🧭 The framework that made Thailand feel effortless
Whenever we plan a big trip, we start with what we call our framework itinerary — the rough outline we make before booking anything.
It’s how we find balance between Isaac’s “see everything” pace and my “slow down and savor it” style.
Thailand was where this approach really proved itself. It kept us organized without losing spontaneity — and gave us the perfect mix of city, culture, nature, and beach.
Here’s the full breakdown of where we went, how long we stayed, and what we learned along the way.
🏙️ Stop 1: Bangkok — 4 nights
We started our trip in Bangkok, staying in the Sukhumvit area, which felt safe, comfortable, and easy to navigate.
Those first few days were all about catching up on sleep, shaking off jet lag, and getting a feel for the land.
We spent our days exploring temples, getting authentic Thai massages, visiting rooftop bars, and eating so. much. food.
Everywhere you look, something’s happening — but it never felt overwhelming once we settled in.
👉 We’ll share exactly what we ate and what we loved in our upcoming Bangkok post.
🐘 Stop 2: Chiang Mai — 3 nights
We flew Nok Air from Don Mueang Airport (Bangkok’s smaller domestic airport).
It was super easy — less than a one-hour flight, about $30 per person, and surprisingly relaxed about baggage weight.
Budget airline? Yes. But honestly, it was great.
Chiang Mai was one of our favorite stops. We stayed right in Old Chiang Mai, which made everything walkable and convenient.
We visited an elephant sanctuary, stopped by Tiger Kingdom, hiked in the mountains, and saw waterfalls.
If we could redo anything, we’d stay longer here. It had such a calm, cultural feel — the perfect contrast to Bangkok’s buzz.
🌿 Stop 3: Khao Sok National Park — 2 nights
From Chiang Mai, we flew to Surat Thani — a tiny airport that felt more like a bus stop than an airport.
From there, we had a private transfer arranged to the Ratchaprapha Dam pier, followed by a 45-minute longtail boat ride to our floating bungalow on Cheow Lan Lake.
It was remote, peaceful, and honestly one of the most unique stays of our lives.
But if we could redo it, we’d spend one night instead of two — it was that remote. Perfect for disconnecting, but once you’ve soaked in the stillness, you’re ready for the next adventure.
🏖️ Stop 4: Krabi (Tubkaek Beach) — 3 nights
We took the boat back from Khao Sok (included in our stay), then a two-hour private transfer to Krabi.
We stayed on Tubkaek Beach, right next to the Ritz-Carlton Reserve (Phulay Bay) — but at a much smaller, more affordable hotel.
It ended up being one of our favorite stops. Tubkaek was calm, clean, and quiet — a perfect place to unwind after all the moving around.
We loved that it wasn’t packed like Ao Nang. You get that same view of limestone cliffs and turquoise water, just without the crowds.
✈️ Getting between each stop
Domestic flights in Thailand are shockingly easy and cheap.
Here’s exactly how we did it:
- Bangkok → Chiang Mai: Nok Air, 1 hr, ~$30 each. Great experience.
- Chiang Mai → Surat Thani: Thai Airlines, <1 hr, but very strict on baggage.
- Krabi → Bangkok: Thai Airlines again — and again, baggage drama.
We ended up paying more in baggage fees than for the tickets themselves 😂.
So, if you’re flying Thai Airlines, double-check the kilogram limits and book your baggage allowance in advance.
It’ll save you time, money, and mild airport embarrassment.
🛬 Stop 5: Back to Bangkok → onward to Sri Lanka
We wrapped up the trip by flying back to Bangkok, where we connected to our next adventure: Sri Lanka (coming soon).
💡 Why this route works
This itinerary gave us the best of Thailand —
- City energy in Bangkok
- Cultural calm in Chiang Mai
- Nature and quiet in Khao Sok
- Beach sunsets in Krabi
It never felt rushed, but we also never ran out of things to see.
Every destination felt distinct — and the journey between them was half the fun.
Follow our Thailand series
Next up: the full list of where we stayed, what we ate, and what we’d absolutely do again.