Damien MansonThailand 2025
Koh Phangan 2025: The Hippie Island Where Time Slows Down and Your Soul Starts Breathing Again. From lush green tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya to the golden sandy beaches of Mirissa, Sri Lanka boasts diverse landscapes. The towering Sigiriya Rock Fortress, an ancient marvel rising from the jungle, provides a spectacular view for those who dare to climb it. For wildlife lovers, Yala National Park is a must-visit, where you can spot leopards, elephants, and a variety of bird species. When we flew to Thailand in the summer of 2025, we weren’t just looking for another vacation spot. We wanted a place where you can breathe without hurry, where mornings begin with the smell of salty air and evenings fade into sunsets that look too perfect to be real. Koh Phangan turned out to be exactly that place — and even more than we hoped for. Beyond the Full Moon Party Say “Koh Phangan” and most people immediately think of the loud, neon-lit Full Moon Party on Haad Rin Beach. But the island is actually split between two worlds: the busy south with bars and nightlife, and the calm, spiritual north filled with yoga centers, vegan cafés, healing retreats, and a community built around slow living. Naturally, we gravitated toward the second one. Exploring the Island by Motorbike Every morning we started it up and let the narrow roads lead us wherever they wanted: past palm trees, rubber plantations, over hills, and sometimes right under the curious gaze of coconut monkeys resting in the treetops. On Koh Phangan, a motorbike isn’t just transportation — it’s freedom. It turns the island into an open map you can read in any direction you like. The Taste of Thailand Thai food is impossible to describe — you have to taste it. We tried everything: street-side Pad Thai, creamy Massaman curry, spicy papaya salad, and endless smoothie bowls full of mango, dragon fruit, and coconut. Some of our favorite meals came from tiny family-run kitchens with plastic chairs and handwritten menus. The mother cooked, the father poured drinks, and the kids served food with the kindest smiles. Simple dishes, authentic flavors, and always cooked with love. Yoga Centers – The Island as a Temple of Calm Koh Phangan has a very special energy. You feel it most in places like Orion Healing Center, Samma Karuna, or Wonderland. Classes were held in open-air shalas overlooking the sea or surrounded by jungle. While stretching or meditating, we heard birds, wind, and the soft hum of the island around us. It wasn’t just yoga — it was reconnecting with yourself. Sunsets at Zen Beach – A Daily Ritual Zen Beach is not just another beach. It’s a gathering — a living, breathing community that meets every evening. Drummers, dancers, fire performers, acrobats, yogis, and travelers who simply sit in the sand and watch the day fade away. The sunset there feels like a spontaneous festival. No schedule, no rules — it just happens. We sat among them, listening to the rhythm of drums, watching the sky shift into shades of orange and violet, realizing how easy it is to feel genuinely content. Freedom on the Nude Beach The nude beach on Koh Phangan isn’t about showing off. It’s about letting go. You leave behind clothes, expectations, stress — everything. It’s just you and the ocean. Warm waves, soft breeze, and a sense of liberation that feels deeply natural and peaceful. An Island That Changes You Koh Phangan isn’t just beautiful. It has a way of slowing you down and resetting something inside you. It’s a place where people smile even when they have little, where the mantra less is more feels natural, and where the biggest luxury is time, space, and peace. When we left, we knew it wasn’t goodbye forever. Koh Phangan is one of those places that sneaks into your heart — quietly, gently, and for good. Accomodation: Staying in a villa surrounded by jungle changed the whole trip. Mornings belonged to tropical birds, evenings to cicadas and geckos — including the one that casually decided to live with us. A view over an endless sea of green, and nature’s soundtrack instead of city noise… That villa gave us the quiet we didn’t even know we needed. Phangan Akuna Resort & Residences
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, is a hidden paradise that offers breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a history enthusiast, or a beach lover, Sri Lanka has something for everyone. A Land of Natural Beauty: From lush green tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya to the golden sandy beaches of Mirissa, Sri Lanka boasts diverse landscapes. The towering Sigiriya Rock Fortress, an ancient marvel rising from the jungle, provides a spectacular view for those who dare to climb it. For wildlife lovers, Yala National Park is a must-visit, where you can spot leopards, elephants, and a variety of bird species. Cultural and Historical Treasures: Sri Lanka’s history spans over 2,500 years, with ancient cities like Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa showcasing the remains of grand palaces, stupas, and monasteries. The country is also home to the sacred Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists. A Foodie’s Delight: Sri Lankan cuisine is a treat for the taste buds, with dishes rich in flavor and spice. From the famous rice and curry to the beloved street food delight, kottu roti, every meal is an experience. Don’t forget to try fresh seafood by the coast and enjoy a cup of world-famous Ceylon tea. Unforgettable Adventures: For thrill-seekers, Sri Lanka offers endless adventures. You can surf the waves in Arugam Bay, hike the scenic trails of Ella, or take a scenic train ride through the central highlands, which is considered one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world. Warm and Welcoming People: One of the best things about Sri Lanka is its people. Known for their friendliness and hospitality, locals will make you feel at home, whether you're staying in a luxury resort or a homestay in a small village. Plan Your Trip: With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and incredible experiences, Sri Lanka should definitely be on your travel bucket list. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion, this island nation has it all. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the Pearl of the Indian Ocean! Accomodation: Villa Taprobane, Thoduwawa Beach Villa, Maduranga N Guest, Ella Country House
Vietnam
Business trip to Vietnam at the end of February. It was nice to change winter for summer. Vietnam is a beautiful modern destination that offers luxury, but also history. The bustling city of Ho Chi Minh, full of skyscrapers, modern shops, cafes and parks, is in total contrast to the historic and cozy city of Hanoi. Hanoi: In the middle of the city there is a beautiful lake, which is an oasis of peace. Old and young people meet here. Every weekend the streets are closed to cars and the entire center becomes a pedestrian zone. Music is played everywhere, Vietnamese coffee is drunk and people are having fun. Right by the lake there is a quarter that is crowded with shops of various kinds. Each street focuses on a different type of goods. You can find handmade products here as well as fakes of famous brands at ridiculous prices. The Oriental Jade Hotel Ho Chi Minh: Or we also know that Saigon is the main business center of Vietnam. Modern buildings, skyscrapers, night markets, constant hustle and bustle. La Vela Saigon Hotel
Maldives
A holiday in paradise. One of the most beautiful places we have ever visited is the tropical paradise of Reethi Faru in the Maldives. White sand, turquoise sea, amazing food and breathtaking scenery. We have made wonderful friendships here. We always like to come back here. We have made many friends among the staff. The amazing head of the best SPA in the Maldives: Ariani, the skilled water sports instructor and drone pilot: Abu, the heartthrob and diving instructor: Illy, these are just a few of the great people who work here. We always thought that we would be bored in a closed resort on a small island. However, the opposite is true. Walks on the beach, badminton, reading a book, taking photos, yoga, morning runs around the island, coffee, evening program, massages and more photos. Random meetings with people from all over the world. It is interesting that there can be up to 250 people on the island at one time, but you will hardly meet anyone all day. The chef is a master of his craft. He will prepare you incredible fish just because he likes you and is happy to see you. Even though alcohol is strictly prohibited in the Maldives, the resorts have their own rules. So sitting with a glass of wine at sunset is one of the most beautiful experiences. Nudity is also prohibited, but ... Visit: Reethi Faru Resort - Welcome to Paradise Welcome to Reethi Faru, a luxurious escape on the secluded private island of Filaidhoo. Experience this one-of-a-kind tropical island paradise, where the glistening crystal clear ocean meets the endless white coral sand and with its lush tropical foliage turning it into a truly magical lagoon escape. From the moment you set foot onto this paradise surrounded by light blue waters lapping onto the soft sandy beach, you will feel immersed in serenity. A unique haven of tranquility, yet with a vast array of experiences and activities you can choose from to enjoy during your stay.
Thailand
Summer vacation in tropical Thailand. Temples, yoga, luxury and poverty. Amazing food, beautiful scenery, hippie island, nightlife on Khao San Road, all of that is forever etched in our hearts. Accomodation: True Siam Rangnam Hotel, Villa Tanamera, Shanti Boutique Hotel Bangkok: Bangkok and its surroundings are full of beautiful colorful temples. History, Buddhism and peace are everywhere. You can meet monks meditating and walking through the gardens. We recommend visiting these places early in the morning, when they are not yet crowded and it is not too hot: Grand Palace, Wat Arun, Wat Pho, Ayutthaya For shopping, it's worth going to the large outdoor markets. They are open every night and you can get absolutely everything here. Great food is a given. Khao San Road became legendary after the premiere of the film The Beach with Leonardo DiCaprio. The street is full of bars, restaurants and clubs. Chatuchak Weekend Market, Khao San Road, Sawasdee House And as an amazing experience, we recommend an evening river cruise combined with music, dinner and breathtaking views of Bangkok at night. Chao Phraya Princess Koh SamuiAfter days spent in the hustle and bustle of the big city, the best choice is to move to the Thai islands. We chose Koh Samui and Koh Phangan. Koh Samui is a tourist destination with bars, beaches, massages and discos. We were here out of season, so the island was quite empty and quiet. Here you can also visit many temples and natural wonders. Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai), Bo Phut Beach Koh Phangan: Our final and dream destination was the last stop: Koh Phangan. It is a paradise on earth. A relatively small island north of Koh Samui, which can only be reached by ferry. It is a so-called hippie island full of yoga centers, small cafes, cozy bungalows, jungle, well-maintained roads and a pleasant atmosphere. As the jewel of all jewels, you will find ZEN beach here. A place where time has stopped and no rules apply. It doesn't matter what you are wearing or if you are naked, it doesn't matter if you want to meditate or practice yoga. Everything is possible on this beach. Young and old meet every evening for a fire show at sunset. People dance, relax and enjoy the power of the present moment. We want to come back here and stay here forever. Orion Healing, Zen Beach, Phangan Cove