Essence of Northern Thailand

(11 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis)
Bangkok, Golden Triangle, Chiang Mai

This tour includes the fascinating city Bangkok and the beautiful, culturally-rich mountainous areas of the north. After taking in the exciting modern and ancient traditions of the capital of Bangkok, spend time in northern Thailand where you will experience the more provincial lifestyle and sights, enjoy Northern Thai cuisine, discover hill tribe culture, and learn about the fascinating history of the Golden Triangle region. With your own expert guide and driver, this comprehensive tour shows you the best of these regions, all while staying at Thailand’s most luxurious resorts and hotels.

Begin with comprehensive touring in Bangkok. With your own private guide, enjoy a fascinating, private long-tail boat tour through Bangkok's canals. Visit the most important temples. Learn about Buddhist practices and influences on daily life. Hear monks chanting at a morning ceremony. Explore colorful markets selling textiles, flowers, food and crafts. Visit small museums and interesting local neighborhoods. When not sightseeing, enjoy time at the world’s leading spa, swim, play tennis, shop for exquisite Thai silks and art work, and dine on some of Southeast Asia’s best cuisine.

Next, fly to the Golden Triangle for several nights where Laos, Thailand and Myanmar ( Burma) meet along the Mekong River. Spend time with a professional mahout (elephant handler) at an elephant camp and learn to ride and work with these fascinating animals. Also tour hill tribe villages deep in the mountains, visit sacred shrines, explore a botanical garden, take a boat ride on the Mekong, and browse outdoor markets in small border towns.

Spend several days in rural Chiang Mai in northern Thailand at one of Asia’s most luxurious and atmospheric resorts, surrounded by mountains and lush fields of terraced rice paddies. Browse craft districts specializing in celadon ceramics, silver, teak furniture, paper umbrellas, and beautiful silk weavings. Visit revered mountaintop temples, the royal family’s Winter Palace, an elephant camp, and local hill tribe villages. A day will be at leisure to enjoy the resort's spa, cooking school, golf, or pool. Additional cultural excursions are also available.

Return to Bangkok for some last minute shopping or touring before departing Thailand.