Sample Programs

Program A - Discover the Ancient Heritage and Rich
Culture of Central and Northern Thailand.
12 Days – 11 Nights

Introduction
An exploration of Central and Northern Thailand will offer a wealth of the most incredible destinations, unique and touching moments, meeting with the most warm and friendly people and memories that will last you a life time…..

This special tour program is an adventure into the rich culture, ancient heritage, scenic nature and wondrous mystery of Thailand. Be prepared to travel by all manner of traditional Thai modes of transport, including long tail boat, tuk tuk, rickshaw bicycle and even by elephant, as we see, hear and experience the best of Thailand’s temples, palaces, markets, villages, wildlife, farms, handicrafts and the most colourful people, on our amazing journey.

This incredible trip is perfect for those of you wishing to delve into discovering the ingredients that make up the real authentic Thai way of life, whilst lapping up the phenomenal service provided, where every minute detail has been organized in such a way that by the end of your journey, you will be craving for more.

So, open your mind and prepare to be astounded on this magical adventure of a lifetime!

Program Highlights

• Soak up the greatest spectacles of Thailand’s dynamic, fast-paced capital and experience Bangkok’s legendary markets and superb culinary choice. Then, journey down the Chaoprayah River to immerse yourself in the simple and peaceful Thai way of life.
  Visit Ayuttayah and Sukhothai, two cities, both previously holding the title of capital of Thailand, steeped in ancient culture and heritage. Learn about the origins of the Thai kingdom through the exploration of historical parks, stunning temples and the cities’ original archaic ruins.
  
• Stop by the laid back city of Lampang to take in the earliest monuments of the Lanna Kingdom, originally an independent Kingdom of Northern Thailand.
  
• Meander up the winding roads of Doi Suthep mountain to look around Chiang Mai’s most important temple, perched over 3,000 ft over the city. This glistening place of worship contains the most magnificent statues, paintings, Chedis and shrines. But don’t forget to take in the outstanding views the city offers.
  
• Spend time talking to the craftsmen of the region whose skills have been passed down through generations and continue to produce marvels in silverware, lacquerware, celadon pottery, silk and cotton, hand-painted umbrellas and much more. See how each product is created and learn how the craftsmen preserve their traditional styles. Perhaps even pick up an attractive buy to remind you of your visit.
  
• Visit the elephant conservation camp to learn about how the elephants work in Thailand. They’ll show you a few tricks and then you can ride on the elephant’s back and journey through the forests and down to the river, where you will board a raft made from bamboo. Time to kick back and relax as you take in all the sights, sounds and smells of the forest as you cruise down the River Ping.
  
• As if the splendor of Thailand wasn’t enough, we will take you to experience the breath-taking sights of The Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar and Laos converge. As well as enjoying these glorious views, you can explore the bustling markets, indulge in cuisine from all three countries and even journey into the Kingdom of Myanmar to see how contrasting their culture is to that of Thailand.

Day by day Itinerary

     Day 1

Your guide will welcome you warmly at Bangkok International Airport and take you to The Peninsular Hotel, where the rest of your day can be spent settling into Thailand, at your leisure.

     Day 2

Start the day by taking a long tail boat cruise down the Chao Phraya River. See the traditional houses precariously perched along the rivers muddy banks, Thai’s trading by boat and a skyline of temple and palace rooftops. Along the way, stop to visit the temple of dawn, an extraordinary feat of architecture and one of the most revered sights along the river, and The Royal Barge Museum, to note the ornately carved and gilded royal barges, much talked about by European visitors since the 17th century, due to their grandeur. Late morning, we will visit the exquisite Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha Temple, which date back to Bangkok’s founding. After a traditional Thai lunch at a local restaurant, we will head for “Wat Pho” or The Reclining Buddha Temple. This temple is the oldest and largest in Bangkok, with the Reclining Buddha itself standing 150ft long and 50ft high. The feet are inlaid with mother of pearl illustrations of 108 auspicious characteristics of the Buddha. The rest of the day can be spent at your leisure, or if you have the energy, your guide will be happy to show you further places that may interest you.

     Day 3

An early start sees us on the road to the infamous Dameon Saduak Floating Market Along the way we can see numerous agricultural points of interest, such as the salt farm, shrimp farms and the coconut farms. You will learn about how much agriculture is an ingrained part of Thai life. On arrival at the floating market you will see hundreds of boats congregating along the canals. Lap up the sights of the boats, laden with fruits, vegetables, flowers and handicrafts sold by women adorning their traditional rural costumes. With such a vast array of vivid colours, this is a photographer’s paradise. After lunch along the canals at a local restaurant, we will hit the road to visit Jim Thompson’s House. This American architect settled in Thailand at the end of the World War II, and brought with him the entrepreneurial skills which helped to revive the Thai silk industries. His house, consisting of 6 antique teak buildings brought from all over Thailand, is now a famous museum. Take time to admire the superb collections of antiques and paintings representing countries from all over Asia. This museum is a marvel. Spend the rest of the day independently exploring or relaxing, as you wish.

     Day 4
This morning we check out of our hotel and leave for The Bang Pa In Summer Palace. This palace is used as a retreat from the hot weather by the Royal Family and has been for over three centuries. Lovers of architecture take note of the amalgamation of architectural styles ranging from neo-gothic to Italian. The styles all come together to create the some of the most spectacular building designs in the Kingdom. And for nature lovers, the grounds surrounding the palace offers a spectrum of beautiful parks, expansive iridescent pools and interesting plantlife. A walk around these charming and tranquil grounds surely creates an ambiance of peace. Continue on to the ancient city of Ayuttaya, once the capital of Siam, which is protected and conserved by the World Heritage Organisation. We will visit Wat Phra Srisanpet and Wat Mongkol Bopit. The latter houses a glorious sitting Buddha statue, which has been restored several times and remains the object of considerable veneration among Buddhist visitors to Ayuttaya. Stroll around the age-old ruins and discover how Ayuttaya grew to be one of the most powerful cities in South-East Asia and then learn about the events which occurred which brought about the city’s occupation and ultimate downfall. In the evening, check in at The Krung Sri River Hotel.

     Day 5
After checking out from the hotel, we will drive to Sara Buri to visit The Royal Temple of the Holy Footprint (Wat Phra Buddhabat). Observe the 5ft long sacred footprint, enshrined in the impressive building, nostalgic of the architecture derived from the Ayuttaya period. Discover why this site constitutes as one of the four most sacred temples in all of Thailand. After lunch, travel further to the town of Pitsanalok, where you will check in to you new accommodation. We will then drive to the distinguished Wat Mahathat, the provinces most important religious structure, which was damaged by a huge fire in the 1960’s but has since been restored to its former glory by. This temple houses the major spectacle of Sukhothai Art, Phra Buddha Chinaraj – an awe-inspiring sculpture. In the evening you will check in at The Amarin Lagoon Hotel.

     Day 6
After breakfast we will head for Thailand’s first capital – Sukhothai. To get an insight into the history of this area, we will start out the day’s adventure at The Ramkangkeng National Museum. This museum offers an outstanding introduction to the arts and crafts of Sukhothai. Inside the spacious building, you can examine Khmer statues, Sukhothai Buddhas, Sangkalok ceramics and many more archeological artifacts gathered from central Thailand. Then, move on to begin discovering the cities ruins of Royal Palaces, several Buddhist temples, city gates, walls, moats, canals, ponds and the water dyke control system which was the spiritual center of the Kingdom. After a delicious lunch, we drive north, past rice paddies, cotton fields and mango and lemon groves, to The Historical Park of Sri Satchanalai. The crumbling grandeur of the buildings and the relative isolation of this site make it most alluring. You will see Wat Chedi Jed Taew, which consists of a sanctuary and a row of seven impressive Chedis. Then wander down to the riverside to explore an archeological site showing an excavation of over 1,000 pottery kilns. This proves that this site was crucial to the development of the ceramic industry and has cultivated countless debates as to the beginnings of this industry. Tonight, we will stay overnight in the romantic setting of Lampang town at The Wieng Lakhor Hotel.

     Day 7

Lampang sets the scene for the beginning of you discovery into a unique culture. Lanna Thai was once an independent Kingdom and hence is complete with its own culture, customs and traditions which are still carried out to this day. After breakfast and checking out from your hotel, we will go to Wat Phra Lampang Luang – a monument to fine Lanna art and architecture. This temple is a beautifully restored satellite fortress located within an enclosure, similar to those found in the European middle-ages. We will then drive on to Chiang Mai, stopping to visit the elongated bell-shaped Chedi at Wat Prathat Haripunchai. On arrival at Chiang Mai, you may choose to spend the afternoon settling in to the capital of Northern Thailand, or for those with more energy, just have a chat with your guide who will give you some ideas as to places which will be of particular interest to you. Tonight you will stay at The Four Seasons Resort and Spa.

     Day 8
The most famous temple in Chiang Mai, located at the top of Doi Suthep Mountain, is our first port of call after breakfast. Be ready for the drive up the mountain, as the road winds and turns, but it’s worth it to see some stunning valleys en route. Once you have reached the temple, you can enjoy the best views of Chiang Mai city, from 3,000ft above the ground. You can even see the aeroplanes flying beneath you! Learn about the history of this magnificent temple and how it came to be constructed so high up the mountain We will then eat a luncheon of traditional Lanna cuisine at one of Chiang Mai’s most famous restaurants. After lunch, we will take a trip to the town of San Kampaeng. This town is the home of Thailand’s famous cottage industries. We will take time to chat with craftsmen to grasp an insight into their skills, their chosen craft’s history and how they have managed to preserve their crafts through centuries. We will watch them create the most beautiful handicrafts in their primative workshops. It’s quite likely that you will pick up an attractive buy, perhaps some traditional Thai silk or a piece of celadon pottery to remind you of this day. On the way back to your hotel, we will stop at Wat Phra Singh, a temple which offers a service whereby monks will chat to tourists and educate them in Buddhist beliefs and explain how a monk lives on a daily basis. The monks do speak English but if you get into difficulty, your guide will be on hand to help translate more indepth questions.

     Day 9

Today, we will discover the wild side of Chiang Mai, starting at Chiang Dao Elephant Conservation Center. After watching the elephants take their daily bath, we will watch a demonstration of the elephants working, pushing and heaving logs, as well as catching a glimpse of a few tricks along the way. Then, get ready as you jump aboard one of these magnificent creatures and take a ride through the serene jungle, making sure to take in all the sights sounds and smell along the way. Your elephant will drop you at the Lisu hill tribe village. Stroll around the village, taking in the components which allow these people to live completely independent lifestyles, with their own religion, customs and language. Your guide will assist you in communicating with the tribe to answer any questions you may have regarding their way of life. Jump back on the elephant and he will take you to the main camp where we will begin our journey down to the rapids of The River Ping. We will take a raft, made from bamboo, and cruise down river for around an hour. Take time to reflect on the peaceful tranquility of the jungle and look out for exotic birds and flying squirrels among the enchanting wildlife. Mid way through the return journey to your hotel, we will stop at the Orchid Farm to view an amazing diversity of orchid species. As you wander around the farm, you can absorb the amazing aromas and kaleidoscope of colours portrayed not only by the spectrum of orchids, but also in the variety of butterflies fluttering and flitting around the farm.

     Day 10

Today we venture to our destination of The Golden Triangle and take in the amazing mountainous scenery en route. After checking out of the hotel, we hit the road for Chiang Rai, home to the idyllic Mekhong River. Once there, we will visit the original home of Bangkok’s majestic Emerald Buddha at Wat Phra Kaew. Moving on, we will come to the town of Chiang Saen, one of the north’s most interesting and attractive towns. Blessed with over 100 historical monuments, which attest to its historical legacy, Chiang Saen provides a sleepy atmosphere in a very dramatic setting. Soak up this town’s pastoral charm as you learn of the teachings of Buddha and the society of the townspeople. Then it’s an exciting boat trip to take us to the climax of our journey. The misty Mekhong River is a delight to any nature enthusiast and leads us to the convergence of the borders of Myanmar, Laos and Thailand, know as The Golden Triangle. Look east and behold the stunning scenery of Laos. Look west to admire the enchanting beauty offered by Myanmar. Take a short stop at one of the Laotian Islands, Don Sao, to experience the way of life in Laos. Tonight you will reside in the remote Anantara Resort and Spa with amazing views overlooking Laos and Myanmar.

     Day 11
Today we will travel to Mae Sai, the Myanmar border town, where we will cross over to the Kingdom of Myanmar, formerly known as Burma. We will take a tour by rickshaw bicycle around the bustling business town of Thakilek. Here we can observe the contrasting customs and traditions which are part of life in Myanmar. After returning to Thailand we will explore a local fish cave, surrounded by host of hills inhabited by wild monkeys. We will then proceed to Doi Tung - a site of major importance to Thai people since Her Royal Highness, The Princess Mother, initiated and developed numerous socio-environmental projects including reforestation and working together with the hill tribes to grow various crops. We will take the opportunity to visit The Mae Fah Luang Garden, one of the brightest and vibrant sites in Thailand. Close by, we will survey The Royal Villa, residence of The Princess Mother and study its Lanna-style architecture. Spend this evening relaxing at the resort or preparing for you next destination.

     Day 12
Check out of you hotel and fly to Bangkok. Say farewell to your guide and either fly home or to your next chosen destination.

Program B – Explore the highlights of
Thailand’s Capital and the exotic natural beauty
of Northern Thailand, Laos and Myanmar.
10 Days – 9 Nights

Introduction

This program incorporates all the charm, originality and stunning beauty which Thailand has to offer. From the exciting cosmopolitan city of Bangkok where we will observe modern society and ancient sites, to the contrasting adventurous tour of serene and tranquil Northern Thailand, this exciting discovery will turn your dreams of Thailand into reality. Our journey is an education of how Thai cultures and ways of life have complimented both modern progress and the natural environment, allowing each to flourish. This program can be enjoyed by all the senses, whether you are absorbing the views of the mountains and jungles, breathing in the fresh aromas at The Orchid Farm or touching the luxurious Thai silks and textiles at a local handicraft village. Make sure all your senses are wide open to fully capture the complete experience of Thailand’s natural beauty.
Not only will you see amazing Thailand, but you will have the opportunity to explore the neighboring countries of Laos and Myanmar. Through out your journey, you will stay in accommodations which compliment the styles of the cities where they are each located. Enjoy the beautiful scenery from you balcony, perched on cliffs overlooking The Golden Triangle and relax in the majestically grand Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Bangkok, with a history spanning over 100 years.
This program balances the desire for adventure and exploration with the need for rest and relaxation perfectly. There is no doubt that by the end of the holiday you will have experienced a new and enlightening culture, the most phenomenal hospitality and the most breath-taking natural beauty that will stay in your heart forever.

Highlights

• Soak up the greatest spectacles of Thailand’s dynamic, fast-paced capital and experience Bangkok’s legendary markets and superb culinary choice. Then, journey down the Chaopraya River to immerse yourself in the simple and peaceful Thai way of life.
• Be an exclusive guest at The Prasart Museum which has become one of Bangkok’s most talked about attractions, appealing to both local people and visitors with a special interest in Thailand’s classical arts.
• Meander up the winding roads of Doi Suthep mountain to look around Chiang Mai’s most important temple, perched over 3,000 ft over the city. This glistening place of worship contains the most magnificent statues, paintings, Chedis and shrines. But don’t forget to take in the outstanding views the city offers.
• Spend time talking to the craftsmen of the region whose skills have been passed down through generations and continue to produce marvels in silverware, lacquerware, celadon pottery, silk and cotton, hand-painted umbrellas and much more. See how each product is created and learn how the craftsmen preserve their traditional styles. Perhaps even pick up an attractive buy to remind you of your visit.
• Visit the elephant conservation camp to learn about how the elephants work in Thailand. They’ll show you a few tricks and then you can hop on one as you journey through the forests and down to the river, where you will board a raft made from bamboo. Time to kick back and relax as you take in all the sights, sounds and smells of the forest as you cruise down the River Ping.
• Learn about Royal Agricultural Projects designed to help the hill tribe communities at Doi Ankhang.
• Enjoy bird-watching in one of the most abundant bird watching areas in Thailand.
• Cruise along the Mae Kong River, absorbing the natural surrounding of the rain forests and wild life on your way to your exploration of the Kingdom of Laos.
• Experience the breath-taking views at The Golden Triangle, where the borders of Laos, Myanmar and Laos converge.
• Take an exciting tour by rick-shaw bicycle in a bustling town in the neighboring Kingdom of Myanmar (formerly known as Burma).
• Chat with the hill tribe communities in Chiang Rai who will tell of their completely independent lifestyle and individual cultures, customs, religion and language.
  

Day by Day Itinerary

     Day 1

Your guide will welcome you warmly at Bangkok International Airport and take you to The Mandarin Oriental Hotel, where the rest of your day can be spent settling into Thailand, at your leisure.

     Day 2
Start the day by taking a long tail boat cruise down the Chao Phraya River. See the traditional houses precariously perched along the rivers muddy banks, Thai’s trading by boat and a skyline of temple and palace rooftops. Along the way, stop to visit the temple of dawn, an extraordinary feat of architecture and one of the most revered sights along the river, and The Royal Barge Museum, to note the ornately carved and gilded royal barges, much talked about by European visitors since the 17th century, due to their grandeur. Late morning, we will visit the exquisite Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha Temple, which date back to Bangkok’s founding. After a traditional Thai lunch at a local restaurant, we will head for “Wat Pho” or The Reclining Buddha Temple. This temple is the oldest and largest in Bangkok, with the Reclining Buddha itself standing 150ft long and 50ft high. The feet are inlaid with mother of pearl illustrations of 108 auspicious characteristics of the Buddha. The rest of the day can be spent at your leisure, or if you have the energy, your guide will be happy to show you further places that may interest you.

     Day 3
An early start sees us on the road to the infamous Dameon Saduak Floating Market. Along the way we can see numerous agricultural points of interest, such as the salt farm, shrimp farm.s and the coconut farms. You will learn about how much agriculture is an ingrained part of Thai life. On arrival at the floating market you will see hundreds of boats congregating along the canals. Lap up the sights of the boats, laden with fruits, vegetables, flowers and handicrafts sold by women adorning their traditional rural costumes. With such a vast array of vivid colours, this is a photographer’s paradise. After lunch along the canals at a local restaurant, we will hit the road to visit Jim Thompson’s House. This American architect settled in Thailand at the end of the World War II, and brought with him the entrepreneurial skills which helped to revive the Thai silk industries. His house, consisting of 6 antique teak buildings brought from all over Thailand, is now a famous museum. Take time to admire the superb collections of antiques and paintings representing countries from all over Asia. This museum is a marvel. Spend the rest of the day independently exploring or relaxing, as you wish.

     Day 4
A good breakfast and check out from your hotel. This morning we will be the exclusive guests of Mr. Prasart Vonsakul, a private art and antiques collector residing in Bangkok. Once a successful real estate developer, Mr. Prasart spent the last two decades building small scale reproductions of historic Thai buildings and filling them with his priceless collection of Sukhothai Buddhas, Bencharong porcelain and paintings in the classical Thai style. He has been collecting antiques since his early youth. Once you have examined these artifacts, don’t forget to absorb the exotic and serene gardens and grounds. After lunch at a local restaurant, we will travel to the airport to catch a flight to our next destination – Chiang Mai. On arrival, either transfer straight to The Sheraton Hotel or for those with extra enthusiasm, speak to your guide about interesting places to explore in the afternoon. They will be only too happy to oblige you. By now, your guide will have a feeling for your likings and interests and will be able to point you in the right direction.

     Day 5

The most famous temple in Chiang Mai, located at the top of Doi Suthep Mountain, is our first port of call after breakfast. Be ready for the drive up the mountain, as the road winds and turns, but it’s worth it to see some stunning valleys en route. Once you have reached the temple, you can enjoy the best views of Chiang Mai city, from 3,000ft above the ground. You can even see the aeroplanes flying beneath you! Learn about the history of this magnificent temple and how it came to be constructed so high up the mountain We will then eat a luncheon of traditional Lanna cuisine at one of Chiang Mai’s most famous restaurants. After lunch, we will take a trip to the town of San Kampaeng. This town is the home of Thailand’s famous cottage industries. We will take time to chat with craftsmen to grasp an insight into their skills, their chosen craft’s history and how they have managed to preserve their crafts through centuries. We will watch them create the most beautiful handicrafts in their priative workshops. It’s quite likely that you will pick up an attractive buy, perhaps some traditional Thai silk or a piece of celadon pottery to remind you of this day. This evening, you will enjoy a sumptuous feast at Le Grand Lanna, Chiang Mai’s most splendid restaurant and one of the most well known in Thailand. Soak up the romantic ambience in this Classic Lanna style restaurant, which is scattered with priceless antiques and adorned with the most luxuriant fabrics and silks. This restaurant boasts previous guests who include members of The Thai Royal Family, Princess Diana and various foreign diplomats from around the world. Choose a table with a view of the iridescent pond or perhaps enjoy a more intimate dining experience in one of the restaurants private dining rooms.

     Day 6
Today, we will discover the wild side of Chiang Mai, starting at Chiang Dao Elephant Conservation Center. After watching the elephants take their daily bath, we will watch a demonstration of the elephants working, pushing and heaving logs, as well as catching a glimpse of a few tricks along the way. Then, get ready as you jump aboard one of these magnificent creatures and take a ride through the serene jungle, making sure to take in all the sights sounds and smell along the way. Your elephant will drop you at the Lisu hill tribe village. Stroll around the village, taking in the components which allow these people to live completely independent lifestyles, with their own religion, customs and language. Your guide will assist you in communicating with the tribe to answer any questions you may have regarding their way of life. Jump back on the elephant and he will take you to the main camp where we will begin our journey down to the rapids of The River Ping. We will take a raft, made from bamboo, and cruise down river for around an hour. Take time to reflect on the peaceful tranquility of the jungle and look out for exotic birds and flying squirrels among the enchanting wildlife. Mid way through the return journey to your hotel, we will stop at the Orchid Farm to view an amazing diversity of orchid species. As you wander around the farm, you can absorb the amazing aromas and kaleidoscope of colours portrayed not only by the spectrum of orchids, but also in the variety of butterflies fluttering and flitting around the farm.

     Day 7

After breakfast, we will drive along a scenic road to Doi Ankhang Mountain. En route, we will stop at Chiang Dao caves. These caves are a popular Buddhist Center, with pilgrimages having been made to the caves for many centuries. Attempt the winding staircase up to the narrow entrance. Enter to find the most impressive of several chambers, housing Buddha images which were brought to the cave over years by Shan Buddhists. Follow the staircase which leads to a large, intricately sculpted reclining Buddha. It is a masterpiece. Continuing along the road, you will enjoy views of the hill evergreen canopies and expansive valleys. Arrive at the cool terrain of Doi Ankhang, where we will visit The Royal Project Agricultural Station. Projects like this are the reason that Thai people are so devoted to their King. Learn how the King initiated the development of fruit, vegetable and flower agriculture, to replace the dubious growth and marketing of the opium industry. His project incorporates teachings of the marketing and sales of these products in order to help the local people thrive in a new and positive industry. Talk with the locals at the Tribal villages about the project and let your guide assist you in communicating with the Lahu and Palong hill tribe communities, to ask their views on their new venture and the changes they have incurred. Tonight you will be guests at the calm and peaceful Angkhang Nature Resort. A warning – don’t stay up too late as it’s an early start tomorrow!!

     Day 8
Rise at 6am as the early bird catches the worm. This morning, we will grab our bird watching materials and walk around the watershed area to glimpse at Thailand’s most exotic and rare birds. Birding experts will assist you through your exploration and explain the origins and habits of the birds themselves. Take a stroll down to the picturesque Heaven Valley to discover more wildlife and beauty in the natural surroundings. Check out of the resort late morning and drive to Tha Ton Town where we will start our journey by long tail boat along the Mae Kok River to Chiang Rai. This 3 to 4 hour adventure gives you the opportunity to absorb the remarkably diverse flora and fauna along the river banks. Appreciate the value of this truly unspoiled nature. Take in the spirit of local life along the river as we see typical daily activities, such as washing, swimming and fishing. Mid way along the waters, we will dock at a small hill tribe village to talk about their daily lives and society, basically learning how they live in harmony with their environment. On arrival at Chiang Rai, you will check in at The River House Resort and Spa.

     Day 9
Today we will travel to Mae Sai, the Myanmar border town in the province of Chiang Rai, where we will cross over to the Kingdom of Myanmar, formerly known as Burma. We will take a tour by rickshaw bicycle around the bustling business town of Thakilek. Here we can observe the contrasting customs and traditions which are part of life in Myanmar. After returning to Thailand we will explore a local fish cave, surrounded by a host of hills inhabited by wild monkeys. We will then proceed to Doi Tung - a site of major importance to Thai people since Her Royal Highness, The Princess Mother, initiated and developed numerous socio-environmental projects including reforestation and working together with the hill tribes to grow various crops. We will take the opportunity to visit The Mae Fah Luang Garden, one of the brightest and vibrant sites in Thailand. Close by, we will survey The Royal Villa, residence of The Princess Mother and study its Lanna-style architecture. This evening, enjoy the spectacular views from your balcony at The Anantara Resort and Spa at The Golden Triangle, where the borders of Myanmar, Laos and Thailand converge.

     Day 10

After checking out from your hotel, we will walk down to The Hall of Opium. This interesting museum gives us a detailed insight in to the history of the opium industry, beginning in 17th century. Learn how the hill tribe communities have cultivated this crop for the purposes of producing heroine, the harm this drug has caused throughout the world, the change in the tribes’ development of the crop and the positive impact this has had in the world of medicine. With over 250 species of poppies in the north of Thailand, you will find out the whole story behind this attractive flower. Then we will take to the water as we travel to the neighboring country of Laos by long tail boat along the famous Mekhong River. Dock at the pretty island of Don Sao, to experience the Laotian ways of life. Returning to Thailand, we will take a tour around the ancient town of Chiang Saen, one of the north’s most interesting and attractive towns. Blessed with over 100 historical monuments, which attest to its historical legacy, Chiang Saen provides a sleepy atmosphere in a very dramatic setting. Soak up this town’s pastoral charm as you learn of the teachings of Buddha and the society of the townspeople. In the evening, depart from Chiang Rai Airport to travel to your next destination.

Program C – Experience the Diversity of The
Modern Capital, Ancient Lanna, Tribal Thailand and
Burma along a Trail of Breath-taking Nature.
9 Days – 8 Nights

Introduction
If you want to experience Thai culture, learn about the country’s heritage and you have a sense of adventure, then look no further than this program. Our journey begins in the fast-paced dynamic Bangkok, where you can appreciate modern Thailand in the bustling city’s sophisticated restaurants, abundant shopping centres, extensive markets and luxurious hotels, as well as absorb world famous landmarks and stunning feats of architecture created in ancient times. We will then enjoy the charming destination of Chiang Mai, with its mountainous backdrop and beautiful natural surroundings. Here we will come across the ancient customs of Lanna Thai, once an independent Kingdom in Thailand, which still honors unique traditions and customs to this day. Be our guest at internationally renowned accommodation, with world class standards of hospitality. We will explore the beautiful National Parks, get in touch with nature and lap up the serene and tranquil ambience of Thailand. You will get the opportunity to communicate with the colourful tribes people, who live independently with their individual customs, languages and religions. Experience the dense forests as we trek on elephant back down to the river for a cruise by bamboo raft. Discover, furthermore, the contrasting culture and society of Myanmar, as we journey to The Golden Triangle, taking in the breath-taking views where the borders of Myanmar, Thailand and Laos converge. This trip is for those wishing to experience the best of Thailand’s natural beauty, incredible artistic achievements, sumptuous cuisine and some of the most joyful people you are ever likely to meet. So, what are you waiting for? Open your mind and heart and be ready for the adventure of a lifetime!

Highlights

• Soak up the greatest spectacles of Thailand’s dynamic, fast-paced capital and experience Bangkok’s legendary markets and superb culinary choice. Then, journey down the Chaoprayah River to immerse yourself in the simple and peaceful Thai way of life.
• Be an exclusive guest at The Prasart Museum which has become one of Bangkok’s most talked about attractions, appealing to both local people and visitors with a special interest in Thailand’s classical arts.
• Experience the breath-taking views at The Golden Triangle, where the borders of Laos, Myanmar and Laos converge.
• Take an exciting tour by rick-shaw bicycle in a bustling town in the neighboring Kingdom of Myanmar (formerly known as Burma).
• Chat with the hill tribe communities in Chiang Rai who will tell of their completely independent lifestyle and individual cultures, customs, religion and language.
• Learn about the history of Opium at Chiang Rai’s prestigious Hall of Opium.
• Meander up the winding roads of Doi Suthep mountain to look around Chiang Mai’s most important temple, perched over 3,000 ft over the city. This glistening place of worship contains the most magnificent statues, paintings, Chedis and shrines. But don’t forget to take in the outstanding views the city offers.
• Spend time talking to the craftsmen of the region whose skills have been passed down through generations and continue to produce marvels in silverware, lacquer ware, celadon pottery, silk and cotton, hand-painted umbrellas and much more. See how each product is created and learn how the craftsmen preserve their traditional styles. Perhaps even pick up an attractive buy to remind you of your visit.
• Visit the elephant conservation camp to learn about how the elephants work in Thailand. They’ll show you a few tricks and then you can hop on one as you journey through the forests and down to the river, where you will board a raft made from bamboo. Time to kick back and relax as you take in all the sights, sounds and smells of the forest as you cruise down the River Ping.
• Enjoy the stunning beauty of Doi Inthanon National Park, with its abundant nature trails, cascading waterfalls and historical Chedis.

Day by Day Itinerary

     Day 1
Your guide will welcome you warmly at Bangkok International Airport and take you at The Sukhothai Hotel, where the rest of your day can be spent settling into Thailand, at your leisure.

     Day 2
Start the day by taking a long tail boat cruise down the Chao Phraya River. See the traditional houses precariously perched along the rivers muddy banks, Thai’s trading by boat and a skyline of temple and palace rooftops. Along the way, stop to visit the temple of dawn, an extraordinary feat of architecture and one of the most revered sights along the river, and The Royal Barge Museum, to note the ornately carved and gilded royal barges, much talked about by European visitors since the 17th century, due to their grandeur. Late morning, we will visit the exquisite Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha Temple, which date back to Bangkok’s founding. After a traditional Thai lunch at a local restaurant, we will head for “Wat Pho” or The Reclining Buddha Temple. This temple is the oldest and largest in Bangkok, with the Reclining Buddha itself standing 150ft long and 50ft high. The feet are inlaid with mother of pearl illustrations of 108 auspicious characteristics of the Buddha. The rest of the day can be spent at your leisure, or if you have the energy, your guide will be happy to show you further places that may interest you.

     Day 3
An early start sees us on the road to the infamous Dameon Saduak Floating Market. Along the way we can see numerous agricultural points of interest, such as the salt farm, shrimp farm.s and the coconut farms. You will learn about how much agriculture is an ingrained part of Thai life. On arrival at the floating market you will see hundreds of boats congregating along the canals. Lap up the sights of the boats, laden with fruits, vegetables, flowers and handicrafts sold by women adorning their traditional rural costumes. With such a vast array of vivid colours, this is a photographer’s paradise. After lunch along the canals at a local restaurant, we will hit the road to visit Jim Thompson’s House. This American architect settled in Thailand at the end of the World War II, and brought with him the entrepreneurial skills which helped to revive the Thai silk industries. His house, consisting of 6 antique teak buildings brought from all over Thailand, is now a famous museum. Take time to admire the superb collections of antiques and paintings representing countries from all over Asia. This museum is a marvel. Spend the rest of the day independently exploring or relaxing, as you wish.

     Day 4
A good breakfast and check out from your hotel. This morning we will be the exclusive guests of Mr. Prasart Vonsakul, a private art and antiques collector residing in Bangkok. Once a successful real estate developer, Mr. Prasart spent the last two decades building small scale reproductions of historic Thai buildings and filling them with his priceless collection of Sukhothai Buddhas, Bencharong porcelain and paintings in the classical Thai style. He has been collecting antiques since his early youth. Once you have examined these artifacts, don’t forget to absorb the exotic and serene gardens and grounds. After lunch at a local restaurant, we will travel to the airport to catch a flight to our next destination – Chiang Rai. Our first stop in Chiang Rai province will be the town of Chiang Saen, one of the north’s most interesting and attractive towns. Blessed with over 100 historical monuments, which attest to its historical legacy, Chiang Saen provides a sleepy atmosphere in a very dramatic setting. Soak up this town’s pastoral charm as you learn of the teaching of Buddha and the society of the townspeople. Then it’s an exciting boat trip to take us to the climax of the day’s journey. The misty Mekhong River is a delight to any nature enthusiast and leads us to the convergence of the borders of Myanmar, Laos and Thailand, known as The Golden Triangle. Look east and behold the stunning scenery of Laos. Look west to admire the enchanting beauty offered by Myanmar. We will dock at the Laotian island of Don Sao, to experience the ways of life fore the people of Laos. In the evening you can behold the breath-taking views from the balcony of Anantara Resort and Spa. Set among the forests and mountains, this hotel blends harmoniously with its stunning natural surroundings.

     Day 5
Today we will travel to Mae Sai, the Myanmar border town, where we will cross over to the Kingdom of Myanmar, formerly known as Burma. We will take a tour by rickshaw bicycle around the bustling business town of Thakilek. Here we can observe the contrasting customs and traditions which are part of life in Myanmar. After returning to Thailand we will explore a local fish cave, surrounded by a range of hills inhabited by wild monkeys. We will then proceed to Doi Tung - a site of major importance to Thai people since Her Royal Highness, The Princess Mother, initiated and developed numerous socio-environmental projects including reforestation and working together with the hill tribes to grow various crops. We will take the opportunity to visit The Mae Fah Luang Garden, one of the brightest and vibrant sites in Thailand. Close by, we will survey The Royal Villa, residence of The Princess Mother and study its Lanna-style architecture.

     Day 6
After checking out from your hotel, we will walk down to The Hall of Opium. This interesting museum gives us a detailed insight in to the history of the opium industry. Learn how the hill tribe communities have cultivated this crop for the purposes of producing heroine, the harm this drug has caused throughout the world, the change in the tribes’ development of the crop and the positive impact this has had in the world of medicine. With over 250 species of poppies in the north of Thailand, you will find out the whole story behind this attractive flower. We will then depart to experience the beautiful scenery along the road to Thailand’s Northern capital – Chaing Mai. Along the way, we will stop for lunch at a local Thai restaurant and visit some hill tribe villages to gain knowledge of their unique independent lifestyle, customs, religion and language. Stroll around the rural villages to understand how these people create their numerous handicrafts in harmony with their environment. Admire the tribal crafts and textiles and their intricate designs. On arrival at Chiang Mai, check in at The Four Seasons Resort and Spa and spend the rest of the day at leisure.

     Day 7

The most famous temple in Chiang Mai, located at the top of Doi Suthep Mountain, is our first port of call after breakfast. Be ready for the drive up the mountain, as the road winds and turns, but it’s worth it to see some stunning valleys en route. Once you have reached the temple, you can enjoy the best views of Chiang Mai city, from 3,000ft above the ground. You can even see the aeroplanes flying beneath you! Learn about the history of this magnificent temple and how it came to be constructed so high up the mountain We will then eat a luncheon of traditional Lanna cuisine at one of Chiang Mai’s most famous restaurants. After lunch, we will take a trip to the town of San Kampaeng. This town is the home of Thailand’s famous cottage industries. We will take time to chat with craftsmen to grasp an insight into their skills, their chosen craft’s history and how they have managed to preserve their crafts through centuries. We will watch them create the most beautiful handicrafts in their primative workshops. It’s quite likely that you will pick up an attractive buy, perhaps some traditional Thai silk or a piece of celadon pottery to remind you of this day.

In the evening, you will be entertained whilst eating a traditional “Kantoke Dinner”. As is the custom, you will kneel on comfortable cushions and be served authentic Northern Thai cuisine, which is eaten with the fingers. Through out your delectable meal, Thai dancers will perform a light and sound show in the form of stories. These legendary tales make up a host of Thai cultures and traditions for you to enjoy.

     Day 8

Today, we will discover the wild side of Chiang Mai, starting at Chiang Dao Elephant Conservation Center. After watching the elephants take their daily bath, we will watch a demonstration of the elephants working, pushing and heaving logs, as well as catching a glimpse of a few tricks along the way. Then, get ready as you jump aboard one of these magnificent creatures and take a ride through the serene jungle, making sure to take in all the sights sounds and smell along the way. Your elephant will drop you at the Lisu hill tribe village. Stroll around the village, taking in the components which allow these people to live completely independent lifestyles, with their own religion, customs and language. Your guide will assist you in communicating with the tribe to answer any questions you may have regarding their way of life. Jump back on the elephant and he will take you to the main camp where we will begin our journey down to the rapids of The River Ping. We will take a raft, made from bamboo, and cruise down river for around an hour. Take time to reflect on the peaceful tranquility of the jungle and look out for exotic birds and flying squirrels among the enchanting wildlife. Mid way through the return journey to your hotel, we will stop at the Orchid Farm to view an amazing diversity of orchid species. As you wander around the farm, you can absorb the amazing aromas and kaleidoscope of colours portrayed not only by the spectrum of orchids, but also in the variety of butterflies fluttering and flitting around the farm.

     Day 9
Any lover of nature and the environment will remember this day fondly, with all the beauty it has to offer. Don’t forget you sweater, as we venture up to the highest point in Thailand, at the top of Doi Inthanon Mountain, where temperatures can reach as low as -2  ํ Celsius. We will walk along the nature trail, at Doi Inthanon National Park, where the path leads through dense, moist evergreen forest and emerges at the top of a steep slope which borders canyoned headwaters of the Mae Pan River. The trail proceeds further along a fine open expanse, with awe-inspiring views, until we reach the end of our trek, marked by the magnificent Napamaytanidol Chedi. Onward, we admire the spectacular cascading waterfalls, and, if you fancy, take a swim in warm waters of the rock pools at the waterfall’s base. Don’t worry – it’s a lot warmer in this area than at the mountain top! After a hearty picnic lunch at the falls, we will continue exploring, next to The Royal Agricultural Project Station. We will learn how the hill tribes previously used methods which were often destructive to the forest ecosystem. You will be witness to the developments since these times, with numerous environmental projects underway, which include educating the hill tribe communities, support for the sale of marketable produce and reforestation to prevent harm on our environment. Spend the rest of this, your last day in Chiang Mai, taking in any more sites you wish to see (just talk with your guide to convey your wishes) or shop for last minute buys before driving to Chiang Mai airport to fly to your next destination.

Program D – An Adventurous Journey of the
Cosmopolitan Capital, The Bridge Over the River Kwai
and the Natural World of Northern Thailand
10 Days – 9 Nights

Introduction

This adventurous journey allows you to experience the very essence of Thailand, its history, culture and natural beauty. You will take in the capitals fast-paced modern society as well as the most magnificent ancient sites. You will embark on an historical discovery of the picturesque Kanchanaburi, visiting the famous bridge spanning the River Kwai, where the Japanese controlled the construction of a railway line which brought about the suffering of thousands of Prisoners of War in World War II. This destination offers spectacular scenery, with mountains rising in misty haze along the river and waterfalls abound as the jungle stretches away. Your final destination is the charming city of Chiang Mai. This city offers you the opportunity to immerse yourself in a completely different culture. Chiang Mai is the home of Lanna Thailand, once a completely independent Kingdom, which still upholds its own customs, traditions and culture. It is South-east Asia’s leading handicraft centre and is home to the colourful hill tribes who inhabit the surrounding mountains and valleys. Chiang Mai’s stunning mountainous backdrop compliments the cities incredible architecture. The city centre itself is scattered with an abundance of luxury accommodations, sophisticated restaurants and trendy bar cafes.
With all this and the wonderful hospitality that the Thai’s are famous for, you can rest assured that you are going to experience the most amazing vacation in this truly exotic land.

Highlights

• Soak up the greatest spectacles of Thailand’s dynamic, fast-paced capital and experience Bangkok’s legendary markets and superb culinary choice. Then, journey down the Chaopraya River to immerse yourself in the simple and peaceful Thai way of life.
• Be an exclusive guest at The Prasart Museum which has become one of Bangkok’s most talked about attractions, appealing to both local people and visitors with a special interest in Thailand’s classical arts.
• Visit the Bridge over the River Kwai and get an insight in to the atrocities which occurred during its contruction during World War II.
• Meander up the winding roads of Doi Suthep mountain to look around Chiang Mai’s most important temple, perched over 3,000 ft over the city. This glistening place of worship contains the most magnificent statues, paintings, Chedis and shrines. But don’t forget to take in the outstanding views the city offers.
• Spend time talking to the craftsmen of the region whose skills have been passed down through generations and continue to produce marvels in silverware, lacquerware, celadon pottery, silk and cotton, hand-painted umbrellas and much more. See how each product is created and learn how the craftsmen preserve their traditional styles. Perhaps even pick up an attractive buy to remind you of your visit.
• Visit the elephant conservation camp to learn about how the elephants work in Thailand. They’ll show you a few tricks and then you can hop on one as you journey through the forests and down to the river, where you will board a raft made from bamboo. Time to kick back and relax as you take in all the sights, sounds and smells of the forest as you cruise down the River Ping.
• Enjoy the stunning beauty of Doi Inthanon National Park, with its abundant nature trails, cascading waterfalls and historical Chedis.

Day by Day Itinerary

     Day 1
Your guide will welcome you warmly at Bangkok International Airport and take you to The Mandarin Oriental Hotel, where the rest of your day can be spent settling into Thailand, at your leisure.

     Day 2
Start the day by taking a long tail boat cruise down the Chao Phraya River. See the traditional houses precariously perched along the rivers muddy banks, Thai’s trading by boat and a skyline of temple and palace rooftops. Along the way, stop to visit the temple of dawn, an extraordinary feat of architecture and one of the most revered sights along the river, and The Royal Barge Museum, to note the ornately carved and gilded royal barges, much talked about by European visitors since the 17th century, due to their grandeur. Late morning, we will visit the exquisite Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha Temple, which date back to Bangkok’s founding. After a traditional Thai lunch at a local restaurant, we will head for “Wat Pho” or The Reclining Buddha Temple. This temple is the oldest and largest in Bangkok, with the Reclining Buddha itself standing 150ft long and 50ft high. The feet are inlaid with mother of pearl illustrations of 108 auspicious characteristics of the Buddha. The rest of the day can be spent at your leisure, or if you have the energy, your guide will be happy to show you further places that may interest you.

     Day 3
A good breakfast and check out from your hotel. This morning we will be the exclusive guests of Mr. Prasart Vonsakul, a private art and antiques collector residing in Bangkok. Once a successful real estate developer, Mr. Prasart spent the last two decades building small scale reproductions of historic Thai buildings and filling them with his priceless collection of Sukhothai Buddhas, Bencharong porcelain and paintings in the classical Thai style. He has been collecting antiques since his early youth. Once you have examined these artifacts, don’t forget to absorb the exotic and serene gardens and grounds. This afternoon maybe spent shopping or at your leisure.

     Day 4
An early start sees us on the road to the infamous Dameon Saduak Floating Market. Along the way we can see numerous agricultural points of interest, such as the salt farm, shrimp farm.s and the coconut farms. You will learn about how much agriculture is an ingrained part of Thai life. On arrival at the floating market you will see hundreds of boats congregating along the canals. Lap up the sights of the boats, laden with fruits, vegetables, flowers and handicrafts sold by women adorning their traditional rural costumes. With such a vast array of vivid colours, this is a photographer’s paradise. After lunch along the canal strip, we will journey to Kanchanaburi by road (about an hours drive). On arrival, we will visit the JEATH Museum and War Cemetery. This is quite a harrowing and emotional experience as we see pictures of Prisoners of War and read personal accounts of experiences during the construction of the rail road during the Second World War. We will hear about how The Japanese Army used British, Australian, Dutch and American Prisoners of War, along with oppressed Asian laborers to build the notorious Thailand – Burma Railway in order to improve communications. Over a 12 month period, 403 kilometres of railway was built and in that time, over 100,000 people died of disease, starvation, exhaustion and torture. These souls were buried along the line, a life for every sleeper. This museum is a memorial which stands to remind us of the atrocities which took place in 1942 – 3 and is ran by a local monk who resides in the adjacent temple. Spend the evening at your leisure.

     Day 5