In 2011, Yellow Leaf Hammocks co-founder Joe Demin set out on what was supposed to be a simple vacation to Thailand. Fate had other plans. After a chance encounter with an astoundingly comfy hammock and an impromptu motorcycle adventure to meet the weavers who crafted it—Yellow Leaf Hammocks was born.
Now, more than a decade later, Yellow Leaf Hammocks has been featured on Shark Tank and grown to partner with over 500 artisan weavers. Yet, Thailand remains woven into the fabric of every hammock, just as it was from the start—its mountains, markets, and beaches intertwined with our story. This guide is your invitation to explore the country through the same lens that first inspired us.
2-3 Days: Bangkok - The Vibrant Heartbeat
Bangkok is a city of striking contrasts—where centuries-old temples sit alongside sleek rooftop bars, and the hum of floating markets blends with the sophistication of Michelin-starred dining. These two days immerse you in the city’s cultural richness, hidden gems, and world-class experiences, all while offering moments of relaxation and indulgence.
Stay: The Siam
Nestled along the Chao Phraya River, The Siam is a sanctuary of elegance and serenity in the heart of the city. With just 39 suites and private pool villas, this ultra-luxurious retreat combines Art Deco charm with Thai heritage.
Experience: Longtail Boat Tour of Bangkok’s Canals
We recommend Hidden Bangkok Boat Tours. Started by a great friend, you’ll glide past traditional wooden stilt houses, Buddhist temples, and floating markets while getting a glimpse of local life beyond the city’s skyscrapers.
See: Grand Palace & Wat Pho
The former royal residence and home to the sacred Emerald Buddha. Wander through opulent halls and golden stupas while learning about Thailand’s royal history. A short walk away, visit Wat Pho, home to the giant reclining Buddha, stretching 150 feet in length.
Visit: The Bangkok Art & Culture Centre
This modern creative hub showcases contemporary Thai and international art, from photography and sculpture to digital installations. Gain deeper insights into Bangkok’s thriving art scene and emerging talent.
Drink: Jazz & Speakeasies
The Bamboo Bar (at Mandarin Oriental): Thailand’s first jazz bar, offering classic cocktails with a Thai twist and live music in a sophisticated setting. Try the "Thaijito", a tropical take on the mojito.
After that, head to Opium Bar for expertly crafted cocktails inspired by Thai-Chinese heritage in a moody, intimate setting or Teens of Thailand, a gin-focused speakeasy in a Chinatown shophouse.
Eat: Sühring
Indulge in a Thai-French fusion tasting menu with an unforgettable dining experience at Sühring, one of Asia’s best restaurants. Helmed by German twin chefs, this Michelin-starred spot blends European finesse with Thai flavors.
Eat: Night Markets
Experience local culture after dark! The Talad Rot Fai Ratchada (Train Night Market) is one of Bangkok’s most beloved markets, featuring vintage finds, eclectic fashion, and some of the best street food stalls in the city.
Chang Chui Market – A hipster, artsy night market with a decommissioned airplane at its center, surrounded by creative pop-up shops, craft beer bars, and experimental street food.
3-4 Days: Chiang Mai - The Art of Slow Travel
Chiang Mai, cradled in the misty mountains of northern Thailand, is a place where time slows, traditions thrive, and every moment is steeped in serenity. It’s here that our hammocks are meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans, weaving together generations of expertise.
Stay: Raya Heritage Hotel or The Inside House
Inspired by Lanna culture, the boutique Raya Heritage Hotel is a riverside retreat that blends natural materials, handcrafted décor, and serene open spaces for a tranquil base 20 minutes outside the city.
Located in the Old City, The Inside House is a boutique urban retreat featuring lush greenery, private plunge pools, and colonial-style design. Offering easy access to temples and night markets while still feeling secluded.
See: Sunrise Tour of Doi Suthep Temple
Wake before dawn for a guided journey to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, perched on a mountaintop overlooking Chiang Mai. Experience the temple in its most peaceful state, as the first light of day illuminates the golden pagoda. On the way down, stop at a hidden monastery in the forest, where few tourists venture, for a moment of reflection and quietude.
Learn: The Thai Farm Cooking School
Venture outside the city to a tranquil organic farm, where a private chef-led cooking experience awaits. Stroll through vibrant gardens, picking fresh herbs, chilies, and vegetables straight from the earth, then learn to prepare authentic northern Thai dishes.
Visit: The Elephant Nature Park
One of the most meaningful ways to experience Thailand’s majestic elephants is through an ethical, hands-off encounter at Elephant Nature Park—a renowned rescue & rehabilitation center for elephants that have been freed from logging, tourism, and other exploitative industries. Spend the day observing elephants roam freely, socializing and playing in their natural habitat.
*Note: Many elephant experiences in Thailand involve harmful practices like riding, forced performances, and unnatural training methods. Elephant Nature Park is a true sanctuary, allowing elephants to live as they should:wild and free.
Experience: Fah Lanna Spa
Chiang Mai is famous for its ancient healing traditions. At Fah Lanna Spa, indulge in a herbal steam bath with Thai herbs like lemongrass and kaffir lime to detoxify and rejuvenate. Follow with a Tok Sen massage, a unique Lanna therapy using rhythmic tapping to release tension. Finish with a calming butterfly pea flower tea ceremony, known for its soothing properties and vibrant blue hue.
Experience: Doi Inthanon National Park
Doi Inthanon National Park is home to Thailand’s highest peak and is a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers. The park boasts lush cloud forests, stunning waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. Explore scenic hiking trails (like the Ang Ka Nature Trail) that lead to panoramic views, visit the King and Queen Pagodas, and immerse yourself in the culture of the indigenous hill tribes.
3-4 Days: The Islands - Hammock Paradise
Escape to Thailand’s tranquil islands for the ultimate relaxation. Spend five days in luxury in Railay Beach, where you’ll enjoy private yacht excursions, treetop dining, sunset cocktails, and indulgent Thai wellness experiences. Whether exploring crystal-clear waters or lounging in your Yellow Leaf hammock, these islands offer the perfect blend of serenity and adventure.
Stay: Rayavadee Resort
Taking a flight from Bangkok to Krabi, you’ll then have to travel to the Railay Beach by boat. Once there this luxury jungle-meets-beach resort offers private villas nestled in lush tropical gardens. Steps from the iconic Phra Nang Beach and its towering limestone cliffs, it’s the perfect blend of elegance and barefoot, nature-immersed living.
Experience: Phra Nang Beach & Grotto Bar
Take a slow stroll to Phra Nang Beach, just steps from your door, and enjoy the serene surroundings. Then, grab a cocktail at The Grotto, Rayavadee’s iconic cave bar, where you can sip drinks surrounded by natural beauty. As the day winds down, find a spot to watch the sunset melt over the cliffs—pro tip: bring your hammock for some golden hour swaying while you take in the view.
Experience: Andaman Sea Island Hopping
Charter a private boat tour to the serene Hong Islands, a true tropical paradise just off the coast of Railay. As you glide across the turquoise waters, you'll have the opportunity to snorkel in crystal-clear lagoons, discovering vibrant coral reefs and schools of colorful fish. Explore the hidden caves and sea grottos by kayak, paddling through calm waters surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs. With secluded beaches and pristine natural beauty, the Hong Islands offer a tranquil escape, perfect for unwinding in nature.
See: Muay Thai at The Last Bar
After a relaxing day of swimming and basking in your hammock, head to The Last Bar on East Railay for an exciting Muay Thai boxing match, an unforgettable cultural experience filled with energy, local food, tropical cocktails.If you're lucky, a fiery finale with one of their iconic fire shows. 
Experience: The Klong Thom Hot Springs
Unwind with a soothing soak in the Klong Thom Hot Springs, where warm, mineral-rich waters bubble up through smooth stone basins nestled in the jungle—nature’s own spa. For a cooler escape, take a refreshing dip in the nearby Emerald Pool, a crystal-clear freshwater lagoon hidden within the forest. Surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of birdsong, it’s the perfect place to reconnect with nature and recharge both body & mind.
Eat: Southern Thai Cuisine
Southern Thai cuisine is bold, fiery, and deeply aromatic—known for its rich use of herbs, fresh seafood, and powerful spice blends. Influenced by Malay and Indian flavors, dishes here tend to pack a punch, often featuring turmeric, lemongrass, galangal, and lots of fresh chili! From beachside food stalls to tucked-away roadside gems, eating in the South is an adventure for your tastebuds. Don’t be afraid to ask for “mai phet” (not too spicy)... but also embrace the heat, it’s part of the magic.
Thailand will leave a Lasting Impact
From trekking the hills of the North to longtail boats skimming turquoise waters in the South, Thailand is a place that lingers in your heart long after your trip ends. It’s a land of contrasts—ancient temples and neon nights, fiery street food and peaceful forest pools, handcrafted traditions and spontaneous adventure.
Whether you’re lounging in a hammock handwoven in the mountains of Chiang Mai, exploring the quiet coves of the Andaman Sea, or sipping something sweet at a beach bar beneath the stars—Thailand invites you to slow down, look closer, and soak in every golden moment.
We hope this guide helps you dream, plan, and drift a little closer to your next great escape. Until then, let your hammock be your passport to that Thai state of mind.
If you are planning your own trip, don’t hesitate to reach out for tips: concierge@yellowleafhammocks.com
