A Taste of Thailand
Itinerary
Days 1-3 – Brights Lights of Bangkok
You’ll arrive in the bustling capital of Bangkok and stay on the riverside of Chao-Phraya, with a rooftop pool, and just a short walk to the famous Khao San Road. The following morning we’ll arrange a thrilling full day excursion that will give you a taste of life in Bangkok. You’ll discover local communities, learn about the history and finish the afternoon with a refreshing drink at a roof-top bar.
Days 3-6 – The River and the Railway
After an early breakfast you’ll start your trip to the River Kwai as part of a small group. First you will visit a market before heading to the Hellfire Pass Museum where you can learn all about the haunting history of this region. In the afternoon a longtail boat will take you upstream to your accommodation for the night, a floating raft house lit by flickering oil lamps.
After a peaceful night’s sleep in your floating hut you’ll visit the Erawan Waterfalls, a spectacular collection of waterfalls. As you climb why not take a plunge in one of the clear pools to cool off. Next it’s time to board the train for a trip across the Burma ‘Death’ Railway. During the ride you’ll see panoramic views of the River Kwai and visit the Bridge over the River Kwai. You’ll spend the second night of this trip in a small, cosy riverside resort in Kanchanaburi.
Days 6-9 – Giant trees and Lakes of Khao Sok
This morning, you can take it easy in Kanchanaburi, getting ready for your next adventure. At the end of the morning you’ll travel the 2.5 hours back to Bangkok by bus. Once you arrive back in the capital you’ll have plenty of time to stock up on snacks and drinks for the trip ahead. Early in the evening you’ll take the 12-hour overnight sleeper train to Surat Thani. You’ll travel in a second-class carriage in seats facing each other, but these seats can be fashioned into a bed in no time at all.
Next, you’ll journey deep into the wilds of Thailand’s famous Khao Sok National Park. For the first two nights you’ll stay at our Anurak Community Lodge in Khao Sok National Park. This beautiful place is hidden amongst the limestone cliffs, employing local people to staff the lodge and run the trips – meaning you’ll gain the best knowledge of the area.
During your stay you will take part in a canoe trip with a local guide, paddling down the river and taking in the lush nature surrounding you. Next you’ll head to a small group of peacefully floating bamboo cottages on the lake. The view is nothing less than idyllic; steep rock formations shooting up from the still water and curious monkeys swinging through the trees. Kick back and relax, go on jungle walks and cool off with a dip in the calm water.
Days 9-11 – Shimmering Bays and Secluded Beaches
Today you will head out of the jungle to catch the ferry over to the tropical island of Ko Phangan. All in all, today’s travel takes roughly 6 hours. Ko Pha Ngan may not be famous for its deserted beaches or sparkling white sand, but we’ve found just that in the north-eastern part of the island. This serene and authentic island is also home to a hilly interior, dreamy bays and just the right relaxing atmosphere. Ko Pha Ngan is famous for its full moon parties, which take place on the other side of the island. During your stay, you can spend your time swaying softly in a hammock, reading a good book and sipping on a fresh fruit shake. Let go and enjoy the laidback island lifestyle…
Days 11-14 – Daydreaming on Ko Samui
Next, you’ll hop on the ferry to Ko Samui which takes about an hour. On arrival you will make your own way to your hotel. Fun-filled and fancy-free, Ko Samui promises to give you a taste of the Thailand island hopping high life. No wonder so many travellers have found their way here. Ko Samui is a great combination of Thai hospitality, white sandy beaches, charming hotels and endless sunshine. You’ll stay on the pretty Bo Phut beach – a quieter place to stay than bustling Lamai and Chaweng, and take a day trip on a traditional junk boat, cruising around the northern islands of Koh Phangan and Koh Ma. The rest of your time is free for you to do as you please.
All good things must come to an end, and today so must your Thailand trip. This morning you’ll take one last stroll along the beach before making your way to the airport in Ko Samui. We’ll arrange your domestic flight tickets for your voyage back to Bangkok, the flight should take just over an hour. From here you can connect to your international flight home.
Accommodation
For this itinerary we offer the following options
A Taste of Thailand - In Style Accommodation
For the locations included in this itinerary we have alternative options available in terms of comfort. Our In Style options can be more luxurious, offer something unique or offer a more comfortable transport option – all with that local flavour! If you would like to upgrade your itinerary select our In Style option below.
