Highlights of Thailand

DAY 1: Arrive in Bangkok

Sa wat dee! Welcome to Bangkok, the ‘City of Angels!’ As the capital and largest city of Thailand, Bangkok is one of Asia’s most vibrant and cosmopolitan destinations, featuring stunning temples and palaces, charming canals, bustling markets, and a lively nightlife scene that caters to all tastes.

After being picked up from the airport, you’ll transfer to your hotel (check-in time is 14:00). The rest of the day is yours to explore at your own pace, whether you want to take in the dynamic cityscape, savor the local flavors and sounds, or embark on a shopping adventure.

Summary of inclusions

• Private airport transfer
• Hotel in Bangkok

DAY 2: Sightseeing Bangkok

Start your day early with a visit to the renowned Wat Pho to witness the tranquil morning chanting ritual of the monks—an inspiring way to begin your day. This temple is one of Thailand’s six first-class Royal temples and boasts the largest collection of Buddha images in the country, including the famous 46-meter-long reclining Buddha.

Explore the temple grounds, marvel at the massive gold-plated reclining Buddha adorned with auspicious symbols on its feet, and soak in the serene atmosphere.

Next, head to the majestic Royal Grand Palace, Bangkok’s most significant landmark, which once served as the residence for Thailand’s kings. It is a stunning example of traditional Siamese architecture. Adjacent to the palace is Wat Phra Kaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, home to a revered Buddha image carved from a single block of jade.

Following this, visit Wat Traimit, another iconic Bangkok temple, renowned for its Golden Buddha statue weighing over 5.5 tons of solid gold. The statue, originally cast around the 14th century and covered in stucco, was uncovered in 1955 during the installation of a new viharn.

Later, board a colorful river taxi for a scenic cruise through Bangkok’s canals, heading towards Chinatown. Explore the bustling streets, visit a Chinese temple, and enjoy some lively shopping.

Return to your hotel, with the rest of the day free for you to explore at your leisure.

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Summary of inclusions

• Private vehicle
• Sightseeing Bangkok
• Breakfast
• Hotel in Bangkok

DAY 3: Country floating market

Depart Bangkok and head southwest to Ratchaburi Province to explore the Damnoen Saduak floating market. Along the way, make stops to visit the salt fields in Samut Songkhram and chat with local salt workers, and experience the unique Mae Klong Railway Market, where active train tracks run through the market. Here, you’ll find an array of locally grown fruits, freshly caught seafood, dried spices, and other regional delicacies.

Next, board a long-tail boat and cruise through the winding canals to reach the Damnoen Saduak floating market. This vibrant market offers a glimpse into traditional Thai life, where age-old practices continue. It’s an excellent opportunity to sample exotic Thai fruits and foods or shop for Thai handicrafts.

Return to central Bangkok in the afternoon and visit the Jim Thompson Museum. Dedicated to James H.W. Thompson, the founder of the renowned Jim Thompson Thai Silk Company and known as the ‘Legendary American of Thailand,’ the museum highlights his significant contributions to the Thai silk industry. Thompson was honored with the Order of the White Elephant for his exceptional service to Thailand. In 1967, he mysteriously disappeared during a holiday in Malaysia, adding to the Jim Thompson legend.

Enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure.

Summary of inclusions

• Private vehicle
• Boat
• Country land & floating market
• Breakfast
• Hotel in Bangkok

DAY 4: Chiang Mai Sightseeing

Transfer to the airport for your morning flight to Chiang Mai. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted and immediately start your Chiang Mai tour. Begin with a visit to Doi Suthep Temple, the most sacred temple in Chiang Mai, perched on a hill several thousand meters above the city. Ascend the 309-step naga-guarded staircase to the temple, explore the captivating grounds, listen to the serene chants of the resident monks, and enjoy panoramic views of downtown Chiang Mai and its surroundings.

Next, drive to Royal Park Rajapruek, an impressive botanical garden spanning 80 hectares. The park is divided into various zones, with the striking Lanna-style Ho Kham Luang Royal Pavilion at its center. Explore the Orchid Garden, featuring rare orchid varieties, and wander through different areas showcasing architectural styles and gardening cultures from around the world.

Conclude your day with a visit to Bor Sang village, renowned for its traditional paper umbrella-making crafts.

The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure.

Summary of inclusions

• Private vehicle
• Internal flight
• Sightseeing Chiang Mai
• Breakfast
• Hotel in Chiang Mai

DAY 5: Chiang Mai Elephant Experience

Take a scenic hour-long drive out of Chiang Mai, passing through rolling hills, lush forests, and local farmlands, to reach the Kanta Elephant Sanctuary, where you’ll spend an unforgettable day with these gentle giants.

This full-day experience allows you to connect with each of the remarkable elephants and learn about their daily routines and behaviors. You’ll spend your day feeding, playing, and walking alongside these friendly elephants, even joining them for a refreshing bath in the river. As you observe them enjoying their natural environment – scratching, dusting themselves, and simply relishing their freedom – you’ll have plenty of opportunities to capture memorable photos.

This unique, hands-on encounter with the elephants in their natural habitat is sure to be an experience you’ll cherish forever.

Return to Chiang Mai, and enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure.

Summary of inclusions

• Private vehicle
• Elephant sanctuary visit
• Breakfast & lunch
• Hotel in Chiang mai

DAY 6: Phuket Beach

Take a morning flight to Phuket, Thailand’s largest island and one of the world’s premier beach destinations. Renowned for its pristine white sands, swaying coconut palms, emerald waters, and warm sunlight year-round, Phuket offers something for everyone. The island also serves as a fantastic gateway to many nearby tropical islands, perfect for day trips.

Upon arrival, you will be picked up at the airport and transferred to your hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is yours to unwind and enjoy the sun, sea, sand, and perhaps a cocktail or two.

For those seeking adventure, optional trips include visiting the Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife Sanctuary and the Gibbon Rehabilitation Centre nestled in the island’s last remaining rainforest, with a refreshing swim at the nearby Bang Pae Waterfalls. Alternatively, you might visit the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary or Tiger Kingdom for an up-close encounter with these magnificent animals.

In the evening, dive into Phuket’s vibrant nightlife, with its neon lights, open-air restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. You could explore one of Phuket’s lively night markets or consider attending an exciting cabaret show.

Summary of inclusions

• Private airport transfers
• Internal flight
• Beach relax
• Breakfast
• Hotel in Phuket

DAY 7: Phi Phi Island

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel, then set off on a tour to explore the renowned Phi Phi Islands. This famous group of islands in southern Thailand is a haven for beach enthusiasts, celebrated for its dramatic rock cliffs, pristine white sand beaches, vibrant coral reefs, sunny tropical climate, and crystal-clear waters.

Board a speedboat to Phi Phi Leh and visit the iconic Maya Bay, known for its role in the movie “The Beach.” Spend some time relaxing and swimming in the clear, inviting waters before heading to Loh Samah Bay and Pileh Lagoon. Here, you can enjoy fantastic snorkeling among colorful coral, explore the stunning rock formations, and bask in the tropical sun.

Lunch will be served at a beachside restaurant.

In the afternoon, visit Monkey Beach where you can interact with the local monkeys, then continue on to Bamboo Island to unwind and swim in the beautiful tropical waters. Return to your hotel in the evening.

Summary of inclusions

• Bus
• Boat
• Phi Phi Island tour
• Breakfast
• Hotel in Phuket

DAY 8: Phuket Beach Relax

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. 

Spend the rest of the day at your leisure, soaking up the sun, sea, and sand. Overnight stay in Phuket.

Summary of inclusions

• Beach relax
• Breakfast
• Hotel in Phuket

DAY 9: Phuket Departure

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. The morning is free for you to relax at your leisure. Check-out is at 12:00 PM.

Transfer to the airport for your departure flight. Safe travels, and we look forward to seeing you again!

Summary of inclusions

• Private airport transfer
• Breakfast