Champagne Lovers’ Guide to Thailand: restaurants, bars and things to do
Thailand is an easy country to fall for if you enjoy Champagne, food and warm-weather travel. Bangkok has a sophisticated dining, hotel and nightlife scene where Champagne is well established, while destinations such as Phuket, Koh Samui and Chiang Mai offer very different settings for enjoying it. From rooftop evenings overlooking Bangkok to a chilled glass by the Andaman Sea, Champagne fits naturally into Thailand’s social and hospitality culture.
Thai cuisine provides some of the most interesting Champagne pairings in Southeast Asia. Tom yum, pad Thai, green curry, massaman curry, som tam, satay and fresh seafood all bring different combinations of spice, acidity, sweetness and umami. Champagne’s bubbles and acidity can be particularly effective with chilli, fried foods and seafood, while a slightly richer Champagne can stand up to coconut-based curries and grilled dishes.
Thailand is much more than its beaches. Bangkok combines ornate temples, markets, street food and skyscrapers, while Chiang Mai offers temples, mountain scenery and a slower northern Thai food culture. The islands and southern coast bring turquoise water, limestone cliffs and tropical landscapes. Phuket has a lively resort atmosphere, while places such as Krabi and the smaller islands offer a more nature-focused experience.
In Bangkok, explore the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew, take a longtail boat along the city’s canals, wander through Chinatown and visit one of the city’s huge markets. In Chiang Mai, explore the old city and its temples, while in the south, island-hopping, snorkelling and boat trips are among the best ways to experience the coastline.
Thailand’s drinking culture is equally varied. Thai iced tea, fresh coconut water and tropical fruit drinks are everyday favourites, while beer, spirits, cocktails and wine are all part of the modern hospitality scene. For Champagne lovers, Thailand offers the chance to combine sophisticated drinking with some of the world’s most vibrant food and tropical landscapes.
