128. Pam’s Return to Thailand

In this episode, Pam shares her full itinerary from her recent return to Thailand—a dream trip she’s been wanting to repeat since her very first adventure on points and miles years ago. From business-class flights on Singapore Airlines, to luxury stays at the Conrad, Ritz-Carlton, and Banyan Tree—and of course, daily massages for $12—Pam takes us through every high (and low!) of the trip.

How Pam Booked Her Flights

The trip started with a Thrifty Traveler Premium alert: saver award space on Singapore Airlines from San Francisco to Bangkok. Pam positioned to SFO from Denver and visited the Polaris Lounge before the long-haul flight—cookie skillets included! 

Stop #1: Koh Samui – The Conrad vs. The Ritz-Carlton

Pam's first two nights were spent at the Conrad Koh Samui, booked with Hilton free-night certificates.  Next, she moved to the Ritz-Carlton Koh Samui, using two Marriott free-night certificates.  So which luxury resort won Pam over? Listen to find out what Pam loved about the Conrad that made it the winner over the Ritz-Carlton.

Stop #2: Krabi – Luxury, Views, and Boat Tours

Next up was Krabi, where Pam and her crew splurged on a paid stay at the Banyan Tree Krabi. This peaceful resort had amazing views, but the food was disappointing. It provided a great base for day trips to Hong Island, Railay Beach, and the Phi Phi Islands.  And with massages available nearby from $12 to $30/hour, Pam was in heaven!

Final Nights: Park Hyatt Bangkok & Grand Hyatt SFO

Before flying home, Pam spent one night at the Park Hyatt Bangkok, booked for 25,000 Hyatt points. She raved about the architecture, location, outstanding food, and luxurious vibe—and she can't wait to go back.

Then Pam stayed one night at the Grand Hyatt SFO, an airport hotel she loves for its breakfast and convenience—even though it's now in the same category as the Park Hyatt Bangkok!

Pam’s take? Thailand is one of the most affordable and rewarding destinations you can book with points and miles. Use airline miles to get there, pay cash or use points for luxury stays, and save room in your budget for daily massages!

🎧 Tune in now to hear the full recap—and start dreaming up your own Thailand itinerary!

Links:

• How to Get Your Next Vacation for Nearly Free - https://travelmomsquad.lpages.co/freevacation

• Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad

 

Episode Minute By Minute:

• 00:30 – Why Thailand was Pam’s first—and forever favorite—points trip
• 03:30 – Singapore Airlines business class
• 06:45 – Polaris Lounge tips + stressful positioning lesson
• 08:30 – Two nights at Conrad Koh Samui
• 12:00 – Comparing the Conrad and Ritz-Carlton Koh Samui
• 15:00 – Touring temples, elephant sanctuaries, and quirky local stops
• 17:30 – Thai massage culture: $12 treatments and $30 spa experiences
• 19:00 – Banyan Tree Krabi
• 24:00 – Island hopping, jellyfish