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Thailand Time To Discover --- 12 days / 11 nights ---

BANGKOK - PHITSANULOK - LAM PANG - CHIANG MAI - CHIANG RAI - KOH SAMUI

Day 1: ARRIVAL IN BANGKOK (by A/C car)

Arrival at the airport from France. Warmly welcome to everybody, a moment of courtesy meeting of the tour guide in the meeting point’s Airport. Welcome to Bangkok - the “Land of Smiles”, one of Asia’s most cosmopolitan cities, is a national treasure house and Thailand’s spiritual, cultural, political, commercial, educational and diplomatic centre. Please note that standard check in time is 14.00, check out at 12.00. Early check in or late check-out is subject to room availability. Hotel would probably guarantee early check in or late checkout as an extra surcharge on depend to the rooming’s status at that time. You will be transferred to your hotel for check in and free at leisure for your own activities. In the evening, we highly recommend a welcome dinner with THAI DINNER & DANCES (see supplement) - A Thai cultural dance and music performance with fresh seafood dinner in traditional setting at Silom Village Restaurant (or similar) - The last restaurant constructed in the old Thai traditional village style on Silom Road is housed in a compound with 15 teak houses and 3 buildings. These houses were constructed during the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) in 1908 and converted to a restaurant and Thai handicraft shops in 1981. Overnight in Bangkok.

 

Day 2: BANGKOK FULL DAY TOUR (by A/C car)

Thailand has over 26,000 ‘Wats’ or Temples. This tour brings you to the 3 most famous temples in Bangkok. Wat Traimit (‘Temple of the Golden Buddha’) boasts a statue of Buddha which is made from solid gold. It weighs 5.5 tons and is a fine example of Sukhothai art. Passing through Chinatown your next stop is Wat Po (‘Temple of the Reclining Buddha’) which is the largest and oldest temple in Bangkok, a great place also for a traditional Thai massage.  It is also the seat of Traditional herbal medicine School, being referred to as "Thailand First Medical university" www.watpho.com. Then continue visit to the The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew (the Temple of the Emerald Buddha) - Together, these two sites form what many consider the greatest spectacle for visitors to Bangkok. Dating back to 1782 (when Bangkok was founded), the entire compound consists of over 100 brightly colored buildings, golden spires and glittering mosaics. Because of its popularity, this destination is often extremely crowded, but still an essential part of any trip to Bangkok. Presently, the Grand Palace is used for the occasional ceremony and is no longer the royal home (the present King Bhumibol lives in Chitralada Palace, located in Bangkok's nearby Dusit district). The interiors of most of the buildings in the Grand Palace are closed to the public. Wat Phra Kaew adjoins the Grand Palace in a common compound and is the home of the country's most famous Buddha statue (also known as the Emerald Buddha). This important figure has a long and interesting history that is tied to the royal family and once resided in nearby Wat Arun. It is relatively small (about 66 centimeters) and is situated in a high position in the Wat to signify its important status in the Thai kingdom. Rest of day, free to walk at your pace, "City of Angels" and discover the charms of one of the oldest cities of Southeast Asia. Take the opportunity to stroll around Sanam Luang, the royal park and venue of many religious events, could also enjoy a relaxing traditional Thai massage (TBA by our guide on spot) or watch the gorgeous sunset behind the Temple of Dawn, near the Chao Phraya river. Return to your hotel and free at leisure for your own activities. Overnight in Bangkok. (B)

 

Day 3: BANGKOK - PHITSANULOK (by A/C car)

Northern Thailand is rich in both cultural sightseeing and refreshing escapes into the Thai countryside. An excursion there will prove to be most rewarding with many historical sites, thriving cities, and a beautiful landscape populated by exotic hill tribes and local forest areas. This tour brings guests up close and personal with all that Northern Thailand has to offer, creating lasting memories in the process. The outing begins in Bangkok with an early departure, our first stop is at Bang Pa In, and the former summer residence of the kings of Ayutthaya built in the 18th century. There we’ll visit the Royal Palace, the Thai pavilion, the Chinese-style Palace Vihat Chamrun with their trimmed bushes in elephant shapes. Continue to Ayutthaya, which used to be the capital of Siam from 1350 to 1767 and visit the most interesting temples like Wat Chaiwathanaram, Wat Phra Srisampetch. Then, proceeding to Lopburi, to visit the ruins of  War Phra Sri Ratana & Phra Prang Sam Yod, a temple with three towers and impressive ornaments then continue on to Phitsanuloke for over night and free at leisure for your own activities. Overnight in Phisanulok. (B)

 

Day 4: PHITSANULOK - LAM PANG (by A/C car)

After breakfast, visit to the Chapel Phitsanulok & Wat Phra Sri Ratana Mahathat - is a major city landmark and houses Thailand's most beautiful and significant Buddha image, Phra Buddha Chinnarat. Proceed to Sukhothai, the first capital (13th century) of the Thai Kingdom. Old Sukhothai is one of Asia’s most important historical sites and therefore under the supervision of UNESCO. After a visit of the temples Wat Sri Chum, we continue to Sri Satchanalai, the former sister town of Sukhothai for lunch and a visit to some of its most interesting temples and ruins.  We drive further North to Lampang.

Optional tour package: Lampang is the only town in Thailand, where horse carriages are still used as a means of transportation. Take a leisurely ride on the colorful horse-drawn carriages along the river. Price per person: (TBA by our guide on spot). Back to your hotel and free at leisure for your own activities. Overnight in Lam Pang. (B) 

 

Day 5: LAM PANG - CHIANG MAI (by A/C car)

This morning, check out right after breakfast, then visit the famous temples in Lampang, Wat Phra Dhat Lampang Luang and Wat Phra Keo Don Tao before proceeding to Lamphun to visit Wat Haripoonchai Burmese style temple. Finally arrive to Chiang Mai - Thailand's second-largest city and the gateway to the country's north was founded in 1296. Chiang Mai has a striking mountain backdrop, over 300 temples and a quaint historical aura. It is also a modern, friendly, internationally flavored city with much to offer the visitors. Express check in your hotel and visit to a popular shopping destination, San Kampaeng is also famous for its range of local cottage industries and handicrafts, including authentic Thai silk and cotton weaving. Guests will be able to witness firsthand the skill of these local craftsmen as they consider which products to buy as souvenirs. In the evening, enjoy a Kantoke typical dinner (see supplement).  One of Chiang Mai’s most popular tours, this outing offers guests a chance to enjoy a traditional meal prepared in the Khantoke (northern Thailand) style. While guests are seated on floor cushions with an array of classical dishes arranged before them, exciting and stimulating performances will unfold before their very eyes. Entertainment for this evening will include the traditional Finger, Sword and Candle dances as well as the Ramwong, for which all quests will be invited and encouraged to participate. The evening concludes with performances from the Akha, Yao, Lahu, Meo and Karen Hill Tribes. Back to hotel and free at leisure at night. Overnight in Chiang Mai. (B).

 

Day 6: CHIANG MAI FULL DAY TOUR (by A/C car, local truck)

Today, after breakfast, enjoy an amazing sightseeing tour around the famous city for an up-close and personal look at some of its most notable temples, as well as stops at its old city walls, gates and moat, and the local market and Tapae Gate. Highlight of this trip include Wat Chiang Man, the city’s oldest temple and famed for a Chedi supported by rows of elephantine buttresses; Wat Phrasing home of the beautiful Lai Kham chapel with its exquisite woodcarving and northern style murals; Wat Jedihuang and its enormous Pagoda (which was partially destroyed by an earthquake in 1545); and Wat Suan Dok, which dates back to the 14th century when it served as the pleasure gardens to the Thai monarchy. Nowadays it houses several white Chedis, containing the ashes of Chiang Mai’s former Royal family. In the afternoon, visit to Doi Suthep and Meo Doi Pui. This tour features a scenic drive through the most historic areas of Chiang Mai to the acclaimed temple Wat Phrathad Doi Suthep, home to a holy relic of the Lord Buddha and considered by many to be the most sacred wat in northern Thailand. Built in A.D. 384 and situated 3,500 feet above sea level, this temple offers an interesting challenge as it contains a flight of over 300 steps to reach its top level. Once on top of the summit, visitors will be treated to a panoramic view of the city before leaving to visit the primitive Meo Hill Tribe village a community known for its unique culture and colorful costumes. The trip to the village will be made by local truck. Back to your hotel and free at leisure for your own activities. Overnight in Chiang Mai. (B).

 

Day 7: CHIANG MAI - CHIANG RAI (by A/C car 182km)

This morning, check out right after breakfast, then straight up to Chiang Rai - the first capital of Lanna Thai (Kingdom of a Million Rice fields). The province contains Thailand's northernmost point at Mae Sai, which is well known for its crisp mountain scenery, and hill tribes. North Chiang Rai and falls within the region known as the Golden Triangle, the area where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos converge.  The Chiang Rai tour takes travelers around Northern Thailand by means of roads that cross over mountains and wind through picturesque valleys. The first stop on this adventure is ‘Wiang Pa Pao’, an area known for its hot springs, followed by a trip to Mae Chan where the villages of the Yao and Akha hill tribes are located. We will then proceed to Chiang Saen, an ancient city (A.D. 1260) situated opposite Laos on the steep banks of the Mekong River. Next is a trip to the infamous ‘Golden Triangle’, the area where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar and Laos meet, followed by a local lunch (see supplement).  After everyone has eaten, we will make several short visits to primitive villages in the area before proceeding to Mae Sai. This is the northern-most border trading town between Thailand and Myanmar and a place where you can shop for many interesting items from both countries. After the tour, you will be free at leisure at hotel. Overnight in Chiang Rai. (B)

 

Day 8: CHIANG RAI FULLDAY TOUR (by A/C car, boat)

Today, you will enjoy a visit the village of Long Neck Women & Boat Trip. This tour offers a rare opportunity to see the Karen hill tribes, which used to be found only in Mae Hon Son. This tribe includes the famous long neck women who start wearing heavy brass necklaces at very young age (a large number of rings around the neck signifies a woman of great beauty). This tribe is believed to have migrated from far North of Burma or Tibet and their weaving skills are renowned and produce beautiful and colorful garments. Next, the tour stops by the Lisu hill tribe village. This tribe is considered to be the most elaborate dressers and during festive occasions the women are endowed with massive amounts of jewelry. Lunch (see supplement) takes place at Tha Ton, a strategic landing point between Burma and Thailand, before the trip continues on to Phatai. This place is home to a Lahu hill tribe village and is a point where visitors will embark on the Kok River cruise. The boat cruise ends at the Pong Nam Lon Hot Springs where a car will transfer everyone back to their hotels. Free at leisure at night. Overnight  in Chiang Rai. (B)

 

Day 9: CHIANG RAI - BANGKOK - KOH SAMUI (by A/C car, plane)

Today, after breakfast, check out and transfer to Chiang Rai airport for a flight domestic back to Bangkok by TG131 at 10.35-11.55 then continue take another connecting flight to Koh Samui by PG906 at 15.30-16.35 (supposing). Koh Samui is the third largest island of Thailand and one of the most popular destinations for travelers. In recent years it developed to a tropical beach resort but still maintained its charm and has everything to offer - from coconut tree fringed beaches to tropical jungles to a vibrant nightlife. Transfer to hotel for check in and the balance of the day is free at leisure for your own activities. Overnight in Koh Samui. (B)

 

Day 10: KOH SAMUI FULL DAY TOUR MOUNTAIN SAFARI & ELEPHANT TREK WITH LUNCH (by A/C car)

Enjoy Breakfast, After getting picked up from your hotel, your adventure starts as you board a 4WD vehicle and travel to a place where you can take a short elephant trek. Away from the hustle and bustle of city life, we ascend 630 meters into the jungle of Samui’s hinterland, gradually climbing through banana, durian, mangosteen, rambutan and langsat plantations while seeing bamboo, wild ginger, galangal, frogs, spiders, colorful birds and butterflies and an occasional snake. During the ascent, the tour stops at a rubber plantation to see how rubber-tapping is done. Once we reach the summit of Samui and its magnificent panoramic views of all the surrounding islands, it will be time to relax with a sumptuous Thai lunch surrounded by the sounds of nature. After some exploring, we descend through the tropical jungle and rain forest and stop at Giant Valley View for a coffee break before arriving at Namuang Waterfall (No.2) where you can take a refreshing swim in the cool fresh water surrounded by tropical rain forests before returning to your hotel. Back to your hotel and free at leisure for your own activities.Overnight in Koh Samui. (B, L)

 

Day 11: KOH SAMUI FULL DAY ANGTHONG MARINE PARK BY SPEEDBOAT WITH LUNCH (by A/C car, speed boat)

Enjoy Breakfast, then Experience the beautiful sights of Angthong National Park on this tour which departs from Nathon Pier and heads north by speedboat to an archipelago consisting of 42 islands, each with its own individual character. While here, you can explore natural caves, blue lagoons and stunning rock formations. Next, is a trip to Mae Koh Island where the inner salt lake is located? Lunch will be served on the boat while we head to Wau Ta Lab Island and the National Park HQ for sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling or just simply relaxing on the white sandy beach while taking in the breathtaking views around you. Back to hotel and free at leisure at night. Overnight in Koh Samui. (B, L)

 

Day 12: KOH SAMUI - BANGKOK & FLY BACK HOME (by car A/C, plane)

After breakfast, free at leisure until check-out, then transfer to airport a flight back to Bangkok by PG122 at 09.15-10.20 (supposing), then take a connecting flight back home. Have a safe trip come home! It’s timely; you have to say Good-Bye Thailand. We (Toan Vinh Tours) thank you very much for your choice of our company as your ground handler in Thailand and may be Indochina countries on further, be sure all our people are your best friends always and beyond. May we will meet and honoured welcome you have other voyages to Indochina in the days coming, continuing to discover, to experience the endless imposing landscapes, and then get the really restful moments in a diversified World and a colourful Sub region of Mekong River: VIETNAM - LAOS - CAMBODIA - THAILAND - MYANMAR! GOOD-BYE & SEE YOU AGAIN! (B)

 

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