Arrive in exotic Bangkok, Thailand's capital city; transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure to rest, relax and acclimate to the new time zone
Overnight: Bangkok

Begin your day with a city and temple tour of Bangkok, a fascinating mix of ancient and modern. Drive through Chinatown and then on to the colorful Indian Market. Visit serene Wat Po, the oldest and largest temple in the city, with the astonishing giant Reclining Buddha, over 150 feet long and almost 50 feet high. Drive to Royal Avenue where most of the Government offices are located and the King's Palace. Later in the afternoon, attend an orientation meeting with your Tour Manager at approximately 5 PM, followed by a light dinner
Overnight: Bangko

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Today is yours to explore Bangkok independently. Or, take the optional tour to the elaborate 18th century Grand Palace, symbol and ceremonial heart of the kingdom, and to Wat Phra Kaew, (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), with its brightly colored buildings, golden spires and gorgeous mosaics. You'll see the distinct contrast in style between the Thai-inspired Wat Phra Kaew and the European design of the Grand Palace. In the afternoon, embark on the optional canal tour along the Chao Phraya River passing by Wat Arun and other iconic landmarks as well as a scenic view of local life along the river. Then travel on a tuk-tuk to dinner at a local restaurant before returning to your hotel
Optional: Half Day Grand Palace & Emerald Buddha (AM)
Optional: Bangkok Canal Tour with Dinner (PM)
Overnight: Bangkok
Meals: Breakfast

Depart Bangkok to Ayutthaya, the second Siamese capital after Sukhothai for over 400 years, once glorified as one of the largest cities in Southeast Asia. Ayutthaya Historical Park, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, lies in the center of the city. Here, you can see the ruins of the former capital and its remaining palaces, monasteries and towers - one can envision the grandeur and splendor that was once the Kingdom of Ayutthaya. Visit Bang Pa-In Palace, a collection of beautiful buildings in various architectural styles, surrounded by a lake. Originally built by King Prasat Thong in 1632, Bang Pa-In served as the Royal Summer Palace for the Thai Kings. Continue to the Chai Wattanaram Temple, built by King Prasat Thong to honor his mother, conceived as a replica of the Angkor Temple - this is a serene place where one can reflect and enjoy the tranquility. Tonight, dinner is at the hotel
Overnight: Ayutthaya
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Travel to Sukhothai, birthplace of the Thai nation, founded in the 13th century by King Ramkhamhaeng. The country's first capital was established here in 1238 and lasted over two centuries. Sukhothai is world-famous its over 100 historical sites and treasures, including some of the most beautiful Thai art and architecture in the country, created during the city's "golden era", between the 13th and 14th centuries. Visit the Old Town of Sukhothai with its impressive Historical Park, immaculately restored and set among leafy hills and peaceful lotus ponds, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. At this astonishing site, most of the remains of the original city can be seen. Marvel at the ancient Buddha figures, palaces, temples and historical monuments and feel yourself drift back in time to a bygone era
Overnight: Sukhothai
Meals: Breakfast

This morning, time permitting, meet children at a local school* before departing Sukhothai. Then, travel to scenic Chiang Rai, the northernmost province of Thailand for overnight
*School visit is subject to changes due to school scheduling
Overnight: Chiang Rai
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today travel to the famed "Golden Triangle" at Sop Ruak, where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos converge, and the Mekong River meets the Ruak River. Continue to the House of Opium, offering an informative exhibition on the history of opium which dates back almost 5000 years. This afternoon, enjoy a locally prepared lunch before embarking on a long tail boat ride along the banks of the Mekong River between Myanmar, Laos and Thailand where you will see local farmers and fishermen at their craft and learn more about how this river played a role in the opium trade. End the day with a stop at an old teak forest and view centuries old giant teak trees before returning to Chiang Rai for the evening
Overnight: Chiang Rai
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Morning is at leisure when you have an opportunity to join the optional excursion to Mae Chan, still inhabited by hill people, namely the Akha, Long Neck and Palong tribes. Visit one of the tribes to see their unique way of life and learn more about their culture before driving to Chiang Mai, ancient capital of the Lanna Kingdom. En route, stop at a local gem gallery before arriving in Chiang Mai, cultural heart of Northern Thailand, located in the rolling foothills of the Himalayas. Spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure
Optional: Half Day Mae Chan Hill Tribe (AM)
Overnight: Chiang Mai
Meals: Breakfast

Morning is at leisure to explore this vibrant city independently or, join the Elephant Sanctuary with lunch optional tour. Get introduced to this ethical program that offers a chance to meet the elephants and spend quality time with these majestic animals (no riding is included). Observe their playful interactions and bathing rituals while learning about their unique behaviors. Participate in feeding sessions, delighting in the opportunity to offer the gentle giants their favorite treats. After your visit, stop for lunch at a local restaurant before returning to the hotel. In the afternoon, visit Sankampang Street, center of handicrafts, for on-site demonstrations on how the silk, lacquer, and silver wares are made. At the end of the day, pamper yourself with an optional Thai massage
Optional: Elephant Sanctuary with lunch (AM)
Optional: Traditional Thai Massage
Overnight: Chiang Mai
Meals: Breakfast

Morning tour of the most interesting temples in Chiang Mai. Begin at Wat Suan Dok, where the remains of the Chiang Mai Royal family are enshrined. Continue to Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, Northern Thailand's most sacred temple, containing a holy relic of Lord Buddha. Equally impressive is the mythological Naga (dragon-headed serpent) staircase, with 306 steps leading up to the temple grounds. Visit to a local jade factory, followed by an afternoon at leisure to wander independently in Chiang Mai. Tonight, a unique experience. Join a local Chiang Mai family for an authentic Thai dinner in their home. Enjoy a tour of the home, conversation about life in Chiang Mai and savor the great flavors of home-cooked food
Overnight: Chiang Mai
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Depart Chiang Mai this morning on your flight to Bangkok; arrive and transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure to enjoy all of the delights of Bangkok on your own. Shop to your heart's content, visit to the many amazing markets, and try some of the fabulous restaurants in this energetic city
Overnight: Bangkok
Meals: Breakfast

Transfer to the airport for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast