Private Thailand

On arrival at Bangkok International Airport, our representative will meet and greet you before we arrange an unescorted transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to explore this bustling city at your own pace – you could unwind with a traditional Thai massage, sample bold local flavours, or watch the sunset from one of the city’s stylish rooftop bars – all at your own expense. Overnight in Bangkok.

We explore three of Bangkok’s most important Buddhist temples. We begin at Wat Traimit, the Temple of the Golden Buddha, which houses a solid-gold statue standing 3 metres tall and weighing 5.5 tonnes. We then pass through Chinatown on the way to Wat Pho, the Temple of the Reclining Buddha and home to the Chedis of the Kings – the 46 metres long and 15 metres high Buddha depicts the Buddha’s passing into nirvana. Next, we continue to the Grand Palace – once the royal residence and one of the finest examples of an ancient Siamese court – to see ceremonial buildings including the Funeral Palace, Reception Palace, Throne Hall, Coronation Hall, Royal Guesthouse and Wat Phra Kaew, the revered Emerald Buddha temple. To round off the outing, we stop at a local lapidary factory and showroom, where you can browse and purchase locally made jewellery, handicrafts and silk at competitive prices. The Grand Palace may be closed to the public during special royal ceremonies and official government visits. Overnight in Bangkok.

After breakfast, we depart Bangkok for Samut Songkhram to visit Maeklong Railway Market – also known as Talad Rom Hoop. On arrival, our guide shares the area’s background before we position ourselves to witness the train pass through the stalls – a brief but striking sight. We then continue to Ratchaburi to explore the famous Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, where colourfully dressed vendors paddle along busy canals selling fresh fruit and vegetables. You can bargain from the water’s edge or simply take in the lively scene. We return to Bangkok in the afternoon. Overnight in Bangkok.

After breakfast, we transfer you to Bangkok Airport for your included domestic flight to Chiang Mai. On arrival, an unescorted transfer takes you to your hotel. At 1:30 pm, we pick you up in central Chiang Mai for a guided tour of the old town’s main temples. We begin at Wat Suan Dok to view its 48–metre Sri Lankan–style chedi overlooking the Royal Cemetery, then continue to Wat Phra Sing – a large complex of more than 60 buildings in the old town. We visit 14th–century Wat Chedi Luang in the heart of the city, restored after decades of decay and noted for its more rustic character, before taking in nearby Wat Chet Yot, which shows its age in places, and Wat Chiang Man, renowned for its many elephant sculptures. Overnight in Chiang Mai.

After breakfast, we travel up to Doi Suthep to visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and take in panoramic views over Chiang Mai. You can climb the 309–step naga staircase or use the included cable car to reach the hilltop. We then explore the bustling Wararot Market – a historical landmark renowned for the variety and quality of its products – followed by a visit to the fragrant flower market. In the evening, we enjoy a khan toke dinner, a traditional northern Thai feast accompanied by cultural performances inspired by the Lanna kingdom, which dominated northern Thailand for almost five centuries. Overnight in Chiang Mai.

After breakfast, we depart Chiang Mai for Elephant Jungle Sanctuary (Grand Canyon). Following a safety and orientation briefing, we take part in an ethical experience focused on elephant care, conservation and observation. We learn about the sanctuary’s mission and watch the elephants in a natural environment where their welfare and freedom of movement are prioritised – with time for meaningful photos. After lunch, we continue by road via Doi Saket and stop at Wat Rong Khun – the famed ‘White Temple’ built in the 1990s. Its intricate, all–white exterior is inlaid with mirror fragments that catch the light. We then continue to Chiang Rai, arriving in the afternoon, and transfer to our accommodation. Overnight in Chiang Rai.

After breakfast, we check out and drive to Chiang Saen for panoramic views of the Golden Triangle – where Laos, Myanmar and Thailand meet on the Mekong. We then board a local boat for an approximately 30 minute cruise around the Golden Triangle, followed by lunch at a local restaurant. We transfer to Chiang Rai Airport, arriving at around 14:00, for our flight to Bangkok and onward connection to Phuket – both domestic flights are included. On arrival in Phuket, we meet you and transfer you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Overnight in Phuket.

We start with breakfast at the hotel, then you have a full day at leisure in Phuket. Spend the day relaxing by the pool or on the beach, or choose from a range of optional activities. Phuket is a great base for island hopping – Phi Phi and James Bond Islands are within easy reach – and you can also discover the island’s shimmering temples and colonial mansions. Your local representative can help you select and arrange any excursions you wish to join. Overnight in Phuket.

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, then spend a full day at leisure in Phuket to rest and recharge. Take it easy – unwind at your own pace and keep the day flexible. Overnight in Phuket.

We start with breakfast at the hotel, then you have a full free day to explore Phuket at your own pace – spend it exactly as you wish, with no scheduled activities. Overnight in Phuket.

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel – we then arrange an unescorted transfer to Phuket Airport for your onward travel.