Thailand in Style
Overview
This Buddhist kingdom became one of the mainstream destinations in Asia long ago, but Thailand’s ability to constantly re-imagine itself and to surprise and delight even seasoned travelers apparently knows no bounds. In fact, Thailand does such a good job at enchanting travelers that it is rare to find anyone who will settle for just one visit.
Trip Highlights
- Bangkok city tour with The Grand Palace
- Explore beautiful Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
- Experience Ayutthaya, the ancient Siamese capital
- Visit Sukhothai Historical Park, the capital of the first independent Thai kingdom
- Enjoy an amazing elephant experience
- Have a home-hosted lunch in Chiang Mai
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Day 1:
Upon arrival at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International airport, meet your guide for the transfer to your hotel. Overnight in Bangkok. Accommodation in Bangkok: (5*+) Anantara Riverside Hotel (Deluxe room) (four nights) - Note that the check-in time is 15:00.
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Day 2:
After breakfast at the hotel, you will depart to visit two of the most important sights of Bangkok. The Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho is a giant lying Buddha, covered in gold leaf. The Grand Palace is a “must see” for every visitor. Located close to the banks of the Chao Phraya River, the Grand Palace is the perfect example of an ancient Siamese court. Within the compound is the Temple of Emerald Buddha (Wat Pra Kaew), Lunch will be served in a Thai restaurant Travel on the Chao Phraya River (The River of Kings) and through the Klongs (canals) of Thonburi. You will have the chance to observe and photograph the serene family homes and temples along the waterways, which give the city the name “Venice of the East”. You will also pay a visit to one of the most photographed sights in Bangkok, the Wat Arun. The majestic shine has a pagoda of 250 feet high. It is decorated with glazed ceramic pieces that reflect the rising sun and give the temple its name. Please note that you are required to wear proper attire (no bare shoulders, bare knees or strapless heel shoes). Shoes must be removed before entering all temple buildings.
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Day 3:
After breakfast at the hotel, travel approximately 60 miles outside of Bangkok to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market with its many colors, flavors and exotic fragrances. Start with a scenic rate on a narrow long-tail (speedboat) passing riverside villages and fruit plantations before entering the vibrant market. There will be many photo opportunities along the way. Later, you will return to Bangkok and enjoy some leisure time.
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Day 4:
After breakfast at the hotel, leave Bangkok for Ayutthaya, the ancient Siamese capital. Today, Ayutthaya hosts some of Thailand's most important historical landmarks and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage. The magnitude and number of the ancient temple ruins speaks of the former greatness of the city. You will visit some of the most interesting temples and nearby Bang-Pa-In. The Bang-Pa-In Summer Palace of King Rama V consists of buildings in Gothic, Renaissance, Chinese and Thai architecture. Cruise back to Bangkok along the Chao Phraya River aboard a river cruiser. En route you can observe the scenic river life as you enjoy a sumptuous buffet lunch. Return to your hotel in the late afternoon.
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Day 5:
After breakfast at the hotel, you will be transferred to the airport for flight to Chiang Rai (additional cost applies). Upon your arrival, you will meet your guide. Then depart to visit Wat Rong Sua Ten, also known as the Blue Temple, the new landmark of the area. The temple presents its own unique architecture and fine scripture art and is worth visiting. Transfer to your hotel Chiang Rai with the rest day at leisure. You can walk around Chiang Rai night market by your own arrangement. Accommodation in Chiang Rai: (5*) The Riverie Hotel (Deluxe Garden Room) (two nights)
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Day 6:
After breakfast at the hotel, you will depart for a full-day tour to Mae Chan to visit the Yao, the Akha and Longneck women hill-tribe villages. Drive to the Golden Triangle area where the mighty Mae Khong River joins the Ruak River and forms the triangle with the borders of Thailand, Burma, and Laos. Lunch is served at a local restaurant. After you will visit the Opium Museum. Later continue to the old city of Chiang Saen on the steep banks of Mae Khong River opposite to Laos, to witness some magnificent ancient ruins and temples. You will be transferred back to the hotel to enjoy some leisure time.
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Day 7:
After breakfast, you will depart to Chiang Mai. En route, you will visit Wat Rong Khun - “The White Temple.” Continue on to visit Hot Spring Baan Pong Nam Ron. Lunch will be provided at a local restaurant. In the afternoon you will arrive in Chiang Mai. Visit the handicraft village where you will see artisans weaving silk, carving wood and creating celadon, silver and lacquer ware items. Transfer to hotel in Chiang Mai with the rest day leisure. Accommodation in Chiang Mai: (4*+) Rati Lanna Riverside Hotel (Deluxe Room) (three nights)
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Day 8:
After breakfast at the hotel, you will drive north of Chiang Mai through beautiful countryside, forest, and local farming areas. When you arrive at Baan Chang Elephant Park, you will change into the park’s traditional clothing and prepare fruits for the elephants. You will have the opportunity to feed, room, touch and play with the elephants. At the park, you will spend as much time as possible with the elephants. After lunch, prepare and cook sticky rice in order to be mixed with herbal stuff for the elephants. Learn about background, health care and behavior of elephants. Enjoy more time with them - roaming, feeding and taking the elephants on a walk to a clean water pond where they will cool off themselves and you will have chance to observe them as well. Feed sticky rice balls and fruits to the elephants. This part is focused on taking your time and allowing the elephants to enjoy each moment of their freedom, scratching, rubbing and throwing dirt. Enjoy the view and take lots of pictures. Visit the Elephant Baby Nursery and play with them. Note: At the park, you will spend as much time as possible with the elephants. Therefore, there is no formal schedule. This is a joining Elephant Experience tour. A private tour is available upon request and at an additional cost.
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Day 9:
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Then, you will explore the daily lifestyle of a Lanna family. A short transfer takes you into the outskirts of Chiang Mai to meet your host family in an authentic Thai neighborhood. After being welcomed with a refreshing drink by your host, spend time with the Thai family learning about traditional Thai architecture and the graceful teakwood homes and structures. Stroll through the orchard and herb garden with your host family, who will also demonstrate how to make bamboo baskets and cigars from banana leaves. This rich cultural experience will wrap up with a delicious home-cooked Northern Thai lunch that you will prepare with the family. This afternoon visit the landmark of Chiang Mai – the mountain temple Wat Doi Suthep, home to a holy relic of the Lord Buddha and considered by many to be the most sacred temple in northern Thailand. Built in A.D. 384, the temple contains a flight of over 300 steps to reach its top level. Once on top, enjoy a panoramic view of the city.
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Day 10:
After breakfast and some leisure time, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight.
TRIP PRICING
April 01 – October 31, 2020 (Except for public holidays)
Per Person Sharing: $2,099
Single Supplement: $ 899
Inclusions:
- Hotel accommodation with daily breakfast as mentioned or similar
- Transfer services in private air-conditioned vehicle
- Entrance fees and boat fees were applicable
- Meals listed in the itinerary (if any)
- English-speaking local guide in each city
- Bottled water on coach during transfer
- Government taxes and service charges
Exclusions:
- International and domestic flights, along with airport taxes, unless otherwise mentioned
- Peak period surcharge at Anantara Chiang Mai (April 01 – 15, 2020)
- Meals not mentioned
- Drinks and surcharge for special requests on foods and at meals
- Entrance fees, guide service during free time and other personal expenses
- Insurance
- Gratuities for guides and drivers
- Surcharge for public holidays and/or peak periods (if applicable)
- Any type of visa and fee
- All other services not stated in the program
PLEASE NOTE
Standard hotel check-in time is 14:00 and check-out time is 12:00 (Early check-in time or late check-out time is subject to availability and with additional charge.)