Day 1 - Bangkok

Welcome to Thailand!

Bangkok is the capital and largest city in Thailand. It is one of the most populous and bustling cities in Southeast Asia, known for its vibrant street life, cultural landmarks, and bustling markets. Arrive off your international flight, clear Customs and Immigration and transfer to your hotel in Bangkok. The rest of the day is at leisure. Tonight, enjoy a welcome dinner with your fellow travellers at a local restaurant.

Day 2 – Bangkok

The morning starts with a city tour, a thrilling exploration of some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. The highlight of the day for many is the Grand Palace, a complex of buildings and the official residence of the Kings of Siam since 1782. Behold the architectural marvels that played host to various occasions – the Funeral Palace, the Reception Palace, the Throne Hall, the Coronation Hall, the Royal Guest House, and the mysterious Emerald Buddha, the most revered Buddha image in Thailand.  Next up, dive into the world of craftmanship at a community celebrated for crafting the monk’s alms bowl – a unique art that speaks to Thailand’s cultural depth. Then, venture into Jim Thompson’s Silk House, where the tale of the enigmatic American silk merchant unfolds and explore the cutting-edge vibes of Siam Square. After lunch, visit Wat Pho; home of the famous Reclining Buddha, measuring a staggering 45m in length, as well as being one of the oldest Traditional Thai massage schools in the country. Continue by traditional long-tail boat, along the canal to see Thai houses and typical rural life. Visit the Temple of Dawn and China Town including Wat Mangkon Kamalawat, previously known as Wat Leng Noei Yi, which is the largest and most important Chinese Buddhist temple in Bangkok. The temple is a cultural immersion like no other, featuring year-round celebrations and the vibrant Chinese New Year festivities. Then as the sun sets, get ready to venture beyond the tourist zone on the Best Easts Midnight Food Tour. Hop aboard the iconic Tuk Tuk and cruise through the city streets, discovering Bangkok’s favorite hidden culinary gems that come to life after dark.

Day 3 – Bangkok

This morning drive north to the historic city Ayutthaya. Visit Wat Phu Khao Thong, an impressive monument originally built in 1387 by the second king of the Ayothaya Kingdom. When the Burmese took over Ayutthaya in 1569, the Burmese king built a Mon-style chedi (or pyramid) on top of the former temple to celebrate his victory. Continue to Ayutthaya Historical Park and visit the ancient palace grounds. Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, once a royal temple lying beside the Grand Palace, was the most significant temple during the Ayutthaya period. Adjacent to Wat Phra Sri Sanphet is Viharn Phra Mongkolbopit, an impressive building that houses a large, seated bronze Buddha image. The rebuilt pristine hall was believed to be a replica of the old Assembly Hall of Ayutthaya. After enjoying a delicious Thai lunch, you’ll move on to Wat Lokaya Sutha to see the largest reclining Buddha of Ayutthaya at 8 meters high and 42 meters long, made of brick and covered with plaster. Continue to Wat Mahathat, a classic temple ruin, famous for the picturesque Buddha head engulfed by the Bodhi tree roots. Late in the afternoon, travel back to Bangkok to enjoy dinner with your fellow travellers.

Day 4 – Bangkok – Chiang Rai

Today visit the Maeklong Railway Market, playfully known as the “life-risking” market! Picture this: vendor stalls attached to the railways. When the train bell rings, chaos ensues as vendors swiftly retract their stalls to make way for the speeding train. Once the train passes, the market magically expands again, resuming business as usual. It’s a spectacle that’s as thrilling as it is entertaining! Along the way, stop to visit Samut Sakhon, where you’ll encounter the mesmerizing whitish salt fields. It’s a sea salt wonderland shaped by local wisdom. Watch as salt farmers skillfully rotate sea water, transforming it into a “salt mountain” ready for cooking, skincare, and agriculture.

Then visit the iconic Floating Market of Damnoen Saduak, a feast for the senses set along a 38-kilometer man made canal envisioned by the visionary King Rama IV 150 years ago. At this floating market, you can sample a number of delicious Thai fruits and foods such as sweet mango on sticky rice, freshly made coconut ice cream, and Thai-style boat noodles. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Following lunch, transfer to Bangkok airport for an afternoon flight to Chiang Rai. Join your fellow travellers for an included dinner this evening.

Day 5 – Chiang Rai – Chiang Mai

Embark on a day of wonders as you journey from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, exploring the captivating sights of the Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Laos and Myanmar converge. Marvel at the Golden Buddha Statue, standing tall as a symbol of serenity against the panoramic backdrop of the mighty Mekong River. Dive into the intriguing history of the opium trade at the Opium Museum, unraveling tales of the enigmatic Golden Triangle. Venture into the fascinating Long Neck Tribe Village, where women adorn themselves with numerous brass rings around their necks, a tradition originating from Myanmar’s Shan state. Witness the artistry of cultural diversity and be captivated by the stories woven into each ring.  Savor a delightful lunch at a local restaurant before immersing yourself in the surreal world of the Black House (Baan Dam). En route, be prepared to be enchanted by the ethereal beauty of the White Temple (Rong Khun Temple), a masterpiece designed by a national artist. Its distinctive white exterior, adorned with fragments of reflective glass, is a sight to behold from afar. Spend time exploring Wat Phra Kaew, the original home of the revered Emerald Buddha. Cross the Kok River to discover Wat Rong Suea Ten, a magnificent temple celebrated for its mesmerizing blue hues and intricate carvings. As the day unfold, travel to Chiang Mai where an included dinner awaits.

Day 6 – Chiang Mai

Today’s city tour will be a captivating exploration of Chiang Mai. Start with a visit to the iconic Tapae Gate, the main entrance into the walled city, now fully reconstructed and brimming with tales of Chiang Mai’s past. Your mode of exploration is not an ordinary one – hop onto a pedal-powered trishaw and breeze through the city streets! You stop at Three Kings Monument, a symbolic landmark that sets the stage for a journey into the heart of Chiang Mai’s heritage. Next, is the revered Wat Phra Singh, a temple showcasing classic Lanna architecture and home to the enchanting Phra Singh (Lion Buddha) image, dating back to the 1360s. Savor a delightful lunch at a local restaurant. Next, is a stop at Wat Chedi Luang,. Despite its history of earthquakes and cannon-fire damage, the temple has undergone extensive restoration, now adorned with new Buddha images, nagas, and elephant statues. Marvel at a jade replica of the Emerald Buddha, a royal gift celebrating the city’s 700^th anniversary. The journey continues to the silver craft neighborhood, a haven where silversmiths weave their magic, creating murals unique to northern Thailand. The next stop, Wat Sri Suphan, the Silver Temple, is a true gem. Dating back to 1502, its walls are adorned with ornate silverwork, giving it a mystical aura. After dinner in a local restaurant, visit the Night Bazaar, the main venue for shopping in Chiang Mai. The night bazaar is a can't-miss part of the Chiang Mai experience.

Day 7 – Chiang Mai

Today is a free day to spend at leisure. Relax by the pool or perhaps explore more of Chiang Mai on your own. You may wish to visit Nimmanhaemin Road. It’s known for its trendy shops, cafes, and art galleries. It’s a great place to explore modern Chiang Mai.

Day 8 – Chiang Mai – Krabi

Enjoy a morning at leisure before visiting a local restaurant for lunch. After lunch transfer to the airport for your flight to Krabi. This evening’s included dinner will be at a local restaurant.

Day 9 – Krabi

This morning, enjoy a boat tour to Hong Island. The journey in itself is scenic, offering beautiful views of the Andaman Sea. After lunch on the island, sit back and relax for a sightseeing cruise around Lading Island (Paradise Island). Arrive back at the hotel mid afternoon and have free time until dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 10 & 11 Krabi

Relax and enjoy the days at leisure. Spend time exploring the rustic fishing villages and unspoiled beaches that dot the landscape. Krabi is a great place to sample some of Thailand’s best seafood, with regional specialties such as sea snake, octopus, shrimp, and lobster. Perhaps end the day watching the sunset on the beach, with a cocktail.

Day 12 – Krabi to Phuket

After a leisurely morning at the hotel, enjoy lunch before travelling to Phuket. Dinner will be at a local restaurant.

Day 13 – Phuket

Embark on a captivating journey this morning as your boat tour sets sail for the enchanting Phang Nga Bay in the Strait of Malacca. This bay is known for its dramatic limestone karsts, emerald-green water, and picturesque landscapes. You will also visit Ko Tapu (James Bond Island) perhaps the most famous attraction which gained international fame after being featured in the movie “The Man with the Golden Gun”. Today lunch will be a Thai Buffet. Enjoy free time to swim before the boat for the trip back to Phuket. Tonight, join your fellow travellers for a farewell dinner.

Day 14 – Phuket

Celebrate the grand finale of your Thailand adventure with a day that’s all yours! Your last day is a blank canvas. Will you soak up the sun on the pristine beaches? Maybe you’ll indulge in a spa day, treating yourself to a blissful session of relaxation. The vibrant markets and bustling streets are calling – perfect for a day of exploration and discovering hidden gems.

Day 15 – Home

Bidding farewell to Thailand, transfer to the airport for your flight home with fond memories, new friends, and many stories to share with your friends and family at home.