THAILAND 2010
Thailand - exotic and mysterious, a modern society with underlying rich traditions and friendly people - it is the only country in Southeast Asia never to have been colonized in its 800-year history. See majestic and bustling Bangkok - a scene straight out of the "King and I" - Visit the Grand Palace, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, ancient Nakorn Patho, the Floating Market and Rose Garden.
Continue to the Thai Burmese border and visit Chiang Rai, in a region known for its beautiful mountain scenery, many historic sites, Buddhist shrines and ethnic villages. Travl 62 kilometers north of Chiang Rai to Mae Sai, Thailand's northern-most town. Then , on to Chiang Mai, the economic and communications hub of northern Thailand; it is a city with a history of more than 700 years, a rich cultural heritage, friendly, hospitable people and natural beauty that make it an ideal vacation spot. Quite isolated until a railway line was completed in the late 1920s, Chiang Mai preserved its unique Lanna culture- Join us on this special tour!
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS- 12 meals- including breakfast daily, 3 lunches and 2 dinners
- Professional Visits in Bangkok and Chiang Mai
- Explore dramatic Bangkok
- Visit the Grand Palace
- Country lunch at the Rose Garden Resort
- Travel to the scenic and culturally rich northern hill country of Thailand and visit Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai
- Boat ride on the Makong River
- Enjoy Kanthoke dinner in Chiang Mai
ITINERARY - 8 Days / 6 NightsFRIDAY- DAY 1- EN ROUTE
Departure from the U.S. on the airline of your choice.
SATURDAY, DAY 2- BANGKOK
Arrive in vibrant, colorful Bangkok, Thailand's exotic capital and gateway city on the banks of the Chao Praya River. With approximately 10 million people, Bangkok is an exciting and sophisticated city, which has succeeded in combining both the ancient and modern worlds. Transfer to your hotel. Evening at leisure to unwind and relax.
SUNDAY - DAY 3- BANGKOK
Bangkok has over 400 glittering Buddhist temples as well as magnificent palaces. This morning's tour visits the Grand Palace with its elaborate Thai-style architecture, symbol and ceremonial heart of the kingdom. Visit the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Tower of the Nine Planets and the Great Throne Hall of Chakri Kings. This afternoon, a Professional Visit is scheduled. Tonight, Thai Dinner and classical dance performance. BD
MONDAY, DAY 4- BANGKOK
Full day of wondrous sightseeing highlights the diversity of Thailand's culture. Begin with a visit to Nakorn Pathom, the oldest city in Thailand; view the tallest pagoda in Southeast Asia. Continue to Damnerm Saduak Floating Market, where throngs of vendors sail by with their wares. On to the lovely Rose Garden country resort for lunch. Then, watch a fascinating presentation of the cultural arts and customs of the country. You'll see Thai boxing, a monk's ordination procession, folk dancing and a wedding ceremony. Return to Bangkok. BL
TUESDAY - DAY 5- BANGKOK-CHIANG RAI
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Chiang Rai in the "Golden Triangle" region where Laos, Myanmar and Thailand converge. This ancient city was founded in 1262 by King Meng Rai, who also founded Chiang Mai. Chiang Rai became the first capital of the Lanna Thai Kingdom. It has a relaxed atmosphere and is known for its rich cultural diversity. B
WEDNESDAY - DAY 6 -CHIANG RAI-CHIANG MAI
Visit to Mae Sai, geographically the most northern town of Thailand on the border to Burma. The two countries are connected by a bridge over the Mae Sai River. Continue to the "Golden Triangle", the meeting point of the borders of Burma, Laos and Thailand. Lunch, then travel by boat on the Mekong River, visiting Wat Chedi Luang before driving via Wiang Pa Pao to Chiang Mai, the "Rose of the North." tonight, enjoy a special Kanthoke Dinner served in Lamma Kingdom court-syle. BLD
THURSDAY - DAY 7- CHIANG MAI
Drive through the city, passing old city walls, gates and city moat, market, residential areas, and foreign consulates. Then, drive up to the beautiful hill temple of Doi Suthep, which offers a panoramic view of the city and countryside. The temple was built in 1384 A.D. and is 3,500 feet above sea level. It is considered the most sacred temple in Northern Thailand, and welcomes Buddhist pilgrims from everywhere. Continue to the colorful village of the Meo Hill Tribe, which still retains its ancient culture and mode of dress. This afternoon, a Professional Visit is scheduled. B
FRIDAY - DAY 8- CHIANG MAI
Full day tour to the Elephant Camp, the Orchid Farm and the handicraft village. Lunch is included. Evening at leisure. BL
SATURDAY - DAY 9- CHIANG MAI-BANGKOK
Morning transfer to the airport for the flight to Bangkok and your continuing flight onward. B
This is a sample itinerary – distribution of sites & leisure time is subject to change.
Tour price will include local internal flights within Thailand and be provided by your local guide. We will be happy to assist you with your trans-pacific reservations and tickets.
EXTENSIONS AVAILABLE TO SINGAPORE, MYANMAR AND LAOS - PLEASE ASK FOR DETAILS.