Living Life on Purpose - Thailand 2018

Overview

Videos

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Depart USA

• Your exotic journey begins as you check in for your flight to Thailand, via Taipei

Day 2: Bangkok, Thailand

3 nights Rembrandt Hotel or similar, Bangkok.

• Arrive in Bangkok, and after customs formalities, transfer to your centrally located hotel for check-in
• Balance of the day at leisure

Day 3: Bangkok

Breakfast & dinner.

• Enjoy the morning at leisure or take part in an optional excursion
• Afternoon boat ride along Chao Phraya River
• Visit to the Royal Barge Museum
• Traditional Thai Set dinner at Supatra River House Restaurant or Riva Surya Hotel Restaurant

Full Day Itinerary: Enjoy the morning at leisure. This afternoon, experience an exhilarating boat ride along the bustling Chao Phraya River and the quiet Klongs (canals) in a long tail boat. Be taken back in time to a more traditional way of life, far removed from Bangkok's modern skyscrapers. 

Visit the Royal Barge Museum to witness the beautiful barges used by the King on state occasions, then visit Wat Arun, the magnificent temple of Dawn with its 79-meter pagoda or 'prang', built in the Khmer style.

Tonight, enjoy a traditional Thai Set dinner at Supatra River House Restaurant*. Located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, this beautiful two-story traditional Thai house is the former home of Khunying Supatra Singholaga, a leading advocate of women's rights in Thailand. Its contemporary décor blends perfectly with the traditional architecture, and the views of the River, Grand Palace, and Wat Arun are downright spectacular.

Optional Excursion: Old Bangkok Street Food Tour, $40 pp (purchased locally). This morning, venture on a street food tour of Bangkok! Stop by Wat Suthat, one of the oldest and largest Buddhist temples in Bangkok. Wander down quiet streets to a small, historic coffee shop for old-style Thai coffee, then continue to a stall making ‘khanom thua paep,’ a unique rice crepe. A few steps away sample another local specialty, ‘qui chaii,’ a dumpling stuffed with delicious vegetables.

Along your walk you will come to the Chinese Chao Phor Suea Shrine to view its unique tiger god image. Then, enjoy a visit to a coconut ice cream shop. More food awaits as you discover a small market and browse the stalls selling fresh seafood, fruits, spices and more. Learn about the local market culture and uses for some of the more exotic ingredients on sale.

After this tasty experience, walk through the neighborhood to visit a Buddha statue manufacturer to witness the process of making the statues. Afterwards, transfer back to the hotel with a full belly and a greater understanding of Thailand’s food culture.

Day 4: Bangkok

Breakfast.

• Tour The Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha
• Afternoon and evening at leisure or enjoy an optional excursion

Full Day Itinerary: Temples, along with the monarchy, are the fabric that binds together the national identity that is Thailand, and some of the most interesting of Thai temples are found in Bangkok. This morning, depart for The Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. For 150 years, the Grand Palace, served as the home of the King and his court as well as the entire administrative seat of government. Within its grounds, you'll also visit the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew), a structure built to house a large Buddha image carved from a solid piece of green jadite (jasper). Continue to Wat Po, founded in the 17th century and the oldest temple in Bangkok. This temple is also home to the amazing Reclining Buddha, one of the largest in the world, whose face depicts the attainment of Nirvana and whose feet are inlaid with mother-of-pearl. Balance of the day is at leisure.

Optional Excursion: Chinatown Walk, $35 pp (purchased locally). This afternoon, drive to Chinatown square where you will start an exciting walk through one of the oldest parts of Bangkok. Walk along Yaowarat Road where you visit interesting shops selling unique objects. Continue to an old tea shop to enjoy a cup of Chinese tea with the locals before heading to Talad Kao for a busy local market with a variety of fresh food, fruits, and Chinese herbs. End the walk at Wat Leng Nei Yi to visit the Taoist temple, and continue to Wat Trimitr on the edge of Chinatown, which houses the world’s largest solid gold Buddha.

Optional Excursion: Calypso Cabaret Show, $18 pp (purchased locally). This evening, transfer to the Thai dance show at Calypso Cabaret, one of Bangkok’s renowned shows. Calypso Cabaret is located at Asiatique the Riverfront, which is a famous night venue for dining, shopping and entertainment, and features its unique setting with a panoramic view of the Chao Phraya River.

Day 5: Bangkok, Kanchanaburi & the River Kwai

2 nights Royal Riverkwai Resort or similar. Breakfast.

• Scenic morning drive through Thai countryside to Samut Songkhram Province
• Local train ride to the Maeklong Railway Market
• Visit Damnoen Saduak Floating Market on a long-tail boat ride
• See the historic bridge over the River Kwai before touring the Death Railway museum
• Visits today also include the war cemetery and the JEATH Museum

Full Day Itinerary: After breakfast this morning, drive about an hour south of Bangkok to Samut Songkhram Province, enjoying the beautiful Thai countryside along the way. Stop at a local train station to experience a short train ride bound for an amazing country market that has sprouted up along the tracks, the Maeklong Railway Market. The true marvel here is watching as vendors skillfully move their stalls out of the way of trains passing right through the market.

Next, visit Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and take a long-tail boat ride through the canals and see how Thai people live alongside the labyrinth of canals in this area. 

Arrive at the famous market where you can stroll around the colorful floating stalls bustling with boats and vendors selling tropical fruits and other delights.

Continue to Kanchanaburi. Upon arrival, visit the historic bridge over the River Kwai, part of the infamous Death Railway built by the Japanese using Allied prisoners of war during World War II. At the Death Railway museum, you'll learn more about life in the camps, the building of the bridge, and the more than 8,000 POWs who died during construction. Visits today also include the war cemetery and the JEATH Museum.

Day 6: Kanchanaburi

Breakfast.

• Panoramic train ride viewing the Kwai gorge
• Afternoon at leisure

Full Day Itinerary: This morning, take a one hour train ride on the famous Death Railway passing the breathtaking panoramic view of the Kwai gorge. The rest of the afternoon is yours at leisure. We suggest a visit to the resort's spa for a Thai massage, steam bath, or a dip in the pool.

Day 7: Kanchanaburi & Ayutthaya

1 night Kantary Hotel or similar, Ayutthaya. Breakfast.

• This morning drive to the ancient city of Ayutthaya and visit some of its historic sights
• Visit the Wat Chaiwattanaram monastery
• Discover the sculpture of a Buddha head woven in tree roots
• Visit Wat Yai Chaimongkhol and see the statue of the Reclining Buddha
• Explore the Mongkol Bophit Temple Market and local shops
• Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to explore on your own

Full Day Itinerary: After breakfast this morning, board your motor coach and drive to the ancient city of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. King U-Thong founded the city of Ayutthaya in 1350 as the capital of his kingdom of Siam. By 1700, Ayutthaya had as many as a million inhabitants, making it one of the largest cities in the world at the time. But in 1767, the city was invaded and destroyed by the Burmese army. Magnificent ruins of the old city still remain, some having been restored. Exciting archaeological excavations are still proceeding at many sites in the area.

Upon arrival, you’ll visit some of Ayutthaya's historical sites. Among the ruins, you will see the Wat Chaiwattanaram monastery, Wat Mahathat to discover a Buddha head entwined in tree roots, and Wat Yai Chaimongkhol to view the reclining Buddha statue. Continue to a vibrant market located next to the Mongkol Bophit Temple. Here, you’ll see how they make Roti Sai Mai, a Thai dessert similar to cotton candy and sometimes served in a sweet, colorful crepe. After you’ve explored the market, you’ll get a chance to see artisans in a local shop make fish-shaped ornaments from woven palm leaves. The balance of the day is at leisure to explore Ayutthaya independently.

Optional Excursion: “Kermit” Tuk Tuk Ride in Ayutthaya, $30 pp (purchased locally). Take a “Kermit” Tuk Tuk ride to explore the Ayutthaya Historical Park. Kermit is a special type of motorized vehicle only available in Ayutthaya and Trang provinces in the south. 

Day 8: Ayutthaya & Bangkok

1 night Rembrandt Hotel or similar, Bangkok. Breakfast.

• Half day sightseeing tour of Ayutthaya
• Visit the Bang Pa to view King Rama IV's summer palace
• View the Gothic style architecture of Wat Niwet Thammaprawat
• Optional visit this evening 

Full Day Itinerary: Today's sightseeing tour takes you first to Bang Pa to view King Rama IV's summer palace, used occasionally by the king and queen to host receptions and banquets. The palace and its surrounding temples represent an appealing fusion of Thai, Chinese, and European architectural styles.

Continue to Wat Niwet Thammaprawat, one of the most distinctive Buddhist temples with its remarkable Gothic style architecture and stained glass windows. Continue to Bangkok this afternoon. The balance of the day is at leisure or you can join an optional excursion to see the Muay Thai Live Show.

Optional Excursion: Muay Thai Show, $70 pp (purchased locally). In the evening, transfer to your Muay Thai live Show. Created by acclaimed director Ekachai Uekrongtham, Muay Thai Live: The Legend Lives is a spectacular stage show about the history of Thai boxing, from its origins to present day. The show is presented in five thrilling chapters – The Tiger King, The Prisoner with Eight Limbs, The Warrior with Broken Swords, The Lethal Art of Muay Thai, and The Modern Action Hero. It also includes Muay Thai Live Boxing: Warrior Rising. A unique program that shows how the ancient and sacred art of Muay Thai has evolved into one of the most spectacular martial arts in the world.

Day 9: Bangkok & Phuket 

3 nights Amari Phuket or similar. Breakfast.

• Morning at leisure in Bangkok
• Flight to Phuket
• Balance of the day at leisure in Phuket

Full Day Itinerary: Enjoy the morning at leisure in Bangkok.

Later today, bid farewell to Bangkok as you transfer to the airport to board your flight to Phuket.

Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. Enjoy the balance of the day at leisure.

Days 10-11: Phuket

Breakfast.

• Full day at leisure or enjoy an optional excursion

Full Day Itinerary: Two full days at leisure to relax, shop or tour this scenic island, Thailand's largest. Phuket and the 39 smaller islands to the southeast are studded with tropical forests, mountains, gravity-defying limestone formations, and pristine beaches, surrounded by coral reefs and the aquamarine water of the balmy Andaman Sea. The west coast of Phuket was hit severely by the Indian Ocean tsunami of December 2004, but the resilient people have quickly rebuilt, and almost no evidence of the damage now remains. Phuket is a melting pot of Buddhists, Thai-Chinese, Muslims, and even sea gypsies, whom you'll find warm and welcoming.

With warm, humid weather year-round, you'll enjoy plenty of sun-drenched days lounging on the beach and all manner of water sports, including jet-skiing, parasailing, surfing, scuba and snorkeling. 

Most of the dive locations are suitable for all skill levels, and the waters abound with colorful coral forests, tropical fish and other marine life, including leopard sharks, moray eels, octopus and turtles.

Phuket is also the sailing and yachting center of Thailand and adjacent countries, with several races and regattas happening throughout the year. And in the unlikely event that you can pull yourself away from the beach, you'll find opportunities to ride horses or elephants, hike, mountain bike, and even golf. Afterwards, unwind at one of the many spas or one of the excellent acrobatic, theatrical or cultural shows.

Join an optional tour to the breathtaking Phi Phi islands, filming location of The Beach. Take a trip by boat and bus to Phang Nha Bay and to the limestone spire known as "James Bond Island" for its role in The Man with the Golden Gun.

Optional Excursion: Day Cruise by June Bahtra, $125 pp (purchased locally). Departing early this morning, experience the spectacular limestone scenery of Phang Nga Bay onboard the June Bahtra, a traditional Chinese junk bearing designs from Thai, Malay and Dutch influences. Recline on comfortable deck cushions below the schooner’s striking red sails as the scores of beautiful islands and towering limestone spectacles unfold before you. Stopping at a deserted white sandy beach, a refreshing dip in the turquoise waters beckons. 

Later, a ride on a long tail boat will take you to the caves and grottoes scattered throughout the mangrove delta, with birdsong and monkey chatter keeping you entertained along the way. At James Bond Island, revel in the views of the iconic rock formation jutting out of the azure bay. Back onboard, enjoy a delicious buffet lunch of freshly caught seafood followed by a leisurely afternoon of swimming, sunbathing and relaxation. Sailing the open sea on this idyllic cruise will definitely make an unforgettable memory. (Lunch included).

Optional Excursion: Day Tour of Phi Phi Island by Speedboat, $120 pp (purchased locally). Departing this morning, escape to a quieter and more natural side of southern Thailand with this day trip from Phuket. Travel by speedboat across the Andaman Sea to the six scenic Phi Phi Islands. The journey to Phi Phi takes around 45 minutes, passing by spectacular limestone karsts that jut out from the blue seas. Sit back and relax, enjoying the views as the boat cruises closer to paradise. Arrive at Maya Bay, arguably one of Thailand’s most beautiful places. The bay is so stunning, that it was used as the setting for the famous Hollywood movie ‘The Beach’. Go ashore and walk along the powder-white beaches or swim in the crystal clear waters.

Continue around the islands, visiting Lho Sa Mah, Phi Phi Lay Cove and Monkey Beach. Each of these stretches of island boasts swaying palm trees and white sands. There are also calm, clear waters brimming with fish for those who wish to discover Thailand’s underwater beauty. 

During the day, lunch will be served at Tongsai Bay. This southern stretch of Phi Phi Ley Island offers sweeping views of the surrounding sea. The afternoon is spent cruising to Bamboo and Khai Islands, for more chances to snorkel and swim in the Andaman Sea. (Lunch included).

Day 12: Depart Phuket/Arrive USA

Breakfast.

• Transfer to the airport for the short flight to Bangkok, then continue to the USA via Taipei
• Arrive to your home city later this evening.

Trip Details

• What should I know before I go? We've compiled a comprehensive checklist, including information on how to pay your balance due, flights & transfers, packing & luggage, and more.
• Do I need a visa or other documents? Are there any entry requirements? Travel visas are required for this package. Please review the visa & entry requirements.
• Can I make changes to my trip? Want to upgrade your seats? Something else? Just ask!
• Can I bring my kids? Are there any age restrictions? To book this package, you must be 18 or older. Your traveling companions must be 8 or older at time of travel.
• Should I purchase travel insurance? Yes! We recommend you purchase travel insurance to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. For your convenience, we offer a plan provided by Travelex Insurance Services.
• What's the fine print? Review the terms & conditions for this package.
• What should I know about Thailand? Check out our guide for practical travel tips, the best time to go, videos, and more.