It may be far away but a vacation in Thailand is worth the long flight. Resorts throughout the country connect guests with relaxation, rejuvenation as well as the opportunity to forge a deeper connection with Thai culture-all without leaving the property.

Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort is a full-service resort tucked away in the jungles of Chiang Rai. It is more than just a luxury retreat. The property is home to rescued elephants that are cared for on conservation land maintained by the Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation.

The Walking With Giants experience is one of the few ways travelers can ethically interact with these majestic creatures in Southeast Asia. The elephants have been rescued from city streets, tourist attractions and other places where they were mistreated, and together with their mahouts, develop a new life at the Anantara resort.

In addition to elephant experiences, there are opportunities to take on-sight cooking classes, learn the art of Muay Thai boxing or relax at the spa.

Guests may also find themselves relaxing poolside and taking in the beauty of the jungle and the elephants grazing on the land below.

For those looking for a seaside escape, the beauty of the island of Samui awaits. Check into the Six Senses Samui, where you will find yourself relaxing in the private plunge pool of your own secluded bungalow.

The resort is perched on a cliffside overlooking the Gulf of Thailand and below, a secluded beach awaits visitors where they can enjoy drinks, food, kayaking, swimming and more.

The resort is committed to sustainability and is home to its own farm where it uses unique methods to grow all sorts of fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices. It's also home to goats and chickens.

The Renaissance Pattaya Resort & Spa is ideal for travelers who want to combine a visit to Bangkok with a beach vacation. Located just about a one-hour drive from the city, is located in the seaside area of Pattaya, one of Southeast Asia's most popular beach destinations.

The resort is great for families with spacious accommodations that line the pool area and a splash pool perfect for kids.

Parents have their own beautiful pool that leads right to the water. The resort also offers excellent dining options, with a beach restaurant, Pebbles, as well as its main restaurant and buffet.