Itinerary
Day 1
Bangkok Arrival
Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River |
Arrive in BangkokYour guide will welcome you at Suvarnabhumi Airport with a warm traditional
“Thai Smile” and escort you on a brief orientation tour of the City of Angels before checking you in
at your selected hotel Already along the way you will be introduced to the traditions and customs of
Thai culture, how to greet with a local “wai” and other useful tips and fun facts about the Land of
Smiles.The rest of the day is yours at leisure or feel free to join the optional tour. Optional: Hacker-Craft Charter Boat Exclusive Experience Along The Chao Phraya
River Everyone at one time or another has stunned at
the beautiful colors of a sunset. It a gorgeous
time of the day, whether the light is reflecting off
a city skyline or shine out over the river. Step
aboard a classic mahogany Hacker-Craft boat,
enjoy a bottle of sparkling wine, cruise through
the heart of Bangkok, and admire the beauty of
illuminated river temples and witness a lifestyle
of riverbank dwellers. On the return journey, we
stop at the Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun), whose towering spire has become an iconic
symbol of Bangkok. Amidst the picturesque beauty of the red and orange light reflection on
Bangkok’s famous river with the most beautiful backgrounds. Take awe-inspiring pictures
while you enjoy each moment tailored to perfection, creating memories that will last a
lifetime.
Day 2
Bangkok B:Hotel
Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River |
Breakfast at the hotel.A “must see” tour that takes in two of Bangkok’s most
famous temples, plus the iconic Grand Palace. Wat
Traimit, a 700-year-old, three meters tall golden statue,
cast from five-and-a-half tons of solid gold which makes
it the world's largest solid gold statue. Wat Pho features
one of the largest Reclining Buddha images in
Thailand. It is also known as the birthplace of traditional
Thai massage. The Temple of the Emerald Buddha,
situated in the Grand Palace complex, otherwise
known as Wat Phra Kaew is regarded as the most sacred
temple in the kingdom. It is an architectural wonder of golden stupas, walls and pillars encrusted in shining and colourful mosaics and murals. It is home to the sacred Emerald Buddha, a dark
green statue which has been carved from a single jade stone. Previously the residence of past Kings
of Thailand, you will see palace buildings once used for different occasions, the Reception Hall, the
Coronation Hall, the Throne Hall, the Royal Guest House. The architecture is predominantly Thai,
though there are some interesting European influences.The rest of the day is yours at leisure.
Day 3
Bangkok B:Hotel L:Local restaurant
Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River |
Breakfast at the hotel. This excursion takes you to Bang Pa-In, the former
Royal Summer Residence of King Rama V. A
number of impressive buildings can be found in the
palace complex consists of a quaint mixture of
European and Thai architecture. Continue by road or
river to the ancient city of Ayutthaya, the former Thai
capital for 417 years and one of Thailand’s major
tourist attractions. Many ancient ruins and art works
can be seen around the city and Ayutthaya Historical
Park, which was founded in 1350 by King U-Thong. A
total of 33 kings of five dynasties ruled the kingdom until it was destroyed by the Burmese in 1767.
The UNESCO-listed city includes attractions such Wat Mahathat and be amazed by the famous
Buddha head in the banyan tree, Wat Phra Sri Sanpetch with a three-spire pagoda; the large
Buddha image of Phra Mongkol Bophit; and Wat Chaiya Mongkol. Lunch will be served and
continue to cruise the waterways around Ayutthaya by long tail boat, taking in the incredible
sights of the city. Drifting along the river you will pass local communities, traditional Thai style
houses and more famous monuments. Return to Bangkok by road.
Day 4
Bangkok B:Hotel
Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River |
Start an early morning with a visit to the Railway Market, witness the train running through the
heart of the market while vendors begin to move their goods away from tracks. On the way stop for
a short visit to a local coconut farm, see how they produce different products, try for example
freshly cooked coconut palm sugar. There are countless floating markets throughout Thailand, but
the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is the most famous. Situated 110 km from Bangkok in
Ratchaburi province, you will take a long tail boat ride through the canals and witness the local
communities along the riverbank, before visit the floating market at Damoen Saduak. At the market, you can walk around and see colorful clad
merchants paddle along congested canals in sturdy canoes
laden with fresh fruit, vegetables, local food and tourist
souvenirs to sell to shoppers on the canal banks. Buy
some local snacks, enjoy the view of the many boats find
their way along the canals and locals interact with tourists.
There is lots of activity and bargaining is part of the fun
of the sale.
Day 5
Bangkok - Chiang Rai B:Hotel
Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort |
Breakfast at the hotel Drive to Suvarnabhumi airport where you will board on flight to Chiang
Rai. (Flight tickets not inclusive)Northern Thailand is famous for its colorful hill tribe
communities, mountain scenery and nature. Chiang Rai gives an
insight into their rich culture and traditions. Have a chance to
travel up the river by long-tailed speedboat to the Golden Triangle
where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar and Laos meet, once
one of the largest opium-producing areas of the world, but now
famous for its beautiful scenery. The rest of the day is yours at leisure. If you are looking for a high-end romantic dining experience, look no further than Favola. Located
in the Le Meridien Resort right next to a tranquil river, this restaurant offers a luxurious dining
experience with a gorgeous atmosphere. Dine in style as you enjoy rustic Italian cuisine and a
selection of imported wines. Or opt for an exclusive chef table experience at Locus Native Food
Lab, which quickly became the destination in Chiang Rai for food lovers. Many would travel to
Thailand’s most northern province just to try the creative local-inspired dishes cooked up by
Kongwuth Chaiwongkachon, the chef-owner who merged his experience in Japanese kitchens with a
touch of local wisdom, northern produce, and inspiration from his foraging trips in Chiang Rai’s
forests. (dinner not included)
Day 6
Chiang Rai B:Hotel
Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort |
Breakfast at the hotel. Visit is Wat Rong Khun or White Temple, built by
Chalermchai, the renowned national artist who has
made headlines for creating the magnificent temple.
Even from afar, the glistening White Temple makes an
immediate impression as soon as it comes into view.
The white color signifies the Buddha’s purity and the
surroundings are decorated with orthodox Buddhist
teachings about heaven, hell, karma and earthly sins.
What you see is an ongoing project and is not expected
to be completed until 2070. The other notable temple is Wat Rong Seua Ten or Blue Temple,
smaller but no less impressive. Painting in a striking
sapphire blue with gold ornamentation, its exterior and
interior design bears a resemblance to the White Temple
because it was built by Putha the pupil of Chalermchai
himself. Our last stop is the eerie Baan Dam or Black House which has over 40 black colored Thai houses
and regarded as a dark place and it’s plain to the see why.
Many were caught unguarded of what they are about to
see:.from buffalo horns and animal skulls; from large
seashells to crocodile skins. The compound indeed exudes a grim atmosphere but at the same time playful. The creator is a national artist name Thawan
Duchanee who is highly respected by Chalermchai. The rest of the day is yours at leisure or feel free to join our optional tour.Optional: Wat Phra Kaew & Mae Fah Luang Art & Cultural Park Pick-up from hotel to visit to Wat Phra Kaew,
the temple of the Emerald Buddha. No one
seems to know exactly when the temple was
built, but it seems to date from around the time
of the city's founding. We then transfer to
Chiang Rai Clock Tower recently built by wellknown artist Chaloemchai Kositpipat, the tower
is located in central part of Chiang Rai. Continue
to visit Mae Fah Luang Art and Cultural Parkwith Royal Collection of Lanna Art. Through
purchasing and marketing handicrafts, the Thai Hill Crafts Foundation helped preserve the
traditional skills and support the livelihoods of ethnic minorities. The Princess Mother then established the Youth
Leadership Project and the Rai Mae Fah Luang
become a 'home' to hundreds of youths from
remote areas with limited access to schooling.
The area had lodgings for the ethnic minority
youths who came to attend schools and also
learn about living in urban areas, among other
aspects of modern life in Thailand. Students
learnt how to live as a community, developing
their social skills. Having shared responsibilities,
they cared for the younger, learnt about time management, worked in shifts to clean their
lodgings, farmed, gardened, and tended vegetable plots. The goal was that this training would
help students grow into dedicated, hard-working, ethical leaders of their communities. Today,
the Mae Fah Luang Art and Cultural Park has the region's largest collection of art items
from the Lanna culture or Tai culture (the minorities in northern Thailand). Opened to
tourists, the Mae Fah Luang Art & Culture Park features not only artifacts but also beautiful
Lanna architecture such as the "Haw Kham" (Golden Pavilion). Other attractions include
Haw Kaew where permanent exhibition on teakwood is featured alongside year-round
revolving exhibition and a botanical collection of indigenous plants from the northern
region.
Day 7
Chiang Rai - Chiang Mai B:Hotel
137 Pillars House Chiang Mai |
Breakfast at the hotelYou will drive from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai approximate 4 hours. Chiang Mai, known as “the Rose of the North” and the former
capital of the ancient Lanna kingdom. The city has a fascinatingly
distinct culture and flair for cuisine. Chiang Mai has an
abundance of temples and fascinating northern Thai architecture.
The beautiful Buddhist temples and their ancient interior reflects
architecture and faith from more than six centuries ago. Relax at
one of the many luxury resorts, Chiang Mai has seen an explosion
of fine dining options, handicraft shops and art galleries and firstclass spas. It’s the perfect place to relax and treat yourself to a 5-
star holiday The city of Chiang Mai has an abundance of beautiful and historic Buddhist temples and this tour
takes in the most interesting. One of the highlights is a visit to the 600-year-old temple of Wat Phra
That Doi Suthep, near the summit of Doi Suthep Mount. The temple is almost as famous as the
Temple of Emerald Buddha in Bangkok. After a drive up the mountain’s winding road, the final
climb to the site is via a magnificent Naga (dragon-headed serpent) staircase of 306 steps. Inside
is an intriguing copper-plated chedi topped by a five-tier gold umbrella which contains partial relics
of Lord Buddha. On a clear day, there are incomparable views over the city of Chiang Mai. Other
temple visits on this tour include: Wat Suan Dok, whose large central stupa contains the ashes of
Chiang Mai’s royal family; Wat Chedi Luang, where the Emerald Buddha was once enshrined; and
Wat Phra Singh, housing a very sacred 1,500 years old Buddha image.
Day 8
Chiang Mai B:Hotel
137 Pillars House Chiang Mai |
Breakfast at the hotel. The relationship between elephants in Asia and tourism can be divided into two clear categories. The first is viewing
wild elephants in their natural habitat (National Parks or remote rural regions), while the second is viewing and/or
interacting with captive elephants in sanctuaries and elephant camps. Here at Destination Asia we promote viewing
wild elephants following clear guidelines so not to disrupt their natural environment; and we are working with Travelife
to define a widely accepted set of criteria and evaluation system for elephant camps in Asia. We fully support the work carried
out at Patara Elephant Farm, especially the ‘Elephant
Day Care’ program, a unique experience introducing
techniques used to care for elephants. The emphasis is
on care and wellbeing of the elephants, providing guests
with the chance to learn about the center’s conservation
philosophy. Activities on offer here include taking part
in the daily healthcare routine which includes health
inspection, feeding, walking with the elephants and
washing. It is then possible to observe them interacting
among their families in a natural environment. This unique experience does not include riding any
elephants. It is suitable for all, especially friends and families with children. Remark: Roundtrip join transfer is included in the package.
Supplement will be applied for roundtrip private transfer from/to Patara Elephant Camp. The rest of the day is yours at leisure.
Day 9
Chiang Mai - Krabi B:Hotel
Rayavadee Resort |
Breakfast at the hotel. At the indicated time in afternoon, private transfer with English speaking guide
to the airport to take the flight to Krabi. (Flight tickets not inclusive) Upon arrival in Krabi, you’ll be transferred from the airport to the resort pier in order to take a longtailed boat to Railay area.Optional: Bird’s Eye View of Chiang Mai - Hot Air Balloon Flight You've always dreamed of a scenic balloon
flight experience? here is your chance now! Up
in the sky, it is a silent world filled with beauty,
excitement and true adventure. Enjoy your
breathtaking hot air balloon ride, an experience
that cannot compare to anything else. Float high
above the tree tops and the beautiful Thai
countryside below. Enjoy the stunning
panoramic views as the early morning sun
rises and reveals picturesque vistas as far as the
eye can see. If you really want to make a lasting impression on someone special, a hot air
balloon ride is the ultimate “unforgettable” gift, for a special romantic day, an anniversary or
just a once in a life time adventure. Ballooning is
strictly a fair weather activity. Flights are
conducted during the early morning hours and
maybe sometimes during early evening hours,
when winds are light and the air is stable. The
balloon flight itself will take you about one hour
in the air, depending on the weather conditions.
After landing it is time to relax a little and enjoy
a champagne breakfast. Before returning to
your hotel you will be given your “certificate of
flight” as a small reminder of your magical flight – this is a “one in a lifetime experience and
definitely one not to be missed.Krabi is famous for its prominent natural character - limestone
cliffs that can be seen throughout the area. Apart from Ao Nang,
Klong Muang and Tubkaak Beach, there is also Railay Beach
which is accessible only by boat due to high limestone cliffs cutting
off mainland access. Not only famous for its about beautiful
beaches and gateway to explore tropical small islands, rockclimbers will find their nirvana in Railay, hikers may hike Hang
Nak Mount to enjoy arguably the best viewpoint Krabi has to
offer. Enjoy Krabi's wonderful beaches, islands, jungle activities,
yet wallow in luxury at the end of the day in five-star opulence
with top-class service, facilities, accommodation and dining.
Day 10
Krabi B:Hotel L:Local Restaurant
Rayavadee Resort |
Breakfast at the hotel. Make a tour around charming Krabi Town and its lively
market where you can experience a genuine local life and
hospitality of Krabi. The town is divided to mangrove
forest by the river cutting its way to the sea. Next is a
visit to Wat Tham Suea aka Tiger Cave Temple with
big Buddha image sitting on the top which required you
to hike 1,237 steps up and those who make it will be
rewarded with superb panoramic view. Part of a temple
complex in which monks live and meditate in a maze of
natural caves. Inside one of the caves appears to be tiger
paw prints embedded in stone. Another interesting attraction is the Gastropod Fossil Sitecontaining 40-million-year-old fossils shells that have formed curious giant slabs jutting out into the
sea. The final call is to the Nopparat Thara Beach in the National Park to view the untouched
three-km long sandy beach shaded by Casuarinas trees.
Day 11
Krabi B:Hotel
Rayavadee Resort |
Breakfast at the hotel. The rest of the day is yours at leisure or feel free to join our optional tour.Optional: Krabi Romantic Private Tropical Island Hopping & Picnic Let us spoil you and your loved one on a private
romantic experience, tailored to your needs and
expectations. We will help you to avoid crowded
boats, rushed beach stops and instead have it our
way. Adjust the itinerary together with your
experienced captain and guide. Pick and choose
from the many islands, white sanded beaches and
activities. Get the most out of your day out on
the sea and explore four unforgettable islands of the Ao Nang Archipelago with your own private traditional long tail boat. Enjoy
breathtaking views, and the natural surrounding by dramatic limestone formations Krabi
province is famous for. Combine relaxing beach time on tropical beaches with swimming in
crystal clear waters. Enjoy snorkeling and explore the underwater world with many colorful
fish. Depart early to avoid the crowds or wake up late and depart mid-day. Explore the exotic
beaches, crystal-clear waters and lush nature in your own tempo. Surprise your special
someone for a surprise private pick-nick on a tropical island! The private picnic lunch is served at one of the
islands. Forget crowded
restaurants, boring lunch boxes and look forward
to bamboo mats or bean bags, low, white tables
set-up and directly on the beach! Enjoy two
delicious sandwiches, freshly made fruit juices
and some nice salads. All complimented with a
bottle of wine to toast to a beautiful day on
the beach! This is a tailor-made day for a perfect
romantic Krabi beach escape. Meal included: Luxury picnic lunch
Day 12
Krabi Departure B:Hotel
Breakfast at the hotel and drive to Krabi airport where you will board on flight to your next
destination (Flight tickets not inclusive).