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Laos & Thailand Highlights

Tour Overview

Starting and finishing in bustling Bangkok, we travel first through Laos, a diverse country with much to be explored. From it’s emerald rice fields, amazing waterfalls and ancient temples this tour takes you through the highlights of this undiscovered destination. Travelling onto Thailand, roam temples in Chiang Mai and try your hand at an authentic Thai cooking course. The ancient capital of Sukhothai is a favourite amongst travellers, with its ancient ruins and spectacular scenery. The perfect mix of highlights and the path less travelled, this adventure ticks all the right boxes.

About this tour

  • Group Size: Normally 4-17. Average 10.
  • Recommended Age: 18-65
  • Physical Rating: Asia 2
  • Accommodation:10 night(s) in hotels, 4 night(s) in a guesthouse
  • Transportation:Travel by 2 flight(s), Tuk-Tuk, Public Bus, Train
  • Meals:11 Breakfast(s)
  • Other:Tucan Travel Tour Leader
  • Country: Laos, Thailand

What should you expect?

This is a group tour ranging in size from 4 to 17.

This tour uses a mixture of local transport including two flights. Travel days can be long and there are some early starts.

Temperatures in Southeast Asia can be very hot and humid depending on the season you travel.

We will try to run your tour as close to the itinerary as conditions will allow. On very rare occasions, local events may affect the way your itinerary operates. We ask for your flexibility and understanding in these situations.

This tour includes a compulsory Local Payment that needs to be paid to the Tour Leader on Day 1 of your tour. For more information on our Local Payments please click here.

Essential Information

  • Visas and travel insurance
  • Spending money – budget for meals, snacks, drinks, limited souvenirs, laundry, tips and any extras
  • International flights to/from the start/end of your tour and departure taxes  
  • Tips on excursions, visas, travel insurance, personal items and single rooms.  
  • Optional excursions – On each trip, you may find there are some excursions that are not included. This might be because they are not to everyone’s taste or there may be various options of differing value to choose from. More information on the excursions we recommend is listed under each day of your itinerary though prices may vary. If you are after something in particular, don’t hesitate to ask your tour leader.

Your joining hotel is:

New Siam 2 Hotel
50 Trok Rong Mai
Phra-A-Thit Road
Phranakorn
Bangkok 10200
Thailand

Tel: (+66) 02 280 1465

Please note: Sometime joining hotels are subject to change. Please double check your Tour Voucher before you travel.

There are safe deposit boxes for your use (you will get an itemised receipt). Please leave all of your important documents, money and travellers cheques here when you go out but remember to carry some form of ID and a photocopy of your passport with you.

It is advisable not to wear chains or expensive looking watches or jewellery while in major cities. You should also keep your camera concealed when not in use and carry daypacks on your front for extra safety.

Arriving in Bangkok

When arriving at Bangkok International Airport we recommend that you obtain some Thai baht as soon as you arrive. There is an international ATM inside the airport, as well as money exchange offices offering a good rate. The rate will always vary slightly depending on where you go, it may be worth changing a small amount of money at the airport for your transport, and then finding a bank or money exchange within the town centre. There are many ATM’s and money exchanges close by to the hotel should you want to change them after checking into the hotel.

Airport Transfers

Airport transfers are not included in the tour price and must be booked separately in advance through Tucan Travel. If you have booked an airport/hotel transfer with us, please look out for someone with a sign which has your name, Tucan Travel, or both after exiting the customs hall.

If you arriving in to Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) and have an arrival transfer booked, after exiting customs, please turn right, continue down the walkway past the counters, where your driver will be waiting by door 3 or 4 holding a TucanTravel sign with the main passenger’s name on it, Please do not exit the building. Please note that Bangkok BKK airport is very congested and if you do not see your driver immediately please take the time to look around and if necessary contact the local Tucan Travel representative on the contact number shown on your voucher.

If you are arriving in to Don Mueang Airport (DMK) from outside Thailand (International) and have an arrival transfer booked, please turn right after exiting customs and walk approximately 20-30 metres to Door  No. 3 where your driver will be holding a Tucan Travel sign with the main passenger’s name on it.

If you are arriving in to Don Mueang Airport (DMK) from within Thailand (National) and have an arrival transfer booked, your driver will be waiting behind the barrier immediately in front of you after exiting customs, holding a Tucan Travel sign with the lead passenger’s name on it.

If you have booked an arrival transfer with us and you are going to be delayed by more than two hours, you must advise us of the delay at least six hours before arrival. If we are advised in time, we will make every effort to reschedule your transfer and your driver will be asked to wait for two hours after your new expected arrival time. However, if we are not made aware of any change, the driver will only wait for two hours after the original scheduled arrival time and after this point it will be up to you to arrange transport to your hotel at your own expense. Please contact us on the emergency contact details below if you are likely to be delayed.

Making your own way

If you would prefer to make your own way to and from your hotel, a public taxi is the easiest. At the airport, exit the customs area and turn right. Ignore all touts in the airport terminal offering taxi services and proceed down to Level 1, following the blue signs for “Public Taxis”. Outside the arrival building on the first floor (one floor down from arrivals) you will see the “Public Taxi” desks.

Give the dispatcher the name of your joining hotel. He or she will give you a slip of white paper. Hold onto it, do not give it to the driver, because it has instructions on what to do in the unlikely event of any problem. The dispatcher will give another part of the form to the driver.

When you get into the taxi, make sure the meter is on and showing 35 baht and ignore any ‘helpful’ advice from the driver to strike a cash deal off the metre. On arrival at the hotel, you will pay the fare on the meter, plus an airport surcharge of 50 baht that is not shown on the meter. In addition there may be optional expressway tolls of 75 baht which you should pay directly to the driver at the two toll stations. Typical costs would normally be around 400-500 baht in total (including metered fare, surcharge and tolls).

This tour uses a variety of hotels and guesthouses. You can find a breakdown of your accommodation in the “About this Tour” section.

Where possible Tucan Travel try and use local accommodation on the majority of tours. The accommodation is picked based on their location to the main sites.

Alternative Accommodation

The type of accommodation indicated in the trip notes is a guideline. If for any reason, we need to change the accommodation listed on the itinerary, a similar standard of accommodation will be used instead. You can find the list of hotels or similar used on your itinerary under each day.

Twin Share

Accommodation on this trip is mostly on a twin share basis unless you have upgraded to your own room. If you wish to book a double bed, please advice your Adventure Specialist upon booking.

I’d like my own room

If you are a solo traveller, a private room is available on most occasions at an extra cost. This must be booked in advance.

Check-in Time

Although we endeavour to have hotel rooms ready in time for arrival, sometimes this is not possible especially if we arrive early in the morning. In this instance we will store our luggage and enjoy the destination before checking in later in the day.

This tour uses a mixture of public transport and private minivans. The mode of transport is chosen based on schedule and timings, comfort, group size, location and reliability.

It is your responsibility to carry luggage on and off transport.

Flights

There are a total of 2 flights included on this tour so you should pay particular attention to the weight limit of your luggage. Tucan Travel tours have a checked luggage restriction of up to 20kg in total. This tour includes domestic flights which are also subject to the local carrier conditions of booking and have their own luggage restrictions which may be a maximum of 15kg. Any excess luggage must be paid by the customer.

Approximate travel times on this trip

The below information provides approximate travel times and modes of transport for your tour. Please note that modes of transport may be subject to change depending on the group size and timings may vary depending on the season and border crossings on the day.

  • Bangkok to Vientiane – 1h10 flight
  • Vientiane to Vang Vieng – 4 hours by local bus
  • Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang – 4h45 hours by private minibus
  • Luang Prabang to Chiang Mai – 1h15 flight
  • Chiang Mai to Ancient Sukhothai – 5h30 on a local bus
  • Ancient Sukhothai to Bangkok – 7h30 by local train
  • Bangkok to Khao Sok National Park – 12h on an overnight sleeper train. Upon arrival to the train station, followed by a 3h local minivan ride to Khao Sok National Park
  • Khao Sok National Park to Phuket Island – 3h by private transfer
  • Phuket Island to Penang – 1h15 flight
  • Penang to Cameron Highlands – 4h30 by tourist bus
  • Cameron Highlands to Kuala Lumpur – 5 hours by tourist bus
  • Kuala Lumpur to Melaka – 3 hours by tourist bus
  • Melaka to Singapore – 4 hours by tourist bus

All clothes should be lightweight, durable and easily washable. Please do not bring any military or camouflage-style clothing as it can be dangerous to wear and occasionally illegal. Nights can be cooler depending on the season you are travelling, so it is a good idea to bring at least one pair of warm trousers or jeans plus a thinner sweater which you can layer.

In general, Southeast Asia is not as conservative as other regions, and you do not have to worry about keeping your legs or shoulders covered on a day to day basis. However, when visiting religious sites, you will need to cover up. We recommend having long trousers or a sarong for this. When packing, please consider that any included flights on your tour have a luggage weight restriction of 20kg.

What essential items should I bring to Southeast Asia?

  • A small daypack – This should have enough room to carry food and snacks for day trips.
  • Good, comfortable trainers and sandals/flip flops.
  • Insect Repellent (DEET 35% min) and bite cream.
  • A sarong/cover-up or long trousers. Southeast Asia has an abundance of temples and you will need to be covered up before you enter.
  • A light anorak – tropical downpours can happen at anytime in this region.

Clothing

  • A lightweight and waterproof jacket
  • Jeans/trousers
  • Underwear and pyjamas
  • T-shirts/tops/shirts
  • Shorts/dresses/skirts
  • Trainers or walking shoes
  • Sandals
  • Jumper/cardigan/fleece
  • Swimwear/sarong/coverup

Electronics

  • Phone and charger
  • Camera and charger
  • Worldwide adaptor
  • Portable battery pack
  • Ipad/tablet/e-reader (great for long journeys!)

Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Small medical kit with paracetamol/plasters
  • Antibacterial hand gel
  • Insect repellent and bite cream
  • Sun cream and lip balm
  • Shampoo/conditioner/body wash – ideally in bar form
  • Antiperspirant/deodorant

Other

  • One small day bag
  • Sunglasses
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Cloth bag for shopping
  • Ear plugs and sleep mask

Documents

  • Passport
  • Visas
  • Insurance
  • Printed copy of your passport
  • Printed copy of your emergency contacts numbers
Laundry

Depending on the time spent in each destination, your Tour Leader will be able to advise on laundromats or laundry services in or near our hotels. Hotel services can be pretty costly however your tour leader will be able to recommend cheaper options. If you wash clothes yourself take care not to be too obvious where you hang them as most hotels do not like guests washing and drying their clothes in the hotel rooms.

E-Cigarettes

Please be aware that many countries in Southeast Asia have banned the use of e-cigarettes and it is not possible to bring them into the country with you. Please check regulations before you depart.

On a Tucan Travel tour you will experience a huge variety of amazing food in each location. Meals included are listed on the day to day itinerary and the “about your tour” section. On this trip, most breakfasts are included but lunch and dinner are at your own cost. Your tour leader will suggest restaurants in each location, and arrange evening group meals for those who wish to join. In the majority of Asian cities, there is a huge choice of both local and international restaurants.

If you have a specific dietary requirement it is important you advise us at the booking stage. We also recommend re-iterating this information to your tour leader on day 1. While we endeavour to assist as much as possible, it is ultimately your responsibility to research and arrange meals that suit your dietary preferences.

Breakfast on tour

Breakfast varies from extensive buffets to simple local spreads. For early departures, you may be provided with a breakfast box with a few simple pieces to keep you going. Breakfasts on this tour vary greatly. Depending on the location, you can find anything from a well put together western buffet to a continental breakfast or a smaller offering of local food.

Vegetarian Food

Finding vegetarian or vegan food in Southeast Asia is possible, especially in the bigger towns and cities. As long as you do some research it is quite easy to find vegan restaurants in larger cities. Southeast Asian cuisine uses an abundance of noodles, rice and fresh vegetables, so you won’t be stuck for something to eat. However please note that many dishes use shrimp paste or fish sauce, so unless you are with someone who can translate your exact requirements it’s best to try and find vegan advertised restaurants.

Local Markets and Street Food

Southeast Asia is known for possibly having the best street food scene in the world. Eating at local markets is a great way to experience authentic food and at a fraction of the cost of restaurants. Your tour leader will be able to offer advice on markets and street food in each destination.

Overall Southeast Asia has a fantastic food scene and it should not be missed!

Currency

This tour uses a total of two different currencies. It is worth bearing in mind that many of the below countries will accept US dollars but they will give you change in their local currency.

Below are the currencies used on this tour:

  • Thai Baht
  • Laos Kip
Local Payment

The majority of our tours are divided into two separate payments. The tour price is paid directly to your travel consultant when you book and before you depart for your tour and the second amount is the Local Payment, which is paid locally when you join the tour.

The Local Payment ensures your Tour Leader has a supply of cash to run some of the tour if access to banking facilities is limited or nonexistent. This helps to save operational and administrative costs, which in turn helps to keep the cost of our tours competitive so we can pass the savings on to you. The Local Payment also helps us get cash directly into local businesses to provide communities with an immediate economic benefit.

The Local Payment is a portion of the total tour cost and must be paid directly to your Tour Leader in the currency as indicated on your tour vouchers. The Local Payment is not optional and failure to pay this money in cash may result in you being excluded from starting the tour. It must be paid in high denomination notes only (100s, 50s, 20s). The notes must be crisp with no tears or markings and should be no older than 2013.

Cards

The majority of shops, restaurants, hotels and other establishments in Southeast Asia will accept credit and debit cards. American Express is not as widely accepted, so do not rely on this as your primary card.

Spending Money

We know how easy it is to lose track of your spending on holiday! That’s why it’s essential to thoroughly read your trip notes so that you understand what is and what isn’t included on each day. Most lunches and dinners are at your own cost, which gives you the flexibility to spend as little or as much as you like. Remember to budget for things like laundry, tipping, souvenirs and optional activities. In general, Southeast Asia is a cheap destination.

Take note of how long you will be spending in each country and don’t take out or exchange too much money. Unless you’re a big spender, you won’t need thousands just for two days in a country! We recommend checking your international withdrawal and exchange fees with your bank, as sometimes it is cheaper to withdraw money in your location rather than exchanging it beforehand.

Tipping

Tipping is not a big part of Southeast Asian culture however it is becoming more common in tourist areas. While it is not compulsory, if you have enjoyed the service it is appropriate and highly appreciated. You should add 10% to your bill in restaurants (make sure service isn’t already included), round up taxi fares and tip local excursion guides.

Budget

Your budget should include additional meals, transport within cities, optional excursions, shopping and an emergency fund.

Backup Funds

Travel can be unpredictable. While we endeavour to plan for every situation there are some instances where it is out of our control, such as severe weather, strikes, civil unrest or natural disasters. If these result in unavoidable itinerary changes, you should have access to enough funds for you to return home unexpectedly.

Emergency Contact

If you require urgent assistance before meeting your tour please call (+66) 633 21 0066.

Safety in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is generally very safe, even more so in a group. There are a few precautions which you should always take.

  • Do not travel with valuables. While phones and cameras are inevitable, leave the expensive jewellery and watches at home.
  • Make sure your handbag/daypack has a zip and is closed at all times.
  • When in crowded areas and on metros keep your bag on your front.
  • Do not walk alone after dark.
  • Only use registered taxis and if possible have the hotel phone one for you.
  • Do not take out large sums of cash at once and avoid keeping it all in the same place. Only take what you need for the day and leave the rest in a safe. Ideally, take more than one credit/debit card in case one is lost or stolen.

The safety of our travellers is a number one priority when operating our tours. As a British registered company the lead is taken from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office Advice Service (FCO). Tucan Travel reserves the right to cancel, amend or continue the operation of a tour based on, but not solely restricted to, the advice of the FCO.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is compulsory on all Tucan Travel tours. Your tour leader will request your travel insurance details at the pre departure meeting which are immediately submitted to the office. Failure to produce these details will mean you cannot join the tour.

Pack a Medical Kit

A medical kit is handy for minor wounds and ailments. In areas with limited or dubious medical facilities, an emergency medical kit containing sterile syringes is also advisable. By law our staff are not allowed to administer first aid or give drugs to travellers, so please be prepared with your own supplies. If you are taking medication, please ensure you bring an adequate supply and a letter from your doctor to avoid potential issues at border crossings.

Vaccinations

It is important to consult your doctor or travel clinic in good time before your tour departs to determine what vaccinations you require. If you are coming from a yellow-fever infected country then you must have had a yellow-fever vaccine and carry the certificate with you. It is also recommended to be up to date with typhoid, hepatitis A and B, TDap, Cholera, Diphtheria and influenza. Malaria risks vary according to location and season, so it is a good idea to seek the advice of your GP before travelling. It is also a good idea to be vaccinated against rabies if you will be coming into contact with animals.

Horse Riding

All clients wishing to participate in horse riding or similar activities, whether included or optional, acknowledge that the availability of protective headgear can vary or be non-existent. Therefore Tucan Travel cannot guarantee that headgear will be provided or will be to the same standard as those available in the UK or your home country. Any client intending to partake in these activities should bring their own protective headgear and other protective equipment with them.

Age Restrictions

Our tours are perfectly designed for those aged between 18 and 65 years old. They are fast-paced and sometimes tiring, while packed with adventure, new experiences and feel-good moments. With customers from around the world, of different ages, backgrounds and nationalities, some groups can be more boisterous than others. As a result, we ask that anyone wanting to travel under the age of 18 or over 65 carefully consider whether a group tour is right for them. We may ask that you fill in our tour suitability form found here to guarantee your enjoyment of the trip. Please read through our Tour Suitability page or contact a member of our Reservations Team if in doubt. Please note that we do not accept children under the age of 16 on our group tours. If you are travelling with children please contact our tailor-made team for a bespoke holiday.

As a global tour operator, we understand the importance of running sustainable tours that have as low an impact on the environment as possible. Please read our comprehensive guide here before you travel.

You can find out further information on our availability and departures of tours by clicking here.

Included/Excluded

  • Enjoy an informal evening of Laos 10-pin bowling with your tour leader and group
  • Visit to the COPE Centre
  • Scenic Tuk Tuk ride to the Blue Lagoon
  • Entry to Mount Phousi
  • Early visit to see Monks collect alms
  • Bicycle tour of Sukhothai Ancient ruins
  • Bangkok River boat to the Giant Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho (entrance included), walking back via the Grand Palace. (entrance and guide to Grand Palace optional)

Tour Plan

Day 01 Arrive Bangkok

Welcome to Bangkok and the start of your South East Asia adventure. This loud, vibrant and tantalizing city is the heart of Thailand and is seen as the gateway to South East Asia for most travellers.

Today you are free to arrive at your leisure and enjoy the numerous activities in the city.

One of the biggest highlights of the city and a must see is the opulent Grand Palace, which was built in 1782 and was home of the Thai King for over 150 years. The palace complex has several impressive buildings such as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Just walking around this vast area will give you an idea of the spectacular Thai architecture and vibrant colours. Another must see is the temple of Wat Pho, which houses the impressive reclining Buddha. The position of the Buddha represents entry into Nirvana and the end of reincarnations and is an important symbol for Thai people.

Tonight you will have a pre departure meeting to meet your tour leader and the rest of your group. Please check reception for details and timings.

Optional Excursions

Entrance to the Grand Palace – THB 500 • Thai Massage per hour from – THB 250 • Thai cookery course – from THB 1200 • Bangkok canal tour – from THB 750 • Wat Arun – Entry THB 100 • Golden Mountain – THB 50 • Chatuchak Weekend Market (Saturday and Sunday only) – Free

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels at New Siam II or similar

Day 02 Fly to Vientiane

Laos is the landlocked gem of South East Asia, boasting a much more quiet and calming nature than that of it's rowdy neighbours. In fact before 1970, the city of Vientiane only had one set of traffic lights. Today we leave Bangkok for this charming city where we will spend two nights.

The city of Vientiane has a lot of French infusion, after the French rule between 1893 and 1946. From the colonial architecture to the wine and coffee, there are plenty of French legacies around the city. Enjoy some free time to wander around and take in the sites. This evening we will meet up again for 10-pin bowling with our tour leader and those who are joining the tour here in Vientiane.

Please note that your flight today from Bangkok to Vientiane in Laos may be unaccompanied by a Tucan Travel tour leader. If this is the case, all flights and airport transfers will be provided and your new tour leader will arrange to meet you at the Vientiane hotel.

Included Excursions

Enjoy an informal evening of Laos 10-pin bowling with your tour leader and group

Optional Excursions

Temples – most entry fees are US$2 • Wat Pra Kaeo (Grand Palace and museum) – LAK 10,000 • Buddha Park – LAK 15,000 entrance (plus transport starting from LAK 80,000)

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels at Mali Namphu Hotel or similar

Day 03 Vientiane

Today we visit the COPE centre in Vientiane, one of the most important museums and therapy centres in the country. As well as a learning centre, it acts as a therapy unit to offer support to those affected by the UXO (unexploded ordnance). During the Vietnam War, over 2 billion tonnes of bombs were dropped in Laos, many being left unexploded in the ground. Laos is historically the most bombed country in the world, and over the years the country has seen many casualties due to these unexploded devices.

During your free time in the city you could check out the Laos Textile Museum, or explore the many Buddhist temples dotted around.

Included Excursions

Visit to the COPE Centre

Optional Excursions

Temples – most entry fees are US$2 • Wat Pra Kaeo (Grand Palace and museum) – LAK 10,000 • Buddha Park – LAK 15,000 entrance (plus transport starting from LAK 80,000)

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels at Mali Namphu Hotel or similar

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

Day 4 Vang Vieng

This morning we travel to Vang Vieng passing some stunning scenery on route. The landscape here is just as impressive as the final destination and you will witness scenes of village life on the way. The serene town of Vang Vieng is situated on a plateau surrounded by mystical limestone caves and beautiful waterfalls. The area is inhabited by the Hmong and Yao tribes, and the countryside here offers some of the most beautiful scenery in the country.

Indulge in some local cuisine and explore the markets which are filled with fruits and handcrafted textiles. The food in Laos is colourful, vibrant and packed with herbs and spices. Sticky rice is a staple and you will see the residents eating it by hand and dipping it into various sauces.

Optional Excursions

Bamboo rafting/kayaking including visit to caves – US$20 • Caves – most entry fees are US$2

Accommodation

1 night(s) in a guesthouse at Garden Pany Hotel or similar

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

Day 5 Vang Vieng and Blue Lagoon

Today we enjoy a scenic Tuk Tuk ride through the incredible scenery and out to see local villages and rice paddies. Make sure to bring a swimming costume as we will also visit the Blue Lagoon where you can take a dip. Lush jungle, hanging trees and crystal blue waters make this hot spot a fun and beautiful place to swim and relax.

The rest of the day is free to further explore and relax. A great option is to hire a bike and explore the surrounding area further. Thanks to the nature that surrounds it Vang Vieng is the perfect place for a host of outdoor activities and you could tube down the river, kayak or explore the nearby caves. Simply walking through the rice paddies is a great way to experience the calm nature of the area and be sure to look out for giant snails, dragonflies and frogs!

Included Excursions

Scenic Tuk Tuk ride to the Blue Lagoon

Optional Excursions

Bamboo rafting/kayaking including visit to caves – US$20 • Caves – most entry fees are US$2

Accommodation

1 night(s) in a guesthouse at Garden Pany Hotel or similar

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

Day 6 Luang Prabang

Enjoying more of the calming scenery in Laos we make our way to Luang Prubang on a four hour local bus journey. Many say that Luang Prabang is the most memorable town in all of Laos. Renowned for a fascinating history and its many temples, Luang Prabang refers to the holy Pra Bang, Laos' most sacred image of the Buddha given to Fa Ngoum.

As you explore you will see that Luang Prabang is dominated by Phousi - the marvellous hill-top temple that sits in the middle of the town. A popular highlight of any visit to Luang Prabang is to visit Wat Tham Phousi located on a small 'mountain' in the town's centre offering breathtaking views of the town and surrounding area. You'll notice a combination of Lao, French and Lao-French colonial influence as you admire the city's buildings and architectural highlights - all of which you can see discovering the town on foot.

Included Excursions

Entry to Mount Phousi

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels at Malida Hotel or similar

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

Day 7 Luang Prabang

We awake early to visit the monks at sunrise who collect alms that are donated by the locals. This is a very memorable experience and gives great insight into the local traditions and way of life of the Laos people, which dates back centuries. The practise is done early since monks cannot eat after midday.

The rest of the day is free to enjoy the sites. Head to the beautiful cascading Kuang Si Falls, a multi level waterfall with the green and blue waters flowing into each other. The area is perfect for a relaxing dip and is well maintained with walkways and bridges.

You could also explore Luang Prubang's best known Buddhist temple, Wat Xieng Thong, which dates back to the 1500's.

Included Excursions

Early visit to see Monks collect alms

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels at Malida Hotel or similar

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

Day 8 Fly to Chiang Mai

We return to Thailand and the head to the Rose of the North otherwise known as Chiang Mai. A vibrant and bustling city, Chiang Mai is renowned for its temples and unique old city. Founded in 1296, it was the capital of the ancient Lanna Kingdom until 1558. The city is a wonderful blend of old and new, with plenty of temples to be seen. The surrounding mountainous landscape makes for the perfect backdrop, and there are also some lovely gardens and parks to relax in. Chiang Mai is also the largest city in northern Thailand and provides a lovely contrast to Bangkok.

We arrive early evening in time to explore the local area and enjoy some Thai cuisine. Chiang Mai has a mouth watering food scene with plenty on offer for everyone.

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

Day 9 Chiang Mai

Today is free to enjoy the city and its host of activities. Learn the secrets of Thai cuisine on a cooking course, indulge in a relaxing massage in some of the best spas in the country or take in a night time Muay Thai match. Chiang Mai is also home to a dazzling night bazaar where you can sample street food and browse the large selection of crafts, clothing and art.

Northern Thailand is famous for having amazing food and there will be plenty local delicacies to sample. Try the Khao Soi, a coconut and curry soup filled with egg noodles and topped with crispy noodles.

Optional Excursions

Thai cookery course – THB 800 per person (depending on class size) • Doi Suthep temple by Songthaew (type of Thai vehicle) – THB 300 • Bicycle tour – from THB 800 per day • Watch Muay Thai Boxing - From THB 400

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

Day 10 Chiang Mai

A highlight of Chiang Mai is to visit Doi Suthep, located about 12 km outside the city that has fantastic views of the surrounding area. The mountain is also home to a 13th century temple and replica of the Emerald Buddha.

Take a stroll down San Kamphaeng Road, also known as the Handicraft Highway due its pottery, wood carving and silk products. This area is also well known for selling Celadon, a type of pottery that has a green glaze making it look almost like jade. Some of the finest silversmiths in Thailand also sell their work here, so keep an eye out for some unique jewellery.

Optional Excursions

Thai cookery course – THB 800 per person (depending on class size) • Doi Suthep temple by Songthaew (type of Thai vehicle) – THB 300 • Bicycle tour – from THB 800 per day • Watch Muay Thai Boxing - From THB 400

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

Day 11 Ancient Sukhothai

This morning we travel to our next destination, the ancient city of Sukhothai.

A UNESCO World Heritage City, Sukhothai is home to a vast array of temples and other historical sites. The Sukhothai Kingdom, which ruled from around the 12th to the 14th century, is known as the birthplace is Thai civilisation, and where Thai art and language have their origins.

Tomorrow we will enjoy a bike tour of the Historical Park and it's sites, so the rest of today gives the perfect opportunity to relax and perhaps sample some of the food on offer. Check out the markets and try one of the beloved dishes, such as the Sukhothai noodles, a style of rice noodle soup which is popular in the area.

Accommodation

1 night(s) in a guesthouse at Vitoon Guest House or similar

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

Day 12 Bicycle tour of Sukhothai Ancient ruins

Sukhothai is a wonderful place to soak up Thai history and tradition, and today we do just that in the Historical Park. It has over 200 ancient sites to be explored, including temples, ruins, statues and other religious symbols. We depart just after breakfast while the weather is still cooler, with the opportunity to stop for ice cream on route. Note that after the tour you are free to keep your bike for the remainder of the day to continue exploring.

A must see in the park is the Wat Si Chum, which is home to what is said to be Thailand's most beautiful Buddha statues. Wat Saphan Hin, due its elevated position, offers views of the surrounding area and the 11 meter tall Buddha found here was once a favourite spot for royalty to worship.

Included Excursions

Bicycle tour of Sukhothai Ancient ruins

Accommodation

1 night(s) in a guesthouse at Vitoon Guest House or similar

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

Day 13 Bangkok

This morning we hop on a train and head for Bangkok. Bangkok has a host of fascinating sights waiting to be explored. If you haven't already check out the Golden Mountain, Wat Arun temple and the many markets nestled within the city.

You could take your own street food walking tour, enjoying delicacies from the many vendors dotted around the city. Foods to look out for include green papaya salad, Thai fried rice, Pad thai and pork skewers. You could even take a Thai cookery course and learn more about the secrets behind these mouth watering foods.

Come evening, if you really want to get under the skin of Thai culture then head to a Muay Thai match.

Optional Excursions

Entrance to the Grand Palace – THB 500 • Thai Massage per hour from – THB 250 • Thai cookery course – from THB 1200 • Bangkok canal tour – from THB 750 • Wat Arun – Entry THB 100 • Golden Mountain – THB 50 • Chatuchak Weekend Market (Saturday and Sunday only) – Free

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels at New Siam II or similar

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

Day 14 Bangkok Boat Trip & Wat Pho

This morning we enjoy a short riverboat trip experiencing a different perspective of the Bangkok skyline. We disembark at Wat Pho and visit the famous reclining Buddha.

If you have booked post tour accommodation, tomorrow you can also visit the famous Chatuchak Weekend Market, Bangkok's largest market which is also said to be the largest in the world. There are over 15,000 stalls offering anything and everything that you could dream of. Mingle with the locals and immerse yourself in the bustle of vendors and shoppers going about their daily lives.

Included Excursions

Bangkok River boat to the Giant Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho (entrance included), walking back via the Grand Palace. (entrance and guide to Grand Palace optional)

Optional Excursions

Entrance to the Grand Palace – THB 500 • Thai Massage per hour from – THB 250 • Thai cookery course – from THB 1200 • Bangkok canal tour – from THB 750 • Wat Arun – Entry THB 100 • Golden Mountain – THB 50 • Chatuchak Weekend Market (Saturday and Sunday only) – Free

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels at New Siam II or similar

Day 15 Depart Bangkok

Your adventure of a lifetime comes to an end today. If you have a late flight or have lengthened your stay by adding post tour accommodation you will have more time to explore the sights.

Tour Map

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