Classic Thailand Explorer

Pack your bags and get ready to embark on a handcrafted adventure that showcases the best of Thailand! Guided through the eyes of local experts, you will be introduced to the classic highlights and hidden treasures, featuring a variety of exclusive experiences. Your journey begins with a discovery of pristine temples and colorful markets in the bustling capital city of Bangkok. Next, it's off to Chiang Mai & Chiang Rai, where rich cultural experiences, countryside explorations and elephant encounters await. A tropical escape to Koh Samui promises an irresistible end to your trip. Make the most of this palm fringed paradise, to truly unwind and bask in the idyllic island setting.

Daily Itinerary

Day 1: Bangkok Arrival

Bangkok Arrival
Daily Summary
  • Transportation: Airport Transfer
  • Accommodation: Riva Surya Bangkok

Welcome to Thailand! Upon arrival at the Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok, you will clear Immigration, collect your luggage and exit Customs. A friendly local representative will be waiting to greet you in the arrivals area, holding a sign with your name on it. For a smooth and comfortable start to your adventure, you will be driven directly to your hotel, where a lovely evening in this urban wonderland awaits. (This service is on a private basis.)

Bangkok

With a population of over eleven million, the capital city of Bangkok is Thailand’s largest city. The wide variety of attractions, excursions, and sights make Bangkok a vibrant and eclectic destination to explore, with something to keep any traveler entertained. This cosmopolitan city combines some of Asia’s oldest and most elaborately adorned temples, with modern shopping malls, impressive skyscrapers, and bustling markets. Be sure to take a ride on a tuk tuk one evening, to feel the cool tropical breeze and marvel at the bright neon lights.

Day 2: Bangkok

Bangkok
Daily Summary
  • Tour: Best of Bangkok
  • Tour: Taste of Chinatown
  • Accommodation: Riva Surya Bangkok
  • Meals: B, L, D

Best of Bangkok

Explore Bangkok’s most important cultural highlights and cruise the khlongs (canals) by longtail boat. Witness the monks' early morning chanting ritual during your morning to Wat Pho, one of Bangkok’s oldest temples with the largest reclining Buddha (45m, 150 ft) in the country. Continue to Lak Muang City Pillar by tuk tuk which represents the foundation stone of Bangkok. Step into the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Pra Kaew), the most revered shrine in the Kingdom.

After a break for a typical family style local Thai lunch, board a longtail boat for a cruise through Bangkok’s maze of ancient canals. Marvel at the waterways lined with floating wooden shopfronts, weathered teak homes and quiet Buddhist temples. Make a stop at the fascinating Artist’s House (Baan Silapin), a centuries-old teak house that has been turned into a gallery, with local artwork and photography. Back on the Chao Phraya River end the day with a visit of Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, the most iconic of the more than 31,000 across the country. Ascend the steep and narrow steps of this Khmer style tower for panoramic view across the river before returning to your accommodation. (This service is on a private basis.)

Taste of Chinatown

Enjoy a mouth-watering exploration of Bangkok's 200-year-old Chinatown, soak in sunset from a roof top bar and feast on a selection of mouthwatering dishes from a range of food stalls. Set off with your passionate foodie for a walk through a labyrinth of lanes to a rooftop bar. Drink in the sunset views over the Chao Phraya River with a cocktail in hand and plan your street food journey. Meander past the myriad of food stalls, be introduced to all kinds of local dishes from steamed rice cakes, stuffed seafood dumplings and bowls of noodles with tantalizing sauces. Leave room for sweets, maybe a shaved ice dessert topped with water chestnuts, lotus roots and sweetened yam. Finish with a cocktail at an open-air bar with memories of an unforgettable foodie adventure.

NOTE: Many street vendors are closed on Monday as per government orders. Vegetarians, vegans and people with food intolerances and allergies are welcome though some options may be limited. (This service is on a private basis.)

Day 3: Bangkok

Bangkok
Daily Summary
  • Tour: Historical Bang Pa-In and Ayutthaya
  • Accommodation: Riva Surya Bangkok
  • Meals: B, L

Historical Bang Pa-In and Ayutthaya

This morning you'll your guide and driven north to visit the famous Bang Pa-in Royal Palace in Ayutthaya Province; the former summer residence of King Rama IV. All the buildings you'll see date back to an architectural restoration by the king in the mid-19th century.

You'll then hop on a long-tail boat and cruise to Ayutthaya city. Founded after the fall of the Sukhothai Kingdom in the 15th century, Ayutthaya flourished as the capital of the Thai Kingdom for 400 years until it was invaded and raised to the ground by the Burmese in 1767. We explore the ruins and temples of this UNESCO World Heritage Site with our guide, including Wat Phanachoeng, Wat Yai Chai Mongkol and Wat Mahathat.

After the tour of Ayutthaya you'll transfer to Nonthaburi to board the Grand Pearl Cruise back to Bangkok, with a buffet lunch provided on board. On arrival in Bangkok you'll be transferred back to your hotel. (This service is on a private basis.)

Day 4: Bangkok - Chiang Mai

Bangkok - Chiang Mai
Daily Summary
  • Transportation: Airport Transfers
  • Tour: Discover Chiang Mai & Doi Suthep
  • Accommodation: De Lanna Hotel Chiang Mai
  • Meals: B

This morning, you will be picked up at your hotel in Bangkok and transferred to the airport in good time to board your domestic flight Chiang Mai. (This service is on a private basis.)

Discover Chiang Mai & Doi Suthep

Upon arrival meet your private guide and driver and spend the day touring some of the highlights and lesser known gems in and around Chiang Mai. Start with a visit to the riverfront Worarot Market, with its colorful flowers, pungent spices and friendly, bustling crowds. Stroll the alleys next to the market, filled with excellent priced textiles, hilltribe clothes, silks, hats and beads. From the market, take a ride in a samlor (a three-wheeled rickshaw) along Thapae Road down through the city wall, passing important residential and government buildings around the city. Then visit to a couple of Chiang Mai's most revered Buddhist temples and shrines including Wat Phra Singh, and Wat U Mong, a forest monastery where you have the chance to visit with a local monk.

Then continue to what is probably Chiang Mai’s most famous landmark: Wat Prathat Doi Suthep. The temple is located at the summit of 5,000-foot-high Doi Suthep Mountain, which towers over the city. Climb the 300-step staircase, flanked by Nagas, or take the cable car up. The cool air and spectacular sunset views make the trip worth the effort. After this idyllic introduction to Chiang Mai, you will be driven to your hotel for check in. (This service is on a private basis.)

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is the second largest city in Thailand and the gateway to the charming northern region. Explore the cultural highlights within the old city walls, discover fascinating temples, dig into the delicious street food and take a stroll through the famous evening markets, to truly experience the spirit of this destination. Chiang Mai serves as an excellent base for outdoor and adventure lovers, offering idyllic opportunities for trekking, cycling and river rafting in the surrounding countryside. The region is also home to many elephant conservation camps and ethnic hill tribe villages.

Day 5: Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai
Daily Summary
  • Tour: Kanta Elephant Sanctuary
  • Accommodation: De Lanna Hotel Chiang Mai
  • Meals: B, L

Kanta Elephant Sanctuary

The Kanta Elephant Sanctuary's mission is to provide as many elephants as possible with the good health, freedom, and happiness they truly deserve. The organization uses progressive and ethically responsible approach to elephant eco-tourism as a platform to raise awareness and educate people from Thailand and around the world about elephant care, the plight of the Asian elephant and the conservation philosophy of “Elephant Conservation in Action.”

Your unforgettable day begins with an 8:30 AM pick up from your hotel. The 50 minute drive to sanctuary showcases rural landscapes, agricultural areas and forested hills. On arrival, you will meet your guide and change into traditional clothing, an introductory briefing of the elephants will be given. After that, it's time to meet the elephants! You will have the chance to feed, interact and play with these incredible creatures in their natural home, as you continue to learn about their deep history and interesting behavior. This afternoon a lunch of traditional Thai food will be served, before preparing sticky rice mixed with herbal for our elephants. With your freshly prepared snacks, you will walk with the gentle giants to the river for a bath as you shower them with treats. Back at the Sanctuary, you will change clothes and say goodbye to your new friends. You will be dropped back off at your hotel in Chiang Mai around 4:00 PM. (This service is on a group basis.)

Day 6: Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai
Daily Summary
  • Tour: Traditional Lanna Family Cooking Experience
  • Accommodation: De Lanna Hotel Chiang Mai
  • Meals: B, L

Traditional Lanna Family Cooking Experience

This morning you will be picked up at 9:00 AM and transferred to a local village. The home you will be visiting belongs to the Raunkaew-Yanon family, who arrived in the area almost 150 years ago. They are a Lanna family, continuing the traditions of many generations in building their homes of teak wood. This is not your average commercial cooking class as you will learn more about their culture, the way of living and the architecture of a traditional Thai house and rice barn. The family orchard has many types of fruit such as banana, mango, coconut, while the garden is filled with herbs for cooking. You will cook traditional recipes with authentic Northern Thai flavors. Also you will select fresh ingredients from the garden to add to today’s cooking extravaganza. Best of all you will have the opportunity to get to know a real Thai family, be their houseguest for the day and enjoy a delicious home-cooked lunch with them! At 2:30 PM you will return back to your hotel. (This service is on a private basis.)

Day 7: Chiang Mai - Chiang Rai

Chiang Mai - Chiang Rai
Daily Summary
  • Tour: Explore Chiang Rai
  • Accommodation: Nak Nakara
  • Meals: B, L

Explore Chiang Rai

This morning, after an early breakfast, meet your guide and transfer to Chiang Rai. First you will visit Wat Rong Khun or The White Temple, unique from other temples in Thailand, it has been constructed entirely in a radiant white color with sparking reflections from mirrored glass mosaics embedded in the white plaster. The temple is the idea of Mr. Chalermchai Kositpipat, one of Thailand’s most renowned artists, who wanted to build a temple all in white to signify the purity of Lord Buddha. The artist continues to puts his religious belief and desire to enrich Buddhism in Thailand into his contemporary art design. The construction of the White Temple is Khun Chalemchai’s masterwork, which he refers to as an offering to Lord Buddha and his beloved country.

After this visit you'll continue to Baan Dam or The Black House - The Black Temple Chiang Rai. Created by local artist/curator Thawan Duchanee. Baan Dam is an estate of more than 40 black houses/domes. Each house is uniquely designed and loaded with a variety of paintings, sculptures, drums, animal bones, skins, and horns collected from around Southeast Asia.

After lunch at Krua Silapin, we continue to visit Wat Rong Suea Tean, also known as the Blue Temple – another unusual modern Buddhist temple distinguished by its vivid blue coloring and elaborate carvings. Afterward you'll be driven to your hotel for check-in. (This service is on a private basis.)

Chiang Rai

The province of Chiang Rai is located within the renowned ‘Golden Triangle’ area where Myanmar, Laos and Thailand converge. Today, Chiang Rai is a traveler’s paradise, blessed with an abundance of natural attractions as well as a many sites of cultural interest - the province is itself is evidence of past civilization! Attractions range from the magnificent mountain scenery, ruins of ancient settlements, historical sites, Buddhist shrines and ethnic villages - the province is home to several hill tribes who maintain fascinating lifestyles.

Day 8: Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai
Daily Summary
  • Tour: Chiang Rai Culinary Tour
  • Accommodation: Nak Nakara
  • Meals: B, L

Chiang Rai Culinary Tour

This morning you'll experience an authentic culinary and cultural discovery walk in the country’s far North. Ensure you only have a very light breakfast in your hotel as you'll be exploring Chiang Rai's tastiest neighborhoods, where you will enjoy tasting delicious Thai cuisine and learn about Thai culture and local history. Your guide will unveil real stories behind each restaurant and their locally famous dishes.

Along the way, we also share the exciting history, exceptional culture, and distinctive architecture. The tour includes a variety of mouth-watering food tastings, from Thai and ethnic specialty eateries, renowned street food stalls, to historic fine dining restaurants. With so much food to try when you are in Chiang Rai it's difficult to decide where to get started! Let us guide you to best dishes prepared by top local chefs. It's a foodie dream come true! Later this afternoon, you will be driven back to your hotel. (This service is on a private basis.)

Day 9: Chiang Rai - Chiang Mai - Koh Samui

Chiang Rai - Chiang Mai - Koh Samui
Daily Summary
  • Transportation: Airport Transfers
  • Accommodation: Peace Resort Samui
  • Meals: B, L

This morning, you will be picked up at your hotel in Chiang Rai and transferred to your the Chiang Mai airport for your flight to Koh Samui. (This service is on a private basis.)

Upon arrival at the airport in Koh Samui, you'll be met and transferred to your accommodations. (This service is on a private basis.)

Koh Samui

Koh Samui, or simply, Samui, as it is referred to by locals, is an island off the east coast of the Gulf Thailand. The island boasts beautiful white sand beaches, tropical foliage, hidden coves, rocky outcrops, and swaying palms. An eclectic array of spas; activity centers; resorts; world-class restaurants; beach bars, and a colorful mix of residents and tourists help you begin to understand the unique charm of Koh Samui.

Day 10: Koh Samui

Koh Samui
Daily Summary
  • Accommodation: Peace Resort Samui
  • Meals: B

Free Day

Take the day to explore Koh Samui at your own pace. Enjoy the beach or venture out to visit the island's Big Buddha shrine! Eat delicious food at the Fisherman's Village or dine at one of the trendy beachfront restaurants. Other places to visit include Wat Plaim Laem temple and the Secret Buddha Garden, to name a few. The possibilities are endless!

Day 11: Koh Samui

Koh Samui
Daily Summary
  • Tour: Angthong National Marine Park Adventure
  • Accommodation: Peace Resort Samui
  • Meals: B, L

Angthong National Marine Park Adventure

In the morning transfer to the Pier, board the 1 hour speed boat to Angthong National Marine Park. You will arrive at Koh Wao or Koh Tai Plow for snorkeling. Then enjoy some sightseeing around the National Marine Park. Climb up the steps to see the wonderful “Emerald Lake" known as Talay Nai.

Enjoy a buffet lunch at The National Marine Park. Spend the afternoon swimming and relaxing. At 3:00 PM you'll board the speedboat back to Koh Samui. From there you'll be met and transferred to your hotel. (This service is on a group basis.)

Day 12: Koh Samui

Koh Samui
Daily Summary
  • Accommodation: Peace Resort Samui
  • Meals: B

Free Day

Enjoy a full day to simply, rest, relax, and enjoy the beach!

Day 13: Koh Samui Departure

Koh Samui Departure
Daily Summary
  • Transportation: Airport Transfer
  • Meals: B

Today, you will be picked up at your hotel and transferred to the airport for your ongoing departure flight. (This service is on a private basis.)

Accommodation

Riva Surya Bangkok

Riva Surya Bangkok

Situated along the enchanting Chao Phraya River, the Riva Surya Bangkok offers an idyllic urban getaway in the heart of this cosmopolitan capital city. This modern boutique hotel in Bangkok features 68 beautifully designed rooms, elegant dining options, a riverside swimming pool and leisure facilities that cater to the needs of all travelers. The property is the perfect base from which to explore the city's cultural treasures and lively entertainment districts, all within easy reach. The accommodating and friendly staff will ensure that all of your needs are met, from the moment you arrive, to the moment you depart.

De Lanna Hotel Chiang Mai

De Lanna Hotel Chiang Mai

The lovely De Lanna Hotel, is an exquisite boutique property that offers a tranquil oasis. It is nestled right in the heart of Chiang Mai's Inner Old City, close by to the Sunday Walking Street Market and Wat Phra Sigh. Surrounding the property, are many charming shops and lively markets for you to explore, when you're not busy relaxing by the pool with an exotic cocktail. De Lanna Hotel is an eco-friendly hotel that features modern amenities, convenient facilities and a luxurious design. The guest rooms are accentuated with beautiful fabrics and unique local handicrafts.

Nak Nakara

Nak Nakara

The attractive Nak Nakara Hotel features 70 guestrooms spread across three floors. This property offers the perfect home away from home, including modern comforts and personable service. Conveniently located within the city, the hotel is within easy walking distance to most of Chiang Rai's famous attractions. From the bustling downtown and colorful night bazaar, to the delicious restaurants and charming shops, you will have direct access to it all. When you aren't busy sightseeing, you can relax in the garden or take a snooze by the pool.

Peace Resort Samui

Peace Resort Samui

The stunning Peace Resort in Koh Samui offers 122 guest accommodations suitable for all ages. The beautifully designed property allows abundant space and privacy to blend harmoniously with nature. Your experience here is sure to be serene and peaceful. Each guestroom is built around nature, surrounded by a a botanical haven, where you will hear birds singing in the morning and can explore the wild fruit, herb gardens and local species of trees all around the premises. Accommodations at Peace Resort are designed with a contemporary Thai style and the architecture to relax and refresh your senses, both visually and physically with soft modern colors.

Pricing and Details

Starting from $ 3,050 per person

*Pricing is based on two persons traveling together, based on availability, subject to change.

Price Includes

  • Full support before, during & after your trip
  • Meals as mentioned
  • Accommodation as mentioned
  • Tours/activities as mentioned
  • Transport as mentioned

Price Excludes

  • International & domestic flights
  • Travel insurance (highly recommended)
  • Entrance visas when applicable
  • Other services not mentioned
  • Tips and gratuities to guides, drivers
  • Taxes and fees

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