Thailand and Cambodia

A Spiritual Experience

Situated amidst the awe-inspiring scenery of Phang Nga Bay, the quiet island of Yao Noi provides the perfect antidote for jet lag and wedding-related stress. The island is home to just a handful of locals and tourists, putting it well off the beaten path. Reaching this secluded spot requires a picturesque boat ride across calm, blue-green water from Phuket. Along the way, you may even see a pod of dolphins playing in the boat's wake! Before you know it, you will pull up to the dock at the Six Senses Hideaway Resort Yao Noi, your exclusive home for the next few days.

In such an idyllic place, with views right out of your dreams, it may be difficult to believe that your room could compare to the surroundings – but it will. Your 1600-square-foot villa features a 200-square-foot private, infinity-edged swimming pool and a large outdoor deck nestled among the trees. Wake up each morning, gaze out your picture window at the sea, and sip a tropical fruit juice cocktail out of a freshly-cut coconut. This is paradise.

While you may choose not to leave...

your sumptuous accommodations, and we don't blame you, there are plenty of worthwhile diversions if the mood strikes you. Yoga, Tai Chi, and meditation classes soothe the mind, while a starlit couple's massage on the beach soothes the body. For more active pursuits, the beautiful waters surrounding the resort are great for snorkeling, diving, fishing and general exploration.

Now that you are totally relaxed...

it's time for a change of scenery and a bit more activity. Up north you go to Chiang Mai, a city full of regional delights including vibrant markets, delicious restaurants, impressive temples, and plenty of colorful culture. One day, try your hands at a Thai cooking class where you learn to dish it up like locals do. Another day, you'll venture into the highland jungle to visit a local hilltribe and ride an elephant through brilliant green rice paddies.

Returning to the city, you'll travel gondola-style by handmade bamboo raft, drifting slowly down calm waters with lush foliage on either side. When in need of some downtime, you can always return to the perfectly-located Chedi Hotel, your base while in Chiang Mai. Arguably the top boutique address in town, this luxurious property is within walking distance of the city's main sights, yet still exudes a calming Zen-like vibe as the Mae Ping River flows serenely along its side.

Up next, it's onto bustling Bangkok...

for some urban excitement. Whether you choose to visit elaborate, gold-plated temples, sprawling markets overflowing with fruit and vegetables, or mega-malls filled with top local and international brands, there's no doubt that Bangkok will delight.

But there's more to see than just the city; a few hours up the Chao Phraya River lies Ayutthaya, the ancient capital from which King Ramathibodi I expanded his empire to include most of modern-day Thailand. Your transport for part of the excursion will be a luxuriously-appointed private rice barge, where you'll enjoy gourmet hors d'oeuvres en route. Your hotel in Bangkok is the Four Seasons, a refined oasis in perhaps the city's most central location.

Your final stop takes you to another country well-known for unique culture – Cambodia. Your destination here is Siem Reap, home to the enigmatic Angkor Wat, considered by many to be the most beautiful and important religious sight in all of Asia. It's actually comprised of an entire complex of ancient temples, their stones crumbling but their religious significance intact. You'll spend a full day with an expert guide, exploring the various temples and the nearby countryside.

The next morning you'll return at dawn...

to witness the sunrise, a truly magical experience. The contemporary Hotel de la Paix is your home in Seam Reap, a socially responsible operation where – should you like – there are opportunities to get out and meet the locals. After a long day out exploring, there's no better way to re-nourish than by feasting on a traditional 7-course Khmer tasting menu at the hotel's Meric restaurant.

With some reluctance, you'll now wave goodbye to Southeast Asia. Still buzzing with excitement at all of the amazing and wonderful experiences you've just had, you'll have to somehow explain what you've seen and done to your friends and family. At least you'll have the photos to prove it!

Who will enjoy this trip:

Couples who enjoy smart, full service hotels. Those looking to get off the beaten path. People who have a deeper interest in historical and cultural sights.

Who should avoid this trip:

Couples who would prefer less moving around. Those with a primary focus on rest and relaxation.