Discovering Thailand

Monday 6th September 2027

Fly to Bangkok, ready to begin our adventure across Thailand.

Overnight flight.

Tuesday 7th September 2027

On arrival in Bangkok, we’ll transfer to our hotel in the heart of the city. The rest of the day is free to settle in, relax after the journey.

This evening, we’ll gather for a welcome dinner and our first taste of Thai cuisine. Alongside a traditional set menu, we’ll take part in a fun herb-tasting activity, discovering some of the aromatic ingredients that play such an important role in Thai cooking. It’s the perfect opportunity to get to know our fellow travellers and begin our exploration of Thailand’s rich culinary heritage.

Breakfast and Dinner included. Overnight in Bangkok.

Wednesday 8th September 2027

Today, we’ll discover some of Bangkok’s most vibrant sights, sounds and aromas. Our morning begins in the bustling streets of Yaowarat, Bangkok’s Chinatown, in the lively Samphanthawong District. As we wander through its busy lanes, we’ll encounter sizzling street-food stalls, traditional birdcage shops and market traders selling a fascinating array of dried herbs, spices and seafood. This is a wonderful opportunity to experience the energy and character of one of Bangkok’s most historic neighbourhoods.

Later, we’ll visit Pak Khlong Talat, the city’s famous flower market. Surrounded by fragrant orchids, jasmine and marigolds, we’ll learn about the important role flowers play in Thai culture, religion and daily life. We’ll then have the opportunity to create our own traditional jasmine garland, following techniques that have been passed down through generations. As we weave together the flowers by hand, we’ll gain a deeper appreciation for this cherished Thai craft before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant.

The evening is free to relax or to continue exploring at leisure.

Breakfast and lunch included. Overnight in Bangkok.

Thursday 9th September 2027

Today, we’ll explore some of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks and gain a fascinating insight into the city’s history, culture and daily life. Our morning begins with a journey through Bangkok’s network of canals aboard a traditional longtail boat. These canals offer a glimpse of a different side of Bangkok, where local life unfolds along the water’s edge. We’ll also visit Wat Pho, home to the magnificent 46 metre long golden Reclining Buddha, and Wat Arun, the striking Temple of Dawn, which stands proudly on the western bank of the Chao Phraya River.

After lunch at a local restaurant, we’ll have some time to relax or explore the surrounding area at our own pace.

Breakfast and lunch included. Overnight in Bangkok.

Friday 10th September 2027

This morning, we’ll travel north to Ayutthaya, the former capital of Siam and one of Thailand’s most important historical sites. Once one of the largest and wealthiest cities in Asia, Ayutthaya is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where atmospheric temple ruins and ancient monuments tell the story of a powerful kingdom that flourished for more than four centuries.

We’ll explore the historic park by tuk tuk, weaving our way between impressive temples, crumbling stupas and centuries-old stone structures. Along the way, we’ll learn about Ayutthaya’s rich history, discovering how this once-great trading centre connected cultures from across Asia and beyond.

After lunch at a local restaurant, we’ll continue our exploration before returning to Bangkok in the evening. Filled with fascinating stories and remarkable reminders of Thailand’s past, today’s excursion provides a memorable contrast to the energy and modernity of the capital.

Breakfast and lunch included. Overnight in Bangkok.

Saturday 11th September 2027

After breakfast, we leave Bangkok behind and fly north to Chiang Mai, the cultural heart of northern Thailand. Surrounded by mountains and known for its rich history, distinctive traditions and relaxed atmosphere, Chiang Mai offers a wonderful contrast to the energy of the capital.

On arrival, we’ll transfer to our hotel located in the historic Old City, with time to settle in after our journey. The remainder of the afternoon is free to relax and enjoy the hotel’s facilities, providing a welcome opportunity to unwind before we begin exploring the cultural treasures of northern Thailand.

Breakfast included. Overnight in Chiang Mai.

Sunday 12th September 2027

Today, we’ll discover some of the traditional crafts that have helped shape the identity of northern Thailand. This morning, we’ll visit Bo Sang, a village renowned for its beautifully handcrafted paper umbrellas. We’ll learn how these distinctive umbrellas are made and decorated, and gain an insight into the skills and artistry that have been passed down through generations. We’ll also visit a local sa paper workshop, where traditional handmade paper is produced using techniques that remain largely unchanged to this day.

Later in the day, we’ll immerse ourselves in one of Thailand’s most celebrated traditions: its cuisine. Beginning with a visit to a local market, we’ll learn about the fresh herbs, spices and ingredients that form the foundation of Thai cooking. We’ll then take part in a hands-on cooking class, guided by local experts, before sitting down together to enjoy the dishes we’ve prepared – a wonderful introduction to the flavours and culinary culture of northern Thailand.

Breakfast and dinner included. Overnight in Chiang Mai.

Monday 13th September 2027

Today offers an opportunity to explore some of the traditions of wellbeing and spirituality that are deeply woven into Thai culture. This morning, we’ll visit the Thai Massage Conservation Club, where we’ll take part in a traditional Thai massage course led by vision impaired practitioners. As well as learning some of the basic techniques and principles behind this ancient practice, we’ll gain an insight into the important role massage plays in Thai life and the skilled work of those who teach and practise it.

Later, we’ll head into the hills overlooking Chiang Mai to visit a collection of beautiful temples. We’ll begin at the ancient temple of Wat Suan Dok before visiting the peaceful forest temple of Wat Pha Lat and continuing to the sacred mountaintop temple of Doi Suthep. Along the way, we’ll learn about the role Buddhism plays in everyday life in Thailand.

As the day draws to a close, we’ll witness the evening chanting of the monks, listening to the rhythmic prayers and experiencing the unique atmosphere of one of northern Thailand’s most revered temples.

Breakfast included. Overnight in Chiang Mai.

Tuesday 14th September 2027

This morning, we’ll get creative during a hands-on pottery workshop, learning about the techniques and traditions behind one of northern Thailand’s oldest crafts. Guided by local artisans, we’ll have the opportunity to work with clay ourselves and gain an appreciation for the skill and patience involved in creating handcrafted ceramic pieces. The afternoon is at leisure, with time to relax or enjoy the local surroundings.

This evening, we’ll head to Chiang Mai’s famous Night Bazaar, where market stalls, local crafts and food vendors come together to create one of the city’s most vibrant evening attractions. We’ll enjoy dinner as we explore, sampling local street food along the way and experiencing the lively atmosphere that makes this market a favourite with both locals and visitors alike.

Breakfast and dinner included. Overnight in Chiang Mai.

Wednesday 15th September 2027

This morning, we’ll leave the mountains and cultural heart of northern Thailand behind as we fly south to Krabi, a region renowned for its dramatic limestone cliffs, palm-fringed beaches and laid-back coastal atmosphere. The landscapes here provide a striking contrast to those we’ve experienced so far, offering a glimpse of Thailand’s tropical shoreline.

On arrival, we’ll transfer to our resort with time to settle into our new surroundings. The remainder of the afternoon is free to relax and enjoy the hotel’s facilities, whether that means exploring the tropical gardens, enjoying a dip in the pool or taking a moment to unwind ready for the next stage of our journey.

Breakfast included. Overnight in Krabi.

Thursday 16th September 2027

After Breakfast, we’ll travel by traditional long-tail boat to Railay Beach, a stunning peninsula surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and accessible only by sea. This spectacular coastline has made Krabi one of Thailand’s most celebrated destinations. The journey itself offers a wonderful opportunity to appreciate the dramatic scenery that characterises Thailand’s Andaman Coast.

We’ll have time to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Railay Beach, where soft sands, turquoise waters and striking rock formations create a truly memorable setting. We’ll lunch at a local restaurant, after which there’ll be time to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the slower pace of life by the coast. For those seeking a little more adventure, there is also the option to try a guided rock climbing experience on Railay’s world-famous limestone cliffs.

This evening, we’ll take to the water once more for a sunset longtail boat ride. As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, we’ll enjoy a different perspective of Krabi’s famous shoreline and limestone karsts, bringing a fitting end to a relaxing day by the sea.

Breakfast and lunch included. Overnight in Krabi.

Friday 17th September 2027

Today, we’ll leave the coast behind and journey towards Khao Sok National Park, one of Thailand’s most spectacular natural landscapes. Along the way, we’ll stop at Bor Thor, where we’ll explore the area’s mangrove forests by kayak. Paddling through peaceful waterways and natural tunnels created by overhanging vegetation, we’ll experience a unique ecosystem shaped by the meeting of land and sea. As we move through the mangroves, we’ll have the chance to appreciate the changing sounds of the forest and the rich variety of plant and animal life that thrives here.

After lunch, we’ll continue to Khao Sok, a region renowned for its ancient rainforest, dramatic limestone scenery and winding rivers. Depending on conditions, we’ll enjoy a bamboo rafting experience along the river, drifting gently through the jungle and taking in the sights and sounds of this remarkable environment.

Breakfast and lunch included. Overnight in Khao Sok.

Saturday 18th September 2027

This morning, we’ll leave the rainforest landscapes of Khao Sok behind and travel to Phuket, Thailand’s largest island and our final destination. The journey provides an opportunity to reflect on the many experiences we’ve shared, from the bustling streets of Bangkok and the cultural treasures of Chiang Mai to the beaches, rivers and forests of southern Thailand.

On arrival, we’ll have time to settle into our hotel and enjoy the relaxed coastal atmosphere. As our journey draws to a close, we’ll gather one final time for a farewell dinner by the sea. With the sound of the waves nearby and the flavours of Thai cuisine on our plates, it’s the perfect setting to celebrate new friendships and the memories made during our travels across this remarkable country.

Breakfast and dinner included. Overnight in Phuket.

Sunday 19th September 2027

After breakfast, we’ll check out of our hotel and transfer to Phuket International Airport for our journey home, taking with us memories of Thailand’s rich culture, warm hospitality and diverse landscapes.

Breakfast included.

Visa Information: British citizens travelling on a full British citizen passport can enter Thailand without a visa for tourism visits of up to 30 days.

If you hold a passport from outside of the UK, check with your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements before travelling.

Passport Validity: To enter Thailand, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least six months after the date you arrive and have at least one blank page.