The Joys of the Open Road
The rolling greenery, golden temples and mighty rivers of northern Thailand can now be enjoyed from the stylish comfort of a self-drive Jaguar or Daimler classic car.
Long term Belgian expat Nest Reypens, based in Chiang Mai, Thailand, with years of experience in hospitality, motoring and motor sport, has launched Jaguar Tours North Thailand with a fleet of beautifully restored XJ6, XJS and Daimler Sovereign cars.
For the first time, tourists can now drive themselves and their families in classic cars on the smooth, open roads of northern Thailand, taking in beautiful views and famous attractions in the style of the 1970’s.
Launching in December, the cars equipped with air-con, power steering, GPS, phones and detailed road books will be available for 5 day/6 night tours starting at the Shangri-La Hotel and finishing at the Yaang Come Village in Chiang Mai.
Hills, valleys and gardens
After the first morning buffet breakfast, clients set out on the ‘Samoeng loop’, west of the city, taking in breathtaking views of hills and valleys as well as the Queen Sirikit Botanical Gardens. First overnight halt is at the Waree Varee Resort, Mae Thang, centre of many elephant camps, before heading due north to Mae Kok River Village Resort, close to spectacular and ornate Buddhist temples. The legendary Golden Triangle, where Thailand meets Myanmar and Laos, is next on the itinerary, where a couple of hours at the ultra-modern Hall of Opium museum is strongly recommended. Accommodation here is at the 4-star Serana Hotel.
Along the mighty Mekong
The route then follows the mighty Mekong River, the border between Thailand and Laos, southwards to the historic towns of Chang Saen and Chang Khong, before swinging west to the provincial capital of Chiang Rai. This city celebrates its 750th anniversary in 2012, and the luxurious Legend Resort & Spa is the ideal overnight base from which to enjoy all the special events there.
The south-bound route to Chiang Mai and the final night at the Yaang Come Village gives clients ample time to visit the unique Silver Temple and art exhibition, craft villages and hot springs on their final full day as VIPs of the road.
Why and how?
“Having lived here for several years I wanted to do something different”, says Nest, a former Belgian rally driver and ocean yachting enthusiast. With this background and his impressive classic car collection, maintenance and service are at the top of Nest’s priority list.
“All the cars are perfectly maintained, we give 24 hour assistance with excellent mechanics, also with replacement cars if there is any risk that clients may lose time” he emphasises. Experienced English/Thai-speaking drivers are also available for those who prefer ‘the chauffeur touch’.
