Thailand at All Saints' Day

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

We set out to discover the architectural jewels 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 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 place, as well as the inner courtyards dotted with stupas and refined decorative details.

Next, we cross the river by 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 patterns that glimmer 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 vital artery of Bangkok. As we drift along the water, we discover the "Venice of the Orient", among peaceful klongs, stilt houses and small temples hidden along the banks.

Boarding around 10:40 AM on the famous "Death Railway" made famous by the film "The Bridge on the River Kwai", for approximately 1 hour of train travel west to the Sai Yok region, located 70 km west at the end of the train line.

After lunch, we venture into Sai Yok National Park for an afternoon of kayaking on the Kwaï River.

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 Wat Mahathat temple, dating from the late 14th century. We continue to the Wat Phra Sri Sanphet temple, which once 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 remains.

With your guide, you make a detour to the Warorot market, where you can find all sorts of northern Thailand specialties, such as Sai Ua (northern sausage), Moo Yo (traditional Vietnamese pork sausage), Nam Phrik Num (northern green chili paste) and dried fruits, among other delights. In addition to local food, the market also offers clothing, ceramics, fabrics, embroidery tools, flowers, and much more.

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 guide 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 surrounding valley.

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

Finally, we will end our day with a visit to the Wat Umong, a Buddhist temple founded in the 13th century and nestled at the foot of the Doi Suthep mountains. Surrounded by forest, this monastery offers a particularly peaceful atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of the city.

We will discover the history of the place by walking through its ancient tunnels, excavated for meditation. It is also an opportunity to interact, when possible, with the resident monks and learn more about monastic life.

This morning, you set off on a bicycle tour to discover Chiang Mai, nicknamed the "Rose of the North". 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 alleys of the city.

You will discover many ancient temples, monks roaming the city, lively markets and the daily life of residents, notably that of artisans from mountain communities going about their business as we pass by on bicycles, under their curious eyes, in their neighbourhood.

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

In late afternoon, you set off 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 to balance emblematic flavors: spicy, sweet, salty and tangy.

Throughout the session, you prepare several essential 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 (chicken soup with lemongrass coconut milk)

• Pad Thaï (stir-fried Thai rice noodles)

• 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, about an hour's drive north of Chiang Mai.

Upon arrival, after a short walk, we will prepare the fruits that we will feed to the pachyderms.

Meeting with the elephants that we will feed, and with which we can interact in a natural environment. Our guide will teach us more about their behavior and history.

You will attend the elephants bathing in the river and be able to brush them. Return to Chiang Mai in early afternoon.

Group activity accompanied by an English-speaking guide

In the afternoon, tuk-tuk ride in Chiang Mai for 2 hours, through its iconic temples, bustling markets and charming alleyways.
An authentic immersion between tradition and modernity, with stops to discover local culture.
A lively and exotic experience, ideal for exploring the city in a different way and feeling its unique energy.

From our hotel, we head to the docks for a full-day excursion to the 4 islands.

In a longtail boat we first head towards Pranang Bay, an isolated peninsula at the end of Railay Beach, one of the most beautiful in Thailand.

We discover Pranang Cave, its origins and the local traditions of the fishermen, before you relax on a beautiful beach.

Back on the boat, we then head to the local islands on a small beach to taste some local specialties (buffet lunch). Then on the program: snorkeling, visit to the small paradisiacal islands of the region, stops on isolated beaches away from mass tourism (Koh Poda, Koh Tup and Chicken Islands). Finally heading to the main beach of Koh Poda to end this beautiful day with an aperitif at sunset. On the return, night snorkeling in the midst of luminescent plankton: a unique experience

Private cruise

Enjoy this/these free day(s) in Ao Nang to relax on the beach, appreciate your hotel's facilities and admire the magnificent coastline of the region. You can notably reach the superb Railay Beach a few minutes away or take an excursion to the surrounding islands.

Possible excursions: Cruise to discover Phang Nga Bay, the islands Koh Phi Phi or even the 4 islands, Visit the hinterland including the Emerald Pool, hot springs or the Tiger Cave Temple, Bike or Scooter ride along the coast or in the hinterland.

Accommodation at Shanghai Mansion, a charming boutique hotel in the heart of Bangkok's Chinatown.

In the evening, you can stroll freely through the Chinatown district, wandering through the alleyways brimming with shops of all kinds. Early in the evening, the night market sets up on Yaowarat Road and its illuminated side streets, bringing new life to the neighborhood. You'll find all sorts of Thai and Chinese specialties for dinner.

Depending on your flight time, depart for Bangkok airport.

Goodbye and see you soon in the land of smiles!

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