Khao Yai, Thailand

Executive summary by Darmansjah

Wine is not usually synonymous with Thailand but the Khao Yai region, just two hours from Bangkok, boasts some of the best vineyards in Asia. Best navigated by car, Khao Yai’s winding country roads and green rolling hills are home to several wineries that offer wine tasting and vineyard tours as well as resort stays and restaurants with views of the vineyard.

At the heart of Khao Yai is the Khao Yai National Park, the second largest in Thailand. Known for its spectacular waterfalls, abundant wildlife and pleasant climate, the park is a popular ground for trekking and camping ground. At the north entrance to the park is Palio, small Italian-style village with narrow walkways lined with cafes and shops, adding to Khao Yai’s Mediteranean appearance.

Tiger Airways, AirAsia, Thai Airways (thaiairways.com), Bangkok Airways (bangkokair.com) and Singapaore Airlines all fly direct from Singapore Changi International Airport to Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport. From Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Malaysia Airlines and Thai Airways fly to Bangkok. Khao Yai is easily accessible from Bangkok by car via either the pak Chong or Prachinburi route.

Kirimaya is an idyllic 64 rooms resort that offers a variety of rooms and suites with private terraces, spacious finely appointed interiors and views of the Khao Yai National Park mountain range. For golf lovers, there is a private 18-hole, par 72 championship Jack Nicklaus designed golf course with panoramic  views over the national park and mountains (from US$290; kirimaya.com).