Charming Thailand Trip Notes

Trip Overview

Print

Starting off in Bangkok and ending in the north, Chiang Mai, you are in for a jam-packed 8 days. Experience some of the best highlights of Central and North Thailand. Wander the bustling night markets of Bangkok, play with elephants in Chiang Mai, explore the archaeological gem of Ayutthaya, and get your cameras ready as you witness the spectacular White Temple in Chiang Rai.  This tour gives you the perfect taste of Thailand’s charm, you’ll most definitely be left wanting more!

Duration : 8 Days

Destination : Thailand

Start/Ends in : Bangkok / Chiang Mai

Group Size : 4-18 People

Age Req. : 18+

Trip Theme : Classic, Short Break

Hotels : 4 Star

Departs : All Year Round

Why you will love this tour

  • * Discover the unmissable sites of Thailand including the Grand Palace, Floating Markets, the White Temple of Chiang Rai, and the ancient Sukhothai Kingdom.
  • * Stay in carefully-selected 4 & 3-star hotels with all breakfasts and 1 lunch included.
  • * Get to know each city like a local on guided walking tours in Bangkok, Kanchanaburi, Ayutthaya, Sukhothai and Chiang Rai.
  • * Visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city of Ayutthaya. Dating back to 1350, the ancient city is teeming with royal palaces, monasteries, and pagodas waiting to be explored.
  • * Prepare to be mesmerised as you feed and bathe elephants at an elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai.

  • * Enjoy plenty of free time in the evenings to explore each city at your own pace or relax in the comfort of premium resorts with your new travel mates.

Arrival Details

The group welcome meeting with your guide and other travelers is held around 18:30 at the hotel lobby on Day 1 of your tour unless otherwise notified.

Meeting Point:

The start point for 2024 departures is:

Grand Mercure Atrium – 4 Star – Bangkok

Address: 1880 New Petchaburi Rd, Bang Kapi, Huai Khwang, Bangkok 10310, Thailand

Phone : +66 2 718 2000

Thestart point for 2025 departures is:

Mandarin Hotel by Centre Point – 4 Star – Bangkok

Address: 662 Rama IV Rd, Maha Phruttharam, Bang Rak, Bangkok 10500, Thailand

Phone : +66 2 238 0230

Emergency Number: +44 203 14 99 200

Finishing Point:

The finishing point for this tour is:

Centara Riverside Hotel – Chiang Mai – 4 Star

Address : 318, ตําบล, 1 Chiang Mai-Lamphun Rd, Wat Ket, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50000, Thailand

Phone : +66 53 275 300

Emergency Number: +44 203 14 99 200

Highlights

Bangkok: Bangkok, Thailand’s famous capital, also knows as a large city with ornate shrines and vibrant street life. The boat-filled Chao Phraya River feeds it’s network of canals.

Kanchanaburi: Lying at the source of the Mae Klong River, the majestic bodies of water in Kanchanaburi are amongst the most spectacular defining characteristics of the town.

Ayutthaya: The history of Ayutthaya dates back to the supposed foundation in 1350, although some temples in the marvelous ancient city have been known to exist before then.

Lopburi: Lopburi is a province in the central region of Thailand. The province is divided into 11 administrative districts, and Mueang Lopburi District is the capital.

Phitsanulok: The ancient city of Phitsanulok has a long history dating back to the Khmer era, generally called “Muaeng Song Kwae” with reference to the two rivers passing through it.

Sukhothai: A town founded in the 13th century on the fringe of the Khmer Empire. The exact year is unknown, but according to the Fine Arts Office it was between 1238 and 1257.

Chiang Mai: Chiang Mai is home to hundreds of elaborate Buddhist temples, including the 14th-century Wat Phra Singh and 15th-century Wat Chedi Luang.

Chiang Rai: Chiang Rai is an idyllic town famous for its magnificently ornate White and Blue Temples. It also has a taste of indigenous culture with the cozy Akha Village.

Elephant EcoValley: That might happen to you, too! Experience elephants up-close while feeding and bathing them. Learn about herbal treatments and make their vitamin balls.

Itinerary

Please note that the itinerary may be subject to small changes depending on the conditions during the tour. Alternative accommodation of similar standards may be used depending on the group size and hotel availability.

Welcome to Thailand! Freshen up and meet in the hotel lobby around 6:00pm for an informal meeting with your guide and other tour members. Afterwards you have free time to start exploring vibrant Bangkok or go out for an optional group dinner. Take a stroll down the iconic Khao San Road and explore the bustling night markets, live music bars and restaurants as you wish.

Accommodation : Grand Mercure Bangkok Atrium or Mandarin Hotel by Centre Point– 4 Star

Optional Activities :  Group Dinner

Fill up on an included breakfast at the hotel before a full day exploring Bangkok on an included City Tour. Follow your local guide through the chaotic streets and quaint back alleys of Bangkok and visit the city’s two unmissable highlights. Wander through China Town to the banks of the Chao Phraya River and visit Wat Pho to see the famous 46-meter-long reclining Buddha covered in gold leaf! Continue to the Grand Palace just nearby, the perfect example of an ancient Siamese court, to witness the magical atmosphere. You may get a chance to visit the Temple of Emerald Buddha, Wat Pra Kaew, located within the palace compound. There is a strict dress code at the Grand Palace so be sure to cover your shoulders and knees with loose-fitting such as long pants and shirts. Travel on the Chao Phraya River (The River of Kings) and on through the Klongs (canals) of Thonburi. You will have the chance to observe and photograph the serene family homes and temples along the waterways, which gave the city the name “Venice of the East”. You will also pay a visit to one of the most photographed sights in Bangkok, Wat Arun. The majestic shrine has a pagoda as high as 76m and is decorated with glazed ceramic pieces that reflect the rising sun, giving the temple its name. After a big day exploring Bangkok, head back to the hotel to enjoy the afternoon at your own leisure.

Accommodation : Grand Mercure Bangkok Atrium or Mandarin Hotel by Centre Point– 4 Star

Meals Included : Breakfast

Included Activities : Bangkok City Tour

Entrance Fees :

Wat Pho – 200 THB

Wat Pra Kaew & Grand Palace – 500 THB

Wat Arun – 100 THB

Depart Bangkok on an air-conditioned coach by early in the morning as we make our way to Kanchanaburi. Famously known for the bridge over the Kwai River, it is a significant scene of World War II and Thailand’s somber war history. Start discovring the area with a visit to the War Cemetery and the War Museum, dedicated to the prisoners who lost their lives during the construction of the bridge. Hop on a boat trip on River Kwai towards the famous bridge, where you can cross it on foot and take walk around the site. Our next stop will be the unusual railway section, “Hellfire Pass”, a pass built in record time by allied prisoners of war between 1942 and 1943. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before transferring to the hotel and free time to continue your discovery on your own terms.

Accommodation : Felix River Kwai Resort – 4 Star

Meals Included : Breakfast

Included Activities :

War Cemetery & Museum

Boat tour on River Kwai

River Kwai Bridge Visit

Hellfire Pass Visit

Entrance Fees: Thailand-Burma Railway Museum – 150 THB

Farewell Kanchanaburi for the historic city of Ayutthaya! Known as Thailand’s hidden archaeological gem, this city is teeming with Buddhist temples, monasteries and ancient statutes that cannot be missed. Follow your guide on a walking tour through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed site that dates back to 1350, which was once the capital of the ancient Siamese Kingdom and considered the biggest city in the world! Explore the magnificent royal monastery of Wat Yai Chai Mongkol, Wat Mahathat and three ancient pagodas, Wat Phra Sri Sanphet. Next, we will ride to the city of Ang Thong to visit the incredible Wat Muang temple, famous for housing the largest seated Buddha figure in Thailand, and ninth largest in the world, at almost 100 meters high. After enjoying a local lunch, we make our way to the city of Phitsanulok, located at the heart of Thailand and considered one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage centers in the country. During the journey, witness the change in the landscape as it turns greener and lusher into a jungle-like flora. Finishing the day with a full camera roll and plenty of knowledge from your local guide, arrive at your 4-star hotel for some leisure time.

Accommodation : Pattara Resort & Spa – 4 Star

Meals Included : Breakfast

Included Activities : Ayutthaya Walking Tour

Entrance Fees :

Wat Mahathat – 50 THB

Wat Phra Sri Sanphet – 50 THB

Wat Yai Chai Mongkol – 20 THB

For the early risers, we wake up early today to visit the hotel’s surroundings to make an offering to the monks, and experience one of the most emblematic aspects of Thai culture up close. After breakfast, we ride to Sukhotai, the historical heartland of Thailand. This impressive UNESCO World Heritage City was the cradle of Thai civilisation and home to the Sukhothai Kingdom from 1238 to 1438. Follow your local guide on a walking tour through the Sukhothai Historical Park to explore the ancient temples, impressive ruins and the giant Wat Sri Chum Buddha statue in a scenic park setting. Then, grab a window seat as we continue the journey towards Chiang Rai in the Lampang province. En route, we will have lunch and rest along the shores of the spectacular Phayao Lake. Arriving in Chiang Rai in the late afternoon, enjoy your free time to rest, swim in the hotel pool or visit the city’s night market.

Accommodation : Laluna Hotel and Resort – 4 Star

Meals Included : Breakfast

Included Activities :

Sukhothai Archaelogical Park Visit

Phayao Lake Visit

Entrance Fees :

Sukhothai Historical Park – 100 THB

Kick off the day with a hefty breakfast, as our first stop will be the new and striking Wat Rong Suea Ten, also known as Blue Temple. Discover the marvellous paintings with a style similar to that of the famous White Temple, as the architect of which trained here for years. To soak in the local culture, follow your guide to the village of Akha, an ethnic group known for its colorful costumes and the surrounding picturesque tea plantations. Continuing to the spectacular and contemporary White Temple (Wat Rong Kun in Thai) on the outskirts of Chiang Rai, witness white represent the purity and wisdom of Buddhism in sublime beauty and serenity. This bizarre-looking temple is the brainchild of Chiang Rai’s famous artist and painter Chalermchai Kositpipat. Unlike most Thai temples, the building is all white with glass and mirrors embedded into the outside to make it sparkle in the sunlight. Keep your cameras at the ready because this temple is truly insta-worthy! This hilly, forested area also holds serene landscape views, winding rivers and is home to the best elephant sanctuaries in Thailand! Spend the evening in Chiang Rai, resting up at our luxurious 4-star hotel before a big day ahead.

Accommodation : Centara Riverside Hotel – Chiang Mai – 4 Star

Meals Included : Breakfast

Included Activities :

Visit Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple)

Visit Akha Village

Visit Wat Rong Khun (White Temple)

Entrance Fees :

Akha Hilltribe Village – 500 THB

Wat Rong Kun (White Temple) – 100 THB

Today, we depart for a half-day excursion to the Elephant EcoValley for many exciting and animal friendly activities. Besides getting the best insight about these fascinating creatures, you will get to: Harvest grass/vegetation for elephant snacks along the way; hike on foot to Upper EcoValley with the elephants; plant a banana tree or herbs; make herb ‘n’ fruit nutritional vitamin balls; feed the vitamin balls to the elephants (They love them!); share a mud bath with your new buddies (Watch or wash ’em yourself!); shower outdoors overlooking a mountain stream!

After returning to Chiang Mai in the afternoon, go up to the well-known mountain temple of Wat Doi Suthep, the best spot to appreciate the city in all its splendor. At night, enjoy your personal time or walk through the famous night market to soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

Accommodation : Centara Riverside Hotel – Chiang Mai – 4 Star

Meals Included : Breakfast

Included Activities :

Half-day Excursion to Elephant EcoValley

Visit to Wat Doi Suthep

Entrance Fees :

Elephant EcoValley – 2,075 THB

Wat Doi Suthep – 50 THB

After breakfast at the hotel, our trip will end in Chiang Mai as we bid farewell to our new travel mates and check-out of the hotel by 11am. Luckily it’s not a final goodbye, but only until next time!

Included Meals : Breakfast

Inclusions & Exclusions

The tour price covers the following services:

Accommodation : 4 Star Hotels and Resorts

Meals : 7 Breakfasts

Transportation : Private Air-Conditioned Vehicle

Guide : Services of experienced Travel Talk local guides licensed by the Ministry of Tourism

Sightseeing : Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Elephant EcoValley, Kanchanaburi, Lopburi, Phayao Lake, Phitsanulok, River Kwai, River Kwai Bridge, Sukhothai, Sukhothai Archaelogical Park, War Cemetery & Museum, Wat Doi Suthep, Wat Rong Khun

What is NOT included in the tour price?

  • Any flights not mentioned above
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals not stated above
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Tips & gestures
  • Entrance fees to the sights and museums
  • Optional activities
  • Other services not stated in the itinerary

Hotels & Accommodation

Solo travelers will be roomed with another solo traveler of the same gender in a twin or triple room, or can upgrade to a solo room by paying the single supplement. You may choose the solo room option when booking online or contact us to arrange a private room. Your tour leader will allocate rooms upon arrival at the starting hotel in accordance with the rooming lists, last minute changes may not be guaranteed.

Centara Riverside Hotel – CHIANG MAI – 4 STAR

Discover Thailand’s breath-taking north at Centara Riverside Hotel, where the warmth of local traditions combines with quality. The hotel is situated in the heart of the city, only a few steps from Ping River.

LALUNA HOTEL RESORT – CHIANG RAI – 4 STAR

Laluna stands apart from the crowd with a unique feel. A collection of 79 spacious bungalows hidden away from the main road and nestled within a tropical paradise.

Grand Mercure Bangkok Atrium – BANGKOK – 4 STAR

Grand Mercure Atrium is located in the heart of dazzling Bangkok. The hotel is conveniently situated and at the same time, offers serenity with its outdoor pool & well-being center.

Mandarin Hotel by Centre Point – BANGKOK – 4 STAR

A charming hotel, offering the guests 2 on-site restaurants, an outdoor swimming pool, a SPA & Wellness Center and a fitness room.

FELIX RIVER KWAI RESORT – KANCHANABURI – 4 STAR

Felix River Kwai is the legendary riverside garden retreat of Kanchanaburi, built with local hard redwoods, mountainous rocks and terracotta tiles sealed to create a comfortable homey ambience.

PATTARA RESORT & SPA – PHITSANULOK – 4 STAR

Pattara Resort and Spa is the first and only resort in the center of Phitsanulok. It’s rooms are surrounded by nature in a private atmosphere. Every room can access to the infinite swimming pool.

Essential Information: Thailand

Passport & Visas

If you are a citizen of the following countries, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States, you are exempt from a tourist visa and can stay in Thailand for up to 30 days without the need to acquire a tourist visa. All travelers to Thailand must hold a Passport or travel document with a validity not less than 6 months. We recommend checking the legal requirements from https://www.thaiembassy.com/thailand-visa/thailand-tourist-visa

This information is provided as guidance, we strongly advise that you check with the consulate or embassy as this information can change at any time and with little notice. It is your responsibility to make sure that all the required travel documents are ready when travelling.

Travel Advice

We are closely monitoring the latest travel updates to Thailand and following the advice of the UK Foreign Office (FCDO). For the latest travel advice from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, please visit https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/thailand

We recommend all travelers to check their Government National Travel Advisory prior to their departure:

Australia – https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/

Canada – https://travel.gc.ca/

New Zealand – https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/

USA – https://travel.state.gov/

Travel Insurance

All passengers travelling with Travel Talk are required to have personal travel insurance before participating in any of our tours. Your guide will collect your travel insurance details on the first day of your trip. It is your responsibility to make sure you have an adequate and suitable travel insurance for you in place, you may read more at https://www.traveltalktours.com/travel-insurance

Health & Safety

The health and safety of our passengers, staff and communities visited is of utmost priority. As we monitor and comply with the official advice from the UK Foreign Office, as well as World Health Organization and government authorities regularly, we have implemented several policies and precautions on our tours for your wellbeing. You may find our Safe Travels Protocols at https://www.traveltalktours.com/safe-travels

Travel Talk Adventures has received the Safe Travels stamp by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), which allows travelers to recognize companies around the world that have adopted health and hygiene global standardized protocols – so consumers can experience ‘Safe Travels’.

Please make sure to regularly check your Government’s travel advice before travelling and be well-informed of any requirements. Your tour guide will also notify you of the regulations and protocols to follow throughout your trip with us.

Please note that if any traveler is unable to complete the itinerary or possess a potential risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to remove them from all or part of a trip.

Please consult with your doctor for the latest medical travel information and any vaccinations you may need. We recommend that you bring any personal medical requirements and medications with you as these may be difficult to obtain while on tour.

Weather

The best time to visit Thailand is during the dry season between November and April. The weather is warm, and the days are filled with sunlight around this time, offering quality time in the country’s heartland. Thailand experiences its busiest and liveliest time from January to March, hosting numerous cultural events and exciting activities. In the rainy season from May to October, nature is at its finest. The inland forests flourish, and the rivers are majestic, creating the most spectacular landscapes for photography enthusiasts. It is also less busy in popular attractions such as Sukhotai and Lopburi. May to October offers the best time to visit Thailand to experience its cultural jewels. For more, check out our Thailand weather guide.

Money Matters

The official currency of Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB) and 1 USD converts to approximately 36THB. Credit and debit cards are accepted at ATMs across Thailand. There is no need to dispense large quantities of THB prior to arrival in Thailand. Most travelers never require more than 20THB worth of Thai Baht on them at any one time. USD cash is also widely accepted across Thailand; however change is often given in THB. Many businesses will not accept notes larger than 20USD, so we recommend carrying small denominations of both THB and USD. Credit and Debit cards can also be used to pay for accommodation or more expensive services in Thailand’s major cities, however cash remains king. We recommend you do not exchange bulk sums of money at the airport, as the exchange rates are usually more favorable in the major cities. Your tour leader will be happy to help if you need any assistance.

Tipping is not customary in Thailand but is very much appreciated, a small tip can equate to a large portion of the daily wage for service staff. Rounding your bill to the nearest 1 USD equivalent is a small gesture that is greatly appreciated nationwide for good service. You may also consider tipping your leader and driver for outstanding service at the end of your trip.

Eating & Drinking

Thai food is one of the lightest among Southeast Asian cuisines. It makes use of various local ingredients and aims for a harmonious finish. Spices and herbs consist a pivotal part of Thai culinary arts, giving each dish a distinctive aromatic edge. It carries traces from Chinese cuisine, especially in the street food scene, with deep-fries and stir-fries among the most popular snacks. You will love the experience of browsing the food stalls for different flavors and dining multi-course at Thai restaurants. With a large number of regional variations and historical influences, Thai food may be difficult to explore. Check out our Thailand food guide for more.

Guay Teow: It is the classic broth filled with rice or egg noodles and either pork, beef, or chicken. Sadly, vegetarian versions are rare, but you can always ask.

Tom Yum Goong: Tom Yum is famous for its intense spice content, generally featuring lemongrass, galangal, and chili peppers. Lime juice and kaffir lime leaves give the dish a refreshing aroma.

Pad Thai:  Pad Thai is fried noodles usually made with chicken or shrimp and seasoned with peanuts, bean sprouts, sesame, and sweet and sour sauces. You will mostly see it in street food stalls.

Thai Roti: Thai people replace waffles and pancakes with Thai Roti. It is a greasy and mouthwatering sweet dough cooked in street grills at almost every corner in Thailand. It is the signature dessert dish and a favorite quick bite for locals and travelers.

Essentials to Bring & Internet

-Face mask/cover and hand sanitizer enough for your personal use throughout the trip – See more at https://www.traveltalktours.com/safe-travels/

-Travel Documents: Passport, Visa (if required), flight or transport ticket (and photocopies)

-Travel Talk Tour Voucher (printed or digital)Travel Insurance Policy (and photocopy)

-Personal medical kit and medicine

-Money (cash, credit card, travelers’ cheques)

-Power Adapter

-Reusable water bottle

-Ear plugs and eye mask

-Sun protection – hat, sunglasses, sunscreen

-Comfortable, closed walking shoes

-Wind/water proof jacket

-Warm clothes, hat, and gloves for cold weather

-Sandals, swimwear, shorts for warm weather

Internet Access

Many cafes, hotels and restaurants in cities of Thailand provide free Wi-Fi, but the connection may be spotty or slow. If you wish to use your own 3G/4G Data, be sure to enable data roaming on your mobile. Purchasing a SIM card for the duration of your tour may be a cost-effective alternative. Make sure that your phone is unlocked before you leave home so a local SIM will be compatible. Your local guide will be able to provide advice on where to purchase data SIMs in Thailand.

Culture, Religion, and Traditions

More than 90% of the people who live in Cambodia are ethnic Khmers, making the country the most ethnically homogeneous in South-East Asia. The Khmer culture is based on tradition, honoring ancestors, respecting elders and living a life of humility, honesty and kindness. The local people are recognized globally for being gentle, humble, and hospitable. Cambodians have developed a unique Khmer belief from the syncretism of indigenous beliefs and the Indian religions of Buddhism and Hinduism. Buddhism is the most popular religion for the nation, with 95% of the population following Theravada Buddhism. Monks are highly regarded and respected in society and religious festivals and ceremonies are considered of upmost importance. Superstition almost runs parallel to religion, with the belief of spirits and superpowers.

Etiquette and How to Dress

When travelling abroad it is important to be aware of the cultural etiquette of the destinations you will be visiting. If planning to visit religious or UNESCO World Heritage Listed sites in Cambodia, it is essential to remember shorts and skirts above the knee as well as shirts that show bare shoulders are not allowed.
Visitors must dress modestly with long shorts or a long skirt and cover their shoulders and chest. Monks are respected in Cambodia and if you wish to take a photograph of a Monk, it is respectful to ask their permission first. Women should not stand or sit too close to Monks, as Monks are forbidden from touching a woman, even for a handshake. Khmer people in more rural regions also may not appreciate hand holding or public displays of affection. While Cambodian people are warm, friendly, and patient – following these simple rules on etiquette will ensure your experience in Cambodia is met with authentic and pleasant experiences with all the locals.

Solo Travelers

We have many solo travelers joining our tours. Solo travelers will be roomed with another traveler of the same gender. If you would like a private solo room, please contact us. You may see out solo travels page for more details.

Rules to Follow

We are committed to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. We do not tolerate any form of violence (physical or verbal), bullying or harassment involving customers, partners, Travel Talk staff or locals. Sexual relationships between a tour leader and a passenger are forbidden.

We will not tolerate any illegal activity, including but not limited to: use and possession of illegal drugs, trespassing, and disrupting public order. If you consume alcohol, please ensure that you drink responsibly and follow the local laws and regulations.

You must follow the advice of your tour leader and local officials regarding health and safety measures. We operate all tours under Safe Travels protocols for the wellbeing of our passengers, staff and communities visited. Please ensure that you have read the https://www.traveltalktours.com/safe-travels/ and are fully prepared for your trip.

If someone is acting inappropriately regarding these matters, please notify your tour leader immediately or contact us on the emergency contact number provided below.

Your tour leader has the right to remove from the group anyone not abiding by these rules, with no right of compensation or refund. See more at https://www.traveltalktours.com/booking-terms/

Please remember that our travelers come from different parts of the world and will have various needs and preferences. Be understanding and patient with your fellow travelers, and always strive to be on time.

Responsible Travel

We believe that travel is a force for good and show our support through various initiatives and charity organizations, as well as keeping the principals of responsible and sustainable travel at the core of our ethos. These values are engrained in our business culture and the design of our trips just the same. Together with you, we strive to make a positive impact on local people and economies, respecting the local culture, environment, social fabric and customs; encouraging respectful and meaningful cross-cultural exchange. Read more at https://www.traveltalktours.com/responsible-travel/

Open until midnight

+44 20 809 995 96
[email protected]

Monday - Friday: 09:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
W. Europe