Summer Getaway in Thailand

Accompanied by your guide, you head to the docks and board a public river bus. Traveling upstream, you head towards the historic center, on the right bank, until reaching the flower market at Pak Khlong Talat. Stroll through the fragrant aisles and enjoy your first immersion in authentic and traditional Asia.

We set out to discover the architectural gems of Bangkok. Let us marvel at the splendor of the Grand Palace of Bangkok, built in 1782: a sumptuous complex of buildings and inner courtyards, including the Wat Phra Kaeo (Temple of the Emerald Buddha). We discover there the famous Emerald Buddha, a precious statue dating from the 14th century, at the heart of one of the most venerated sanctuaries in the country.

Then, on foot, we reach Wat Pho, one of Bangkok's oldest temples, renowned for its peaceful atmosphere and elegant pavilions. We discover the impressive Reclining Buddha, an emblematic figure of the site, as well as the inner courtyards dotted with stupas and refined decorative details.

Then, we cross the river aboard a small boat to reach Wat Arun, the famous "Temple of Dawn", standing on the right bank. Upon arrival, we can admire its spectacular central prang, finely decorated with porcelain mosaics and floral motifs that glisten in the light.

A ride aboard a private traditional "long-tail" boat-taxi on the Chao Praya river, one of the country's most important waterways and a true lifeline of Bangkok. As we drift along the water, we discover the "Venice of the Orient", between peaceful klongs, stilt houses and small temples hidden along the banks.

Departure to the station and boarding around 10:40 am on the famous "death railway" made famous by the history of the film "The Bridge on the River Kwai", for approximately 1 hour by train heading West to the SaiYok region, located 70 km west at the end of the railway line.

After lunch, we stop at HellFire pass, a long trench of the Death Railway cut into a huge rocky mass to allow the train to pass through. The work carried out by prisoners of Japanese soldiers is said to have cost the lives of more than 100,000 forced laborers and other prisoners of war. Visit the associated museum and take a moving short walk along the commemorative trail. Plan to spend at least 1 to 2 hours on site.

Return in late afternoon to Kanchanaburi. Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide

Full day dedicated to visiting Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of the Siamese kingdom. We set out to discover the historic center of the city, including the temple Wat Mahathat, dating from the late 14th century. We then continue to the temple Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, which formerly served as a royal temple and is therefore the largest in the city; Finally, the Wat Chai Watthanaram, from where we can enjoy the sunset over its ruins.

We fly to Chiang Rai, our first stop in the north of the country. Upon arrival at the airport, we are welcomed by our guide and driver. Transfer to the hotel.

We start this day in Chiang Rai by discovering the extraordinary Wat Rong Khun, better known as the "white temple". Created by Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, this site blends Buddhist architecture and contemporary art through surprising frescoes and numerous symbols inspired by Buddhism and popular culture. Its brilliant white gives it an almost unreal atmosphere.

Continuation towards the Wat Rong Sua Ten, the famous "blue temple", designed by a disciple of Chalermchai. Its deep blue hues, its nagas sculptures and its immense Buddha give it an atmosphere that is both mystical and modern.

We end the day at Wat Huay Pla Kang, known for its enormous white statue representing Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy. Its nine-story pagoda offers a beautiful view of the surrounding countryside and rice fields.

Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide.
We spend 3 nights at Nak Nakara in a Lanna room.

From the small local port, we board a water taxi for approximately one hour of navigation on the Mekong waters, offering beautiful panoramic views of the villages and landscapes lining the river.

We then continue our route along the banks to a viewpoint overlooking the Mekong and the impressive casino complex with Sino-Roman style architecture installed on the Laotian bank.

Visit the remarkable Hall of Opium, a modern museum built on a hillside overlooking the Mekong Valley. Through immersive and documented exhibitions, the site traces the history of the opium trade in Asia, the influence of the Golden Triangle and the economic and social consequences related to this cultivation. A fascinating visit that allows you to better understand the complex history of this border region.

On the way back, we make stops in several small villages of the Yao and Akha communities, settled in the mountains of northern Thailand.

If you wish, we can also stop in a Padaung community, a branch of the Karenni people originally from neighboring Myanmar, some of whose women wear the famous golden spiral neck rings that give the impression of elongating the neck.

This visit remains however very particular and sometimes raises questions among travelers. Some see it as a form of intrusive tourism, while others consider that these visits also make it possible to generate essential income for refugee communities often living in modest conditions. We therefore prefer to leave everyone free to choose, in full awareness, whether or not they wish to discover this village.

Stop at Bo Sang, the umbrella village, famous throughout Thailand for the handcrafted production of its Sa paper umbrellas. This craft, introduced from Burma over a century ago by a monk, is what the village is renowned for today.

We visit the manufacturing center where several artisans continue this traditional know-how, from the creation of the bamboo structure to the delicate painting of the colorful patterns that adorn the umbrellas.

Let's then head towards the Doi Suthep temple, perched on the slopes of the mountain at approximately 1,200 meters altitude. A true symbol of Chiang Mai, this magnificent Buddhist temple offers an atmosphere filled with serenity and spirituality, where statues, sanctuaries and bells accompany the faithful and visitors in a moment of contemplation. According to legend, its location was chosen by a white elephant carrying a sacred relic of Buddha: after climbing the mountain, the animal is said to have stopped at the summit, trumpeted three times and then lay down, thus indicating the place where the temple was to be built. Today, its terraces offer a spectacular view over the city and the surrounding valley.

On the way, stop at Wat Pha lat, a more discreet temple nestled in the forest, appreciated for its peaceful setting and its almost confidential atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of the city.

We settle comfortably at the hotel De Chai the Deco Chiang Mai for our nights in Chiang Mai.

This morning, you set off on a bike ride to discover Chiang Mai, nicknamed the "Rose of the North". Starting from the famous Tha Phae gate, and with the Doi Suthep mountains as a backdrop, you quickly leave the main roads to slip into the small streets and traditional alleyways of the city.

You will discover many ancient temples, monks walking through the city, bustling markets and the daily life of residents, particularly that of artisans from mountain communities going about their activities as we cycle by, under their curious eyes, through their neighborhood.

Small group activity accompanied by an English-speaking local guide.

Late in the afternoon, you head out for a traditional cooking class in English, organized in the countryside, outside Chiang Mai, in an old Lanna-style house. In a friendly atmosphere, you discover the basics of Thai cuisine and learn how to balance the emblematic flavors: spicy, sweet, salty and tangy.

Throughout the session, you prepare several must-try recipes, before tasting your creations on site.

Vegetarian or vegan options available. (Please inform us in advance)

Menu (indicative):

• Tom Yum Goong (sour and spicy shrimp soup) or Tom Kha Gai (coconut milk chicken soup with lime)

• Pad Thaï (stir-fried rice noodles Thai style)

• Panang Moo (Panang curry with pork)

• Pad Makhueau Yao (stir-fried Chinese eggplants) or Poh Pia tod (fried spring rolls)

For dessert, Khao Niao Mamuang (sticky rice with coconut milk and mango) is served.

Early in the morning, we head to an elephant sanctuary located in the tropical forest of the Mae Taeng valley, an hour's drive north of Chiang Mai. Upon arrival, after a short walk, we will prepare the fruits to feed the pachyderms. Meeting with the elephants that we will feed, and with which we can interact in a natural environment. Our guide will tell us more about their behavior and history. You will watch the elephants bathe in the river and will be able to brush them. Return to Chiang Mai early afternoon.

Group activity led by an English-speaking guide

Transfer to Chiang Mai airport where we board our flight to Surat Thani.

Arrival at our hotel, the Baan Thong Ching, where we can rest by the sea for a few days.

Rest day. Various activities can be arranged on site: Visit to the surroundings, notably of Tham Khao Whang Thong Cave, Relaxation on the beach, Hiking at Khao Luang, Fishing, Snorkeling …

Morning departure from the hotel to the pier and boat crossing to the Mae Nam pier on the island of Koh Samui, Thailand's 2nd largest island by area, lined along its entire coast with white sand beaches bordered by coconut trees. The island offers some of the country's most pleasant accommodations and a relaxed atmosphere, which one willingly surrenders to, making it all the more welcoming.

Our driver awaits us upon arrival at the pier and we transfer to our hotel. We settle in for 4 nights at Paradise Beach Resort in a Grand Deluxe room, on the beautiful Mae Nam beach in the north of Samui.

Speedboat excursion limited to 16 passengers.

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After morning pickup from Koh Samui, head directly to the pier to begin your maritime excursion among the 42 islands of Ang Thong. Once equipped with snorkels and masks, you will navigate to Koh Wao island to snorkel in crystal-clear waters amid coral reefs of magnificent diversity. Explore the sheltered bay keeping your eyes open to spot tropical fish.

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Continuing through the national park, you will arrive at Koh Mae Ko, disembark and head towards the panoramic view of the Emerald Lagoon, a jewel of the Ang Thong park. Fed by the sea through a series of caves, the lagoon is completely intact, as swimming is prohibited there. Next, head to Koh Phaluai for a Thai lunch by the sea and to relax and unwind on the beach before returning to Koh Samui.

Free day to enjoy the beach and available activities (not included, to be booked on site):

• Boat excursion

• Hiking

• Mountain biking

• Cooking class

• Elephant sanctuary (if available)

• And much more

In the evening, you can stroll freely through the Chinese quarter, walking through the alleys brimming with all kinds of shops. Early in the evening, the night market sets up on Yaowarat Road and its illuminated side alleys that give new life to the neighborhood. You will find all sorts of Thai and Chinese specialties for dinner there.

Depending on your flight time, depart for Bangkok airport.

Goodbye and see you soon in the Land of Smiles!