Authentic Grand Thailand
Experience a feast for the senses on this grand adventure throughout Thailand.
14-Day Authentic Grand Thailand
Bangkok to Koh Yao Noi
Start your vacation where ancient temples and vibrant cities meet crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches. Explore the country's rich cultural heritage, while also indulging in its world-renowned cuisine and taking part in exciting activities. As one of the top travel destinations in Southeast Asia, Thailand offers endless possibilities for off-the-beaten-path adventures.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Experience the real Bangkok in the city’s hidden corners, sacred temples, and local neighborhoods
- Discover a seven-tiered waterfall and ride the infamous Death Railway while learning about World War II history in Kanchanaburi province
- Experience an early morning blessing followed by a picnic breakfast beside a monastery in the mountains of Chiang Mai
- Discover Buddhist and Chinese temples, rows of beautifully painted shophouses, quaint cafés, and local boutiques in Phuket’s colorful old quarter
INCLUSIONS
• Fast track service on arrival Bangkok Day 1
• Deluxe Accommodations throughout the tour
• Meals as per the itinerary (food only)
• Private Transfers and Touring
• Professional English-speaking guide
• Join in activities at Anantara Golen Triangle
• Local bottled water and cold towels whilst sightseeing
• Domestic flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai to Phuket, and Phuket to Bangkok
• Join in speed boat transfer
• Taxes and service charges
Ask about customizing your tour or upgrading to Premium hotels.
DAY BY DAY ITINERARY
Welcome to Bangkok! The vibrant capital of Thailand, Bangkok is an eclectic mix of ornate temples and towering skyscrapers. Both traditional and contemporary, the city is a hive of colorful food and flower markets and buzzing off-beat streets complemented by a dynamic dining scene with some of Asia’s top restaurants as well as Michelin-worthy street food all just waiting to be explored.
Fast track service is arranged for your arrival at the airport. Upon exiting the aircraft (or aerobridge), you are met by a representative who escorts you through the express immigration process, then assists with luggage collection and customs before leading you into the arrival hall where your Abercrombie & Kent guide is waiting to meet you.
Transfer to COMO Metropolitan Bangkok, Located in the heart of Bangkok’s central business district, COMO Metropolitan Bangkok is a contemporary urban escape combining sleek, modern style with a chic Asian aesthetic. The sophisticated interiors by Singaporean designer Kathryn King feature a mix of eastern and western influences, creating an aura of calm in each of the spacious rooms. The hotel's facilities include a 25-meter (82-foot) outdoor swimming pool, a yoga studio, spa and a renowned Thai fine dining restaurant.
Experience the real Bangkok in the city’s hidden corners, sacred temples and local neighborhoods. Visit the famous Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha complex to admire its glittering gold stupas and dazzling glass mosaics. Whiz through the old city streets by tuk tuk for a short ride to Wat Pho. The historical temple complex is best known for its large reclining Buddha statue and Thai massage school. Cool down with some coconut ice cream before crossing the Chao Phraya River by public ferry. Enjoy a close-up view of the porcelain art at Wat Arun, or the Temple of Dawn before continuing by private vehicle to the Jim Thompson House, a traditional Thai teak home with antiques and curios curated by the former magnate of Thai silk. Then, explore the silk shop and gallery.
Afternoon, free time at leisure.
Enjoy a day at leisure to explore vibrant Bangkok.
Leave the city behind to explore natural wonders and World War II history in Kanchanaburi province. Located about two and a half hours’ drive from Bangkok, Kanchanaburi is a scenic destination backed by rolling mountains, rivers and waterfalls. However, the region is also connected with some of the darkest moments of Thailand’s wartime history, including the infamous Death Railway and bridge over the River Kwai, where over 16,000 allied soldiers lost their lives during World War II. Visit the JEATH Museum to learn about the hardships faced by prisoners during the war and pay homage to fallen soldiers at the War Cemetery.
Take a train for a ride on the historical railway that was originally built through the sacrifice of prisoners of war. Enjoy the scenery while learning more about the history of this section of the railway. After alighting the train, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the Hellfire Pass, a particularly notorious stretch of the railway project that claimed many lives.
Head out to Erawan Waterfall, a natural seven-tiered cascade set within a verdant Thai national park. Have lunch at a local restaurant near the waterfall and explore the jungle trails or admire the waterfall’s natural pools.
Enjoy dinner at the hotel’s restaurant.
Transfer to Bangkok Airport for your flight to Chiang Rai.
On arrival at Chiang Rai Airport, you are met by your guide and transferred to Anantara Golden Triangle, Nestled on a hill surrounded by lush forests, Anantara Golden Triangle is an idyllic mountainside retreat perched on the edge of three countries - Thailand, Myanmar and Laos. Tastefully decorated with Thai silks, teak wood furniture and local art, each room and suite comes with a private balcony that opens up to the natural surroundings. Along with a spa and various dining options, the resort features an elephant camp which promotes ethical experiences and conservation programs.
Enjoy dinner at the hotel’s restaurant.
This morning, walk side by side with elephants in the northern Thai countryside where you can observe the pachyderms’ playful personalities as they roam the natural forests and grasslands of Anantara Golden Triangle. Follow the friendly giants through the forest to see how they spend their days, eating, playing then eating again. Watch the elephants bathe in the mud or splash in the pond while the camp's resident vet or biologist shares insights into the elephants’ lifestyles and how to interact with them.
Then visit the Hall of Opium which is located opposite the hotel. This museum offers an insight into the history of the opium trade which once affected many hill tribe villagers in this area. Learn about the cultural and social impacts of growing poppies and discover how Golden Triangle communities have overcome these challenges in more recent times.
90-minute spa treatment: Unwind to a wild soundtrack of forest bird song and embrace the harmony of the natural environment enhanced by exotic Lanna Thai traditions. Experience Thai cultural rituals using healing local herbs and sip detoxifying ginger and honey tea on muslin-draped daybeds overlooking three countries.
Enjoy dinner at the hotel’s restaurant.
Check out and meet your guide in the hotel lobby to drive through rural northern Thailand on a private transfer to Chiang Mai (approximately four hours). En route, make a stop at Wat Rong Khun, or the "White Temple", which is known for its 'kanok' architectural style. The structure is painted white and decorated with small pieces of mirrored glass to create a striking impression. Inside, the walls are covered with an eclectic mix of Buddhist images and 21st century iconography.
Arrive in Chiang Mai in time for lunch at The House by Ginger. Homely, cozy and a little quirky, The House by Ginger has earned Michelin Bib Gourmand status for its creative, home-cooked Thai fare. A casual mix between restaurant and bistro, the restaurant serves northern Thai classics with a twist, including khao soi (noodles in a coconut based curry broth) and seared scallops with mangosteen and coconut-chili dressing.
Check-in at Tamarind Village, Located in the heart of the historic city, Tamarind Village Chiang Mai is a charming boutique property named after a magnificent 200-year-old tamarind tree that shelters the hotel. Surrounded by ancient temples and quaint shopping streets, the hotel is set around a series of garden courtyards that create a sense of calm and tranquility. Intimate, serene and relaxing, the rooms are designed to reflect the rich ethnic diversity of northern Thailand with the use of fabrics and patterns drawn from various tribes of the region. An outdoor pool, spa and charming restaurant complete the experience.
Lift your spirit with an early morning blessing and breakfast in the sacred mountains of northern Thailand. Experience the local almsgiving tradition and be blessed by monks at a shrine dedicated to Phra Kruba Srivichai, a highly revered monk who inspired the construction of the road you are about to take. Drive up the mountain path to visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai’s sacred mountaintop temple which stands proudly overlooking the city. The beauty and serenity of the temple is radiant, particularly in the quiet, early hours of the day. On the way back down, stop at a mountainside monastery nestled within the forest for a picnic breakfast beside a small creek overlooking Chiang Mai in the distance.
Late morning, return to hotel for free time at leisure.
Enjoy a day at leisure - spend time exploring or relaxing.
Transfer to the airport to board a domestic flight to Phuket.
On arrival at Phuket Airport, you are met by your guide who accompanies you to your next hideaway resort on Koh Yao Noi. Overlooking the spectacular seascapes of Phang Nga Bay.
Note: Private land transfer, join-in speed boat.
Paradise Koh Yao, The aptly named Paradise Koh Yao rests elegantly on the idyllic island of Koh Yao Noi in Phang Nga Bay between Phuket and Krabi. The island itself is still largely untouched, with most of the land forming a National Reserve Park, giving Paradise Koh Yao an exceptional status as a sanctuary of peace and the perfect place for a romantic escape. The hotel's 72 private villas and studios represent a tasteful blend of comfort, style and technology while the 400m stretch of pristine sandy beach and the clear waters of Phang Nga Bay is a true delight to explore.
Enjoy a day at leisure surrounded by the dream-like visions of limestone karsts scattered across the azure bay.
Enjoy a day at leisure surrounded by the dream-like visions of limestone karsts scattered across the azure bay.
Today marks the end of your Grand Thailand experience.
Discover Authentic Thailand
Contact a Thailand Specialist
Thailand’s appeal is universal, from the pulse of Bangkok and to the lush countryside of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, to the many beaches of the south. Thailand is bright and colourful with an abundance of warm and open people. Plus you'll be exposed to amazing architecture and ruins, royal history and an up close look at Buddhism. And don't forget about the bustling nightlife, great shopping and some of the best street food you'll ever taste.
There are so many reasons to explore Thailand, we're sharing why you will come back in love.
More details...Terms & Conditions
All fares are tour only, per person, based on double occupancy and subject to availability at time of booking. Fares include domestic flights as per the itinerary. International flights are not included. Other terms and conditions apply, please contact an advisor for complete terms and conditions. EXCLUSIONS • Any items of a purely personal nature such as laundry and telephone calls • International flight tickets to and from Southeast Asia • Visa fees, departure tax and tourist fee (if applicable) • Personal, travel and health insurance • Early check in and late check out unless specified • Optional tours • Gratuities/tips to tour guides, drivers and hotel staff Please Note... • Visa fees and entry/exit requirements are subject to change at short notice, which may result in additional fees or new visa applications to be covered by the guest • If you are traveling with more than one valid passport, please present the passport that corresponds with the details listed on any pre-arranged visa documents (E-visas, Visa Stamps or Visa Approval Letters) while checking in at the airline counter prior to departure. Abercrombie & Kent does not take responsibility for any issues that may occur as a result of failing to present the correct passport; any fee or fine incurred as a result must be settled directly by the guest