Best of Thailand

Overview

from$3599Tour + Flights from$2799Tour Only 12days

price per person, double occupancy,* based on Nov 20, 2025 departure from LAX

$300 Instant Savings. Expires Dec 19, 2024.*   All prices reflect savings.

$199 deposit. Lock in your spot for less.^††

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Style	Small Group TourTravel with a small, intimate group of no more than 16 likeminded travelers (and often much fewer), escorted by an English speaking guide and/or tour manager for some or all of your journey. (Some exceptions, including special promotional packages, may accommodate up to 30.) More of these packages Dedicated tour escorts & guides throughout
Departures	February 2025 – March 2026	Group Size	16 travelers max
Themes	History & Culture,  Grand Tours
Activity Level	Moderate
What to Expect	This moderately-paced, escorted Thailand tour includes a reasonable amount of walking or hiking and requires an average level of physical fitness.
Already booked?	Find everything you need to know before you go, including information about passport & visa requirements, flights, luggage, and more.

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Dates

Select a date Feb 13 - Feb 24, 2025 Mar 13 - Mar 24, 2025 Apr 3 - Apr 14, 2025 Sep 25 - Oct 6, 2025 Oct 28 - Nov 8, 2025 Nov 20 - Dec 1, 2025 Dec 4 - Dec 15, 2025 Jan 8 - Jan 19, 2026 Feb 26 - Mar 9, 2026 Mar 12 - Mar 23, 2026 Nov 6 - Nov 17, 2024 Nov 21 - Dec 2, 2024 Dec 5 - Dec 16, 2024 Jan 9 - Jan 20, 2025 Feb 20 - Mar 3, 2025

Travelers

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To book, we only require a per-person deposit, which you can pay with your credit card or PayPal account. This deposit will be applied towards the cost of your package. The balance is due 75 days prior to departure (or within 72 hours, if you're booking less than 75 days prior to departure), and can be paid by credit card, PayPal, check or money order.

Changes to your package, departure date, or flights may require an increased deposit. If you select our optional Trip Protection Plan, the premium will be added to your deposit.

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Itinerary at a Glance

• 1 Depart USA
• 2 En route
• 3 Bangkok
• 4 Bangkok
• Optional Excursion: Chinatown Walk (purchased locally)
• Optional Excursion: Cabaret show with dinner (purchased locally)
• 5 Bangkok
• Optional Excursion: Bites & Sites in the "Village of Love" (purchased locally)
• 6 Bangkok, Damnoen Saduak & Kanchanaburi
• 7 Kanchanaburi, Ayutthaya, Bangkok & Chiang Rai
• 8 Chiang Rai
• 9 Chiang Rai & Chiang Mai
• 10 Chiang Mai
• 11 Chiang Mai
• Optional Excursion: Morning Almsgiving (purchased locally), $8
• 12 Chiang Mai & Depart Bangkok/Arrive USA

Angkor Wat Extension

• 12 Bangkok/Siem Reap, Cambodia
• 13 Angkor Explorations
• 14 Angkor Explorations
• Optional Excursion: Dining for a Cause (purchased locally), $59
• 15 Depart Siem Reap/Arrive USA

Phuket Extension

• 12 Chiang Mai & Phuket
• 13 Phuket
• Optional Excursion: Full-day Phi Phi Island by Speedboat with Lunch (purchased locally)
• 14 Phuket
• Optional Excursion: Half-day Southern Community and Cultural Experience (purchased locally), $121
• 15 Depart Phuket/Arrive USA

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Dates & Prices

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 Depart USA

• Check-in for your overnight flight to Bangkok, Thailand via Taipei

Day 2 En route

• Cross the International Dateline and lose a day (which you will recover on the return leg of your trip)

Day 3 Bangkok

• Upon arrival in Bangkok, transfer to your hotel for check-in
• Tonight, experience a lovely dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River

COMO Metropolitan Bangkok, Grande Centre Point Surawong Bangkok or similar Dinner

Full Day Itinerary

Today, arrive in Bangkok. After customs formalities, transfer to your centrally located hotel for check-in.

Tonight, experience a romantic evening Bangkok-style on a rice barge cruise that has been converted into one of Bangkok's finest dining venues along the Chao Phraya River, passing the city's glittering sites. Enjoy a five-course dinner of Thai cuisine as you take in stunning views of the Temple of Dawn, the illuminated Grand Palace, magnificent temples, striking bridges, and other landmarks. The cruise offers a perfectly relaxing experience that you will never forget.

Note: September 2025 departures and beyond will stay at Grande Centre Point Surawong Bangkok.

Day 4 Bangkok

• Visit the Flower Market and learn how to create your own Thai garland
• Tour The Royal Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha
• See the mysterious Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho
• Spend the balance of the afternoon at leisure or enjoy an optional excursion

COMO Metropolitan Bangkok, Grande Centre Point Surawong Bangkok or similar Breakfast

Full Day Itinerary

After an early breakfast, your day of discovery begins with a visit to Bangkok's vibrant and colorful Flower Market. Meet with a local vendor and create a traditional Thai flower garland that you can present as an offering at any of Bangkok's magnificent temples. The temples and the monarchy are the fabric that binds Thailand's national identity, and Bangkok is home to some of the most fascinating Thai temples. Continue to the Royal Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. For 150 years, the Grand Palace served as the home of the King and his court and the entire administrative seat of government. Within its grounds, you'll also visit the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew), a structure built to house a large Buddha image carved from a solid piece of green jadeite (jasper). Continue to Wat Pho, founded in the 17th century and the oldest temple in Bangkok. This temple is also home to the remarkable Reclining Buddha, one of the largest in the world, whose face depicts the attainment of Nirvana and whose feet are inlaid with mother-of-pearl.

The afternoon is leisurely to explore Bangkok on your own or join a locally available optional excursion.

Note: September 2025 departures and beyond will stay at Grande Centre Point Surawong Bangkok.

Optional Excursion: Chinatown Walk (purchased locally)

This afternoon, drive to Bangkok's Chinatown, where you'll head out on an exciting walk through one of the city's oldest parts. Walk along Yaowarat Road, which is filled with exciting shops brimming with unique treasures. Continue to an old tea shop to enjoy a cup of Chinese tea with the locals before heading to Talad Kao, a busy local market offering a variety of fresh food, fruits, and Chinese herbs. End the walk at Wat Leng Nei Yi to visit the Taoist temple. Then, proceed to Wat Traimit on the edge of Chinatown, which houses the world's most giant solid gold Buddha.

Note: This optional excursion is sold locally at approximately 1,290 THB on departures Sept 2024 through April 2025 and approximately 1,610 THB on departures Sept 2025 through April 2026. This cannot be combined with the Cabaret show with dinner.

Optional Excursion: Cabaret show with dinner (purchased locally)

This evening, transfer to the Mirinn Theater for a night of live entertainment at the Thai dance and cabaret show, which features elaborate sets and costumes. Afterwards, transfer back to your hotel.

Note: This optional excursion is sold locally at approximately 2,520 THB on departures through April 2025 and approximately 2,820 THB on departures Sept 2025 through April 2026. This cannot be combined with the Chinatown Walk.

Day 5 Bangkok

• Enjoy the morning at leisure or join an optional tour
• Board a long-tail boat and cruise the peaceful Klong Bang Luang
• Stop at Baan Silapin, a local art gallery
• Visit the Royal Barge Museum to see the ceremonial barges of the Royal family
• Marvel at the Temple of Dawn, also known as Wat Arun

COMO Metropolitan Bangkok, Grande Centre Point Surawong Bangkok or similar Breakfast

Full Day Itinerary

Spend this morning at leisure, or join an optional tour.

After your independent lunch, board a private long-tail boat on the peaceful Klong Bang Luang. Pass by shop houses, local temples, and vendors on this waterway, which was once a significant trading route lined with the impressive homes of aristocrats. After observing this lively area, the boat stops at Baan Silapin, a 100-year-old renovated house now home to an art gallery. Enjoy the gallery, participate in an art workshop, or explore the local community. En route back to the city, visit the Royal Barge Museum and see the decorated ceremonial barges of the Royal family. Later, stop at the Temple of Dawn, also known as Wat Arun, on the banks of the Chao Praya River.

Note: September 2025 departures and beyond will stay at Grande Centre Point Surawong Bangkok.

Optional Excursion: Bites & Sites in the "Village of Love" (purchased locally)

Begin the day by joining a local guide on an insightful walking and food tour through the Bangrak neighborhood, also known as the "Village of Love." This tour is ideal for food lovers and curious travelers who want to connect with authentic local culture and cuisine. Known for its food and family-run stalls, stop to taste the best local snacks, from the traditional to the exotic. Engage with the chefs and store owners and listen to their personal stories and the history of Bangrak. After glimpsing into the past and the culture of the 'real' Bangkok, continue to the afternoon tour.

Note: This optional excursion is sold locally at approximately 3,590 THB on departures through April 2025 and approximately 3,960 THB on departures Sept 2025 through April 2026.

Day 6 Bangkok, Damnoen Saduak & Kanchanaburi

• Discover the colorful Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
• Continue to Kanchanaburi and visit the famous Bridge on the River Kwai and the World War II cemetery
• Visit the Hellfire Pass Museum and walk along the Memorial Walking Trail

U Inchantree Kanchanaburi or similar Breakfast & dinner

Full Day Itinerary

After breakfast in the early morning, depart Bangkok for the famous Damnoen Saduak Floating Market in Ratchaburi Province. Take a boat ride along the canal to see the colorful floating marketplace, bustling with boats and vendors selling tropical fruits and other delights.

Then, continue to Kanchanaburi and visit the famous Bridge on the River Kwai and the World War II cemetery. Next, visit the Hellfire Pass Museum before embarking on a short trek through the nearby canyon. The walk is along the Memorial Walking Trail, which looks out onto Myanmar. A free audio guide helps re-create the scene, linking the context and location with real-life experiences narrated by POWs while working on the line. This evening, enjoy dinner at your hotel.

Day 7 Kanchanaburi, Ayutthaya, Bangkok & Chiang Rai

• Depart Kanchanaburi and travel to the ancient city of Ayutthaya
• Discover the sculpture of a Buddha head woven in tree roots
• Visit Wat Yai Chaimongkol and see the statue of the Reclining Buddha
• After lunch, return to Bangkok for your flight to Chiang Rai

Imperial River House Resort & Spa or similar Breakfast & lunch

Full Day Itinerary

After an early morning breakfast, depart Kanchanaburi and travel to the ancient city of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. King U-Thong founded the city in 1350 as the capital of his Kingdom of Siam. By 1700, Ayutthaya had as many as a million inhabitants, making it one of the largest cities in the world at the time. But in 1767, the Burmese army invaded and destroyed the city. Magnificent ruins of the old city remain, and some have been restored. Exciting archaeological excavations are still proceeding at many sites in the area. Among the ruins, discover the Wat Mahathat, a sculpture of a Buddha's head sticking out of winding tree roots. Visit Wat Yai Chaimongkol, a temple best known for its enormous statue of the Reclining Buddha.

After lunch at a local restaurant, return to Bangkok in time for your flight to Chiang Rai. Upon arrival in Chiang Rai, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

Day 8 Chiang Rai

• Witness ancient traditions at the Santikhiri Kuo Min Tang village
• Visit the “Hloyo Village”, a small community of Akha hill tribes
• Stop at the Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar and Laos converge
• Embark on a long-tail boat ride and see the area from the majestic Mekong River's perspective

Imperial River House Resort & Spa or similar Breakfast & lunch

Full Day Itinerary

After breakfast, travel higher into the hills at Doi Mae Salong to the Santikhiri Kuo Min Tang village, founded in the 1960s as a refugee camp for Chinese soldiers who were expelled from Myanmar. Admire how, 50 years later, the residents retain the traditions of their ancestors, speaking their own language and practicing ancient beliefs. The Kuo Min Tang descendants are successful farmers who grow tea and other produce. Continue to a unique hill-tribe village, "Hloyo Village," a small community of Akha hill tribes, and witness the natural way of life and admire the surrounding nature. A local guide will accompany you in exploring the community and their local lifestyle and learning more about the culture. See traditional bamboo houses, Akha style, where local people use their wisdom to build their own homes. Then, enjoy a home-cooked local lunch served in Akha Khantoke style.

In the afternoon, drive to the Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos converge. Visit the ancient kingdom of Chiang Saen on the steep banks of the Mekong River, across from Laos, where you will see magnificent ancient ruins and temples. Then, embark on a long-tail boat ride and see the area from the majestic Mekong River's perspective.

Day 9 Chiang Rai & Chiang Mai

• Depart from Chiang Rai and continue to Chiang Mai
• En route, visit Wat Rong Khun, the White Temple
• Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant en route to Chiang Mai
• In the evening, visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
• Arrive in Chiang Mai late this evening

Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort or similar Breakfast & lunch

Full Day Itinerary

After breakfast at the hotel, depart from Chiang Rai and continue to Chiang Mai, Thailand's second-largest city, often called the "Rose of the North" because of the abundance of flowers that thrive in its cooler mountain climate. En route, visit Wat Rong Khun, also known as the White Temple and one of the must-see sights of the northern region. The temple features unique architecture and impressive drawings. Next, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

Continue on a winding drive into the Doi Suthep mountain hills. Climb the staircase of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and admire the intricate naga carvings along the way. Upon reaching the top, explore the 14th-century pagoda and hear about its origins. Wander around the towering gilded stupa and take a moment to enjoy the views of Chiang Mai in the distance. Before the sun sets, witness the magical evening chanting of the monks, a serene way to end the day's spiritual tour. Arrive in Chiang Mai later this evening.

 

Day 10 Chiang Mai

• Spend the day with a local family and experience the Thai lifestyle
• Enjoy the evening at leisure
• October 28, 2025 Departure: Attend the Loy Krathong and Yi Peng Festival

Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort or similar Breakfast & lunch

Full Day Itinerary

Rise early to spend the day far removed from the tourist areas of Chiang Mai and join a local family for a day. First, it's important to dress like a local, so don a pair of provided "fisherman's pants," the comfortable cotton trousers worn in rural villages in the north. Then, venture out of the city center to the local district of Hang Dong to meet your new family. The hosts will provide you with a warm welcome into their home. After the meet-and-greets, explore the property to encounter local architectural styles and unique traditional ways of life, including basket weaving, a handmade process that has remained unchanged for centuries.

Next, visit the gardens to browse your hosts' vibrant array of vegetation. Select fresh ingredients, grab an apron, and head inside to begin the interactive cooking experience! The family will share their recipes and demonstrate the traditional techniques to prepare delicious northern Thai dishes. Share stories of food and family while cooking today's lunch, and afterward, dine on the tasty meal.

The afternoon is free to explore the neighborhood, capture the scenes of daily life, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of this local area. Towards the end of the day, say farewell to your host and his family and return to Chiang Mai.

October 28, 2025 Departure:  Loy Krathong and Yi Peng Festival

This evening, enjoy dinner with your fellow travelers before immersing yourself in the enchanting Loy Krathong and Yi Peng Festival. Head to the celebration venue to check in and receive a beautiful Krathong souvenir. Indulge in delicious northern Thai dishes and refreshing beverages while enjoying the Lanna performance show. Engage in traditional games that capture the spirit of the festival. As night falls, float your Krathong onto the water and join the monks in a serene chanting ceremony. Cap off this magical evening by releasing your lantern into the night sky, creating a breathtaking display of light and hope.

Day 11 Chiang Mai

• Join the locals during an optional early morning Almsgiving
• Learn the traditional methods of tea making
• Observe elephants at a sanctuary
• Enjoy a farewell dinner with fellow travelers

Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort or similar Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Full Day Itinerary

Make your way through Thailand's scenic evergreens to the Araksa Tea Garden in the Mae Tang district. Upon arrival at the tea plantation, receive a warm welcome from the local guide, who will explain the processes and methods used to cultivate the young tea plants, select seeds, and pick tea leaves. Then, take a bamboo basket and prepare to harvest tea leaves. Instructed by the guide, gather and collect tea leaves to fill your basket. After, move to the roasting station to enjoy making tea by hand, from kneading to roasting the tea leaves. After the roasting, enjoy a tea tasting with delicious Thai snacks and a Thai set lunch.

Then, visit an elephant sanctuary that aims to provide as many elephants as possible with the good health, freedom, and happiness they deserve. Upon arrival, change into traditional clothing and prepare fruits for them. Then, observe the beautiful rescued elephants as they roam throughout the sanctuary. Throughout your visit, learn how the sanctuary uses progressive and ethically responsible approaches to elephant eco-tourism as a platform to raise awareness and educate about elephant care. After mingling with the elephants, enjoy tea, coffee, and seasonal fruits before saying goodbye to them.

This evening, join your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner and share your favorite memories from your journey through Thailand.

Optional Excursion: Morning Almsgiving (purchased locally), $8

Depart your hotel at 6:00 a.m. and arrive at the foothill of Doi Suthep Mountain in time to observe the alms offering to the monks. Join the locals during the daily alms-giving ceremony. This is a peaceful Buddhist procession in which dozens of monks walk barefoot through the street, collecting food and everyday items for those in need.

Note: Sold locally at approximately 260 THB. Breakfast box available from the hotel.

Day 12 Chiang Mai & Depart Bangkok/Arrive USA

• Bid farewell to Thailand as you transfer to the airport to board your flight to Bangkok, and then your return flight to the USA via Taipei
• Or, take advantage of your already-included international airfare and join our optional extensions to Angkor Wat and Phuket Island, or both!

Breakfast

Angkor Wat Extension

Day 12 Bangkok/Siem Reap, Cambodia

• Transfer to the airport for your flight to Siem Reap, gateway to the Angkor Archaeological Park
• After customs formalities, transfer to your hotel for check-in

Borei Angkor Resort & Spa or similar Breakfast

Day 13 Angkor Explorations

• Tour the royal walled city of Angkor Thom
• Visit the Bayon Temple in the exact center of the city
• Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant
• Explore the temples of the Small Circuit
• Discover the famous Angkor Wat archaeological site
• Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant

Borei Angkor Resort & Spa or similar Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Full Day Itinerary

Built by the Khmer civilization between 802 and 1220 AD, the temples at Angkor and the great city surrounding it represent one of mankind's most astonishing and enduring architectural achievements. Today's structures are the surviving remains of a grand religious, social, and administrative metropolis. Other buildings, such as palaces, public buildings, and houses, were built of wood and have long since decayed and vanished. Satellite photographs reveal Angkor as the largest preindustrial city in the world, with an urban sprawl of 3000 square kilometers (the closest rival is Tikal in Guatemala, at most 150 square kilometers) and supporting a population of up to one million people. Mysteriously abandoned in the 15th century, the Angkor site remained primarily cloaked by the forest until the late 19th century, when archaeologists began clearing the forest and planning a lengthy restoration process.

After breakfast, begin your explorations at the mysterious walled city of Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Great Khmer Empire. The city is surrounded by an 8-meter high wall, drawing a perfect square, 4km on each side. Enter the city through the South Gate, an impressive stone entryway flanked by larger-than-life carved elephants and capped with four giant smiling faces of the Buddha. On each side of the entrance path stands a row of 54 gods and demons, each holding a sacred Naga snake.

Continue to Bayon Temple, located in the exact center of Angkor Thom. This monument includes dozens of towers featuring faces that some believe depict King Jayavarman VII as a Buddhist deity. While the scores of faces are nearly identical, the staggering height of the towers and the different viewpoints keep the design from appearing repetitious. Atop the temple, you are engulfed by the silent, enigmatic gaze of those faces, staring out from a remote time in history through half-closed eyes.

After lunch at a local restaurant, explore the temples of the Small Circuit. The most famous is Ta Prohm Temple, built in the mid-12th to early 13th centuries. Ta Prohm is still as large as it was when discovered: overgrown by jungle trees and vines, with many parts of the temple crumbling to the ground, giving it the most mysterious atmosphere of the temples in the Angkor area.

Continue to the magnificent Angkor Wat archaeological site, built by Suryavarman II in the early 12th century. Carvings and bas-reliefs depicting Hindu mythology and the region's history cover the walls inside the temple. This evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Moreover, Angkor Wat is well known for the more than 2,000 Apsara dancers decorating the temple. Construction is thought to have taken nearly forty years of intensive labor. Today, Angkor Wat is featured on Cambodia's national flag as the temple symbolizes the soul of the Khmer people.

This evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 14 Angkor Explorations

• Visit the "Citadel of Women", the best preserved temple in Cambodia
• Learn about mine awareness at the Landmine Museum
• Create a Khmer style smok box
• Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant
• Tour the Roluos Group: Preah Ko, Bakong, and Lolei temples
• Spend the evening at leisure or join an optional excursion

Borei Angkor Resort & Spa or similar Breakfast & lunch

Full Day Itinerary

This morning's excursion takes you to the "gem" of the Angkor area, the beautiful pink-sandstone temple of Banteay Srey, best viewed in the warm morning light. The so-called "Citadel of the Women" was built between the 11th and 13th centuries and remains the best preserved temple in Cambodia. The temple displays some of the finest examples of classical Khmer art and is noted for its truly remarkable fine bas-reliefs depicting the Hindu god Shiva.

Stop by the Landmine Museum, which promotes mine awareness. The museum founder, Mr. Aki Ra, was trained as a child soldier during the Khmer Rouge regime. Today, he is working as a de-miner. The museum serves to educate and serve as a rescue center for several landmine amputee children that Aki Ra has brought off Phnom Penh's streets or from impoverished rural communities.

After lunch at a local restaurant, be picked up by ramork (local transportation) and join the artisans at Senteurs d'Angkor for a smok-making workshop. Learn how local artisans make smok boxes using parts of the sugar palm tree. Weave the palm tree leaves to create your own Khmer souvier.

Later, visit three early-Angkor era temples of the Roluos Group: Preah Ko, Bakong, and Lolei, built by King Indravarman I and his successor in the 9th century. The surrounding countryside, with its paddy fields and sugar palm trees, is very typical for Cambodia. Enjoy the natural beauty and connect with rural Cambodia and its friendly people.

This evening is at your leisure, or join an optional dining tour that visits some of Siem Reap's tastiest restaurants.

Optional Excursion: Dining for a Cause (purchased locally), $59

One distinctive feature of the culinary scene in Siem Reap is a selection of restaurants providing culinary arts training to disadvantaged Cambodian youth. Visit a variety of such culinary social enterprises to enjoy some of the finest Khmer cuisines while supporting the education of at-risk youth.

Day 15 Depart Siem Reap/Arrive USA

• Transfer to the airport for the short flight to Bangkok, then continue to the USA via Taipei

Breakfast

Phuket Extension

Day 12 Chiang Mai & Phuket

• Fly to Phuket and transfer to your hotel upon arrival
• Enjoy the balance of the day at leisure

Amari Phuket or similar Breakfast

Day 13 Phuket

• Enjoy a full day at leisure or join an optional excursion

Amari Phuket or similar Breakfast

Full Day Itinerary

Spend two full days at leisure to relax, shop, or tour this scenic island, Thailand's largest.  Phuket and the 39 smaller islands to the southeast are studded with tropical forests, mountains, gravity-defying limestone formations, and pristine beaches, surrounded by coral reefs and the aquamarine water of the balmy Andaman Sea. The west coast of Phuket was hit severely by the Indian Ocean tsunami of December 2004. Still, the resilient people have quickly rebuilt it, and almost no evidence of the damage now remains. Phuket is a melting pot of Buddhists, Thai-Chinese, Muslims, and even sea gypsies, whom you'll find warm and welcoming.

With warm, humid weather year-round, you'll enjoy plenty of sun-drenched days lounging on the beach and all types of water sports, including jet-skiing, parasailing, surfing, scuba diving, and snorkeling. Most of the dive locations are suitable for all skill levels. The waters abound with colorful coral forests, tropical fish, and other marine life, including leopard sharks, moray eels, octopus, and turtles.

Phuket is also the sailing and yachting center of Thailand and adjacent countries, with several races and regattas happening throughout the year. And in the unlikely event you can pull yourself away from the beach, you'll find opportunities to ride horses, hike, mountain bike, and even golf. Afterward, unwind at one of the many spas or one of the excellent acrobatic, theatrical, or cultural shows.

Optional Excursion: Full-day Phi Phi Island by Speedboat with Lunch (purchased locally)

Escape to a quieter and more natural side of southern Thailand on a day trip from Phuket. This morning, board a speedboat for a 45-minute journey to the six scenic Phi Phi Islands. As you cruise toward paradise, see spectacular limestone karsts that jut out from the blue seas. Pass by Maya Bay, arguably one of Thailand’s most beautiful places, as well as Phi Phi Lay Cove and Monkey Beach, which feature stunning white sands lined with swaying palm trees.

Enjoy lunch at Tonsai Bay, the southern stretch of Phi Phi Ley Island, surrounded by sweeping sea views. In the afternoon, cruise to the Bamboo Islands for snorkeling and swimming in the Andaman Sea. 

After a spectacular day cruising the Phi Phi Islands, it is time to return to Phuket in the early evening.

Note: This is a shared tour. May 1 to October 31, 2024: Sold locally at approximately 4,210 THB.

Day 14 Phuket

• Enjoy a full day at leisure on the island or join an optional excursion

Amari Phuket or similar Breakfast

Optional Excursion: Half-day Southern Community and Cultural Experience (purchased locally), $121

Discover the enchanting cultural village of Baan Kamala in Phuket, where tradition meets tropical paradise. Immerse yourself in Thai heritage as you explore this vibrant Muslim community, known for its warm hospitality and captivating local customs. From traditional performances to authentic cuisine, Baan Kamala is a must-visit destination for a truly immersive and enriching experience in Southern Thailand.

Meet with locals when you arrive, and throughout the half-day tour, participate in hands-on activities, allowing you to be a part of the tapestry of local life. Learn how to make khanom duen, a local dessert, and kaeng som—a famous (and spicy!) Southern Thai dish made of buffalo oranges. Or, enjoy painting sarongs or batiks with a personal design. 

Note: May 1 to October 31, 2024: Sold locally at approximately 3,880 THB.

Day 15 Depart Phuket/Arrive USA

• Transfer to the airport for the short flight to Bangkok, then continue to the USA via Taipei
• Passengers returning to JFK must leave Phuket early in the morning before breakfast is served at the hotel

Breakfast

Hotels

COMO Metropolitan Bangkok

Deluxe

COMO Metropolitan Bangkok is a contemporary and stylish hotel located in the central district of Sathorn. The hotel is located 10 minutes away from Silom’s vibrant nightlife scene with close access to train stations, including the Skytrain Station. COMO Metropolitan is a mixture of relaxation and excitement, quietly removed from Bangkok’s traffic, yet steps away from the areas nightlife, shopping and restaurants.

More information

Grande Centre Point Surawong Bangkok

Deluxe

Grande Centre Point Surawong Bangkok is located in the city's central business district. Surrounded by the lively districts of Silom, Sathorn, and Charoenkrung, the hotel provides easy access to major commercial centers, the Chaopraya River pier, and Icon Siam. Guests can explore nearby art galleries, pop-up shops in Talad Noi, and popular local eateries. Despite its vibrant surroundings, the hotel offers a peaceful retreat, with convenient access to the Express Way for quick travel to Impact Area Muang Thong Thani and Bitec Bangna Convention Centre.

More information

U Inchantree Kanchanaburi

First Class

U Inchantree Kanchanaburi is a boutique hotel located along the north bank of the Kwai Yai River, within close proximity of the famous River Kwai Bridge. The hotel derives its name from the ancient “Inchantree” within its courtyard.

More information

Imperial River House Resort & Spa

First Class

Surrounded by a beautiful blend of scenic mountain and river views The Imperial River House Hotel & Spa is located in Chiang Rai on the River Kok. The hotel is a delightful retreat with a friendly and attentive staff. Engulfed by pristine gardens, this hotel is ideal for relaxation.

More information

Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort

Deluxe

Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort is a charming hideaway nestled in the heart of Chiang Mai. Legendary stories combined with the history of the area are inspiration behind the creation of this unique resort.

More information

Borei Angkor Resort & Spa

Deluxe

Located near the center of Siem Reap Town, the Borei Angkor Hotel is a short drive from many of the finest monuments of the Angkor Temple Complex. The property's philosophy is based on authentic Cambodian heritage and lifestyle. The hotel decor reflects the intricate and ornate designs that adorn the ancient monument of Khmer Culture.

More information

Amari Phuket

Superior First Class

Hidden on a secluded beach, Amari Phuket offers a prime location in Patong’s southernmost corner surrounded by the Andaman Sea. Less than an hour’s drive from Phuket International Airport, Amari Phuket is conveniently set within a 5-minute walk to Patong Beach while Phuket Town and the island’s popular attractions are also easily accessible from the resort.

More information

In the unlikely event that a particular hotel is not available, a similar or better hotel may be substituted.

Reviews & Photos

Trip Details

• What should I know before I go? We've compiled a comprehensive checklist, including information on how to pay your balance due, flights & transfers, packing & luggage, and more.
• Do I need a visa or other documents? Are there any entry requirements? Travel visas are required for this package. Please review the visa & entry requirements.
• Can I make changes to my trip? Want to upgrade your seats? Stay a few extra days? Something else? Just ask!
• Can I bring my kids? Are there any age restrictions? To book this package, you must be 18 or older. Your traveling companions must be 8 or older at time of travel.
• Should I purchase travel insurance? Yes! We recommend you purchase travel insurance to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. For your convenience, we offer a plan provided by Travelex Insurance Services.
• What's the fine print? Review the terms & conditions for this package.
• What should I know about Cambodia? Check out our guide for practical travel tips, the best time to go, videos, and more.
• What should I know about Thailand? Check out our guide for practical travel tips, the best time to go, videos, and more.

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