We tried a different approach to getting and sharing this amazing trip and we are so very glad we did. As Jill so beautifully explained “ We are all just travellers on this planet taking a journey through our short lives. The similarities are big and the differences are small.” She is so right however everyone shared some very inspirational thoughts and experiences, it was wonderful to envision. Thailand is a collage of animated scenes that comprise of bustling modern cities crowded with motorbikes and tuk-tuks, Buddhist temples tended by orange-robed monks, hill tribes selling handicrafts, lush landscapes dotted with traditional farming villages, ancient ruins and stunning coastlines peppered with gorgeous beaches and blue lagoons.
Thailand 2026 was according to those who experienced the trip another successful enterprise. It had been 23 years from our first trip and the country has experienced some changes. Prices have increased however the country remains relatively affordable compared to Western countries, and the essence of Thai culture and hospitality remains unchanged. Our group arrived in Bangkok at different times and there was always a Golfasian representative and transportation ready to take them to the Aira Hotel. The hotel was centrally located in the heart of the action, close to shopping, BTS station and many restaurants and bars. Barb said one of the things that amazed her was” being in the middle of a city of 11 million people and being able to find restaurants, shops, massages within walking distance.” The roof top pool and bar was beautiful offering incredible views, 2 for one specials and place to gather.
Bangkok offered energy and entertainment at every corner. We enjoyed our welcome dinner on a rice barge that cruised on the Chao Praya River. It was impressive and showcased many local Thai dishes giving us a real cultural experience and our surroundings were spectacular. The cruise along the river and seeing Bangkok lit up at night was stunning.
Touring Bangkok was an amazing experience and The Grand Palace complex amazed Dwila and she said that around every corner the views were more stunning. From the shimmering golden temples and bustling markets filled with exotic aromas, to the serene canals that weave through Bangkok, every moment was a feast for the senses. The flower market visit is always a favourite, and this one did not disappoint. We were all given a lotus bud and were guided through unfolding the lotus petals one at a time unveiling our spiritual awakening and inner brilliance. Some of us later left them as an offering at one of the Buddha Shrines. The heat and humidity was challenging but managed by fluids and modes of transportation, wow the air felt good!! The City of Angels—Bangkok—offered energy and excitement at every corner.
From Bangkok we traveled to the tranquil coastal city of Hua Hin trading skyscrapers for sea breezes and a more relaxed lifestyle. On route we visited the River Kwai and experienced the Death Railway, this was quite emotional for Millie and I am sure others, a glimpse into the dark history of the Death Railway is depicted in the museums as well and is both humbling and memorable. It was a long day and the heat remained a challenge. Thank goodness for those ice packs Golfasian gave us and kudos to those who thought to bring mini fans on this journey.
The Hyatt Regency a luxury beachfront facility was our destination in Hua Hin. I think the pool slide was a big hit and it was Alison who started all the “dares”. Some had great form and some not so much, it was a ton of fun. This locale was home to the cooking school many took part in and was a favorite of Judy’s and many others. Ya Ya, our host was so funny and the dishes we prepared were fabulous.
The golf courses were scenic, rewarding and relaxing, however some of those renting golf clubs found getting used to them somewhat challenging, right Norma? I think we all enjoyed our caddie experience it was nice being queen or king for the day and a surprise to have our own cart and caddie. Engaging with them really added to the experience, we used some Thai golf terms that were a hit and brought some laughter. Dong Dong (straight), Yip Yip (gimme). Local food and drink favourites were shared by the caddies. We enjoyed a coconut drink that had the properties of an electrolyte drink and mini bananas and excellent cucumber from their gardens.
The tour to Sam Roi Yod National Park was an experience that a number of people chose as one of the most amazing. The area covered 98 square kilometers of limestone mountains, mangrove, swamps and beaches. A thing of
outstanding beauty was Lotus Lake where small boats took us meandering amid the beautiful flowers and it is also home to various kinds of local and migrating birds. Joy remarked on the hike to the Phraya Nakhon Cave with its iconic royal pavilion “It was enormous and beautiful with the light shining down. I was in awe. To think they dismantled and moved the pavilion there in 1890 in such a way that the light hits it was impressive. I have never seen anything like that”.
Two different markets were explored in Hua Hin, the railway market where vendors retract their awnings when the train passes through” it was so close” Kristy shared. We later glided through tranquil communities on long tailed boats and captured the essence of daily living before arriving at a traditional floating market where we savored local snacks.
After enjoying a peaceful retreat in Hua Hin we flew to Chiang Mai, the second-largest city in Thailand. It is enclosed by rainforests on all sides and wedged between the northern highlands of the nation. Our hotel here, the Ratilanna Riverside Spa Resort, a beautiful hotel with authentic old world Thai charm. Here we enjoyed golf, the local culture, mountain views, ancient temples and outdoor markets. The highlight for many was the excursion to the Elephant sanctuaries. Karen 
remarked “The Eco Valley elephant sanctuary was amazing because it was heartening to see people who care about elephants and want to do everything they can to save them. It was wonderful to hear about the elephants in Thailand and their troubles, and the country’s commitment to ensuring their survival. Standing by Tata, a huge 42-year-old mama elephant, and her allowing to us to feed and bath her, and seeing the gentle nature in her eyes, touched our souls. Those moments will stay with us forever.” The group really loved bathing with the elephants and feeding them. An unexpected shower in the river thanks to the elephant’s trunk was an added experience. The visit to the Long-neck Karen village also added true insight to local customs and the children were so precious.
Thailand offers a plethora of epicurean experiences. From the vibrant markets of Bangkok to beaches and floating markets of Hua Hin and the hotels and street food in Chaing Mai, Thailand’s culinary scene is as diverse as its landscapes. The modes of transportation on our trip far exceeded the norm of trains, planes and automobiles. How about tuk-tuks of all shapes and sizes, truck flat beds (Songthaew) with sets along each side, motorcycle taxis , vans and coaches. Then we had BTS skyway and MRT Metro. Judy said “One of my biggest surprises were the number of scooters in Bangkok and the most amusing time was when Cheryl and I got into our Tuk Tuk amongst the chaos.” Probably the funniest thing was watching many of us getting in and out of the different types of transportation, especially the longtailed boats. Entering and existing longtail boats is notoriously ungraceful, often involving wading through water, climbing shaky ladders, that swinging legs over the side while the boat rocks. Thank god for our helpers.
Norma noted the Thai people were very calm, serene and friendly. It was also mentioned that even with the chaotic traffic in Bangkok there was no road rage or harsh word/actions they respected each other, so different from here. The Golfasian guides went above and beyond, arranging laundry runs, extra transport to markets and sharing stories about their lives and culture. We can’t thank them enough Troy, Woody, Joe, Vicheet and Sirirat was amazing to work with helping us plan this adventure. There were so many amazing experiences that it is impossible to share them all. As Joanne said “every day was wonderful. Just when you had a great day, the next day was equally awesome. Everything we experienced was memorable. “Thank you everyone for sharing your memories we are so happy that the trip exceeded your expectations and you had a fabulous time.