DAY 1: Depart for Thailand
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DAY 2: Arrive in Bangkok
- Arrive in exotic Bangkok, Thailands capital city transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure to rest, relax and acclimate to the new time zone
- Overnight: Bangkok
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DAY 3: Bangkok City Tour
- Begin your day with a city and temple tour of Bangkok, a fascinating mix of ancient and modern. Drive through Chinatown and then on to the colorful Indian Market. Visit serene Wat Po, the oldest and largest temple in the city, with the astonishing giant Reclining Buddha, over 150 feet long and almost 40 feet high. Drive to Royal Avenue where most of the Government offices are located and the Kings Palace. Later in the afternoon, a Welcome Drink and orientation meeting with your Tour Manager on the exciting journey that lies ahead, followed by a Welcome Dinner with your fellow travelers
- Overnight: Bangkok
- Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
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DAY 4: Full Day in Bangkok
- Today we will spend Half Day Grand Palace & Emerald Buddha, Morning tour of Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and the adjoining Grand Palace. Together they form the most impressive sights for visitors to Bangkok. Wat Phra Kaew consists of over 100 brightly colored buildings, golden spires and glittering mosaics, dating back to 1782, when Bangkok was founded. From Wat Phra Kaew continue to the Grand Palace. Despite the proximity of the two, theres a distinct contrast in style between the Thai-inspired Wat Phra Kaew and the European designs of the Grand Palace. It is important to note that this palace is used now only for occasional ceremonial purposes and is no longer the royal residence. Countinued with Bangkok Canal Tour with Dinner, This afternoon, embark on a long tail boat ride along the Chao Phraya River. Pass by Wat Arun, "Temple of Dawn" and other iconic landmarks. Take in scenic views of both banks of the river as you glide through the water and observe the simple life of the locals living along the river. Afterwards, travel to dinner on a tuk-tuk, Thailands popular three-wheeled motorized taxi, to a local restaurant before returning to your hotel.
- Overnight: Bangkok
- Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
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DAY 5: Travel to Ayutthaya, Ayutthaya City Tour
- Depart Bangkok to Ayutthaya, the second Siamese capital after Sukhothai for over 400 years, once glorified as one of the largest cities in Southeast Asia. Ayutthaya Historical Park, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, lies in the center of the city. Here, you can see the ruins of the former capital and its remaining palaces, monasteries and towers - one can envision the grandeur and splendor that was once the Kingdom of Ayutthaya. Visit Bang Pa-In Palace, a collection of beautiful buildings in various architectural styles, surrounded by a lake. Originally built by King Prasat Thong in 1632, Bang Pa-In served as the Royal Summer Palace for the Thai Kings. Continue to the Chai Wattanaram Temple, built by King Prasat Thong to honor his mother, conceived as a replica of the Angkor Temple - this is a serene place where one can reflect and enjoy the tranquility. Tonight, gather together for dinner at the hotel
- Overnight: Ayutthaya
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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DAY 6: Travel to Sukhothai, Sukhothai Historical Park
- Travel to Sukhothai, birthplace of the Thai nation, founded in the 13th century by King Ramkhamhaeng. The countrys first capital was established here in 1238 and lasted over two centuries. Sukhothai is world-famous its over 100 historical sites and treasures, including some of the most beautiful Thai art and architecture in the country, created during the citys "golden era", between the 13th and 14th centuries. Visit the Old Town of Sukhothai with its impressive Historical Park, immaculately restored and set among leafy hills and peaceful lotus ponds, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. At this astonishing site, most of the remains of the original city can be seen. Marvel at the ancient Buddha figures, palaces, temples and historical monuments and feel yourself drift back in time to a bygone era
- Overnight: Sukhothai
- Meal: Breakfast
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DAY 7: Travel to Chiang Rai
- This morning, depart Sukhothai and drive to scenic Chiang Rai, the northernmost province of Thailand for overnight
- Overnight: Chiang Rai
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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DAY 8: Mae Sai Border Town & Golden Triangle
- Travel to the border town of Mae Sai, at the tip of Thailand. At this border crossing, arrangements may be made to enter Myanmar. Ascend to the hilltop viewpoint to see the famous "Golden Triangle" of Southeast Asia - meeting point of the borders of Thailand, Myanmar and Laos. The locals call it "Sop Ruak", as this is also where the Mekong meets the Ruak River. Continue to the dramatic House of Opium at Golden Triangle Park, offering an informative exhibition on the history of opium which dates back almost 5000 years. This afternoon, enjoy a locally prepared lunch before embarking on a cruise along the banks of the Mekong River between Myanmar, Laos and Thailand where you will see local farmers and fishermen at their craft and learn more about how this river played a role in the opium trade. End the day with a stop at an old teak forest and view centuries old giant Teak trees before returning to Chiang Rai for the evening
- Entering Myanmar (Burma) requires a border crossing fee of approx US$45, payable locally. The opportunity to cross the border will depend on local conditions and cannot be guaranteed. If the border crossing is not possible, alternate arrangements will be made.
- Overnight: Chiang Rai
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
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DAY 9: Travel to Chiang Mai, Half Day Mae Salong Hill Tribe
- Morning we will spend Half Day Mae Salong Hill Tribe, The tour departs Chiang Rai City in the morning for the drive to visit Hill Tribe at the foothill of Mae Salong. Upon arrival, change vehicles to the local Thai Combi which takes you up to the hill tribes, namely the Akha, Long Neck and Mien(Yao). See this unique way of life and culture of the tribes that is still maintained today.
- This tour requires walking up several steps as well as uneven pavement and trails to get to the small village.
- Overnight: Chiang Mai
- Meal: Breakfast
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DAY 10: Full Day in Chiang Mai
- Morning we will spend Half Day Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden with lunch, This morning, visit the Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden (QSBG), located in the foothills of the Doi Suthep-Pui mountains north of Chiang Mai. QSBG was established in 1993, as the first botanical garden in Thailand. It covers an area of 6,500 acres and is named after Queen Sirikit. Follow the paths and take your time as you stroll through the lush grounds covered with exotic types of trees, plants and flowers. After your visit, stop for lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit Sankampang Street, center of handicrafts, for on-site demonstrations on how the silk, lacquer, silver, wood and bronze wares are made. Later, visit the worlds largest gem factory, to watch while the gem stones are cut and set. Countinued with Traditional Thai Massage, A trip to Thailand is not complete without experiencing a traditional Thai Massage Unlike other types of massages, in Thailand your masseuse will stretch, bend, and contort your body into various positions, known to quickly ease the stress of muscle tension and aids in curing minor illnesses. A set of personal cotton clothing will be given to you to wear during the massage.
- Overnight: Chiang Mai
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
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DAY 11: Chiang Mai City & Temples Tour, Dinner at Private Home
- Morning tour of the most interesting temples in Chiang Mai. Begin at Wat Suan Dok, where the remains of the Chiang Mai Royal family are enshrined. Continue to Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, Northern Thailands most sacred temple, containing a holy relic of Lord Buddha. Equally impressive is the mythological Naga (dragon-headed serpent) staircase, with 290 steps leading up to the temple grounds. Visit a local jade factory, followed by an afternoon at leisure to wander independently in Chiang Mai. Tonight, a unique experience. Join a local Chiang Mai family for an authentic Thai dinner in their home. Enjoy a tour of the home, conversation about life in Chiang Mai and savor the great flavors of home-cooked food
- Overnight: Chiang Mai
- Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
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DAY 12: Flight to Siem Reap, Cambodian Dinner & Apsara Show
- This morning, transfer to the airport for the flight to Siem Reap, gateway to the Angkor temples arrival and transfer to your hotel. Later, walk through the citys center with its variety of shops, cafes, restaurants and local merchants offering handmade silk goods and the famous Cambodian puppets. This evening, enjoy a typical Cambodian dinner and a traditional Apsara show
- Overnight: Siem Reap
- Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
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DAY 13: Siem Reap
- Today, youll understand why the architectural masterpieces of Angkor Thom and Angkor Wat, are designated as one of the "Seven Wonders of the World". This sprawling city, built by Khmer Kings was once home to more than one million people at the height of the empire. On the visit to the fortified city of Angkor Thom visit the Elephants Terrace and Terrace of the Leper King, all adorned with dramatic bas-reliefs. Continue to the mysterious Bayon Temple, the highlight of Angkor Thom, replete with beautifully preserved bas-reliefs and more than 172 giant smiling stone faces. On to the monuments of Ta Keo, Prasat Kravan, and Srah Srang before arriving at Ta Prohm, where the jungle was left untouched, as it appeared to European explorers. The highpoint of the day is the visit to stunning Angkor Wat, a temple dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu. World-famous for its beauty and splendor, Angkor Wat has the longest continuous bas-relief in the world, which runs along the entire outer gallery walls, narrating stories from Hindu mythology. Stay to experience the unforgettable sunset - a view that cannot be compared to anything you have ever seen
- Overnight: Siem Reap
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
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DAY 14: Siem Reap, Tonle Sap Lake Boat Excursion, Flight to Bangkok
- Morning drive along the rolling verdant hills of the farmlands, stopping for a ride on an ox-cart, the vehicle still being used today by local farmers. Arrive at Tonle Sap Lake in the heart of Cambodia, with its rich and diverse ecosystem. Embark on a serene boat excursion - observe the local life unfolding and the floating fishing villages that dot the shoreline. Later, visit the National Museum with its multi-media exhibits depicting the Golden Era of the Khmer Kingdom. Depart Siem Reap this afternoon on your flight to Bangkok arrive and transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure to enjoy all of the delights of Bangkok on your own. Shop to your hearts content, visit the many amazing markets, and try some of the fabulous restaurants in this energetic city
- For Sept 13, Oct 4, and Oct 18 departures, the Preah Norodom Sihanouk museum will be visited instead of the National Museum due to renovations
- Overnight: Bangkok
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
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DAY 15: Depart Thailand
- Transfer to the airport for your departure flight
- Meal: Breakfast
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