Imagine spending quality family time at a countryside retreat in Chiang Mai, cradled in bountiful rice paddies and shaded by misty mountain peaks; or simply laying back in your expansive pool villa along a lush tropical hillside on the island of Koh Samui, overlooking infinite views of the Gulf of Thailand. With Four Seasons Resorts Thailand, those dreams are scripted into riveting itineraries as families can explore a diverse range of uniquely tropical experiences together, with all the comforts and care of a tailored vacation. "Beyond its reputation as the 'Land of Smiles,' Thailand is the perfect choice for families, with its exotic mix of local culture, enticing food, the idyllic island life, and serene rural charm," remarks Sean Mosher, General Manager, Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai and Tented Camp Golden Triangle. "As a custodian of this rich cultural heritage, our Resorts present the perfect canvas to create memorable moments, enabled by our intuitive team that bring you the Four Seasons luxury with a genuine heart," adds Jasjit Assi, General Manager, Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui.
Both Resorts boast of an exquisite collection of Private Retreats, where families can live together in the Resorts' expansive Residence Villas ranging from one to five bedrooms. Designed to blend the impeccably landscaped outdoor spaces with sophisticated interiors, these villas offer complete privacy and a home-away-from-home feel. To make young guests stay extra special, kids ages six and under enjoy dining at Resort restaurants with compliments. "Customised experiences are what makes a Four Seasons holiday truly exceptional, and at both these Resorts the options for personalised itineraries are limitless. Our personal residential assistants ensure taking care of every need," alludes Mosher.
Fun for the Entire Family
While family vacations are a much-anticipated bonding time, keeping young travellers entertained is always a focus. "A happy child is a happy family on a holiday," smiles Ashok Nair, Chiang Mai's Director of Rooms and Residences. At both Koh Samui and Chiang Mai, families will find that their children are comprehensively cared for from the moment they arrive until departure, with a list of daily activities that are both engaging as well as immersive in the local culture. Chiang Mai's La-On Kids Club and Koh Samui's Tree House Kids Club with trained staff helps ensure that each experience is safe and supervised. "While our programs are fun, we want families to feel the pulse of the destination through these experiences, from art and crafts to sport and adventure-based games," insists Shivan Pillay, Director of Rooms and Residences at Koh Samui. Favourites such as the Buffalo Bathing and Rice Planting at Chiang Mai, or the family Muay Thai session, Family Cooking Class, and Beach Picnic at Koh Samui top the list of recommendations, and for families keen to explore their creative side, the tie & dye and clay-moulding sessions at the Chaan Baan in Chiang Mai, and sand art at Samui truly bring the collective team spirit to the fore.
Personalised Culinary Journey
Enriching for food-loving families, the elevated dining experiences span a diverse cuisine-scape. "From exemplary Thai and Asian fare to virtuoso Mediterranean and Western classics, our restaurants have it all covered," adds Pillay. The restaurants at both Resorts are family-friendly with a dedicated Kids' Menu offering a variety of delicious and nutritious options for children of all ages. "Each item on the menus lists possible allergens, and all dishes can be customised to suit specific dietary preferences," confirms Nair. "At both our Resorts, children under the age of 6 years enjoy complimentary meals when dining with their parents."
A meal together as a family can be meaningful in more ways than one, and this is enhanced in the privacy of the residences' outdoor sala. "Our residences provide the perfect venue for an intimate meal together," says Pillay. "A chef in-residence will curate a menu to suit the family palate, and deliver it in the comfort of the villa." On the other hand, the Family Cooking Class at Rim Tai Kitchen in Chiang Mai or Koh Thai Kitchen in Koh Samui offers a fun bonding experience - gaining kitchen skills, while exploring the fabulous culinary canvas of Thailand.
Soothing Spa Time
"With round-the-clock schedules, time is truly a luxury," remarks Nair, "And spending quality 'me time' is difficult to resist while on vacation!" At the award winning Wara Cheewa Spa in Chiang Mai and Koh Samui's The Secret Garden Spa, dedicated family as well as kids' spa experiences are designed for pampering and relaxation. "The Family Time treatment at The Secret Garden Spa in Samui is particularly beneficial, fostering a meaningful connection between child and parent with all the natural goodness of locally sourced, virgin coconut oil," says Pillay. Special attention for families anticipating a newborn include a range of customised room decor and photography sessions, and the delightful Embracing Maternity ritual featuring a warm almond-oil and rice poultice. "Start them young," smiles Nair. "The Angel Bliss Massage at Wara Cheewa Spa helps soothe the nervous system and strengthen the immune system - perfect for energetic kids."
Stay Longer
With so much on offer, guests are compelled to stay four nights or longer and make the most of their time together as a family. Four Seasons Resort in Chiang Mai offers many benefits including 25 percent savings on the room rate, daily breakfast for two persons per bedroom, and 10 percent savings on food and beverage, spa and laundry.
Enhance the experience with this special offer at Koh Samui with Residence Escape, enjoy a special 25 percent savings, along with complimentary daily breakfast for two persons per bedroom when stay of four nights or more.
"From the azure blue waters and wondrous seascapes of Samui, to the soothing countryside setting of Mae Rim valley, meaningful moments highlighted by a hands-on, holistic experience are expected," says Assi. "Families are sure to feel spoiled for choice while planning that anticipated tropical holiday at either, or both of our irresistible Four Seasons Resorts in Thailand," adds Mosher.
Unlock special benefits, contact central reservations by calling +66 (0)2 207 8900, email reservations.thailand@fourseasons.com