Although the climate varies within the country, Thailand is a good year round destination. For the bulk of the country the months from November to April offer pleasantly cool, dry conditions making it perfect for travel. On the southern peninsular the climate differs between the east and west coast. East coast beaches receive their warmest temperatures during our summer months, whilst the west coast enjoys their warm, dry conditions during our winter and spring.
Tour Overview
Jungles, cities and beaches A contrast of vibrant bustling Bangkok with it bright temples and noisy markets, quiet daily life of the hill tribe villagers, and beautiful sandy beaches on Koh Samet, this varied adventure will suit every family member. You travel by overnight train, ride an elephant and have a long-tail boat trip before ending your holiday in the sparkling waters of tropical Koh Samet island.
Enriching tailormade journeys – for you This bespoke journey features some of our favourite spots in Thailand. You can choose to take our destination experts’ recommendations and travel just as you see the itinerary here, or contact us to add your own special touches; how about adding a snorkelling boat trip from Koh Samet or a few extra days to visit Angkor Wat in Cambodia. We’re here to design your perfect holiday. Call us on 0844 875 1897.
Details may vary depending on departure date. Please choose
Fly to Bangkok on an overnight flight from the UK.
2
Arrive Bangkok
Arrive in Bangkok, where you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to explore, you may wish to explore the vibrant night markets of Patpong or Khao San Road, or book a visit to the muay Thai martial arts.
Overnight Comfort Level Hotel
in Narai Hotel
Narai Hotel
Located in the centre of Bangkok's business, entertainment and shopping district, this smart, modern hotel provides a full spectrum of services and amenities including a fitness centre and outdoor swimming pool. All the guest rooms are designed with a contemporary Thai flavour and come with high speed internet access.
3
Bangkok
A great way to see Bangkok is from the river! Board a long-tail boat and visit Wat Arun, followed by a visit to the ornate Grand Palace and Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Soak up the flavors, sights and sounds of this bustling Asian city. Late in the afternoon, board your overnight train north.
Arrive this morning in Chiang Mai, the northern capital of Thailand, you have a sightseeing tour including Warorose markets, and a few of the 300 temples in the city! You then visit Doi Suthep Temple, built in 1383 and situated at near the top of Suthep Mountain, a 300 step climb, you may have a chance to chat with monks or take a blessing.
Overnight Comfort Level Hotel
in Imperial Mae Ping Included meals: Breakfast
Imperial Mae Ping
Delightfully and conveniently located next to the Mae Ping River and close to the heart of Chiang Mai, the Imperial Mae Ping boasts two outdoor pools, fitness and spa facilities and a selection of dining options. Tastefully decorated in traditional Lanna style, this hotel blends age-old culture with modern style.
5
Elephant sanctuary
Head out to the Lampang elephant sanctuary. Established in 1969, it is the largest elephant conservation centre in the country and host to an elephant hospital, caring for sick and abandoned elephants. You will be able to see elephants bathing and carrying logs and there is also the option to ride one of these amazing animals. Or, how about getting your hands dirty and making some ‘elephant paper’, using a truly recyclable material – elephant dung!? This afternoon, take a Thai cookery course, where an expert cook will teach the basics of Thai cookery, be careful not to add too much chili!
Overnight Comfort Level Hotel
in Imperial Mae Ping Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
6
Pai
Today you head into the northern hills to spend the next three days exploring the area of the hilltribes. There are numerous individual tribes, each with its own particular beliefs, way of life and colour of dress. Drive to Pai where your trekking journey begins in the afternoon when you hike to a Red Lahu Village (approx two and half hrs walking), where you spend the night in the local village houses. The shaman mediates with the village and jungle spirits, his house serving as the village temple.
Todays trek of approximately four hours take you to a White Karen village. You stop at Tham Yao cave along the way. This is a vast and pristine cave system located close to the village. The Karen tribe consists of four distinct groups and forms the largest hilltribe in Thailand. The men often wear Western clothes although the women are prolific weavers and are usually colourfully dressed. Karen people are renowned for their handicrafts such as woven baskets, musical instruments and animal bells.
A two to three hour hike this morning takes you to a Shan Village, where you’ll see the locals going about their daily life. You then transfer to the Pai River, and board a boat and float to Mae Hong Son, where you spend the next two nights. Mae Hong Son is a tranquil spot which lies in a forested valley next to the river, surrounded by mountains – a spectacular setting.
Overnight Comfort Level Hotel
in Fern Resort Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Fern Resort
Fern Resort, nestled in lush Thai jungle, consists of 30 wooden bungalows, built in the local Shan style and are comfortable and tastefully decorated. The resort offers a pool, bar and restaurant, and occasionally a campfire BBQ and the oppotunity to weave traditional Karen clothes with the staff!
9
Mae Hong Son
Visit the local market this morning, followed by a guided sightseeing tour to include some of the local temples, some of them Burmese in style. This afternoon, drive to Chiang Mai, the scenic bus journey will take around five hours.
Overnight Comfort Level Hotel
in Imperial Mae Ping Included meals: Breakfast
10 to 12
Koh Samet
Fly to Bangkok airport where you are transferred to Ban Phe port for the ferry to Koh Samet. The next two days are free to relax on the beautiful white sandy beaches or you may wish to arrange a boat trip and go snorkelling.
Overnight Comfort Level Hotel
in Sai Kaew Beach Resort Included meals: Breakfast
Sai Kaew Beach Resort
Located in the north-east corner of Ko Samet, Sai Kaew Beach Resort gains by having access to two wonderful beachfronts. This comfortable resort has cabins set along the beach or in gardens, each with its own balcony. Swim in the resort’s pool or the warm, clear waters of the Gulf of Thailand, before enjoying a delicious meal in one of the hotel’s restaurants.
13
Bangkok
Transfer back to Bangkok, the rest of the day is free to do some last minute sightseeing and souvenir shopping.
Overnight Comfort Level Hotel
in Narai Hotel Included meals: Breakfast
14
Depart Thailand
Unfortunately time to depart for your evening flight to the UK.
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