LUXURY - Classic Thailand 12 Days

Arrive in Bangkok

Your 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. 

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.

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.

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.

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)

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.

Breakfast at the hotel

You 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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Breakfast at the hotel and drive to Krabi airport where you will board on flight to your next destination (Flight tickets not inclusive).