Thailand Journey
Join us in Thailand on your private small-group journey. You will see Bangkok, the Grand Palace, the Temple of Emerald Buddha, Baan Silapin, famous for its puppet shows, River Cruise, Kanchanaburi, Huai Mae Khamin Waterfall, WWII Museum, Allied War Cemetery, Aranyik, ChangChill Elephant Experience, and much more!
What’s Included
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Breakfast Daily and Select Meals |
*Overseas Airport Transfers |
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Entrance and Program Fees |
First Class Hotels |
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Guided Tours |
Tips for Hotel Staff & Hotel Porters |
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Live Audio Headsets (Groups of 8 or more) |
Deluxe A/C Motor Coaches |
The Itinerary
Day 1 – Depart The USA
Depart the USA on your way to Bangkok, Thailand, on your international flight. (Note: Those making their own arrangements will start with EOX on Day 2.)
Day 2 – Arrive in Bangkok
Arrive in Bangkok and transfer to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure.
Day 3 – Gateway to Bangkok
This morning, stop at the Grand Palace, a majestic complex that served as the residence for the Kings of Thailand for over two centuries. Marvel at the intricate design and craftsmanship and learn about the history of this impressive landmark. Next, we’ll visit Wat Pho, one of Bangkok's oldest and largest temples. Famous for its reclining Buddha statue, Wat Pho is also home to numerous other Buddha images, impressive architecture, and beautiful murals. Take your time to explore the temple grounds and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. After exploring Wat Pho, make a short journey over to Wat Prayun, a lesser-known but equally impressive temple complex built during the reign of King Rama III in the 19th century, which boasts a unique stupa design and serene atmosphere. The temple is located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, offering stunning views across the water and surrounding areas. Following this, take a quick break from sightseeing to enjoy a delicious Thai lunch at a local restaurant. Next, it’s time to try a different mode of transport as you take a short, longtail boat ride through the Khlong (canals) of Bangkok. This is a great way to experience the local way of life, see traditional wooden houses and local shops, and escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a while. Then, stop at the Mahanakorn Tower, one of Bangkok’s tallest skyscrapers. More intrepid travelers may wish to step out on the glass-floored observation deck and skywalk on the 74th floor. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and take in the stunning sunset scenery. Overnight in Bangkok. (B, L)
Day 4 – Bangkok Bites
Embark on a captivating culinary exploration in Bangkok, starting with a delightful visit to Samyan Market. Situated in the city’s heart and near the famed Wat Hua Lamphong, Samyan Market is a vibrant amalgamation of a wet market and a lively food court. Indulge in the lively atmosphere as you browse through an array of stalls brimming with fresh vegetables, fruits, meats, and fish. Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of traditional Thai cooking as you discover the exquisite use of exotic herbs and spices. Treat your taste buds to delectable snacks from the local food carts while engaging with the friendly locals. Continue your culinary journey with a visit to Nang Loeng Market. This market is over 120 years old and is believed to be the first land market in Thailand. In the past, Nang Loeng held great significance and was renowned for its Royal patronage, with some of its shops having served several members of the Thai Royal Family and even HM Queen Elizabeth II. Today, the market still emanates an enchanting old-world charm. Stroll through the market’s wooden shophouses and savor traditional delicacies crafted from cherished family recipes. After tantalizing your palate with these flavorsome experiences, it will be time for a delightful lunch. Relish a selection of authentic Thai dishes at a popular local restaurant as you enjoy the friendly, local community. Following the tasty meal, treat yourself to a traditional Thai dessert! As the morning of culinary delights in Bangkok draws to a close, return to your hotel in the early afternoon carrying fond memories and full bellies from this truly remarkable experience. Overnight in Bangkok. (B, L)
Day 5 – Fly from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Street Eats by Tuk Tuk
Enjoy your leisurely morning before transferring to the airport to fly from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. In the evening, you will hop aboard an electric tuk-tuk to whizz around on a gastronomic journey, stopping by the city’s finest street food hawkers. Then, head to one of the most famous night markets of Chiang Mai, a favorite among the knowledgeable locals. If we have time, we’ll line up for a steaming hot bowl of Thai Suki – a deliciously hearty soup with vegetables and meat. The guide will introduce the best stall for pork meatballs, served with a delightfully tangy dipping sauce that also packs a punch. Guests will also see plenty of other enticing street food stalls, and we’ll choose a variety of delectable treats to try. Northern Thai food is known for its chili-based spice, but guests shouldn’t worry as vendors are usually happy to cater dishes to personal taste – our guide can help negotiate less spicy dishes! Next, we’ll move on to a market closer to the old city. This market is another plaza teeming with life on the edge of the old city near the iconic Chiang Mai gate. Feast on more fried treats – spicy northern Thai sausage is a specialty here. The final market stop is a renowned vendor of Kanom Jeen (fermented rice noodles with curry). The guide will provide a few options of slight variations on the curry sauce for visitors to sample. We’ll also try another of Chiang Mai’s famous dishes – Khao Soi. This curried chicken dish is flavored with peanut, coconut, chili, and lime and served on top of soft egg noodles and sprinkled with crispy noodles. Then, it’s time for dessert! You’ll try the best Thai Roti in town and another Thai dessert of sweets in one bowl topped with coconut milk and ice. Head home satiated from the cacophony of tasty treats! Overnight in Chiang Mai. (B, L)
Day 6 – Temple of Chiang Mai
Explore Chiang Mai in the iconic red songthaews – red trucks that act as local taxis around the city. Negotiate the winding uphill road that climbs to the peak of Doi Suthep. This imposing mountain overlooks the valley of Chiang Mai, offering stunning panoramic views of the city below. At the peak, visit Doi Suthep temple – one of the most significant Buddhist temples in the area. Observe locals going about their daily prayers with the wispy smoke of incense sticks all around. A particular highlight is the imposing golden stupa in the central area of the temple. Next, it’s back into the songthaews to retrace our steps down the mountain and within the old city's walls. Millions of Thais visit Chiang Mai for the old city's many iconic, ancient temples. We’ll stop first at Wat Chedi Luang – a crumbling temple complex in the historic center of the city, before visiting Wat Pan Tao, known for its exquisite Lanna-style ordination hall (Wihan), entirely made of teakwood, complete with intricate designs, and decorated with all manner of Buddhist imagery. The sacred Phan Tao Buddha image is enshrined in the hall. The final stop for the day is Warorot market, tucked up on the banks of the Ping River that runs through the city. Warorot has long been the lifeblood of the city – a hub for all locals to buy food, homewares, clothes, and all manner of local handicrafts. Observe the hustle and bustle of a Southeast Asian market and try some of the delicious local delicacies. The vast flower market is a particular highlight for visitors. Overnight in Chiang Mai. (B, L)
Day 7 – Thai Cooking Master Class with Local Chef
Enjoy a fantastic culinary experience that encompasses the whole process, from farm to table, expertly guided by the host chef. The restaurant and adjacent farm are in a quiet, forested area in the lush northern Thai countryside – a spectacular location to cook and celebrate Thai food. The day starts with a session as the chef asks travelers about their preferences, questioning their tastes and collaborating to work out the menu for the day. Whether you like intriguing, coconut-based curries, spicy papaya salads, or know your way around a Thai laab, this culinary master has the skills to make these dishes come alive. Head into the garden to pick ingredients, from spices and herbs to fresh vegetables and fruits. All produce is organically grown, and anything on the menu not grown on-site is locally sourced from other nearby farmers. While selecting the fresh ingredients, there’ll be the opportunity to learn a little about the chef’s farming process, how she maintains the garden, and the vital role these fresh ingredients play. Next, it’s on to the kitchen to prepare and cook the tasty, wholesome meals. Of course, the highlight of any cooking class is finally sitting down and enjoying the feast. You are in for a treat with the locally sourced, fresh, organic ingredients of Thai cuisine famously packed with flavor and spice. Overnight in Chiang Mai. (B, D)
Day 8 – Artists and Artisans Community Visit
This wonderful day tour focused on social sustainability will take you to a local village in Northern Thailand to learn about its community and culture. Get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and embrace the beautiful Chiang Mai countryside. This community of local artists and artisans sits at the convergence of three rivers in the shadow of a steep mountain – a truly idyllic location. Drive to Pa Tung east of the city and visit a shrine to pay homage to Luang Pu Lar’s incorruptible figure – the guide will help explain the significance this holds for local Thai people. While at the temple, visit the small onsite antique crockery museum to explore the history of local handicrafts. From there, continue learning about local artisans at a workshop, sharing the locals’ expertise with fabrics. Participate in a DIY Batik dyeing activity. The next stop is visiting a mulberry orchard, where they serve mulberry dishes year-round. Guests get an herbal, mulberry-based drink for refreshment and can shop for other products here. The mulberry-infused som tam (spicy Thai salad) is delicious. At a local farm, learn all about the community’s organic farming techniques while picking fresh ingredients for lunch. After lunch, head to the Chiang Mai Art Museum, showcasing a collection featuring some of the best Thai artists. Overnight in Chiang Mai. (B, L)
Day 9 – Fly from Chiang Mai to Phuket
Transfer to the airport for your flight from Chiang Mai to Phuket. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel to enjoy leisure for the rest of your day. (B)
Day 10 – Elephant Sanctuary
Immerse yourself in a day designed to connect you with the elephants of Phuket’s most ethical elephant sanctuary while delving into their intricate world and understanding their role as keystone species. The day begins with a warm welcome and light refreshments, followed by an insightful video presentation on the history and challenges faced by Asian elephants. A memorable moment awaits as you can feed one of the elephants their breakfast. With guidance from one of the experienced sanctuary guides, you’ll unravel these magnificent creatures’ intricate behavioral and communication patterns. Your adventure continues as you explore the sprawling 30-acre sanctuary, where you’ll witness the elephants roam, play, and bathe freely. The morning concludes with a delectable vegetarian Thai lunch. In the afternoon, your journey shifts to a deeper understanding of the elephant’s natural habitat and their vital role in our ecosystem. Observe these majestic beings as they gracefully navigate the jungle. Discover the importance of water in rehabilitating old and injured elephants as you meet some of these gentle giants at a new hydrotherapy pool. As the day nears its end, you’ll help prepare supplementary elephant food, learn more about their nutritional and dietary needs, and have the honor of feeding the elephants their dinner. Finally, relish a nourishing vegetarian dinner yourself, bringing closure to a day filled with connection, knowledge, and appreciation for these magnificent creatures. Please note: This is an observation-only experience. Per our policy, no riding or bathing is permitted at the sanctuary to encourage more ethical elephant encounters in Thailand. Overnight in Phuket. (B, L)
Day 11 – Bay of Wonders: Phang Nga Cruise
Transfer to the jetty, ready to board a local long-tail boat for a day of adventure in Phang Nga Bay. Soon after departing, immersive and otherworldly scenery slowly rises up as the limestone karsts appear on the horizon. Phang Nga covers over 400 square kilometers between Phuket and the Thai mainland. Begin by cruising past James Bond Island, Phang Nga’s most famous but busiest destination. Afterward, leave the crowds behind to explore some lesser-known islands, stopping at a few secluded beaches to swim, lounge, and enjoy the scenery. In the early afternoon, stop at a Koh Panyi for Lunch. Overnight in Phuket. (B, L)
Day 12 – Free Day
Enjoy your day at leisure exploring Phuket on your own. (B)
Day 13 – Return to the USA
*(Transfer to airport included if air purchased through EOX or if you provide EOX with your flight information at least one month prior to your departure. Those not providing this information may have to make their own transfer arrangements to return to the airport.)
B=Breakfast Included
L= Lunch Included
D=Dinner Included
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