Destination Thailand

Thailand Excursions

A Stroll Through China Town

Operated: Daily, 08:30–12:00 hrs. (Mornings only)

One of the best ways to experience the true flavour of a city is to walk its streets and this excursion takes in an area that is as old as Bangkok itself. A huge ceremonial Chinese gate draws visitors into a world of gold shops and purveyors of traditional Chinese health cures. The array of sights and smells takes tourists to a bygone age in which glittering temples provide a backdrop to roadside bartering. The path of the main Yaowarat Road is said to resemble a dragon’s body, making it an auspicious location for commerce. While walking along the narrow lanes, peer into the doorways of traditional Chinese pharmacies with their medicinal herbs and natural cures. Pay special attention to the ‘funeral shops’ where paper models of worldly items are sold to ensure the deceased will have the comforts of home on their journey to the afterlife. Vibrant Chinatown offers unique experiences and shopping opportunities that should not be missed.

Bangkok City and Temples

Operated: Daily, 08:00–11:00 or 13:00–16:00 hrs.

A visit to Bangkok is not complete without a tour of its temples, and this excursion takes in three of the most impressive in the city. Known as the Temple of the Golden Buddha, Wat Trimit houses a 700-year-old, three-meter tall golden statue, cast from five-and-a-half tons of solid gold. Equally spectacular is Wat Po, home to a colossal reclining Buddha and a traditional massage school. The temple garden contains a bodhi tree grown from a cutting of an original tree in India under which the Lord Buddha sat while awaiting enlightenment. Next stop is the ‘Chedi of the Kings’ Wat Benjamaborpit, noted for its elegant white marble façade.

Buddhist Alms Giving And A Visit To The Flower Market

Operated: Daily, 06:00–08:30 hrs. (Mornings only)

An early morning visit to a Buddhist temple to offer alms to the monks is one of the most unique rituals a tourist can experience in Thailand. Each morning, monks in saffron robes, carrying their alms bowls, walk silently along the virtually empty streets to receive boiled rice and condiments from local people. Guests have the opportunity to participate in this very special Thai custom by personally presenting alms at a temple and receiving the monks’ blessings in return. In complete contrast to the peace and serenity of the hallowed temple, we also visit the famous Bangkok Flower Market – a blaze of colour and powerful scents, where the early risers get the best native flora, including exotic native orchids that can be purchased for a fraction of the price back home.

Grand Palace

Operated: Daily, 08:00–11:00 or 13:00–16:00 hrs.

The Grand Palace is the ‘must see’ attraction in Bangkok. It is an architectural wonder of golden stupas, walls and pillars encrusted in shining and colourful mosaics. Previously the residence of past Kings of Thailand, you will see palaces once used for different occasions; the Reception Hall, the Coronation Hall, the Throne Hall, the Royal Guest House and Wat Phra Kaew which houses the Emerald Buddha. The architecture is predominantly Thai, though there are some European influences. The palace served as the official residence of kings of Thailand from the 18th to the mid-20th century. The most famous building within the palace grounds is Wat Phra Kaew and this is regarded as the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand. Construction of the temple began when King Rama I moved the capital from Thonburi to Bangkok in 1785. The main temple building houses the Emerald Buddha. The Buddha is carved from a single piece of jade and is the most revered object in Thailand.

Bangkok Highlights

Operated: Daily, 08:00–16:30 hrs.

This full-day tour combines the highlights of Bangkok City, including a visit to three interesting temples including Wat Trimit, otherwise known as the Temple of the Golden Buddha, which houses a 700-year-old, three-meter tall golden statue, cast from five-and-a-half tons of solid gold. Equally spectacular is Wat Po, home to a colossal reclining Buddha and a traditional massage school. The temple garden contains a bodhi tree grown from a cutting of an original tree in India under which the Lord Buddha sat while awaiting enlightenment. The third temple we visit is Wat Phra Kaew (the Temple of the Emerald Buddha) within the Grand Palace compound, which houses the most sacred Buddhist image in Thailand. After a sumptuous lunch in a local restaurant, we will board a boat for a thrilling ride through the klongs of outer Bangkok to get a closer look at the rural lifestyle. Then we board a converted Rice Barge for a cruise on the bigger canals and the Chao Phraya River. Cold drinks and tropical fruits will be served onboard the barge.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market And Rose Garden

Operated: Daily, 07:00–17:00 hrs.

This interesting full-day excursion takes us to the rural floating market of Damnoen Saduak, situated 110-kms from Bangkok. The tour includes a visit to Nakorn Pathom to view Phra Pathom Chedi, the largest pagoda in South East Asia. Lunch will be served at the picturesque Rose Garden Country Resort, where you will also watch the ‘Thai Village Show’. The 75-acre site consists of tropical flower gardens, orchards, a small lake and a traditional Thai village. The cultural village show is performed every afternoon at 3pm, with Thai folk dancing and demonstrations of handicraft skills. There are also performances of certain Thai rituals and traditional ceremonies such as ordination into the monk hood, the fingernail dance, Thai boxing, hill tribe dances, sword fighting and an elephant show.

River Kwai Tour Including Boat And Train Ride

Operated: Daily, 07:00–17:30 hrs.

This tour provides a fascinating insight into Thailand’s Second World War history. The infamous bridge and the “Death Railway” is a poignant reminder of the thousands of POW’s and forced Asian labourers who lost their lives in the Second World War during the construction of the railway. We visit an interactive museum and research centre dedicated to the history of the “Death Railway”. This fascinating attraction offers an educational insight into the history of the area. We also visit the War Cemetery which contains the graves of an estimated 9,000 Allied soldiers who lost their lives building the bridge and the notorious railway. Another highlight of this excursion is a long-tail boat trip to view the bridge up close. We continue by road to Wang Po for lunch at a local restaurant. We then board a train for a thrilling ride along the infamous railway.

Bangkok by Night

Operated: Nightly, 18:00–21:00 hrs.

Bangkok is a city that never sleeps and this tour takes us around the ‘old quarter’ to see iconic buildings that are illuminated at night and serve as a backdrop to the activities of market traders, street food hawkers and people enjoying the capital’s entertainment venues. We will take you to landmark sites including bustling Chinatown; a stop at Pak Khlong, the city’s largest flower market, where exotic native orchids are for sale; a drive alongside the gleaming Grand Palace; the City Pillar, a sanctuary for guardian spirits; the National Museum; and then onto the Phra Sumen Fort on Ratanakosin Island. The itinerary also takes in the backpacker’s mecca of Khao San Road, an area featured in countless books and the Hollywood movie The Beach starring Leonardo DiCaprio. This is a great place to eat, drink and shop

Chiang Mai City & Temples

Operated: Daily, 08:30–11:00 or 13:00–15:00 hrs.

Chiang Mai’s temples give the city its cultural identity and showcase a mixture of architectural styles that reflect the rich heritage of the northern region. To date, 300 temples have been constructed in the city and they contain a rich tapestry of craftsmanship including gilded umbrellas and stupas trimmed with god filigree. We visit four of the most important temples: Wat Chiang Man (AD 1297), the oldest temple within the city walls; Wat Chedi Luang (AD 1411), where the Emerald Buddha was once enshrined; Wat Pra Singh (AD 1345), housing a very sacred 1,500 year old Buddha image; and Wat Suan Dok (AD 1371), where the ashes of Chiang Mai’s Royal Family are interred. The tour also includes an unforgettable drive through many interesting parts of the city, including markets, traditional residential areas, foreign consulates, government buildings and Ta-Pae, Chiang Mai’s thriving main street.

Elephants At Work At Mae Saa And Meo Hill Tribe

Operated: Daily, 08:00–15:00 hrs. Seat-in-coach with Min. 2 pax.

A pleasant morning is spent in the company of these magnificent gentle giants which are the national animal of Thailand and have contributed greatly to the economic development of the country. In earlier times, elephants were a vital part of Thai life; including a role as a ‘tank’ on the battlefields of Siam and therefore they helped to shape Thai history. On this trip you will witness the traditional techniques still used in the training of these powerful animals. The dexterity and precision of such gigantic creatures is amazing. An optional elephant ride is available for a small fee. Afterwards, we visit a Meo hill tribe community to witness a simple way of life that continues to this day. On the return journey to the hotel, a stop is made at one of the region’s orchid farms to see how these exquisite blooms are cultivated.

Meet The Locals At Fresh Market And Temple

Operated: Daily, 06:00–11:00 hrs. (Mornings only)

This early morning adventure takes us to a local market at the busiest time of the day when you will be able to make ‘merit’. Each morning before dawn, monks wearing saffron robes walk quietly along the streets carrying alms bowls to receive boiled rice and other food donations from bystanders. In return, the people receive holy blessings. You can participate in this very special Thai custom by personally presenting alms. You can also buy a local-style breakfast at a nearby market. Afterwards, we visit Wat U-Mong (Tunnel Temple) whose original foundations date back to 1296. This lies in a forested setting on the fringe of town and its cool calm atmosphere makes for a lovely afternoon of relaxation. Last stop is to Wat Suan Dok where the ashes of Chiang Mai’s royal family are interred.

Chiang Rai Golden Triangle

Operated: Daily, 07:00–19:00 hrs.

This tour takes us to the infamous Golden Triangle which was once a hub for the opium trade. A hill top vantage point gives a view of the splendor of the mighty Mekong River joining forces with the Ruak River and forming the actual ‘Triangle’ with Laos, Myanmar (Burma), and Thailand. The journey from Chiang Mai takes about three hours and includes beautiful alpine scenery with a stop at the Hot Springs at Mekajan. Lunch is served at a local restaurant before starting the return journey. Visits are also made to Akha and Yao hill tribe villages along the way to witness the fascinating lifestyles of these ethnic groups who make a living from the land.

Elephants At Work At Chiang Dao With Riding And River Rafting

Operated: Daily, 07:00–16:30 hrs.

Set in a beautiful jungle setting, approximately 60-km north of Chiang Mai on the banks of the Ping River, lies the Chiang Dao Elephant Camp. We will witness an enthralling display of elephant training and tricks as the trainers (mahouts) command their respective elephants to display the skills they once used in the logging industry. As the elephants no longer work in the forestry industry, this camp gives the jumbos a better way of life. After a short elephant ride, we take to the river on bamboo rafts. To glide effortlessly and silently along the river on a bamboo raft is a wonderful experience and a great way to relax after the exhilaration of elephant riding. Lunch is served at a local restaurant. On the return to Chang Mai, we stop off to visit an orchid farm to view a variety of some of Thailand�s most exquisite blooms. (River rafting is only conducted when weather and river conditions permit).

One-Day Cultural Experience At Khum Lanna

Operated: Daily, 07:30–18:00 hrs.

This excursion gets into gear by taking a local truck to Phrao, a small charming town, 90-km north of Chiang Mai, to visit a Lanna farm surrounded by typical northern Thai scenery. We will visit a local market to buy fresh produce and then enjoy a tour of the garden around the compound, where we can collect different seasonal herbs, vegetables and fruits for use in the cooking demonstration. The course includes an introduction to Thai ingredients and a hands-on demonstration of how to prepare a variety of classic Thai dishes. After lunch we take a cycle tour to Aui Kham House to learn about traditional herbal medicine processing.

Khan Toke Dinner With Show

Operated: Daily, 19:00–22:00 hrs.

It was not until 1953 that Khan Toke became a social gathering when a local politician invited high honoured guests to sit with him and enjoy this special dinner. The ‘Khan Toke’ dinner is traditionally specific to the people of the northern region. Dinner is served in small bowls, known in Thai as Khan. Guests are seated on cushions at a low table, known as Toke in Thai. The cuisine served is northern Thai and it is prepared with the western palate in mind as traditional Thai food can be very spicy. During dinner, entertainers will perform the intricate Forn Leb finger dance; the Forn Thien candle dance; the Ramwong circle dance; and the Ram Dab sword dance. Opt for an additional hill tribe show performed by various members of the Yao, Lahu, Meo, Lisu, and Karen hill tribes after you have finished dinner. Transfer back to hotels at the end of the evening.

Akha And Yao Hilltribes

Operated: Daily, 08:30–12:00 or 13:00–16:30 hrs.

Experience the amazing cultures of two ethnic minorities: the Akha who originate from Tibet; and the Yao who originate from China. Northern Thailand is very famous for its colourful hill tribe communities and this tour gives an insight into their rich culture and traditions. The Akha people are famous for their very exotic and beautiful costumes and they can be seen in many towns in Thailand selling their unique handicrafts. The Yao hail from the southern region of China and at one time had considerable prestige in the Chinese Empire. This fascinating cultural excursion enables us to interact with these people who are at one with the land and we will experience their daily lives and be taught about their rich heritage and history.

Golden Triangle & Mae Sai

Operated: Daily, 08:30–12:00 or 13:00–16:00 hrs.

Visit the infamous Golden Triangle which was once a hub for the opium trade. A hill top vantage point gives a view of the splendor of the mighty Mekong River joining forces with the Ruak River and forming the actual ‘Triangle’ with Laos, Myanmar (Burma), and Thailand. Continue to Mae Sai, the northernmost point of Thailand. This is the perfect spot to observe border life as many Burmese traders come over daily from Thakhilek, hurrying back before sunset and the border’s closure. Burmese lacquerware, gems, jade and other goods from Laos and Myanmar are sold in shops along the main street. Besides these excellent unique shopping opportunities, this is a great place to take some photographs of an exceptional destination in which three countries meet up.

Burma Border Crossing, Golden Triangle And Mekong River Trip

Operated: Daily, 08:30–16:30 hrs.

We cross the Sai River into Myanmar (Burma) to witness local life in a traditional village. Rickshaw riders wait to whisk us off to explore a Shan temple complex which is home to young novice monks. After a ride around town, through narrow lanes and twisting side streets, we stop off at a local market for shopping for local produce and handicrafts. The next destination is the Golden Triangle, once the infamous focus of the opium trade. From here, we view the beauty of the mighty Mekong River joining forces with the Ruak River and forming the ‘Triangle’ with Laos, Myanmar (Burma) and Thailand. This tour gives a great insight into the local culture and lifestyles of this fascinating area.

Doi Tung, Tribal Villages And Mae Sai

Operated: Daily, 08:30–16:30 hrs.

A breathtaking trip takes us to Doi Tung, the highest peak on the Thai-Burmese border. The destination is a pilgrimage site for Thai, Shan and Chinese Buddhists and was once a cultivation site for opium. This excursion also provides the perfect opportunity to visit both Lahu and Akha hill tribe villages. En route, we enjoy views of scenic farming terraces and see from a distance the palace built for the Princess Mother. Located at the top of the peak is Wat Phra That Doi Tung. This offers superb views over the river and rice field plains. The journey continues to Mae Sai, the northernmost point of Thailand, where the streets are lined with stalls and shops full of handicrafts and antiques from Myanmar and China. The perfect place for souvenir shopping!

Laos Border Crossing, Golden Triangle And Mekong River Trip

Operated: Daily, 08:30–17:00 hrs.

This tour takes in the Golden Triangle and Chiang Saen to explore the ruins of this ancient city. We then travel along the Mekong River to Baan Kiuw Karn to visit the White Hmong tribe. A stop is made at Chiang Khong, famous for the sighting of giant catfish, though this is seasonal. Then we cross the border by boat and enter into Laos. A visit is made to a Lantan hill tribe providing us with a glimpse of village life. The journey continues onto a Sapphire Mine (seasonal). A stop at Huay Sai market for shopping is the final stop before we return to Thailand.

Kaeng Kracharn

Operated: Daily, 08:00–14:00 hrs.

A visit to Kaeng Krachan, Thailand’s largest national park provides a unique opportunity to witness one of the world’s remaining untouched areas of natural beauty. The park is a 75-km drive northwest of Hua Hin, and we will experience a largely unexplored area of 2,915 sq km of protected park land which is home to many endangered species including wild elephants. The park includes a reservoir lake, 18-tiered waterfall named Namtok Tho Thip, mountains and caves. It is almost entirely covered with evergreen forest which supports ecologically and scientifically valuable plants and animals, including elephant, gaur, barking deer and gibbon, plus a plethora of bird species. The tour includes a visit to the National Park Information Centre and a boat trip on the 45 sq km Kaeng Krachan Reservoir which contains idyllic forested islands. Lunch is served at a restaurant overlooking the reservoir.

Petchburi

Operated: Daily, 08:30–15:00 hrs.

A highlight of this tour to the capital of Petchburi province is a visit to the regal hillside residence of King Mongkut (King Rama IV). This iconic building can be seen on the approach to Petchburi, a town which has a history dating back to the eleventh century. The architectural design of the palace buildings is a unique mix of neo-classical, Thai and Chinese styles. In the nineteenth century it became a royal retreat of King Rama IV, starting a trend of summer retreats that has been continued by his royal successors. We get the opportunity to explore the palace and enjoy the fine vista of the town, its river and the surrounding rice fields. To the west, the mountainous border of Myanmar (Burma) is visible. The Khao Luang Cave lies on the outskirts of the town and this houses many Buddha images, some of which were placed there by King Rama IV. Around midday they are illuminated by a natural shaft of light that floods the cave. After lunch, enjoy a stroll around town, shopping in the local stores and market, or a visit to Wat Mahathat which has a beautiful seated Buddha statue.

Pala-U Waterfall

Operated: Daily, 08:30–15:00 hrs.

We embark on 60-km journey through remote rural land, dotted by pineapple and coconut plantations and a vast mountainous backdrop, to the spectacular Kaeng Krachan National Park. First stop is a visit to a pineapple farm to see how these delicious tropical fruits are grown. The trip continues onto Pala-U waterfall, one of the biggest cascades in Thailand with 15 towering levels. The waterfall lies along a creek that stretches out to the Burmese border. Those feeling very energetic can climb to the top tier. Others may be more content with a leisurely stroll to the third level of the cascade and a refreshing dip in one of nature’s great wonders. The surrounding forest is over a thousand years old and is home to many rare wild animals, including wild elephants, deer and monkeys. The entrance fee to the National Park is included.

Sam Roi Yod National Park

Operated: Daily, 08:30–15:30 hrs.

A pleasant drive through the rich, fertile agricultural land south of Hua Hin takes us to the ‘Three Hundred Peaks’ Sam Roi Yod National Park. This protected area is a natural wonderland of limestone caves, dense forests, abundant waterfalls, mangrove swamps and isolated beaches. First stop is a visit to the secluded fishing village of Bang Poo where visitors are taken back in time to a land of from yesteryear set in stunning scenery. We then proceed by fishing boat to a secluded beach which is the starting point for a steep climb to Phrayanakorn Cave. The most popular attraction of this vast cave is Phra Thinang Khuha Kharuehat, a pavilion constructed during the reign of King Rama V in 1890. This distinctive pavilion is now used as the symbol of Prachuap Khiri Khan province. Lunch will be served on the beach, with ample time for swimming and sunbathing before we return to our respective hotels. The entrance fee to the National Park is included.

Around Samui Island Tour

Operated: Daily, 09:00–13:00 hrs.

This tour provides you with the perfect orientation to the entire island of Samui in less than half-a-day. You will discover how many magnificent beaches the island is blessed with and get expert information to make the most of your holiday. The trip includes a trip to the hilly region in the heart of the island to enjoy both views of the jungle interior and the distant islands in the National Marine Park. The excursion takes in the hugely important commodity that fueled the island’s economic growth before tourism – coconuts. A visit to a coconut farm includes a demonstration of how monkeys harvest the fruit and know how to pick only the ripe coconuts. The tour continues onto Lamai to see one of nature’s peculiar wonders; Grandma and Grandpa Rocks. After a visit to a traditional fishing village to see how Koh Samui was before the advent of tourism, the tour continues to the capital Nathon for shopping. Then we head to the north of the island to see the aptly-named Big Buddha – the colossal statue that can be seen from afar.

Samui Highlights And Spa

Operated: Daily, 08:30–13:30 hrs.

Sightseeing, shopping and sumptuous spa treatments! This tour takes in some of Samui’s best attractions such as the Big Buddha statue and the Big Buddha temple on the north of the island; Grandma and Grandpa Rocks near Lamai; followed by shopping and exploring the island’s capital Na Thon. A short drive takes us to Peace Spa for a choice of 120-minute spa packages. The luxury treatment includes a Thai herbal steam and jacuzzi treatment for 30 minutes, followed by a choice of different body massages for 60 minutes, such as aromatherapy, Thai, or a Swedish massage. To complete this heavenly experience, 30 minutes of foot massage and reflexology is administered. The spa has double spa suites for couples

Ang Thong National Marine Park (By Speed Boat)

Operated: Daily, 08:15–16:00 hrs.

Get away from it all with this great day out to a wonderland of nature; Ang Thong National Marine Park, which consists of 42 islands with tranquil blue lagoons, reefs, and deserted sandy beaches. There are fascinating rock formations, beautiful natural caves and even a salt lake or ‘keyhole‘ lake surrounded by sheer rock walls. Come and join a trip that offers the ultimate in tropical relaxation. There will be time for snorkeling, swimming and kayaking. Lunch and soft drinks are included. There is a small fee for entry into the Ang Thong National Marine Park.

Amazing Eco-Safari

Operated: Daily, 08:00–17:30 hrs.

This tour provides the ultimate opportunity to experience all of Samui’s premier tourist attractions in just a single day. In the morning we visit the Big Buddha statue and adjoining temple complex on the north of the island. We then continue to Lamai to see the peculiar quirk of nature; Grandma and Grandpa Rocks. Next up is a visit to a temple to pay respects to a departed monk; Luang Phaw Daeng whose corpse has remained preserved years after his death. Then it is onto Tar Nim Magic Garden and waterfall, a sanctuary built by a fruit farmer that is adorned with sculptures depicting both humans and various deities. There is a choice of two exciting experiences – an elephant ride or a jungle cable ride. After lunch, there is an animal show involving monkeys, snakes, crocodiles and elephants. We then take a safari truck to the beautiful 80-metre high second Namuang Waterfall for a swim and relaxation. The final visit is to a rubber plantation for a fascinating insight into how this crucial commodity is tapped from trees. We head back to our hotels at 5.30pm.

Koh Tao & Koh Nang Yuan (By Speedboat)

Operated: Daily, 08:15–16:30 hrs.

A speedboat takes us to Koh Tao for a fun day of swimming, snorkeling and sun bathing on an island named Turtle Island by the first settlers because of its turtle-like geographic shape. The shallow sea off the beach is an excellent place to snorkel and view the colorful corals and abundant tropical fish. The most popular place for tourists is Sairee beach on the west coast. This has a 1.7-km white sandy beach interrupted only by a few huge boulders. Lunch will be served in the popular Thai local restaurant before the party heads over to Koh Nang Yuan where we climb a small hill to a viewpoint to take photographs. A small fee is charged for entry to the National Marine Park. Soft drinks and snorkeling equipment are provided.

Coral Island (Koh Taen)

Operated: Daily, 08:30–16:00 hrs.

Play at being Robinson Crusoe for the day! A short boat ride from Koh Samui lies Koh Taen (Coral Island), a classic desert island location The adventure starts with a short drive to Thong-Krut Bay where we board a long-tailed boat for the 20-minute journey to this adjoining island situated off the southern tip of Samui. Lunch is served at a beach restaurant and time is set aside to ‘recharge the batteries’. For those keen to do more than soak up the rays, the southern end of the beach has a fantastic snorkeling spot with an abundance of coral that is home to a plethora of colorful tropical marine creatures. The west side of the island has a mangrove forest with a sturdy boardwalk so visitors can see how the mangroves act as a haven for land and sea creatures without damaging the sensitive eco-system. The island is traffic-free and without electricity so there is total solitude. Although less than half-an-hour from Samui, Koh Taen is a world away from its bigger neighbour.