Thai resort repurposes 19 heritage train cars into luxurious & rustic suites

If you’re reading this right now, you probably have the intense urge to pack your bags and fly off to a land you’ve never been to before. After all, borders are opening and COVID-19 restrictions are loosening, which means traveling should be much easier now than it was two years ago. It’s a convenient time to get bit by the travel bug too, since many places are beginning to welcome back the tourists they once relied so heavily on.

This means better rates (hopefully). And if you’ve been planning to head to Thailand (this writer has), there’s a new train-themed resort that might just be what you’re looking for in this ‘post-COVID’ era. Set to welcome guests for the first time in August 2022, the InterContinental Khao Yai Resort in Thailand is something you might want to add to your travel itinerary, even if you don’t exactly plan on exploring the vast richness of the area – situated in Nakhon Ratchasima province in Khao Yai National Park.

What sets it apart from conventional tropical resorts is its theme – trains. Designed by award-winning architect and interior designer Bill Bensley, the InterContinental Khao Yai pays faithful homage to Khao Yai’s historical past as a bustling train hub, which connected the province to northeast Thailand during King Rama V’s reign. Sitting on 100 acres of land, the hotel features 45 luxury rooms and suites, along with 19 heritage train car suites.

Yep, actual train cars that have been repurposed into rustic suites for those who can afford them! Aside from beautiful interiors, the hotel also overlooks a sprawling forest of 50,000 trees, as well as seven majestic lakes for that perfect morning coffee view. When it comes to on-site amenities, it comes as no surprise that the hotel also houses three different restaurants, including the Tea House (for afternoon tea in one of the heritage train cars), Somying Restaurant (casual indoor/outdoor Asian dining), and Poirot Brasserie (French-concept formal dining reminiscent of the golden-age of train travel). If you’re feeling a little thirsty, head to Papillon Bar, which was created and designed by Bensley himself.

Set inside an upcycled train carriage, you’ll be able to satiate all your French cocktail cravings, with a focus on simple flavors using the finest ingredients. According to checks by Mashable Southeast Asia, no rooms are currently available until at least October 2022, which could indicate that some people have been very quick to book their stay here. Further checks reveal that you can only book a two-day, one-night stay at the hotel, at least as of press time.

Rates start from US$139 (฿5,068) for a one-bedroom King Classic, and go all the way up to US$203 (฿7,372) for a King Premium with private pool and mountain view. Click here to book your stay. The world’s first floating city is now being built, and you can visit it in 2027 Would you travel on this double-decker plane? We think it looks like a nightmare.

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