The Thai Triptych: Bangkok - Chiang Mai - Southern Islands

Accompanied by our guide, we head to the quays and then board a public water bus. Along the water, we travel upriver toward the historic center, on the right bank, to the flower market at Pak Khlong Talat. Pak Khlong Talat is Thailand's largest flower market. Once a floating market, it is now famous for its mountains of orchids, jasmine and roses. Flowers arrive there from all over the country, often in the middle of the night, making it one of Bangkok's most vibrant places before dawn. Stroll through the fragrant aisles and experience your first immersion in an 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 country's most revered sanctuaries.

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

We then 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 motifs that sparkle in the light.

Ride aboard a private traditional "long-tail" boat-taxi on the Chao Praya river, one of the country's most important waterways and the lifeblood of Bangkok. As we glide along the water, we discover the "Venice of the Orient," with its peaceful klongs, stilt houses, and small temples nestled along the riverbanks.

Continuation with the visit of the Wat Bang Kung (Kai Bang Kung), commonly called the Banyan Tree Temple, since its chapel was covered by the roots and branches of a banyan tree. In its gardens, we can notably observe life-size representations of wrestlers, commemorating the Battle of Ayutthaya between Thailand and Burma at the end of the 13th century.

After lunch, we set off to discover the historic center of Ayutthaya. We explore in particular the Wat Mahathat, a major temple dating from the late 14th century, famous for the Buddha head entwined in the roots of a tree, which has become one of the symbols of the site.

The visit continues towards the Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, a former royal temple and the largest in the ancient capital, recognizable by its elegant aligned chedis that testify to the past grandeur of the kingdom.

Finally, we discover the Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, renowned for its impressive reclining Buddha and its peaceful atmosphere, offering a beautiful conclusion to this immersion in the heart of Siamese history.

In the company of our guide, we take a detour to the Warorot market, where we can find all sorts of specialties from northern Thailand, such as Sai Ua (northern sausage), Moo Yo (traditional Vietnamese pork sausage), Nam Phrik Num (green chili paste from the north) 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 to 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, shrines 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 of 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, which were carved for meditation. It is also an opportunity to interact, when possible, with the resident monks and learn more about monastic life.

This morning, we set off by bike to discover Chiang Mai, nicknamed the "Rose of the North". From the famous Tha Phae gate, and with the mountains of Doi Suthep as a backdrop, we quickly leave the main roads to slip into the small streets and traditional alleyways of the city. Along the way, we pass through historic neighborhoods dotted with ancient temples, we encounter monks in their daily lives, and we stop by lively markets. The itinerary also takes us outside the city walls, where the pace becomes more relaxed, to meet a more local Chiang Mai: scenes of daily life, small workshops, craftsmanship and busy locals who watch you pass with curiosity. Activity in small groups, accompanied by an English-speaking local guide. 3 hours - Approximately 13 Km

In the late afternoon, we 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, we discover the basics of Thai cuisine and learn to balance the emblematic flavors: spicy, sweet, salty and tangy.

Throughout the session, we will prepare several must-try recipes, before tasting our creations on site.

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

Menu (indicative):

• Tom Kha Gai (coconut and lemongrass soup)

• Pad Thaï (stir-fried rice noodles)

• Nam Prik Ong (Northern specialty with tomatoes and chili)

• Khao Soi Gai (curry noodle soup, Northern specialty)

• Dessert: Khao Niao Mamuang (sticky rice with coconut milk and mango)

Upon arrival, we begin a guided hike on the Mae Wang trails. We first walk along a mountain stream, before climbing to higher elevations and crossing the terraced rice fields that shape the region's landscape. We stop for lunch near a waterfall, with the opportunity to cool off.

In the afternoon, the hike continues through cultivated areas and mountain paths. We reach a Karen village for a stop, then continue to the rice fields where your guesthouse is located, for a peaceful end of day close to local life.

Day accompanied by an English-speaking hiking guide. Total duration: approximately 5 hours 30 minutes, including 3 hours 30 minutes of actual walking.

This evening we will be welcomed for dinner and the night with a Karen family, in a breathtaking setting on the edge of the jungle, amid rice fields.

After breakfast at our hosts' place, we can enjoy a short morning walk in the surrounding area before driving to Chi's camp, a young Karen who shares his daily life with his elephants.

Here, the approach is respectful and centered on animal welfare: no riding, no shows, and limited interactions, always supervised, to give the elephants the space and pace they need.

Upon arrival, we prepare the fruit that will be used to feed them. You set off to walk with them in the jungle, where they move freely while feeding on the vegetation. Our guide helps us better understand their behavior and the care given to their well-being, for an authentic, gentle and ethical encounter.

In the afternoon, to refresh yourself, you enjoy a peaceful descent of the Mae Wang River aboard a traditional bamboo raft. Guided by a local boatman, the raft glides gently along the water, offering a calm and contemplative way to discover the surrounding landscapes.

At the tranquil pace of the current, you cross through lush nature between forests, rice fields and wild banks. A simple and relaxing activity, ideal for ending the day gently.

We take advantage of our free stay on the superb Koh Lanta and at sea (not included - to be arranged on site directly):

• discovery of the interior of the island

• half-day or full-day boat excursions to the small rocks and islets nearby

• cooking classes (must be booked in advance)

• kayaking Or why not simply lounge by your pool or white sand beach.

In the evening, you can take a leisurely stroll through the Chinese quarter, 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 alleys which bring new life to the neighborhood. You'll find all sorts of Thai and Chinese specialties for dinner.