Spirit of Siam

Spirit of Siam

16 days from £4895 per person

Route: Bangkok – Sukhothai – Nan – Chiang Khong – Chiang Mai – Koh Samet – Bangkok

From bustling cities and golden temples to white-sand beaches and colourful tribal villages, Thailand's astonishing diversity is part of its appeal. Begin in Bangkok and experience the city before flying north to Sukhothai, one of Thailand's most spectacular archaeological sites. Continue to the little-visited town of Nan in the far eastern highlands of the north before staying in the eco-friendly Lanjia Lodge located in the hill-tribe regions of the Golden Triangle. After a stay in Chiang Mai, cultural capital of the north, end your journey relaxing on the beach in Koh Samet.

Day 1 Depart the UK

Depart London Heathrow on the non-stop Thai Airways flight to Bangkok. (N)

Day 2 Arrive Bangkok

Arrive into Bangkok where you will be met and transferred to your hotel for a two night stay. Bustling and eccentric, intriguing and unforgettable, Bangkok is the gateway to the country and Thailand’s principle city. With a history stretching back a little over two-hundred years, Bangkok has always been a modern forward-thinking place yet much traditional Thai culture remains, as do beautiful monasteries, colourful markets and opulent palaces. (N)

Accommodation in Bangkok: Ariyasom Villa (or similar)

Alternative option: The Sukhothai

Upgrade option: Mandarin Oriental Hotel

Day 3 Bangkok

Today explore Bangkok with your guide starting at the Grand Palace. Built by the early kings of the Chakri dynasty, this vast complex contains not only the King’s private residence, stables and ministries but also over fifty temples including Wat Phra Kaeo, Thailand’s oldest temple which houses the thousand year old Emerald Buddha. Afterwards visit the Reclining Buddha at Wat Po, then the atmospheric flower market before boarding a private long-tail boat to cruise the quiet canals of the Chao Phraya River. End the day at Wat Arun for a panoramic view of the Grand Palace and river. (B/L)

Accommodation in Bangkok: Ariyasom Villa (or similar)

Alternative option: The Sukhothai

Upgrade option: Mandarin Oriental Hotel

Day 4 Bangkok to Sukhothai – by air

After a morning at leisure transfer to Bangkok Airport for the flight to Sukhothai where you will stay for two nights at the Tharaburi Resort. One of Thailand’s most spectacular archaeological sites, Sukhothai is thought to have been established during the mid-1200s and is credited with instigating the country’s ‘golden age’. The first capital of Siam, today the remains of Old Sukhothai are protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site which in turn forms part of a larger historical park. (B)

Accommodation in Sukhothai: Tharaburi Resort (or similar)

Day 5 Sukhothai

Today explore Sukhothai with your guide. A vast site originally protected by ramparts, ditches and moats, it is believed that in its heyday the city was home to almost 300,000 people. Having fallen into disrepair over the years, Old Sukhothai has been thoughtfully restored. Highlights include Wat Mahathat complex which was completed in 1345 AD, Wat Sra Sri and King Ramkhamhaeng’s statue and the impressive Wat Sri Chum. (B)

Accommodation in Sukhothai: Tharaburi Resort (or similar)

Day 6 Sukhothai to Nan – 290kms

This morning re-visit Sukhothai then continue by road to the sleepy town of Nan for an overnight stay. Surrounded by teak plantations and paddy fields close to the Laotian border, for years Nan was inaccessible and all-but closed to the outside world. Still retaining an atmosphere of isolation, later visit the local museum and some of the many interesting temples including Wat Phumin which houses impressive and well preserved murals. (B/D)

Accommodation in Nan: Nan Boutique Resort (or similar)

Day 7 Nan to Chiang Khong – 250kms

From Nan continue north on a winding road through stunning hill scenery towards Chiang Khong and the Thai-Laos border for a two night stay at the eco-friendly Lanjia Lodge overlooking the Mekong River. Later there is a chance to attend talks about the local Hmong and Lahu tribes, species of the Mekong and life in the Golden Triangle region. (B/L/D)

Accommodation in Chiang Khong: Lanjia Lodge

Day 8 Chiang Khong

Leaving the hotel start your day at the Thai-Burma border at Maw Sai, drive to Baan Pha Mee to visit Wat Prathat Doi Tung, Doi Chang Mub Arboretum and the Doi Tung Palace. After lunch in a local restaurant explore the Golden Triangle region with visits to the Hall of Opium and a journey by long-tail boat on the Mekong to the fishing village of Baan Had Bai. (B/L/D)

Accommodation in Chiang Khong: Lanjia Lodge

Day 9 Chiang Khong to Chiang Mai – 285kms

After breakfast walk from the lodge through agricultural farmland, corn fields and isolated villages to a Hmong burial ground. The views during the walk are far-reaching and on the way meet farmers preparing for a day in the field with their tools and woven backpacks. Later drive to Chiang Mai where you will stay for two nights in the city. Set high valley at the foot of the Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai is Thailand’s second city. (B)

Accommodation in Chiang Mai: Tamarind Village (or similar)

Upgrade option: Four Seasons Chiang Mai

Alternative upgrade option: Dhara Dhevi Resort

Day 10 Chiang Mai

Home to fine monasteries and temples, atmospheric markets and a rich artistic tradition, today explore Chiang Mai with your guide. Places of interest include the city’s oldest temple, Wat Chiang Man, which was built in 1296 and Wat Phra Singh. Later ascend Doi Suthep then climb the 300 steps to Wat Phrathat which sits atop the summit. The holiest shrine in northern Thailand the views from the temple are spectacular. In the evening join the street vendors, artists and food sellers at the lively night market. (B)

Accommodation in Chiang Mai: Tamarind Village (or similar)

Upgrade option: Four Seasons Chiang Mai

Alternative upgrade option: Dhara Dhevi Resort

Day 11 Chiang Mai to Bangkok – by air/ Bangkok to Koh Samet

This morning fly south from Chiang Mai to Bangkok where you will be met and transferred by car and boat to Koh Samet for a five night stay at the beautiful Paradee Resort. Surrounded by lush tropical gardens and a white-sand beach, there are 40 tastefully furnished and spacious thatched villas, restaurant, bar and spa. The resort can also organise certain watersport activities and diving trips. (B)

Accommodation in Koh Samet: Paradee Resort (or similar)

Days 12 - 15 Koh Samet

At leisure to relax and enjoy your hotel. (B)

Accommodation in Koh Samet: Paradee Resort (or similar)

Day 16 Koh Samet to Bangkok/ Bangkok to the UK

This morning leave Koh Samet and return to Bangkok. Once in Bangkok continue to the airport and catch the onward Thai Airways flight non-stop to the UK. (B)

16 days from £4895 per person

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Itinerary: Spirit of Siam

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