Palio Village in Khao Yai
A Tuscan Village Near Bangkok
Palio is a picturesque shopping centre, 220km north-east of Bangkok, themed around a Tuscan village where visitors are treated to an out-of-the-ordinary combination of clothes and gift shopping, gourmet snacks, live entertainment and an eclectic mix of independent shops and stalls.
The grand idea has been to bring the charm of Tuscany to the green heart of Thailand. Both places share a cool, sunny climate and both grow wine – although not to the same distinction. From this fairly tenuous link, the developers of Palio have produced something truly unique and unmistakably modern.
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Palio is nestled in a forest landscape in Nakhon Ratchasima Province, just 20km from the entrance of Khao Yai National Park. Owing to its higher elevation temperatures are noticeably cooler than in Bangkok and a clement breeze is consistently blowing along the paved streets and piazzas. During my latest visit the thermometer clocked in at a pleasant 24°C at 14:00.
Upon entering the village, the striking terracotta-toned buildings resonate with an unmistakably Mediterranean vibe. A plethora of potted flowers, baby ferns and creeping ivy add to the sensation. Everywhere you look you can see hanging baskets, ornate railings, medieval-styled castle walls and an overstocked supply of benches for visitors to sit and enjoy the sights.