I’ll never forget stepping into Banyan Tree Li Jiang - ancient Chinese houses silhouetted against Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, the crisp gentle air whispering of centuries past. And in the quiet tea house, fragrant brews and gentle stories flowed, time slowing as we enjoyed sips and the city’s noise faded away. A soul-soothing sense of peace I’ll keep retelling, a memory etched like ink on silk.

The big water buffalo stood still across the river bank. He tilted his head towards me in annoyance, as if my foreign presence offended him greatly. I kept quiet and still, but my attire stuck out like a sore thumb in the middle of the afternoon. In jarring red and blue, with bright pink flowers scattered across my skirt, it was no wonder he was angry in this quiet countryside of his.

I felt so small next to the elephants and I will never forget how soft and protective they are with their family. They are so special and I am so sorry that these beautiful animals are getting so less. I will always remember the elephant pictures in the Banyan Tree Hotel in Bangkok.

I will miss the silence, the inner peace which I found and the joy which the nature and the people brought me during my stay
I will always remember this journay!

Waking up to the endless blue of the ocean every morning is a feeling I will miss the most! Just as much as diving underwater to immerse into this magical & peaceful world… it reminds me that we are all connected & part of something bigger!

A deep change occurred. It wasn't merely the quality of the service, but the depth of intention behind it. It felt as if a curtain was lifted, revealing how truly cared for a guest can be. The need was small, a mere finger's measure, yet the gift was whole—a hand that offered true comfort. It was a revelation.

It was wonderful to be with my dad again. The trip reminded me of my childhood, when we used to travel together so often. It was a special moment shared between us—just father and son.

A feeling of being free and peace just staring at turquoise waters

Staying high up in the Bayan Tree hotel in Bangkok and hearing the faint but distinctive sound of the ever passing Tuk Tuk’s is a sound I will forever associate with the hustle and bustle of the metropolis city called Bangkok. Looking forward to exploring further parts of the city next year.