Luxury Resort in Thailand Takes Design Cues From the Golden Age of Train Travel

Khao Yai Resort in Bangkok, Thailand

If you're enthralled with the romantic notion of train travel, then the InterContinental Khao Yai Resort in Thailand is the place for you. The resort is located in the Nakhon Ratchasima province, Pak Chong district, and invites you to explore the “golden age of train travel” through its idyllic accommodations and surrounding natural beauty. There are even upcycled train carriages included in the resort design.

The architectural scheme was created by architect and interior designer Bill Bensley. He was inspired by the area’s history of rail transportation to Northeast Thailand during King Rama V’s Reign, which lasted from 1868 to 1910. Upon arrival, you’ll check in at an area styled like a ticket counter; it's complete with a traditional stationmaster bell that rings to welcome you. The interior is decorated with railway memorabilia—think vintage trunks and old tickets.

Once you’ve completed the check-in process, you’ll be escorted to one of the 45 rooms in Khao Yai Resort’s main buildings. They too are inspired by train travel, and the walls are adorned with pieces recalling the vintage railway signs once seen around the province. Corridors with curved ceilings and doorways make you feel like you’re stepping into a train car, and wall treatments in the bedrooms are meant to look like windows. The faux windows have landscape-inspired artwork that will make you feel like you're looking at the passing terrain.

The beauty of Bensley's design lies in its subtlety. It's often a wink to train travel, and it doesn't feel like you're staying in a themed room. Rather, you are treated to the elegance of a space that pays homage to the past without feeling cheesy.

In addition to the grand decor, Khao Yai Resort boasts curated experiences where you can visit Baan Sa Nam Sai, one of the oldest communities in the area. You can later enjoy a formal afternoon tea in a heritage railcar and then indulge in delicious farm-to-table dining at Somying’s Kitchen with ingredients from local purveyors.

Learn more about what the InterContinental Khao Yai Resort has to offer on its website.

If you're enthralled with the romantic notion of train travel, then the InterContinental Khao Yai Resort in Thailand is the place for you.

Khao Yai Resort in Bangkok, Thailand

Khao Yai Resort in Bangkok, Thailand

The resort invites you to explore the “golden age of train travel” through its idyllic accommodations and surrounding natural beauty.

Khao Yai Resort in Bangkok, Thailand

Khao Yai Resort in Bangkok, Thailand

Khao Yai Resort in Bangkok, Thailand

Khao Yai Resort in Bangkok, Thailand

The architectural scheme was created by architect and interior designer Bill Bensley.

Khao Yai Resort in Bangkok, Thailand

Khao Yai Resort in Bangkok, Thailand

He was inspired by the area’s history of rail transportation to Northeast Thailand during King Rama V’s Reign, which lasted from 1868 to 1910.

Khao Yai Resort in Bangkok, Thailand

Khao Yai Resort in Bangkok, Thailand

Khao Yai Resort in Bangkok, Thailand

Khao Yai Resort in Bangkok, Thailand

The walls are adorned with pieces recalling the vintage railway signs once seen around the province.

Khao Yai Resort in Bangkok, Thailand

In addition to the grand decor, Khao Yai Resort boasts curated experiences, formal teas, and farm-to-table dining.

Khao Yai Resort in Bangkok, Thailand

Khao Yai Resort in Bangkok, Thailand

Khao Yai Resort in Bangkok, Thailand

Khao Yai Resort in Bangkok, Thailand

Khao Yai Resort in Bangkok, Thailand

Khao Yai Resort in Bangkok, Thailand

Khao Yai Resort in Bangkok, Thailand

InterContinental Khao Yai Resort: Website | Facebook | Instagram

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by InterContinental Khao Yai Resort.

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Sara Barnes

Sara Barnes is a Staff Editor at My Modern Met, Manager of My Modern Met Store, and co-host of the My Modern Met Top Artist Podcast. As an illustrator and writer living in Seattle, she chronicles illustration, embroidery, and beyond through her blog Brown Paper Bag and Instagram @brwnpaperbag. She wrote a book about embroidery artist Sarah K. Benning titled "Embroidered Life" that was published by Chronicle Books in 2019. Sara is a graduate of the Maryland Institute College of Art. She earned her BFA in Illustration in 2008 and MFA in Illustration Practice in 2013.
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