With the Thai countryside unfolding before them, guests aboard the well-appointed Blue Jasmine found themselves in for the ultimate in moving luxury as they made their way to Uthai Thani.
After a night spent at the exquisite Uthai Heritage, a luxury hotel that began as one of the schools paving the way for education in the region, guests began the day in the spirit of goodwill and compassion through almsgiving to the local monastic community.
Each guest was given a basket of food to facilitate merit-making with the local monks, and this round of charitable activity was followed by an excellent breakfast back at the hotel, set against the backdrop of the morning flag-raising ceremony.
A day of gold and crystal
The day’s jaunt into Uthai Thani enabled guests to immerse themselves into Thailand’s intriguing history with trips into the area’s two most intriguing landmarks: the famed Wat Tha Sung (Wat Chantharam / Crystal Temple) and the adjacent Prasant Thong Kanchanaphisek (Golden Palace).
Originally built during the Ayutthaya period in the mid-1300s, Wat Tha Sung was only officially completed in 1928 but has since become one of Thailand’s leading centres for pilgrimage and reflection.
What makes this temple so striking and memorable is the Wihan Kaew 100-Metre, a 100m-long meditation hall whose walls are panelled with mirrors and glittering chandeliers hang from the ceiling.
Within the temple complex is Prasat Thong Kanchanaphisek, an elegant edifice completely decorated with gold and sporting 37 golden spires, which inspires awe in those who behold it.
Completely beguiled by the architectural spectacles of Uthai Thani, Blue Jasmine guests were gently guided back into contemporary luxury with a luncheon aboard a traditional rice barge on the Sakae Krang River.
Your own private club
The next leg of the journey meant travelling through the night and spending it in the exceptional comfort of the Blue Jasmine’s artfully-designed cabins, the result of its collaboration with the renowned lifestyle brand Jim Thompson.
As Gary puts it: “The train becomes your own private club. Our Jim Thompson-designed cabins were ours to use all day, perfect for my afternoon cuppa tea whilst watching the world go by, followed by a nap. Having a private sanctuary to retreat to whenever you want a quiet moment while in motion is the ultimate luxury.”
Offered in Classic, Premium, and Premium Suite configurations, the cabins offer comfortable rest unhampered by the train’s movement.
In the onboard suites, one can find the epitome of railway luxury: every cabin features a large bed for two, ample relaxation space, and two expansive private windows for scenic views.
Along with ample storage for one’s belongings, the suites are also equipped with ensuite baths whose amenities are refreshed every day.
Those travelling by suite likewise enjoy personalised butler service, along with access to the Panorama Lounge and the Balcony for a truly scenic journey.
Chef Patipat Lakphong
Dining on board is also a delectable experience, as resident chef Patipat Lakphong transforms ingredients into bespoke meals that highlight the finest elements of Thai cuisine.
Honoured by the renowned Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, the world’s oldest and most prestigious international gastronomic association, in 2024, this fast-rising young chef tempts each guest's appetite with a menu that reflects the traditions of the regions along the Blue Jasmine's route.
Using carefully selected ingredients and techniques specifically developed for the experience, he serves truly distinctive dishes that cannot be found anywhere else.
As night fell, guests were lulled to sleep by the gentle rhythm beneath them and, when next they woke, they would find themselves in Chiang Mai.
Read our previous entries on our Blue Jasmine journey
- Bangkok-Ayutthaya: https://www.traveldailymedia.com/all-aboard-the-blue-jasmine-meandering-into-ayutthaya/
