Sa-wat dee! Welcome to Thailand! In this tour, you’ll get to experience quintessential Thailand starting in Chiang Mai, the most vibrant city in northern Thailand. Chiang Mai has many famous temples and an interesting old city area. Renowned for dazzling beauty and extremely welcoming locals, the ‘Rose of the North’ will leave you spellbound. You’ll also get a chance to venture out to see the more natural side of Thailand, with wildlife safaris, a stay in a raft house, a speedboat adventure island hopping, and of course, plenty of traditional Thai meals. From there, you’ll head to Bangkok, the cultural and spiritual center of the nation, to round out your Thai adventure with the perfect mix of culture, cuisine, spirituality, wildlife, and relaxation.
Day One
Overnight: Chiang Mai
Sawatdee kaa! Welcome to Thailand! We will meet at our hotel this afternoon for your official welcome and a brief orientation. Following the meeting, head to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep to explore the famous temple complex. Drive along a scenic, winding mountain road that ends at an impressive 300-step naga-guarded stairway (approximately 45 mins). The rewards justify the climb with one of the most beautiful temples in Thailand on display, not to mention fantastic panoramic views of the city and the opportunity to listen to hypnotic evening chanting by resident Buddhist monks. This evening, there will be an opportunity to get to know your fellow travelers over dinner.
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Day Two
Overnight: Chiang Mai
This morning after breakfast we will visit a local market and collect fresh ingredients which you will then use to cook authentic Thai cuisine with the help of a farm-to-table cooking school. You will enjoy the fruits of your labor with a private group lunch amidst the school’s serene organic garden and farm. You will have a free afternoon to explore Chiang Mai on your own.
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Day Three
Overnight: Khao Sok
Arrive in Surat Thani in the morning, and you will head to Khao Sok National Park and take a long-tailed boat to Chiew Larn Lake. Let’s cruise and see the limestone cliffs set against the jungle backdrop. After lunch, go on a guided hike, identifying local wildlife on the way. On the way back to the raft house, enjoy an evening safari, when the animals are most active. Later, have a traditional southern Thai style dinner. Tonight, you will stay in a superior raft house, which is literally on the lake.
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Day Four
Overnight: Koh Libong
Today we have an early morning, as we will have a boat safari catching the mist drifting along the water and jungle as you search for wildlife and watch the sun rise over the lake. We then check out of our raft house and continue south to another natural jewel, Tharn Bokkoranee National Park, where you’ll visit Tham Phi Hua To, or “Ghost Head Cave.” After exploring the cave, enjoy a breath-taking long-tailed boat ride through the mangroves, and take in the stunning views of the lush, tranquil landscape. Continuing south, we transfer by speedboat to the laid-back atmosphere, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters of Koh Libong island.
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Day Five
Overnight: Koh Libong
Today you have the day to yourself to unwind and enjoy your island paradise.
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Day Six
Overnight: Koh Libong
Today you have an exciting island tour by speedboat! Your first stop is Koh Mook, where you’ll visit the famous Emerald Cave (Tham Morakot), a hidden gem that can be reached by swimming through a narrow passage leading to a secret lagoon surrounded by lush cliffs. Afterward, relax on the island’s picturesque beaches and swim in its crystal-clear waters. Enjoy a delicious beachside lunch on Koh Mook, with Thai traditional dishes, before continuing your journey to Koh Kradan, known for its serene beaches and vibrant marine life. The last stop is Koh Cheuk, a peaceful and secluded island perfect for snorkeling in its pristine waters.
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Day Seven
Overnight: Bangkok
This morning, take a flight to the first ancient capitals of Siam to the current capital of Thailand, Bangkok, a dynamic city that blends modern skyscrapers with traditional temples. Upon arrival, head to Autthaya, the ancient capital of Thailand, where you’ll start with a relaxing lunch by the river, taking in the tranquil surroundings. Afterward, explore the city’s fascinating ruins and temples. In the evening, make your way back to Bangkok, where you can soak in the lively atmosphere, from bustling street markets to serene temples, before concluding the day’s adventure.
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Day Eight
Overnight: Bangkok
This morning we will visit the Grand Palace and the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand, Wat Phra Kaew. This place is the spiritual center of the nation. Next is another site you won’t want to miss: the temple Wat Pho, the home of the famous Golden Reclining Buddha. Learn all about the history of these temples and some secret stories only locals know.
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Day Nine
Overnight: Bangkok
It’s not a visit to Thailand without a ride in a tuk tuk. Start your tuk tuk tour in Bangkok’s Old Town with a visit to Phra Sumen Fort, an 18th-century structure that once formed part of the city’s defensive walls. Next, head to Wat Ratchanaddaram, home to the stunning Loha Prasat, or Metal Castle. This unique structure, with its 37 metal spires, is one of the only of its kind in the world. Then you’ll make your way to the Ban Batr Monk Bowl Community, a traditional village where you can observe artisans crafting the alms bowls used by monks in their daily rituals. Continue your tour with a visit to the Giant Swing, an iconic red frame that once played a role in the Brahmin ceremony of swinging monks.
This evening, board a boat for a ride along the canals of the Chao Phraya River, a relaxing break from the busy city streets. We will then have our final dinner as a group, along the banks of the river, taking in the view of Bangkok at night.
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Day Ten
Tour Ends
The tour ends after breakfast. Your guide will be on hand to help with transfers to the airport or wherever your adventures take you. Good bye and thank you!
Price: $5150 (Air not included) per person for a double occupancy room. Single Supplement is $785.
We welcome singles and if you do not have a travel partner, please sign up for a single spot. In the event that a roommate is found, your booking can be changed to a double before final payment is due.
What’s included: 9 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 3 dinners, and 9 nights lodging in a clean, comfortable, and centrally located hotel. All admissions and fees for group activities. Transport within the tour and private guides, tips included.
Deposit Policy: A non-refundable deposit of $600 per person is due upon booking.
Thailand in a Teacup tour begins in Chiang Mai (CNX) and ends in Bangkok (BKK).
If you have additional questions please email us at info@adventureswithsarah.net
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