Tom Passavant

Ultimate Escape Package combines stays at
Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai and Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle for a unique adventure in northern Thailand.

Deep in the lush hillsides of Northern Thailand, a unique adventure awaits. A mighty river flows in the distance, elephants trek through bamboo forests, and a sense of being far from the ordinary permeates the misty mountain landscapes. Four Seasons' new Ultimate Escape Package takes you far away from bustling Bangkok and into the cooler, flower-strewn highlands where art, culture and a remarkable jungle experience come together. Your Ultimate Escape begins in Chiang Mai, Thailand's artistic capital, where crafts studios and cafes vie with golden temples and saffron-robed monks for your attention. Then you're whisked away by helicopter for a thrilling flight into the heart of the Golden Triangle, where a rustic yet luxurious tented camp and unforgettable elephant encounters await. Whether it's with a group of friends or family or just the two of you, this unparalleled package offers two of the world's most acclaimed resorts and a chance to experience exotic Northern Thailand.

Chiang Mai, Tented Camp Reveal Thailand's Many Faces

This singular experience begins with a stay at Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, located just outside of town in the beautiful Mae Rim Valley. The Resort's working rice field, pampering Thai spa, and authentic Thai cooking classes immediately connect you to the rich culture of the area. Chiang Mai itself, over 700 years old with the city centre still surrounded by fortress walls and moats, is brimming with art galleries, workshops and cafes, a perfect place for strolling and shopping. After soaking in this mix of old and new cultures, a helicopter takes you on a thrilling hour-long flight over the thick green carpet of jungle and terraced rice fields and into the heart of the Golden Triangle, the legendary area where Thailand, Burma, and Laos meet. Upon landing on the banks of the Mekong River, a private long-tail boat awaits to carry you onward into the heart of the Thai jungle.

Ride Elephants at Tented Camp

At Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, Thailand, voted Best in the World by readers of Conde Nast Traveler magazine for the last three years, youÕll feel as though you're an explorer from the 19th century, yet with all the modern comforts of an upscale hideaway. The adventure begins with your private, safari-style tent, outfitted with comfortable, handcrafted furnishings, including hand-hammered copper tubs. In addition to the 90-minute Spa treatment for each guest during their stay, you can also experience visits to nearby hill tribe villages or a boat ride on the Mekong, perhaps with a stop in Laos. But the high point will likely be learning the traditional elephant-handling skills of the mahouts. Interacting with the elephants, and then trekking through the forest atop these magnificent, highly intelligent creatures is both a literal and spiritual journey.

Package for the Ultimate Thai Escape

This package is perfect for a group or even for a romantic honeymoon, and rates start at THB76,810 (US$2,560) per room, per night for two guests. For more information and to book your stay, call 66 53/298-181

Jennifer Sanchez is a contributing editor to FourSeasonsMagazine.com. Tom Passavant, a freelance travel and food writer, contributed to this article.