The White Lotus? Have you caught the “White Lotus Effect”?

  • Top Routes to Explore Bangkok with Minimal Environmental Impact:

    Top Routes to Explore Bangkok with Minimal Environmental Impact:

    Classic Culture Loop

    Highlights: Temples, Old Town, Local Markets, River Views, Street Food
    Transport Combo: MRT Subway + River Boat + MuvMi e-Tuk Tuk

    Start your day by taking the MRT to Sanam Chai and exploring some of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks—the Grand Palace and Wat Pho. For a change of scenery, hop on a short ferry ride across the river to visit the stunning Wat Arun.

    Wat Arun

    From Wat Pho, either walk or take a MuvMi e-tuk tuk to the vibrant Pak Khlong Talad Flower Market, where colourful blooms and local vibes await. Make sure to check out Floral Cafe at Napasorn, a florist + cafe with quirky flowery decorations.

    MuvMi e tuk tuk
    You can meet Khun Jampa, a celebrity cat of Pak Khlong Talad at the Floral Cafe at Napasorn.
    My sister (with my husband and I in a mirror) at Floral Cafe at Napasorn

    Next, take the MRT to Wat Mangkon to visit Mangkon Kamalawat Temple. Then, go on foot along Mangkon Road and wander around Yaowarat Road, Song Wat Road, and the Talad Noi area. You’ll stumble upon historic shrines, beautiful architecture, lively street art, delicious food stalls, cosy cafés, and hidden little shops.

    An old shrine by the river in Talad Noi
    Colourful street art at Talad Noi
    Song Wat is a 1 km-long road lined with beautiful historic shophouses.

    🧭 Perfect for history lovers and first-time visitors.

    Shop ‘Til You Drop

    Highlights: Iconic Malls, Local Markets, Food
    Transport Combo: BTS Skytrain + MRT Subway

    The BTS Skytrain is the best way to go shopping in Bangkok.

    For all-out mall shopping, head to BTS Siam and explore Siam Paragon, Siam Center, Siam Square, and MBK. Just a short walk from here is CentralWorld, another mega mall worth checking out.

    Next, hop on the BTS to Chidlom for a more upscale shopping experience at Central Chidlom and Central Embassy—or simply walk there from CentralWorld.

    Continue your shopping spree by heading to BTS Phrom Phong to dive into the high-end world of EmQuartier and EmSphere, two of Bangkok’s trendiest shopping complexes.

    If markets are more your style, take the BTS to Mo Chit or the MRT to Chatuchak Park or Kamphaeng Phet to explore the iconic Chatuchak Weekend Market. While it’s open daily, weekends are when it’s at its most lively.

    🧭 Great for shoppers, fashion lovers, and foodies.

    Green Escape in the City

    Highlights: Parks, Quiet Walks, Cycling
    Transport Combo: MRT Subway + BTS Skytrain + Bike

    Begin your escape at MRT Queen Sirikit National Convention Center and explore the tranquil Benchakitti Park then stroll the scenic skywalk over to Lumpini Park—a perfect urban oasis. If the skywalk is too far, you can hop back on MRT and get off at Lumpini Station.

    Lumpini Park

    For even more greenery, ride the MRT to Bang Wa, then hop on a short boat ride across the river to Bang Kachao, often called “Bangkok’s Green Lung.” Here, rent a bicycle and explore the peaceful trails, weekend floating markets, lush gardens, and quiet temples.

    🧭 Perfect for nature lovers or anyone in need of a breather from Bangkok’s bustle.

    Street Food by Night

    Highlights: Street Food, Local Vibes, Vibrant Night Markets
    Transport Combo: MRT Subway + BTS Skytrain

    Start your evening by taking the MRT to Sam Yan or the BTS to National Stadium, then walk to Banthat Thong Road – a local favourite for street food. After that, head to MRT Wat Mangkon for a deep dive into Chinatown’s night scene. Wander along Yaowarat Road for more street food and don’t forget to explore the small side alleys where you’ll find quirky small bars, hidden gems, and some more delicious food waiting to be discovered.

    🧭 Best for foodies and night owls.

    Pa Tong Go Savoey in Yaowarat was featured in Michellin Guide’s “5 Incredible Street Food Stalls in Yaowarat’s Chinatown”.
    Bustling Yaowarat Road after dark
  • Best Self – Guided Walking Tours in the Old Bangkok

    Best Self – Guided Walking Tours in the Old Bangkok

    Bangkok is best explored on foot – especially when you’re wandering through its old quarters, historic temples, hidden alleyways, and bustling street food scenes. While tuk-tuks and boats have their charm, there’s something special about walking at your own pace, soaking in the atmosphere, and stumbling upon unexpected gems.
    I’ve put together a few self-guided walking routes that take you through some of my favourite neighbourhoods. Whether you’re into temples, street eats, old architecture, or riverside vibes, there’s a walk here for you. All routes are flexible – feel free to linger, detour, or come back another day for more.

    Song Wat is known for its preserved shophouses in Sino-Portugese architecture. Make sure to look up as the facades of some buildings are very beautiful.

    Yaowarat – Song Wat – Talad Noi
    Start your walk at Wat Mangkon, one of the most important Chinese temples in Bangkok. From there, cross Charoenkrung Road and follow Mangkon Road towards Yaowarat Road. Along the way, you’ll pass some of the city’s most bustling and character-filled laneways. Yaowarat Road itself truly comes alive after dark, so you might want to return later for a night-time food adventure.
    For now, cross the road and head to Song Wat Road, where old-world architecture, Chinese–Thai street food, cosy cafes, and bursts of street art await. Once you’re on Song Wat, make sure to try some food and spend some time exploring century-old buildings that blend European and Chinese architectural designs. I personally like beef noodle at Rong Klan Nuea and bao at Gu Long Bao, but I heard that braised goose at Urai and Thai food at E-Ga are also nice.

    My mum and her friend having beef noodles at Rong Klan Nuea on Song Wat Road.
    A 200-year-old Chinese courtyard mansion in Talad Noi is now home to scuba diving school.
    Street art in front of a cafe in Talad Noi

    Next, continue walking with the river on your right-hand side, towards Talad Noi, another riverside neighbourhood full of charm. You’ll find more quirky cafes and street food vendors on trolleys. I like iced coffee at Mother Roaster and cakes at Hong Sieng Kong. If you are a tea person, I heard Baan Chim Cha is really good and for a chocolate person, 32Bar X is a hidden gem.

    After this, you have two options – either walk towards River City Bangkok to explore antique shops and galleries or walk towards China Town Gate and end your walk at Wat Trai Mit, another important temple in Bangkok.

    China Town Gate
    Wat Trai Mit
    My guests enjoying mango sticky rice in Yaowarat
    When visiting Wat Pho, make sure to wander around the temple ground as there are a lot more to see than the huge reclining Buddha.

    The Grand Palace – Wat Pho – Museum Siam – Flower Market
    No trip to Bangkok is complete without visiting The Grand Palace and Wat Pho – they’re showstoppers that never get old, even for repeat visitors. I recommend arriving early to beat the crowds and enjoy the more peaceful atmosphere.

    Some of the tuk tuk drivers around Wat Pho and the Grand Palace will try to rip you off. Be sure to bargain, as they are often inflated the prices for tourists.

    Optional Stop – Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles
    If you have time after visiting the Grand Palace, I highly recommend a stop at the Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles, located within the palace grounds. This beautifully curated museum showcases the elegant garments worn by Her Majesty Queen Sirikit and the vibrant, intricate costumes used in traditional Khon dance performances. It offers a fascinating glimpse into Thai craftsmanship and royal heritage. Best of all, entry is included with your Grand Palace ticket—so don’t miss it!

    After appreciating the beautiful ground and the stunning beauty of the huge reclining Buddha of Wat Pho, stroll along Maharat Road, where you’ll find plenty of local cafes and tempting street eats. Take a quick detour to the riverside for a view of Wat Arun across the river.

    Museum Siam
    The Muse Shop at Museum Siam

    Continue your walk to Museum Siam, an engaging and interactive museum that brings Thailand’s history to life in a fun and modern way. Don’t forget to check out the museum shop as they have very well made souvenirs. End your walk at the vibrant Flower Market (Pak Khlong Talad)—a sensory delight filled with colours, scents, and local life.

    Wat Bowon – Bang Lamphu – Phra Sumen Fort
    Start at Wat Bowonniwet, one of the most revered temples among Thai Buddhists, yet still unknown to most tourists. Right across the road is Bang Lamphu, a lively old neighbourhood perfect for sampling Thai street food. The famous Khao San Road is right around the corner, but there’s not much to do there during the day. From there, make your way to the riverside to discover Phra Sumen Fort, one of Bangkok’s historic forts. It’s a peaceful spot to unwind, especially at the small park by the river.

    Phra Sumen Fort (Credit Photo – Tourism Authority of Thailand)
    Wat Bowon (Credit Photo – Tourism Authority of Thailand)

    Praeng Phuthon – Wat Suthat – Giant Swing – Dinso Road – Wat Ratchanadda

    Lovely street art along Tanao Road

    This route is a feast for both your eyes and stomach. Begin at Praeng Phuthon, a charming area known for its vintage shophouses and food stalls. Make sure to try coconut ice cream at Nattaporn and mango sticky rice at K Panich on Tanao Road. Walk towards Wat Suthat and the iconic Giant Swing, soaking in the classic architecture.

    K Panich is an iconic family-run eatery serveing delectable mango sticky rice made to a recipe that has been handed down the generations for 80 years. It has received Michelin Bib Gourmand for good quality, good value cooking.
    Praeng Phuthon is one of Bangkok’s most charming neighbourhoods, with historic shophouses selling delicious street food. This is Getaway film crew at Nattaporn ice cream shop.

    Along Dinso Road, I like the old fashioned Mit Ko Yuan Chinese – Thai restaurant. A little bit further along Maharat Road, you’ll find a treasure trove of street food – popular ones are Pad Thai Thipsamai and the Michelin starred Jay Fai. End at Wat Ratchanadda, with its striking metal spires and peaceful vibe. If you still have some energy left, walk your way up the top of the Golden Mount.

    The Australian film crew who refused to walk up the Golden Mount.
    My aunt in her late 70s who walked over 300 steps in Thai costume to the top of the Golden Mount.
    Wat Ratchanadda

    Wat Arun – Wat Kalayanamit – Wat Prayurawongsawat
    Visiting three temples in one go might sound like a lot – but trust me, each one has its own unique beauty and character.
    Start early at Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) to avoid the big tour groups and enjoy the stunning riverside views. Then follow the river to Wat Kalayanamit, known for its giant seated Buddha and peaceful atmosphere. Finish at Wat Prayurawongsawat, a lesser-known gem with a charming white stupa and turtle pond. It’s a serene way to end your temple-hopping journey.

    Wat Prayurawongsawat
    Wat Arun

    These walking routes are just a starting point of your discoveries. Wear comfy shoes, drink enough water and go at your own pace.

    Enjoy!