Sherri Pittman
Sample Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival to Bangkok
Welcome to Bangkok - the quintessential eastern metropolis and Southeast Asia’s most vibrant capital city. Known in Thai as the city of angels, Bangkok is a city of mind-boggling history and spirituality, where you can expect ancient Thai temples that rise magnificently from the riverbanks, colorful palaces that glisten spectacularly in the sunlight, and a snaking river that audaciously wind its way through the heart of the city. Fabulous shopping awaits you, whether you’re after high quality artisanal handicrafts or excellent bargains in Asia’s most stylish shopping centers. If you’re a food lover, you will delight at the exceptionally delicious meals that can be enjoyed at every corner of the city.
Upon arrival, you will be warmly welcomed at the airport by your guide, who will take care of the transfer to your hotel. Prepare to be left mesmerized by this urban wonderland.
Overnight Riva Surya Bangkok
Day 2
Bangkok
Today you will experience Bangkok like a local. You will take the BTS skytrain and glide through the city to reach the river, where you’ll take a short boat trip to Tha Tien Pier to visit Wat Pho. Wat Pho is home to more than one thousand Buddha images, as well as one of the largest single Buddha statues: the Reclining Buddha. You will likely hear the monk's morning chanting ritual emanating from the main hall during your visit.
Continue your walk to Wat Phra Kaew, known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha — one of the most respected temples in Thailand. Your next unmissable stop will be the Grand Palace, home of the Kings of Siam of the Chakri Dynasty, originally built by King Rama I. Afterward, you will continue your walk to the fascinating Amulet market. For a bit of adventure, jump on a Thai tuk tuk to visit Wat Saket and climb the heavenly Golden Mountain, which offers an incredible view over Bangkok. After that, you will travel aboard a Saen Saeb taxi boat to discover the Jim Thompson house, home of the famous founder of Jim Thompson Thai Silk.
One last ride by BTS or taxi will bring you back to your hotel after a day full of striking experiences.
Overnight Riva Surya Bangkok
Day 3
Markets and Chiang Mai
In the early morning you will travel to the well-known Damnoen Saduak floating market, which has been drawing curious visitors for centuries due to the remarkable practice of buying and selling goods almost entirely on water. Jump in a canoe and gently glide on the canals among hundreds of small boats loaded with all kinds of goods, from juicy fruits to colorful fabrics.
Continue to the Talaad Rom Hoob train market. This market is located along the railway tracks and if you are lucky, you will get to see the train pass within inches of the goods and produce on sale.The train announces its arrival with great blows of the horn, leaving just seconds for the merchants to repack the goods then reinstall them just as quickly once the train has passed.
After that, drive to Bangkok airport for a flight to Chiang Mai, the ancient walled city of leafy green trees, winding alleyways, gentle inhabitants and spectacular cuisine. Chiang Mai can make a good case for being the most charming city in Thailand. Northern Thailand’s most important cultural hub offers a huge variety of antique temples from colorful structures that sparkle in the sunlight to more understated beauties that exhibit the earthy tones of brick and wood. The surrounding countryside is nothing short of spectacular. Chiang Mai is also the gateway into the northern mountains for invigorating treks, enigmatic elephants and culturally intriguing minority villages.
Overnight Tamarind Village, Chiang Mai
Day 4
Wat Phra Singh
Discover Wat Phra Singh within the ancient walls and the encircling moat of Chiang Mai. This expansive temple compound houses several spectacular structures with high roofs sparkling with gold as well as towering chedis. Afterwards, head to one Chiang Mai’s most drenched in spirituality sites - Doi Suthep Temple soaring towards the sky from the top of the mountain.
Enjoy some free time at the hotel in the afternoon. In the evening, you will head to a local gym for a fun introduction to Muay Thai, learn the basic techniques and appreciate the complexities of this martial art that is deeply rooted in Thai culture. Under the supervision of a knowledgeable instructor, you will experience the ins and outs of "the science of 8 limbs" in a safe environment, as you quickly learn that besides being a practical martial art, Muay Thai can also be an enjoyable form of movement for the whole family.
Overnight Tamarind Village, Chiang Mai
Day 5
Soi Inthanon National Park
Spend the day in Doi Inthanon National Park, famous for the cool climate, lush nature, numerous waterfalls, various hill tribe villages and last but not least, home to Thailand’s highest point (2,565 meters)! With a serene natural environment and manicured gardens, Doi Inthanon is a paradise for nature lovers and perfect for strolling with stunning views of misty mountains. The temperature is almost always pleasant, sometimes even a little cold, which can be a welcome relief after the steamy lowlands.
Epic waterfalls are an added highlight to the National Park, as well as peaceful and scenic temples that are nestled up high in the mountainous landscape. The vegetation is breathtaking, and you may even spot a few colorful butterflies and songbirds along the way. The park is located about an hour’s drive away from the city but the surroundings are completely different. Prepare to see some amazing vistas, beautiful waterfalls, green nature trails, tasting locally grown coffee and meeting some of the Karen hill tribes that live on the mountain slopes.
Overnight Tamarind Village, Chiang Mai
Day 6
Chiang Mai countryside and Thai cooking
At daybreak, you will arrive in the lush countryside surrounding Chiang Mai. You will visit a well-respected elephant center, whose goal is to recover elephants that have been exploited, injured or in distress, and give them a sanctuary along with the care, attention and respect they deserve. Although this is not the place for riding the elephants – as a matter of policy, elephant back riding is prohibited by the camp – you will have the opportunity to closely observe them.
In the late afternoon, you’ll learn some of the secrets of Thai cooking while one of our favorite
Chiang Mai grandmas provide step-by-step guidance as you cook and eat together!
Overnight Tamarind Village, Chiang Mai
Day 7
Visit with a local community
After breakfast, you will head to a small community in a fertile valley just 1.5 hours north of Chiang Mai. Your hosts will welcome you with some snacks and juice and a short Mad Mue ceremony. After a quick introduction to the day’s plans, you will set off for a relaxing nature walk in the community forest. At lunchtime, you will return to the village for your meal. You may even be able to help prepare some of the dishes!
In the afternoon you will explore the village and learn about everyday life there. Depending on the season, you can take part in one of the daily tasks and gain some practical experience. Together with your hosts, you can look back on a fun-filled day of experiences before returning to your hotel.
Overnight Tamarind Village, Chiang Mai
Day 8
Chiang Mai to Phuket
This morning, transfer to Chiang Mai airport with your guide for your flight to Phuket. Exquisite white-sandy beaches, clear emerald sea water and bright sunlight are all synonymous with Phuket, an international magnet for beach lovers all over the world. Phuket is the country's largest island. Present day Phuket has been shaped by its diverse ethnic groups, culture, architectural influences, and traditional fine cuisines. The island also has more to offer visitors than its natural heritage of sea, sand, sky, beach, forests and world renowned diving sites. The old town of Phuket is definitely another charming place well worthy of a visit.
Upon arrival at Phuket airport, your car and guide will transfer you to your hotel for check in.
Overnight Cape Panwa Phuket
Day 9
Days at Leisure
The entire next three days are for you to enjoy as you please. This is a good time to slow down as a family, enjoy some time together at the beach or the pool, and reflect on your experiences in Thailand. For kids, this can be a good time for them to talk with you about what they have learned and observed along the way. The team at your hotel will also be on-hand to make sure that you have a chance to wind down and relax a bit before you end your vacation.
Phuket itself is the kind of place where you can do as much or as little as you would like. If you feel the desire, head into the old town to explore the Sino-Portuguese architecture and unique food culture of Phuket.
Overnight Cape Panwa Phuket
Day 10
Departure
On your final day, you will be transferred to Phuket airport in time for your onward departure.
