Treasures of Thailand

What better way to begin your discovery of the “Land of Smiles” than with the bright lights of Bangkok? Head out by tuk tuk with a host, enjoying a light dinner and discovering the quirky bars located in resorted shophouses in Chinatown, where creative cocktails and modern music fuse with traditional Thai culture. By daylight, see some of the city’s most dazzling sights – from the City Pillar Shrine and the Reclining Buddha, to the oldest market in the city Tha Tien. Crossing the Chao Phraya River by ferry, reach the spectacular Wat Arun, venturing up the pagoda steps for sensational views. Join Bangkok expert David Robinson as you cycle gently through the city’s riverside communities, visiting a range of hidden historical sights.

Enjoy a slower pace as you head away from the city into Thailand’s lush northern jungle near the Myanmar border in the Golden Triangle region. The stars of the show at your luxury Lanna-style resort are the group of Asian elephants that are cared for here. Walk and interact with these amazing animals and their mahouts as you meander through the forest, watching them bathe and learning more about their conservation – with absolutely no riding!

The capital and cultural core of the Lanna Kingdom, Thailand’s ‘Rose of the North’, Chiang Mai is located on the banks of the Ping River. Join a guide as you ascend the Doi Suthep mountain for incredible views over the city, before exploring the old town and several impressive temples, stopping for northern culinary specialties for lunch. Learn how to drive a tuk tuk (or be chauffeured, if you prefer) and cruise gently through rural hamlets and farming villages, stopping at the ethical Mae Wang Elephant Home to cool off with a dip in the local river alongside these intelligent creatures! Board a bamboo raft and drift downstream, before returning into town.

You’ve experienced Thailand’s vibrant cities, serene jungles and rolling countryside… so now it’s time for the beach. Spend four nights in the paradise of Koh Samui, heading by 4WD to the hidden hilltop Jungle Club restaurant on your first evening, for a private candle-lit dinner with breathtaking sunset views. No stay here is complete without visiting the dreamy Ang Thong Marine Park nearby, characterised by hidden lagoons, enchanting caves, limestone cliffs and perfect white-sand beaches. Board a private yacht to explore this awe-inspiring area of Thailand, enjoying lunch on board and making the most of the kayaking and snorkelling gear on board.