13 days Starts/Ends: Bangkok Discover the Kingdom of Thailand from bustling Bangkok and the ancient ruins of Ayuthaya, to the night markets of Chiang Mai and hill tribes of Chiang Rai, before continuing into neighbouring Cambodia and discovering the legendary temples of Angkor. HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS Trip Highlights Siem Reap - the temples of Angkor Wat, Kompong Phluk and Phnom Kulen Bangkok - Grand Palace, tuk tuk ride to Wat Pho, Flower Market, long tail boat ride along the klongs and Khao San Road Kanchanaburi - Allied War Cemetary, Bridge on the River Kwai and Hellfire Pass Erawan National Park - wildlife, evergreen forests, beautiful waterfalls & swimming Ayuthaya - Former capital of Thailand, ancient ruins including iconic Wat Mahatat Chiang Mai - Doi Suthep temple, Baan Tong Luang Hill Tribes village, trishaw ride around the old city, night market and cooking class. Plus free time for optional activities from spa treatments to canopy ziplines. Cruising on the Kok River in a longtail boat Wat Rhon Khung - the unique White Temple Chiang Rai - Hill Tribe villages - 13 days Hmong Hill Tribe - Overnight stay in their community What's Included 11 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 4 dinner 10 nights 3-4 star & Special Class hotels, 1 night floating hotel in the jungle, 1 night overnight sleeper train from Ayuthaya to Chiang Mai Economy class flights (3) Chiang Mai Bangkok, Bangkok - Siem Reap and Siem Reap - Bangkok Airport arrival transfer day 1 & departure transfer day 13 Escorted by an English speaking Thai and Cambodian tour guides Guided sightseeing - Bangkok, Kanchanaburi, Erawan National Park, Ayuthaya, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and Siem Reap Train ride over the River Kwai and visit to Hellfire Pass Chiang Mai trishaw ride and cooking class Longtail boat cruise on the canals of Bangkok and on the Kok River All relevant transfers and transportation in private air-conditioned vehicles Tip for your tour guide. We recommend you allow USD$3-6 per day, per traveller. Tipping your guide is an entirely personal gesture ITINERARY Day 1 : Bangkok Saturday. Welcome to Bangkok, the everalluring capital of Thailand. Arrival transfer to our hotel where our Welcome Meeting takes place this evening. Then it's just a short walk through the bustling streets of Bangkok to Silom Village, enjoy dinner in an alfresco setting with traditional music and dancing to watch. Overnight - Bangkok (D) What's Not Included Tipping Kitty: USD$55-65, paid in USD Entrance Fees: USD$115-125, paid in USD International flights and visa -1-
Day 2 : Bangkok City Tour the tracks dug by the POWs and locals some 75 years earlier. Day 5 : Chiang Mai & Hmong Hill Tribe Disembarking at Nam Tok we have a short drive to Hellfire Pass where the POWs dug through a mountain often using only their bare hands. A fascinating museum at the entrance details the region s history. Today we explore Bangkok. First stop is the colourful 24hr Flower Market before we visit the spiritual and religious heart of the city the striking Grand Palace. Topped by golden stupas, the complex has been the site of royal coronations and is home to the legendary Emerald Buddha. From the Grand Palace we take an exhilarating ride on a tuk tuk to Wat Pho, home of the reclining Buddha before boarding longtail boats to explore the city s canals. After our day s sightseeing a leisurely longtail boat ride leads us to our fabulous floating jungle raft hotel. With the ambience of a hundred softly glowing lanterns and the sounds of the tropical forest and cool water flowing by we enjoy dinner and a relaxing evening on the deck. Overnight - Kanchanaburi (B, D) Day 4 : Erawan Waterfalls & Ayuthaya Our boats drop us off within walking distance of Khao San Road, popular with backpackers and hippies. Late afternoon offers free time for you to enjoy the many bars, restaurants, street performers, market stalls and tailors - that will measure you up for a new suit, that line this vibrant road. Overnight - Bangkok (B) Day 3 : Kwai & Hellfire Pass Kanchanaburi - Erawan NP - Ayuthaya - Chiang Mai. This morning we travel to picturesque Erawan National Park, where we can explore the Bangkok - Kanchanaburi. It s an early start today as we drive 2.5hrs west of the capital to the small town of Kanchanaburi. Here we pay our respects to the thousands of Allied POWs who perished in the area under the hand of the Imperial Japanese Army. After pausing at the Allied War Cemetery we continue to the infamous Bridge over the River Kwai, immortalised by the film of the same name. You have a chance to take pictures before you board a train for a 2 hour journey that crosses the bridge before following - 13 days rivers, waterfalls and trails on foot. The park is home to a stunning tiered waterfall and there s time to take a quick dip in the crystalline waters before driving on to Ayuthaya - the former capital of Thailand. This is one of Thailand s most religiously significant places and we'll see the magnificent stupas at Wat Phri Sanphet and iconic Wat Mahatat. We drive to a local hotel to freshen up and have dinner before heading to the station this evening to board our sleeper train to Chiang Mai. Overnight - Sleeper train (B, D) Chiang Mai - Mae Rim. Early this morning our train arrives into Chiang Mai, nestled in the foothills of northern Thailand. First up we visit the imposing Doi Suthep Temple that stands like a sentinel over the city. We take time to relax and enjoy the view before driving to the Baan Tong Luang Hill Tribes village. Four separate Thai hill tribes live at Baan Tong Luang - the Lahu, Hmong, White Karen and the Long necked Karen and we'll have the opportunity to learn all about their lifestyle and customs, see their traditional dress and purchase handicrafts that they make. We travel on to the Hmong Hill Tribe Lodge where we will stay this evening. Here, you can take a walk into the surrounding countryside to visit the some of the nearby hill tribe villages and gain a wonderful insight into the lives of some of the smaller minority groups in the Kingdom. In the evening we enjoy a sumptuous BBQ before being entertained by dancers from the local community. Overnight - Mae Rim (B, D) Day 6 : Day trip to Chiang Rai Mae Rim - Chiang Rai - Chiang Mai. Following an early breakfast we bid farewell to our hosts at Hmong Lodge and set off north towards Chiang Rai, travelling through stunning karst and jungle scenery. We take a break to stretch -2-
our legs and explore a local Hmong market before continuing to our journey to the famous White Temple of Wat Rong Khun which depicts scenes from movies including the Matrix, Star Wars and Superman! After exploring the temple, there's time for lunch before we board our longtail boats for a scenic hour long ride on the Kok River to Chiang Rai. In Chiang Rai we visit Lahu village which is surrounded by lush green countryside and inhabited by the Lahu people, who make their living from farming the land. We ll take a walk through this enchanting little village, which has stilt houses and livestock roaming the streets. Then we continue our boat journey to Ruammit village which is home to the Karen tribe and has retained its traditional culture. After a brief stop here we drive to Chiang Mai, where the evening is free to spend at leisure. Overnight - Chiang Mai (B) Day 8 : Free time in Chiang Mai Chiang Mai - Bangkok. Today is free for you to enjoy some of the many optional activities in the city, from zip lining through the jungle canopy to riding a bike through the countryside. There is a street of cottage industries which is great to pick up those last minute silk, silver or jewellery souvenirs. In the late afternoon we transfer to the airport in time to catch our flight to Bangkok. After checking into our hotel the rest of the night is free for you to enjoy this bustling city. Overnight - Bangkok (B) Day 9 : Off to Angkor Day 7 : Chiang Mai Cooking School Bangkok - Siem Reap. Today offers free time for you to independently explore before early this evening heading to the airport for our included flight to Siem reap, Cambodia. Arriving to the Kingdom of the Khmer empire at at approx 9.30pm, you can either grab a good nights rest or head out for a late night bite to eat. This morning you can join your tour guide in giving out Alms to the local monks before returning to your hotel for breakfast. We then take a traditional trishaw for a ride around the old city of Chiang Mai, visiting some of the key temples within the city walls. Then we head to a local cooking school to try our hand at preparing tasty local cuisine in a traditional Thai setting. This informative cooking class teaches us how to prepare three of Thailand s most popular dishes that we ll later get to enjoy for lunch. The rest of the day is free for you to relax and explore at leisure. In the evening we visit the Chiang Mai night market, a haven of souvenirs and works by local artisans. Overnight - Chiang Mai (B, L) - 13 days Day 10 : All about Angkor Wat Today we immerse ourselves in one of the most astounding archaeological sites in the world. The magnificent Angkor complex of temples is scattered over an area of 200 square kilometers. number the tourists. We then continue towards Angkor Wat. We return to our hotel for a wellearned siesta. This afternoon we return to the temples by private vehicle and visit to the ancient city of Angkor Thom. We enter at the best preserved South Gate and take an in depth look at the Terraces of the Elephants and the Leper King, the Royal Palace, and Baphoun. But we save the best till last, the Bayon is perhaps Angkor s most moving of all temples. As the sun gently falls it casts its rays on the giant stone faces and as the light changes so do their expressions, a magical experience! In the evening, there's a lovely dinner and cultural dance performance you can attend or alternatively opt do your own thing. Siem reap offers some hidden Cambodian culinary gems as well as international restaurants and everything in between. There is also Pub Street for the party goer and to the fine dining options at the Foreign Correspondents Club, Raffles or Amansara. Day 11 : Kbal Spean & Banteay Srei This morning we drive to Phnom Kulen to visit Kbal Spean, commonly known as the River of a Thousand Lingas. This site was only rediscovered in 1969 and is a tranquil place with an attractive waterfall. Later we head to visit the elegant temple of Banteay Srei built by a Brahman in the 10th Century. It is said they must have been carved by women as the detail is too fine for the hands of a man. This gives us the origin of the Khmer name, Fortress of the Women. In the late afternoon we return to Siem Reap where the rest of the evening is at leisure. We start our exploration this morning with a visit to Ta Prohm when the birds and parrots out -3-
Day 12 : Kompong Phluk right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard when necessary. Furama Silom Today we take a short drive to Kompong Phluk, a floating/stilted community on the immense Tonle Sap. Here we board a private boat and explore the floating community of Kompong Kleang. The community is made up of ethnic Khmer, Viet and Cham, who tend to spend their entire lives on this bountiful lake. Note: Between Feb - July the water levels at Kompong Phluk village maybe too low to go boating, if so, we will visit Chong Kneas floating village where it will still be possible to go boating. An elegant flagship hotel, the Furama Silom tastefully combines classic Thai style with contemporary design. Guest rooms are well designed with sleek glass panels giving a luxurious feel. Complimentary high speed internet is available. The dining options are simple yet sophisticated. Head to the Rama restaurant for delicious Thai and international cuisine or spend an evening at the Silom Sky Bar - a gorgeous roof top pool with stunning views of the city to marvel at. Centrally located in the of Silom just 5 minutes from the Sky Train. natural beauty. Conveniently located just an hours drive from Chiang Mai, The Hmong Lodge offers travellers the perfect balance of style and comfort and offers them the chance to meet and learn about nearby tribal communities. The comfortable guest rooms are beautifully crafted from wood and have a splash of colour added with the Hmong quilts. The lodge features an outdoor pool, spa and open-air restaurant. Days can be spent with local tribes and exploring the stunning surrounding landscapes while evenings at the lodge can be filled with a barbecue and al fresco dining followed by traditional Hmong performances including dancing. Amora Hotel Chiang Mai In the afternoon we enjoy some free time to relax by the pool, or to explore the town. We recommend a visit to the Artisan s D Angkor workshops, where talented artisans from some of the poorest villages in the country are taught the ancient Khmer skills and are then encouraged to return to their communities to generate further work and opportunities there. Day 13 : Back to Bangkok Thursday. This morning we say goodbye to our guide and transfer to the airport for our included flight to Bangkok's Don Muang Airport (DMK) arriving at approximately 12:55. If flying onward from Don Muang airport, we suggest you book flights no earlier than 3pm. If flying internationally from Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport, the main airport (BKK) we'll offer a complimentary transfer to this airport. Flights from BKK should be booked after 5pm. You may have a little time up your sleeve at the airport, though we've allowed for delays and possible traffic. Happy travels!(b) HOTELS The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the - 13 days River Kwai Jungle Rafts River Kwai Jungle Rafts Resort offers a unique accommodation experience right on the flowing Kwai Noi River. All floating rooms are tucked into a floating bamboo lodge moored along the historical River Kwai Noi surrounded by lush green mountains and jungle. The walls are weaved from local bamboo decorated with wooden furniture reflecting Mon living style. Each is appointed with en-suite private bathroom, balcony and a hammock. To work in harmony with the natural surroundings, the property does not use electricity and kerosene lamps are provided to light the rooms and evoke a romantic atmosphere. Close to the Tapae Gate, Amora Hotel Chiang Mai is a modern property with great amenities. Guest rooms are designed in the modern Northern Thai (Lanna) style and come with air conditioning, TV, mini bar and room service. The hotel also boasts a refreshing outdoor pool and fitness centre as well as Chili's restaurant serving up a delicious array of transitional Thai and international cuisine. The Lobby Lounge Bar and Pool Bar are great places to enjoy a cocktail at the end of the day. Raming Lodge Hmong Hilltribe Lodge Set within the spectacular mountains and rice fields of Mae Rim, the Hmong Lodge offers guests a unique opportunity to experience traditional Hmong culture amidst striking Just a stone's throw from the bustling night bazaar, the elegant Raming Lodge is the perfect place to unwind after a day exploring the city. The spacious rooms are decorated with clear eastern influences and encompass beautiful wooden furniture, complimenting the rich fabrics that add a splash of colour to the room. Massages and other treatments are available at the spa and the pool is a great -4-
place to relax during your leisure time. A full breakfast is served in the morning and further food can be found in the hotel's gourmet burger restaurant. unable to match you up. Please contact us for the relevant cost. PRICES / DATES 2017 09 Dec 23 Dec 30 Dec PRICES / DATES 2018 Angkor Paradise Hotel Not far from Angkor Wat, the Angkor Paradise Hotel offers elegant accommodation in a world famous setting. Guest rooms are beautifully firnished with traditional wooden floors and all mod cons. All rooms have either fabulous views of the city or the hotel's outdoor pool. The hotel also boats a great onsite restaurant, fitness centre and pool terrace. The Angkor Paradise Hotel is situated a short distance from Siem Reap international airport and the majestic Angkor Archaeological Park. PRICES / DATES INFO Departure dates noted with a 'G' are guaranteed to operate. All other departure dates are guaranteed with a minimum of 2 persons. Prices shown are per person travelling. 'Twin/Double' prices per person apply when there are 2 people travelling, sharing a room. The ' supplement' applies for single travellers who require their own room and needs to be added to the 'Twin/Double' price. If you are happy to be paired up with another single traveller of the same sex on your tour, this can be arranged whilst travelling in Thailand, however a single supplement will apply whilst in Cambodia (days 9-13) if we are - 13 days 13 Jan 27 Jan 10 Feb 10 Mar 24 Mar 31 Mar 14 Apr 28 Apr 12 May 26 May 09 Jun 23 Jun 07 Jul 21 Jul 04 Aug 18 Aug 01 Sep 15 Sep 29 Sep 13 Oct 27 Oct 10 Nov 24 Nov 08 Dec 22 Dec 29 Dec PRICES / DATES 2019 01 Jun 15 Jun 29 Jun 13 Jul 27 Jul 10 Aug 24 Aug 07 Sep 21 Sep 05 Oct 19 Oct 02 Nov 16 Nov 30 Nov 21 Dec 28 Dec PRICES / DATES 2019 12 Jan 26 Jan 09 Feb 23 Feb 16 Mar 30 Mar 13 Apr 20 Apr 04 May 18 May -5-