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Iconic Thailand
Highlighting Thailand’s rich history and fascinating culture, experience the contrasts between the bright lights, skyscrapers and street markets of Bangkok to the peaceful rural life of northern Thailand as you travel by boat into the Golden Triangle.
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4 Cities
Select a day
- Day 1 Arrive Bangkok (3 Nights)Navigation Chevron Right Icon
- Day 2 Bangkok SightseeingNavigation Chevron Right Icon
- Day 3 Bangkok Free DayNavigation Chevron Right Icon
- Day 4 Bangkok - Chiang Rai (2 Nights)Navigation Chevron Right Icon
- Day 5 Golden Triangle SightseeingNavigation Chevron Right Icon
- Day 6 Chiang Rai - Chiang Mai (3 Nights)Navigation Chevron Right Icon
- Day 7 Chiang Mai SightseeingNavigation Chevron Right Icon
- Day 8 Chiang Mai Free DayNavigation Chevron Right Icon
- Day 9 Depart Chiang MaiNavigation Chevron Right Icon
The Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive Bangkok (3 Nights)
'Sawadee ka' and welcome to Thailand! Your trip will kick off in buzzy Bangkok, a cosmopolitan delight boasting all the mod cons and glistening malls of any capital city, but with a distinctly exotic Thai flourish. Here, golden temples and neon clad nightclubs co-exist peacefully side by side, whilst monks stroll the streets with smart phones in hand. After transferring to your hotel you'll meet up with your Travel Director to learn the lay of the land, then dinner tonight will see you sample some of Thailand's amazing cuisine whilst getting to know the rest of your group.
Trip Summary Accomodation Icon Hotel - Rembrandt Bangkok
Trip Summary Meals Icon Included Meals - Dinner
Day 2
Bangkok Sightseeing
Today's sightseeing will reveal Bangkok's finest cultural and spiritual delights. Starting off at Bangkok's most ancient temple, Wat Pho, you'll visit the hugely impressive Reclining Buddha, the largest in Thailand, before continuing on to the Grand Palace. A former royal residence, the dazzling, vibrant and intricate architecture of this sprawling complex never ceases to amaze, the centre piece of which is the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Stopping for lunch at a local restaurant to re-fuel, this afternoon you'll then take to the maze of canals, known locally as klongs, that zig zag across the city on a private boat, enjoying the ride as you pass by traditional family homes on stilts. Take in the simple river lifestyle of those who work and live on the water. Later today, you'll also have the chance to join our optional visit to Jim Thompson's House, which houses an astounding collection of Asian art and is also an exquisite example of traditional Thai residential architecture.
Trip Summary Meals Icon Included Meals - Breakfast, Lunch
Optionalexperience Icon HERE'S A SAMPLE OF YOUR CHOICE OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES
Jim Thompson House
Jim Thompson House is one of the best examples of traditional Thai residential architecture and houses a breath-taking collection of Southeast Asian art. Jim Thompson, born in Delaware in 1906, fell in love with Thailand while posted as an intelligence agent in Bangkok during WWII. He later made it his permanent home and started a business supplying fine Thai silk to overseas fashion houses, single-handedly saving what had been a dying cottage industry. His silk company continues to flourish today. With the proceeds of his success, Thompson collected an impressive range of art works, and sections of teak houses, assembling them into a museum complex set in a lush garden alongside central Bangkok’s Saen Saep Canal. The main house is full of tastefully displayed Asian art and curios including Buddha images, paintings, ceramics and antique furniture. The living areas have been preserved as they were when Thompson lived there before his mysterious disappearance. There is also a Thai restaurant and bar plus, a sizeable boutique selling quality silk items, books and prints.
Adult Price: ฿1,350.00*
*We're always sourcing more great experiences for you to choose from. When you join us on your tour, your Travel Director will share the most up to date choices for your trip and travel season. For this reason, the optional experiences and pricing offered here are a guide only and subject to change.
Day 3
Bangkok Free Day
Bangkok, your exploring options today are enticingly limitless and this is your free day to tailor your way. If its markets you're seeking, the exotic and colourful Pak Kong Talad (Bangkok flower market) will offer up flower species of every shape, colour and origin, whilst the tiny lanes of Chinatown are the perfect place to nibble street food and shop for jade in Bangkok's busiest neighbourhood. Architecture aficionados will probably choose to join our trip to the ancient city of Ayutthaya, Thailand's former capital city. Stopping on the way at the gorgeous Bang Pa Summer Palace, Ayutthaya is an archeological hotbed of temples, monasteries and statues that offer a glimpse into the former glory of this ancient land. Heading back to Bangkok on a cruise, enjoy a buffet lunch as you take in local life along the banks of the Chao Phraya River.
Trip Summary Meals Icon Included Meals - Breakfast
Optionalexperience Icon HERE'S A SAMPLE OF YOUR CHOICE OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES
Mt. Assiniboine Helicopter Tour (weather dependent)*
You are in for something special as you are transported to Mount Assiniboine - "the Matterhorn" of the Canadian Rockies. Our most popular adventure has all the fantastic scenery of the previous tours plus a fly by over top of the glacier. This photogenic peak rises majestically to 3,611meters (11,870 feet) along the Great Divide. The Gloria and Assiniboine Glaciers will astound you. This is an experience you will never forget! Approx. duration: 30 minutes.
Adult Price: $347.00*
*We're always sourcing more great experiences for you to choose from. When you join us on your tour, your Travel Director will share the most up to date choices for your trip and travel season. For this reason, the optional experiences and pricing offered here are a guide only and subject to change.
Day 4
Bangkok - Chiang Rai (2 Nights)
Enjoy a late start this morning before you head to Bangkok Airport to catch a flight bound for the diverse, delightful city of Chiang Rai. Despite its small size Chiang Rai is rich in historical and spiritual offerings, whilst its relaxed atmosphere and eclectic foodie scene both ensure this little city is a big crowd pleaser. Your city tour later today will tick off the headliners including Wat Phra Kaew temple, the original home of the famous Emerald Buddha now residing in Bangkok's Royal Palace, plus the golden and glistening clock tower, an icon of Chiang Rai that was designed by a local Thai artist and unveiled in 2008 to honour his Majesty the King. Dinner tonight will offer a chance to sample Chiang Rai's culinary delights at a local restaurant.
Trip Summary Accomodation Icon Hotel - Laluna Resort
Trip Summary Meals Icon Included Meals - Breakfast, Dinner
Day 5
Golden Triangle Sightseeing
Venturing into the heart of the Golden Triangle this morning, your first stop will be the fascinating and self-proclaimed 'edutainment' Hall of Opium. Spanning an astounding 5000 years of history, the museum boasts state of the art exhibitions, harrowing stories and even a tiny opium plantation that paint a vivid picture of the conflicts, rituals and abuse that have all stemmed from opium, a trade that has been prevalent in the Golden Triangle in the past century. Stopping for lunch at a local restaurant, you'll then hop on board a boat that will take you along the mighty Mekong River to the exact spot where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar (Burma) and Laos collide. Stepping onto dry land in Laos you'll have time to peruse the handicrafts on offer at the Don Sao Island Markets, the only part of Laos that can be visited without a visa, before heading back to your hotel in Chiang Rai.
Trip Summary Meals Icon Included Meals - Breakfast, Lunch
Day 6
Chiang Rai - Chiang Mai (3 Nights)
Heading out of Chiang Mai this morning, your first stop for the day will be Wat Kong Khun, or the 'White Temple'. Instantly recognisable, you'll likely be amazed that unlike many of Thailand's other temples that date back centuries, Wat Kong Khun is just over 20 years old, constructed by a notable Thai painter turned architect in 1997. Take your time exploring here before heading on for a quick refresher at the Mae Kajaen Hot Springs, dipping your toes in the warm mineral waters as is local tradition. Lunch will be another local affair at a nearby restaurant, then this afternoon you'll put your bartering skills to the test with a visit to San Kamphaeng Road. Shop for traditional local handicrafts before making the short drive to laid back, low key Chiang Mai. This evening head out with the rest of your group to explore the legendary Chiang Mai Night Market. A regular crowd pleaser for visitors and locals alike, here you can pick up souvenirs and local knick knacks, dine on delicious street food and soak up the energy of this lively city coming to life by night.
Trip Summary Accomodation Icon Hotel - Holiday Inn Chiang Mai
Trip Summary Meals Icon Included Meals - Breakfast, Lunch
Day 7
Chiang Mai Sightseeing
Take advantage of the later start this morning, then hop on board a samlor (rickshaw) to explore the bustling centre of Chiang Mai. Stopping by the city's most revered temple, Wat Phra Singh, take in the lavish buildings and immaculate grounds before heading to the main attraction here, the famous Buddha known as Phra Singh. Housed in the ornate Gilded Assembly Hall, the building itself is remarkable as a shining example of Northern Thai architecture that boasts restored murals depicted local Lanna life throughout the 19th Century. Lunch today will be a local treat of Chiang Mai khao soi, a delicious, fragrant and spicy rice noodle soup. This afternoon enjoy some down time before heading to Wat Doi Suthep, which is tucked away in the mountains. Dating back to 1383, it's here that legend states a piece of bone from the shoulder of Lord Buddha is enshrined. Staying until sunset to watch as the monks chant and offers prayers, you'll then head back to your hotel after another no doubt magical day.
Trip Summary Meals Icon Included Meals - Breakfast, Lunch
Day 8
Chiang Mai Free Day
Your day your way is what today is all about, and with today being your last day, be sure to make the most of it. For those looking to get out of the city and into the tropical lush greenery that surrounds Chiang Mai on all sides, opt to join our visit to Baan Tong Luang Village, located north of the city in a beautiful valley. This ecological Paguang village is home to the Long Neck Karen hill tribe of Myanmar, so you'll have the chance to learn about the costumes, traditions and rituals of this ancient community. Foodies, we've got a real treat for you in the form of an optional Thai cooking class. Set within a beautiful garden on an organic farm, you'll learn from the masters the secrets to perfecting Thai cookery by preparing your very own feast using fresh, local ingredients, which you'll shop for yourself accompanied by your instructor at a local market.
Trip Summary Meals Icon Included Meals - Breakfast
Optionalexperience Icon HERE'S A SAMPLE OF YOUR CHOICE OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES
Hill Tribe Village Experience
Head to the north of Chiang Mai to visit Baan Tong Luang Village, an ecological Paduang village situated in a beautiful valley and the home to Long Neck Karen hill tribe from Myanmar. The women wear heavy copper neck rings as a ritual starting from when they are 5 or 6 years of age. Other hill tribes such as Lahu, Hmong and White Karen can also be seen in the village in their traditional costumes. The price shown is in Thai Bhat.
Adult Price: ฿2,015.00*
Thai Cooking Experience
Unlock the secrets of traditional-style Thai cooking at the Pantawan Cooking School which is located in the south of the city. The class takes place in a classic teak wooden house set in a beautiful garden with an organic farm. See the various kinds of herbs growing and use some of these in your cooking lesson. After a demonstration by one of the instructors, using the freshest ingredients, prepare and cook your own Thai food under the helpful supervision of the instructors. Each participant has their own individual cooking station and will prepare four dishes which vary on a daily basis from Northern Thai cuisine to All Time Thai Favourites. The best bit is that after the class you get to eat your creations. Soft drinks are included with the meal and beer and wines are available at an additional cost. Also included is a trip to a local market to sample some local delicacies. The price shown is in Thai Bhat.
Adult Price: ฿2,600.00*
*We're always sourcing more great experiences for you to choose from. When you join us on your tour, your Travel Director will share the most up to date choices for your trip and travel season. For this reason, the optional experiences and pricing offered here are a guide only and subject to change.
Day 9
Depart Chiang Mai
And just like that, your Thailand adventure will come to an end. You've explored countless temples, tasted all manner of Thai cuisine and experienced the joys of Thai hospitality, so we hope you're leaving with a big Thailand induced smile on your face! Transferring to Chiang Mai International Airport, you'll catch your onward flight.
Trip Summary Meals Icon Included Meals - Breakfast
Optionalexperience Icon HERE'S A SAMPLE OF YOUR CHOICE OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES
Available on day 2
Jim Thompson House
Jim Thompson House is one of the best examples of traditional Thai residential architecture and houses a breath-taking collection of Southeast Asian art. Jim Thompson, born in Delaware in 1906, fell in love with Thailand while posted as an intelligence agent in Bangkok during WWII. He later made it his permanent home and started a business supplying fine Thai silk to overseas fashion houses, single-handedly saving what had been a dying cottage industry. His silk company continues to flourish today. With the proceeds of his success, Thompson collected an impressive range of art works, and sections of teak houses, assembling them into a museum complex set in a lush garden alongside central Bangkok’s Saen Saep Canal. The main house is full of tastefully displayed Asian art and curios including Buddha images, paintings, ceramics and antique furniture. The living areas have been preserved as they were when Thompson lived there before his mysterious disappearance. There is also a Thai restaurant and bar plus, a sizeable boutique selling quality silk items, books and prints.
Adult Price: ฿1,350.00*
Available on day 3
Mt. Assiniboine Helicopter Tour (weather dependent)*
You are in for something special as you are transported to Mount Assiniboine - "the Matterhorn" of the Canadian Rockies. Our most popular adventure has all the fantastic scenery of the previous tours plus a fly by over top of the glacier. This photogenic peak rises majestically to 3,611meters (11,870 feet) along the Great Divide. The Gloria and Assiniboine Glaciers will astound you. This is an experience you will never forget! Approx. duration: 30 minutes.
Adult Price: $347.00*
Available on day 8
Hill Tribe Village Experience
Head to the north of Chiang Mai to visit Baan Tong Luang Village, an ecological Paduang village situated in a beautiful valley and the home to Long Neck Karen hill tribe from Myanmar. The women wear heavy copper neck rings as a ritual starting from when they are 5 or 6 years of age. Other hill tribes such as Lahu, Hmong and White Karen can also be seen in the village in their traditional costumes. The price shown is in Thai Bhat.
Adult Price: ฿2,015.00*
Available on day 8
Thai Cooking Experience
Unlock the secrets of traditional-style Thai cooking at the Pantawan Cooking School which is located in the south of the city. The class takes place in a classic teak wooden house set in a beautiful garden with an organic farm. See the various kinds of herbs growing and use some of these in your cooking lesson. After a demonstration by one of the instructors, using the freshest ingredients, prepare and cook your own Thai food under the helpful supervision of the instructors. Each participant has their own individual cooking station and will prepare four dishes which vary on a daily basis from Northern Thai cuisine to All Time Thai Favourites. The best bit is that after the class you get to eat your creations. Soft drinks are included with the meal and beer and wines are available at an additional cost. Also included is a trip to a local market to sample some local delicacies. The price shown is in Thai Bhat.
Adult Price: ฿2,600.00*
*We're always sourcing more great experiences for you to choose from. When you join us on your tour, your Travel Director will share the most up to date choices for your trip and travel season. For this reason, the optional experiences and pricing offered here are a guide only and subject to change.
All Optional Experiences
The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
YOUR INCLUDED TRIP ESSENTIALS
YOUR INCLUDED TRIP ESSENTIALS
YOUR TRIP
8 nights
Accommodation
14 Meals
8 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 2 Dinners
On-trip Transport
All transport shown
INCLUDED SIGHTSEEING
Bangkok
Visit Wat Pho and the Grand Palace, observe local life along the canals during a khlong tour
Chiang Rai
Visit Wat Phra Kaew and see the city's iconic clock tower
Golden Triangle
Visit the Hall of Opium, take a boat trip along the Mekong River, visit a local market in Laos
Chiang Mai
Visit the handicraft area of Sankamphaeng, the Night Market and the temples of Wat Phra Singh and Wat Doi Suthep
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT ON EVERY TRIP
Audio Headsets Provided throughout your holiday to enhance your included sightseeing experiences
Luxury air-conditioned coach
Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
Variety of Optional Experiences
City orientation tours
An expert Travel Director and separate driver
All hotel service charges and tips, baggage handling fees and local taxes
LIVE, UNEDITED & INDEPENDENT TRAVELLERS REVIEWS
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Trip Notes
Trip prices are per person, land only, based on double occupancy and reflect applicable discount. Discounts are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice.
Trip prices are correct at the time of the products going live, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking. All trip information is correct at time of trips going live, however are subject to change - please confirm all details at time of booking.
For full terms and conditions, please refer to our Website Terms of Use page.
Twin-share option not available for trips to South America, Costa Rica, Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii or for any holiday & cruise combination, or in Asia and Eastern Mediterranean except Highlights of Turkey (without cruise) & Best of Turkey. It's also not available on Small Group trips. Guided Vacations included in this restriction are Newfoundland and Labrador (DNLA) as well as Panama, the Canal & Beyond (LPAN).
For trips that are part of our Guaranteed Room Share, please note that there is a no smoking policy in all shared rooms. Solo travel is not accepted on guided Family Experiences holidays unless travelling as part of a family group.
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