Independent Thailand Bangkok, the Beach and Beyond (IAT32026)

Day 1:
ARRIVE IN BANGKOK, THAILAND

Welcome to Thailand! Your hotel is available for mid-afternoon check-in.



Day 2:
BANGKOK

• Today 's private guided tour starts with a boat ride through the klongs, Bangkok 's famous canals.
• Next, stop at Wat Arun, the Temple of the Dawn, whose 260-foot-tall spire has become identified with Bangkok.
• Continue to the Grand Palace, comprised of the Funeral Palace, the Reception Palace, the Throne Hall, the Coronation Hall, the Royal Guest House, and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
• Lastly, visit the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, the oldest and largest Buddhist temple in Bangkok. It houses more than 1,000 Buddha images, including the 49-foot-high and 151-foot-long massive Reclining Buddha.

(B,L)



Day 3:
BANGKOK

• Today is free to explore this extraordinary city.

(B)

Today's I-Time Tips
Enjoy a full day at leisure for your own discoveries. You may consider a visit to Jim Thompson 's House, a dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River, or an excursion to the vibrant Damnoen Saduak floating market.



Day 4:
BANGKOK-CHIANG RAI

• Today, fly to Chiang Rai, gateway to Thailand 's Golden Triangle and hill tribe culture.

(B)



Day 5:
CHIANG RAI

• Today 's private guided tour starts with a traditional longtail boat ride on the Kok River.
• Enjoy breathtaking vistas as you journey to Doi Mae Salong to visit a tea plantation.
• Continue through the countryside to visit several fascinating hill tribes including the Yao, Lisu, and Akha, known for gorgeous headdresses decorated with silver coins.

(B,L)



Day 6:
CHIANG RAI

• Drive north to visit the Hall of Opium, built to educate people on the history of opium in the area and proactively address the illegal drug issues through multimedia interactive displays and exhibits.
• Stop at the Golden Triangle viewpoint, where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos meet. Here you 'll take a boat ride on the Mekong River.

(B)

Today's I-Time Tips
Enjoy the afternoon at leisure. Perhaps visit Wat Rong Suea Ten, also known as the Blue Temple, or explore the fascinating night market.



Day 7:
CHIANG RAI-CHIANG MAI

• Start your morning with a visit to the stunning Wat Rong Khun, also known as the White Temple. This unique masterpiece blends traditional Buddhist design with contemporary elements, a stark contrast to other temples in Thailand.
• Then, drive to Chiang Mai, known as the “Rose of the North.”

(B)





Day 8:
CHIANG MAI

• This morning, travel out of the city to visit Elephant Nature Park, established in the 1990 's to provide a sanctuary for rescued and orphaned elephants. You will hear the personal stories of the elephants and see how they became a proud herd and free from abuse for the first time in their lives.
• Watch these majestic animals thrive in the natural surroundings within the rehabilitation center. In addition to elephants, tree planting and providing a safe home for other rescue animals are continuous projects at the park.
• After lunch at the sanctuary, return to Chiang Mai.

(B,L)



Day 9:
CHIANG MAI

• Today, your private guided sightseeing tour takes you to the walled part of the city for the revered Buddha at Wat Phra Singh.
• You 'll also visit Wat Doi Suthep, a temple tucked away in the mountains. For the final ascent to the temple, you can take a tram car or walk up the Naga (dragon-headed serpent) staircase, with more than 300 steps.

(B)

Today's I-Time Tips
Enjoy the afternoon at leisure. Perhaps take in a Khantoke dance show with dinner, participate in a cooking class, or simply explore the night market and absorb the lively atmosphere.



Day 10:
CHIANG MAI-PHUKET

• Today, fly to Phuket, Thailand 's most popular beach area. Transfer to your beachfront resort.

(B)



Day 11:
PHUKET

• Enjoy a full day at your leisure.

(B)

Today's I-Time Tips
Consider a trip to the Phi Phi Islands, a Thai cooking class, explore Phuket Town, or simply relax on the beach.



Day 12:
PHUKET

• Enjoy another full day at your leisure.

(B)



Day 13:
PHUKET

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.

(B)