InterContinental Khao Yai is a vintage train-themed resort

There are 2 kinds of travellers to Thailand – the beach-loving crowd, and city nomads who’re into themed resorts or Bangkok shopping sprees. We also agree that at this point, regardless of which you are, many popular resorts are frankly a bit overhyped.

Image credit: InterContinental Khao Yai Resort

So if you’re bored of the same old budget vacations to Thailand, then the newly opened InterContinental Khao Yai Resort may pique your interest for its Orient Express-like carriage cabins & vintage suites right next to some of Khao Yai’s finest nature parks.

We’ll unpack what to expect below. But first, a spoiler alert – fans of Hercule Poirot novels or those simply enamoured by trains in general are in for a treat.

Other hotels and accommodations in Thailand:

Train-themed lobby with actual historical pieces

Image credit: InterContinental Khao Yai Resort

Khao Yai is seen as a gateway destination to northeastern Thailand from Bangkok. And at this newly minted resort, every guest’s journey begins with the lobby that’s fashioned to be a ticket booth from a train station.

Many of the benches are taken from old train stations and upcycled so that you can sit on a piece of history without making your pants a part of that history.

Image credit: InterContinental Khao Yai Resort

Within the spacious premises, you’ll also spot old emblems and stacks of luggage, as well as a train dashboard that is straight out of a steam train.

Image credit: InterContinental Khao Yai Resort

Thankfully, the train theme extends to the entire resort. And these aren’t just for show. A lot of the furnishing and décor come from actual renovated train cars that were once used in Thailand, so without further ado, let’s inspect the cabins where we’ll be holed up in at night.

Upscaled train cabins for nights on the Orient Express

Image credit: InterContinental Khao Yai Resort

First off, the rooms look like they come straight out of the history books. And they should – because these rooms are actually upscaled train cabins so you can feel like you’re on the Orient Express.

Their standard rooms, despite looking vintage, actually have luxury furnishings that are fit for kings and queens today.

Image credit: InterContinental Khao Yai Resort

Even their bathrooms will make you feel like you’re an aristocrat out of an old 70s movie. Not to mention how you’ll even smell like one, as long as you put their European Byredo soaps and shampoos to good use in your luxurious bubble baths. 

Image credit: InterContinental Khao Yai Resort

But of course, if you’re on a train ride, you have to be looking out the window to see the views – with bunk bed cabins to boot.

Image credit: InterContinental Khao Yai Resort

The resort practically sits beside a national park so you’ll have a great view into the mountain forests. And you can do so from the luxurious comfort of your room while sipping some coffee or tea.

Image credit: @intercontinentalkhaoyai

For couples looking to amp up the hi-so factor for special occasions, FYI, there are larger units that include a private living area with a small pool just for you.

Image credit: InterContinental Khao Yai Resort

You’ll get a choice of a garden view or a lake view so you can either enjoy the trees or the ducks swimming around. We’d recommend opening your windows to breathe in the fresh forest air in the mornings. But if the weather is a bit too much for you to deal with, each room is equipped with its own climate control so you can adjust the temperatures to your liking.

Pet-friendly resort with in-house F&B options

Image credit: InterContinental Khao Yai Resort

The mostly pet-friendly resort will also allow you to bring your four-legged friend along if you so choose. One dog or cat that weighs less than 14kg, can be housed in your room with supervision. Do note that our pets won’t have access to certain public areas like the pool or the gym.

But if you wanna take them hiking there’s still the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Khao Yai National Park that’s next door to consider.

Image credit: InterContinental Khao Yai Resort

When it comes to F&B options on the resort, you’ll be pleased to note that there are themed cafes and restaurants in the resort boasting a similar vintage feel.

Image credit: InterContinental Khao Yai Resort

Rest assured that guests will get to sit in their luxury train cabins and enjoy their meals, without having to endure the train’s chugging noises or the smell of oil.

Planning hi-so year-end vacays in Thailand

So if you’re a fan of trains, history, and mountains, this is it. Although the starting price of ~฿8,300 (~US$235)/night is a bit on the pricey side for Thailand, the concept and facilities are worth it. Plus, you should spoil yourself every now and again, and here you can feel like you’re stepping into the shoes of an aristocrat from the 70s. 

There’s also a “Stay 3 Nights, Pay 2 Nights” deal right now, so be sure to check that out if you’re looking for a longer stay. 

InterContinental Khao Yai Resort
Address: 262 Moo 6 Pong Talong Sub-District, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima, 30450, Thailand
Telephone: +66-44-082039
Website

Cover images adapted from (Clockwise from Top Left): InterContinental Khao Yai Resort

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