The Anantara, sitting on the Thailand side of the Golden Triangle, is very much as you would expect a super luxurious experiential hotel to be. The A-list residents walk around the camp as if they own it. They go for an afternoon dip and are pampered by the devoted staff. But we are talking about the elephants that live in the traditional mahout village within the Anantara’s grounds. For two-legged Yonderers, life has a few extra perks thrown in.
To give it it’s full name, the Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp and Resort, has been a firm Yonder favorite for years. The elevated setting is spectacular, with views over the fertile flood plains towards the confluence of the Ruak and Mekong rivers and the verdant Burmese and Lao mountains beyond. Its location in the beating heart of the Golden Triangle cannot be trumped (sorry!).
Take a left field experience and have a Thai cooking class. It is the best we have experienced and you’ll master the delicate art of balancing intense Thai flavours as well as visiting local markets to select your ingredients.
The Hall of Opium is just outside the gates. It is a brilliantly engaging museum which will engender some thought provoking moments as you discover the origins, secrets and effects of the opium trade.