Thailand Highlights with Phuket

According to your flight, our guide will greet you at the airport, and escort you to the hotel in the heart of Bangkok in an air-conditioned private car. The rest of the day depends on yourself, recovering from the jet lag or soaking up the new surroundings at your own pace!

► Money Tips:
If you carry US dollars when entering Thailand, please exchange them for Thai bahts (USD 1≈THB 30, EUR 1≈THB 35) after arrival. Because most shops only accept Thai bahts, except for some popular tourist areas. Besides, it is easy to use credit cards in large malls and restaurants. Although tipping is not expected in Thailand, you can tip starting at THB 20 (USD 0.6) if you receive exceptional services. 

► Free Time Suggestion: Escape City’s Hustle and Bustle at Lumphini Park
If you feel energetic after rest, go to Lumphini Park to relax on its expansive grass! Cats, birds, turtles, and giant lizards coexist in this oasis of peace. You can also watch local people gracefully practicing Ta Chi or yoga. This park is a heaven for kids, too! They will love the playground where they can make new friends or enjoy a delightful ride on a duck-shaped boat across the lake for free. Remember to pack some snacks to have a picnic! The park is a 10-minute taxi ride from your hotel, and you can use the app Grab to hail a taxi, which offers English service and online payment.

Accommodation: Mövenpick Hotel Sukhumvit 15 Bangkok (4 stars)

Your holiday begins and we will spend the whole day discovering some top attractions of Bangkok. Our first stop is Wat Traimit Withayaram Worawihan, featuring a gilded exterior and a huge golden Buddha statue. Next, we’ll head to Wat Pho, which houses the world’s largest reclining Buddha statue. Then comes the highlight of today’s visit, the Grand Palace, a magnificent palace and temple complex established in 1782 as the ceremonial residence for Thailand kings. You may encounter royal guards marching around in unison. Next, follow our guide to visit Wat Phra Kaew, one of the most valued temples in Thailand, enshrining a national treasure of the revered Emerald Buddha. If visiting in February, you may happen to coincide with an important Buddhist festival, Makha Bucha Day, when you can witness local devotees walking in circles around the pagoda with flowers, candles, and incense sticks to pray for blessings and performing merit-making activities to celebrate.
► Tips for a Respectful Visit: 
1. Please skip sleeveless tops, crop tops and backless clothes, ripped pants, yoga pants, and short skirts.
2. Avoid discussing or criticizing the Thai royal family during your visit, because that is illegal and may cause you troubles and even let you be imprisoned.

★ One-Hour Bangkok’s Heart Exploration with a Long-tail Boat
In the late afternoon, you will board a traditional long-tail boat for a 1-hour cruise down the Chao Phraya River, known as Bangkok’s “River of Kings”. Drifting through the intricate network of the river, you will experience a more tranquil pace of life away from the city’s bustle. Old wooden floating houses, lush green plants in balconies, and tangled wires will show you an authentic local life. 

After docking, we will finish today’s tour with a visit to the riverside Wat Arun. As the sun sets, you can look across the river from the top of its Angkorian-style stupa. What a beautiful day! Then you will be escorted back to the hotel.

► Dinner Recommendation (at your own expense): 
Issaya Siamese Club nestles in a century-old villa with a beautiful garden, offering a courtyard dining environment. With an average cost of about THB 1000(USD 30), you can savor dishes made of fresh ingredients from their garden or Chiang Mai’s organic farms. Signature dishes Curry Lamb Shank and creative Jasmine Pudding are highly recommended. After dining, you can stargaze and enjoy a charming evening on the sofa. It is a 15-minute taxi ride from your hotel, and remember to book in advance for your romantic dinner! 
Average Cost per Person: THB 1000 (USD 30)
Address: 4 Soi Sri Aksorn, Chue Ploeng Thung Mahamek, Bangkok 10120

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Mövenpick Hotel Sukhumvit 15 Bangkok (4 stars)

After breakfast, we will drive for about 1 hour to Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Siam, founded around 1350 AD. The guide will first lead you to Bang Pa-in Palace on the bank of the Chao Phraya River, a royal summer palace blending Thai, Chinese, and Gothic architectural styles. Please pay extra attention to a Chinese-style building called Phra Thinang Wehart Chamrum. Look closely at intricate dragon carvings on its exterior walls and admire the upturned eaves that add a unique charm to its silhouette. You can also find the bed used by Rama V and exquisite porcelain vases from China in the main hall. Our next stop is Wat Niwet Thammaprawat on an island in the middle of the river. Any first-time visitors will wonder if it is a temple because of its Gothic-style roof. The portrait of Rama V surrounded by colorful stained glass will also make you feel an unexpected cultural fusion. After a delicious Thai lunch at a local restaurant, we will continue our Ayutthaya tour to Wat Mahathat.

► Marvel at the Wonder of Buddha’s Head Entwined by Tree Roots
Here you will be amazed by numerous headless Buddha statues. Legend has it that someone wanted to steal pure gold Buddha statues during a war, but tragically burnt down the whole temple. Heads of Buddha statues were separated from bodies due to the extreme heat, and one of the heads rolled to a Bodhi tree’s base. Over the years, the tree grew around the statue’s head, creating the well-known sight of the Buddha’s head intertwined with nature. Please show your respect by remaining seated when capturing photos. 

Our last stop is Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon. Ascending to the top of its main pagoda, you can enjoy a panorama of the temple and witness the devastations brought to Ayutthaya by the fire centuries ago. After that, our guide and the driver will transfer you to the airport, where you will board a 1.5-hour flight to Chiang Rai. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by our local guide in Chiang Rai and escorted back to the hotel for a good rest.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: The Legend Chiang Rai Boutique River Resort and Spa (4 stars)

In the morning, we will drive for about 1.5 hours to Mae Salong, a village inhabited by the Thai Chinese. Chinese road signs and traditional cultural emblems like couplets can be seen everywhere. Our guide will accompany you to visit a local tea plantation. Follow the guide to hike the winding path up the verdant terraces, and you could see the dedicated work of the local tea pickers. Drinking tea in such a heavenly place is a great blessing in one’s life. After that, head to Mae Sai to visit a Thailand-Myanmar border market. On the Thai side, vendors mainly sell local daily necessities, especially household appliances. Jade handicrafts from Myanmar are also eye-catching, allowing you to witness the cultural fusion between the two countries.

► From Poppy to Coffee: Discover a New Golden Triangle
After lunch, continue our adventure to the mysterious Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos converge. This area, once a notorious poppy-growing region, is now filled with the fragrance of Arabica coffee beans. Black Ivory, one of the world’s rarest coffee beans, is also produced here. Don’t forget to snap a photo at the iconic “Welcome to the Golden Triangle” archway in the park! 

Next, continue our exploration along the Mekong River, which divides the border, to the small town of Chiang Saen, where we could appreciate the magnificent ancient ruins and temples while overlooking Laos on the other side of the river. In the late afternoon, we will go back to the hotel.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: The Legend Chiang Rai Boutique River Resort and Spa (4 stars)

★ Witness Harmonious Coexistence of Buddha and Spider-Man
After breakfast, we will head to Chiang Mai with a 3.5-hour drive. Along the way, stop to visit Wat Rong Khun (White Temple). Forget everything you know about traditional Thai temples because it is so different! Its dazzling white exterior that glistens under the sunlight beckons you closer. In the main hall, a white jade Buddha statue is surrounded by a series of intricate murals, telling the history and myths of Buddhism. However, what truly ignites your imagination are those pop culture icons adorning the walls. Yes! Spider-Man, Michael Jackson, and Hello Kitty have found their place on those walls.

Then continue our drive to Chiang Mai. On the way, we’ll stop at the Mae Kajan Hot Spring for a rest. Dip your feet in and let gentle water rejuvenate your travel-weary muscles.

Upon our arrival in Chiang Mai, our guide will lead you to Wat Jed Yod, a temple with a history of more than 500 years that showcases architectural influences from Laos, India, China, and the Lanna Kingdom (1292-1775). Our next stop is Wat Suan Dok, where you will see a pagoda enshrining Buddha’s relics, a mausoleum containing the ashes of the royal family, and a large assembly hall. Then our guide and the driver will escort you to a well-selected hotel in Chiang Mai. 

► Free Time Suggestion: Enjoy Culinary Delights in Malin Plaza Night Market
Open from 10:00-23:00, this lively night market is a 10-minute taxi ride from your hotel, a paradise for food lovers. It offers diverse affordable options like Japanese food, Thai cuisine, and barbecues. If you feel everything is enticing, just follow students from nearby Chiang Mai University to find the most popular dishes. Once you are full, explore exquisite handicrafts like wood carvings, lacquers, and hand-woven bags to soak up the creativity of locals.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: The Rim Resort Chiang Mai (4 stars)

Today’s guided tour will begin at Warorot Market, where the enticing scent of dried fruits, spices, and tea on the first floor invites you to linger a little longer. You can also explore shops selling tableware and textiles on the second and third floors, while on the basement floor, refreshing iced coffee and Thai milk tea await to save you from the heat!

★ Explore Chiang Mai Old Town by Rickshaw
Want to glimpse Chiang Mai in a short time? A rickshaw is ready (included in the price)! When you hop on it through Chiang Mai’s ancient city, traditional houses, temples and devout locals who make pilgrimages to stupas will make you feel the slow life pace.

The rickshaw will stop at Tha Pae Gate, an iconic landmark of Chiang Mai and a backdrop for the busiest Sunday Night Market. Our next stop is the Three Kings Monument located in the city’s heart, a tribute to three northern Thailand kings who made great efforts to Lanna Kingdom’s rise. Then our guide will lead you to Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh, another two sacred Buddhist sites in Chiang Mai. 

Next, we’ll drive out of the city to the Doi Suthep Mountain. From the base of the mountain, we will climb up the 306 stairs (one-way cable car is included), admiring the intricate carvings on the sides, and finally reach the summit to visit the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a temple whose biggest highlight, apart from the traditional great gold stupas and halls, is the observation platform offering broad city views of Chiang Mai. Finish the visit, and you will be escorted back to the hotel.

► Fun Festival Celebrated in Chiang Mai - Loy Krathong
If your visit coincides with mid-November, you will encounter an unforgettable cultural spectacle in Chiang Mai. To celebrate Loy Krathong, locals gather on the riverbank to release their handcrafted lotus-shaped water lanterns for blessings. Wandering through the ancient city, you may encounter beautifully adorned floats filled with attractive ladies and gentlemen in traditional Thai attire to spread joy. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is one of the main sites to celebrate, where you can witness locals writing their wishes on lanterns and then hanging them on trees. 

► Dinner Suggestion (at your own expense): 
Instead of elaborate decors, Kat’s Kitchen beckons you with authentic flavors of northern Thai cuisine, a 10-minute taxi ride from your hotel. Made with a mix of shrimp and squid, the chewy Mama Noodles featuring spicy and light sour flavors will leave a deep impression. Don’t miss the Holy Basil Stir-Fry Minced Pork, a classic dish that pairs perfectly with rice. A cup of refreshing mango smoothie is an ideal end to your dinner. It accepts cash only, so you can have some change ready. Considering its popularity, it’s best to arrive there before 19:00.
Average Cost per Person: THB 200-300 (USD 6-9)
Address: 17 Ratchamanka Road, Chiang Mai 50200 Thailand

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: The Rim Resort Chiang Mai (4 stars)

You are free to spend this morning in Chiang Mai. Hopping on a bicycle to explore Chiang Mai’s ancient city is highly recommended. The Anywheel App will make your bike renting easy, with just THB 10 (USD 0.3) for 30 minutes or THB 50 (USD 1.5) for all day. You can start your adventure at the oldest temple Wat Chiang Man, then observe pigeon flocks flying against the Tha Pae Gate. When you are tired, a chic café hidden in winding alleys is an ideal place to unwind. Or refuel yourself with Braised Pork Leg or Sai Oui (sausages) from street vendors!

In the afternoon, our guide will pick you up from the hotel and escort you to the airport for a 2-hour flight to Phuket. Upon your arrival, our local driver will pick you up and transfer you to the hotel in Phuket.

Reputed as a paradise on earth, Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and a popular tourist destination, featuring crystal clear seawater, white sand beaches, lovely outlying islands, and plenty of seaside activities. Therefore, to ensure the maximum flexibility of your travel, we have considerately set aside two free days for you to spend your time in Phuket as you wish. The hotel is well selected for you after our field trip and careful comparison. Located near the popular Patong Beach, the hotel is within walking distance of the sea and enjoys easy access to any part of the island and the surrounding islets. Enjoy your perfect undisturbed vacation in Phuket!

 Tip: If you want a fully guided tour or a day trip in Phuket, please contact our travel consultants for additional arrangements.

► Recommended Night Activity in Phuket: Wander through Chillva Market
Immerse yourself in the atmospheric and vibrant Chillva Night Market! Some unique stalls are transformed from shipping containers, where you can savor street snacks like Coconut Cakes, Pickled Fruits, and Egg Rolls for around THB 15-50 (USD 0.4-1.5) per serving. In the sundries area, explore handmade jewelry, vintage watches, and creative lighters. Be sure to enjoy live band performances that will keep your spirits high! You can get there by a 20-minute taxi ride from your hotel.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: The Charm Resort Phuket (4 stars)

This is the first of your free days in Phuket and you can arrange activities according to your preferences. If the weather is fine, take a boat out to the surrounding islands. There are many beautiful islands around Phuket, such as Ko Phi Phi Don, Bamboo Island, Coral Island, Racha Island, and James Bond Island. You can take a speedboat from the pier to your favorite island, or join a local day tour with lunch, which usually includes two islands and provides simple snorkeling gear.

If you like thrilling entertainment, you can board a speedboat to Coral Island, enjoying endless fun with parasailing, underwater walking, and a banana boat ride. Some boats are equipped with snorkeling masks and kickboards, allowing you to play with fish schools. If you need a disposable snorkel mouthpiece, please buy it at the pier before leaving for THB 100 (USD 3) per piece. Once you’re exhausted, relax on the pristine white sandy beach. This day trip is available at most travel shops on Patong Beach, a 15-minute walk from your hotel. 

► Dinner Suggestion (at your own expense): 
Perched on a cliff with breathtaking views of the Andaman Sea, Baan Rim Pa restaurant promises a romantic ambiance with sunset and candlelight. Explore the Thai royal cooking tradition by trying specialties like Lemongrass Steamed Fish, Coconut Chicken Soup, and Coconut Ice Cream. It is open from 12:00 to 23:00. You can take a 5-minute taxi ride from your hotel to get there, and it’s recommended to book a week in advance.
Average Cost per Person: THB 1,000 (USD 29)
Address: 249/4 Phrabaramee Rd Kalim, Patong, Kathu, Phuket 83150

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: The Charm Resort Phuket (4 stars)

This is another free day for you to relax in Phuket. Hang out on the beach or have a trip to Phuket Old Town! Wat Chalong, a real knockout among Phuket’s 29 temples, boasts precious Buddha’s relics in its impressive 61-meter (200-foot) high stupa. You can also spend time at the Sunday Walking Street if it is a weekend. Opening from 16:00 to 22:00, stalls stretch along the main street, lined with colorful Portuguese-style houses on both sides. For about THB 100-150 (USD 3-4) per serving, street food options are incredibly abundant, and you can even find stalls selling fried insects! 

How to get there: Since most taxis in Phuket are not metered, negotiate prices with the driver before taking them. Songthaew, a local shared bus operated from 06:30 to 17:30, can also take you to Phuket Old Town. Another ideal vehicle is a Tuk-tuk, costing about THB 400-500 (USD 12-15) from Patong Beach to Phuket Old Town. 

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: The Charm Resort Phuket (4 stars)

Today, your 10-day Thailand beach vacation tour package will come to an end. After breakfast, our driver will escort you to Phuket Airport for a 1.5-hour flight to Bangkok. This is the end of our service, and hope you enjoyed the trip!

Please note: You will arrive at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport or Don Mueang International Airport. Please confirm the airport for your onward flight, because the two airports are 40 to 50 minutes away by car during non-rush hours. It’s best to book a flight leaving Bangkok in the evening to leave enough time for your transfer. For a seamless and affordable transfer, you can take a free shuttle bus at two airports with your passport and e-ticket for the connecting flight.

If you want to explore other destinations in Thailand, like Sukhothai, Pai, and Mae Hong Son, or travel to neighboring countries like Vietnam, Myanmar, and Laos, feel free to contact our travel consultants anytime.

Meals: Breakfast