This intrepid itinerary explores the very best highlights of Thailand, blending some of the must-see cultural and historical attractions of the major cities with some rest and relaxation on southern Thailand’s world-renowned beaches. Your journey will begin and end in Thailand’s bustling, cosmopolitan capital city of Bangkok. Eat your way through Chinatown on a foodie tour with your private guide, sampling sumptuous dumplings, savory dim sum, fresh seafood, and savory roasted meats. Glide through the picturesque canals of Bangkok on a longtail boat, stopping to admire the architectural splendor and sacred beauty of some of Thailand’s most significant temples, statues, and historic sites.
After experiencing the hustle and bustle of Bangkok, the highlands city of Chiang Mai provides a nice contrast, offering stunning natural beauty and a charming blend of traditional and modern influences in this cultural hub. Stretch your legs on a moderate hiking exploration of Doi Inthanon National Park, taking in the stunning views from the summit of Thailand’s highest mountain, and fill your heart with pure delight as you help feed and bathe rescued Asian elephants at a local elephant sanctuary.
Wind down your Thailand adventure in Phuket with several days relaxing amidst the pristine white-sand beaches and serene turquoise waters that Thailand is known for. Enjoy explorations of the local bays and coves by longtail boat, taking time to snorkel, sunbathe, and explore the fascinating sea caves and limestone formations the area is known for.
If you have additional time, consider extending your journey to check out the amazing Angkor Wat in Cambodia or explore Vietnam.
Welcome to Thailand! You will be met upon arrival at the airport in Bangkok and escorted to your boutique hotel. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure to take a dip in the pool, nap to shake off the jetlag, or explore the local neighborhood.
You will spend two full days exploring the dazzling, cosmopolitan city of Bangkok by foot, tuk-tuk, and boat with your private guide. Sample dim sum, dumplings, fresh seafood, and local desserts on a Chinatown foodie tour. Cruise the city’s canals by boat and stop to explore some of Bangkok’s most important highlights, from Wat Pho to Lak Muang City Pillar to the Grand Palace and Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Take in panoramic views of the river and city from Wat Arun, the most iconic temple in Thailand, as you watch the sun drop down in the sky after a full day of exploration.
This morning you will catch an early flight to Chaing Mai, where you will be met upon arrival. You will stop to explore the stunningly beautiful Buddhist temple of Doi Suthrep, including a visit to the What Pha Lat Monastery. After a few hours to freshen up at your hotel, you will visit a local home to go on a culinary journey as you help prepare an authentic Northern Thai dinner while learning all about Lanna culture.
You will get an early start this morning in order to maximize your time exploring the cascading waterfalls, lush forests, and spectacular views from the summit of Thailand’s highest peak as you hike through Doi Inthanon National Park with your private guide.
Today is a wildlife lovers’ dream come true! You will visit the Kanta Elephant Santuary located just outside of Chiang Mai to learn all about Asian elephants and the rescue and rehabilitation work they do at the sanctuary. After enjoying a delicious Asian buffet lunch, you will also get to help feed and bathe the elephants! Return to Bangkok late afternoon.
After a leisurely breakfast you will head to the airport to catch your flight to Phuket. You will be met upon arrival and transferred to your beachfront hotel. \
You will have two full days to enjoy the pristine beaches that Thailand is known for. Nestled in a secluded bay, surrounded by crystal clear turquoise waters and tranquil white-sand beaches, you can kick back and relax at your luxury hotel. Each day you will embark on longtail boat excursions on nearby bays, complete with snorkeling, sunbathing, and sea cave explorations. End your last night with a scenic and spiritual evening boat tour that allows you to float your own Karthong flower and witness the mesmerizing glow of phosphorescent plankton around you.
This morning you will bid the tranquil beaches of Phuket farewell as you head to the airport. You will fly to Bangkok and then catch your international departing flight home from there.
These are the accommodations available for this trip. Please call and see which one is best for your style of travel.
