Thailand

Tour members from across Canada will gather for our overnight flight(s) to Bangkok.

Upon arrival this morning, meet your guide and transfer to
the hotel for early check-in. Enjoy the day at leisure before
gathering for a welcome dinner this evening.

Four Points by Sheraton Bangkok Ploenchit (3 nights)

This morning, visit the Grand Palace, one of Bangkok’s iconic landmarks and former royal residence. Explore its richly decorated halls and courtyards, including Wat Phra Kaew Temple, home to the sacred Emerald Buddha. After lunch, discover a quieter side of Bangkok on a long-tail boat ride through the canals, or “Klongs”, of Thonburi. Pass stilt houses, temples, and daily life along the waterways. Conclude the day with a visit to Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, known for its gleaming spire and riverside views.

Venture west to Damnoen Saduak, Thailand’s most iconic floating market. Watch merchants in colourful boats trade fruits, vegetables, and local goods, a glimpse into a centuries-old way of life. Continue to the Maeklong Railway Market, famous for its stalls set directly on the tracks, cleared only when trains approach. Dive into Bangkok’s vibrant street food scene on a guided culinary tour. Sample a variety of northeastern Thai dishes, including the Michelin-awarded Guay Tiew Kua Gai, and learn how these crispy noodles are prepared. Wander through the bustling flower market before heading to Bantadthong Road, a lively street lined with local eateries. Cap off the night with a drink at a hidden rooftop bar. 

Kanchanaburi is home to the historic Bridge over the River Kwai, part of the Thailand–Burma Railway built by Allied prisoners of war during World War II. Visit the Thailand–Burma Railway Centre, an interactive museum that tells the story of its construction under harsh and often deadly conditions. Nearby, pause at the Allied War Cemetery, a moving tribute to those who lost their lives while working on the line. Later, board the train for a scenic ride along the surviving section of the track, now known as the “Death Railway”. 

Royal River Kwai Resort & Spa or similar (2 nights)     

This morning, we head into Erawan National Park to explore its seven-tiered waterfall and emerald pools. Follow the beautiful forest trail through the park and take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters. 

After a late morning transfer to Ayutthaya, we enjoy some time at leisure. This evening, we board a traditional teak rice barge for a cruise along the Chao Phraya River. As Ayutthaya’s historic landmarks drift by, enjoy a specially prepared menu of traditional Thai dishes. 

Kantary Ayutthaya (1 night) 

Explore the ruins of Ayutthaya Historical Park, including  Wat Phra Sri Sanphet and the Grand Palace grounds, once the spiritual and royal heart of the old capital. At Wat Mahathat, see the iconic Buddha head entwined in tree roots, a symbol of Ayutthaya’s enduring legacy. Before leaving Ayutthaya, we stop to learn how locals make traditional Thai candy floss, known as “roti.” Later, transfer to Bangkok Airport for our flight to Chiang Rai.

The Legend Boutique River Resort & Spa (2 nights)  

Begin the day in the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar converge. Visit the House of Opium museum, then enjoy a scenic boat ride on the Mekong before continuing by car to the ancient town of Chiang Saen. Afterwards, visit Ban Had Pai, a Tai Lue weaving village, and the hilltop Hmong village of Baan Kiew Karn.

A cruise along the Mae Kok River takes us to Fang Hot Spring and a Lahu village, home to a Tibeto-Burmese hill tribe. Next, we drive to Chiang Mai, with a stop at the striking White Temple, Wat Rong Khun. In Chiang Mai, explore the city’s renowned handicraft villages before heading to Hangdong for a special experience. Spend the afternoon with a local Thai family, exploring their home and gardens. Together, pick fresh ingredients and learn how to prepare authentic dishes with recipes passed down through generations. The day ends with a shared home-cooked dinner and warm conversations.

Empress Premier Hotel (3 nights) 

Spend the day bonding with rescued elephants in an ethical, hands-on experience at Ran-Tong Save & Rescue Elephant Centre, a sanctuary devoted to rehabilitation and education. This is a chance to support the health and happiness of these gentle giants through meaningful interaction. Learn their rescue stories, prepare and feed them nutritious treats, and discover the importance of responsible elephant care during a guided educational session. After lunch at the sanctuary, take part in wellness activities like mixing herbal medicines and giving mud or compress treatments that help protect the elephants’ skin. End the day with a fun river bath, and a health check observation, before returning to Chiang Mai. 

Nestled near the Doi Suthep temple complex lies the Hmong village of Doi Pui, home to a community with roots tracing back to South China. Learn about their unique history and way of life, once shaped by opium cultivation. Next, visit the revered Wat Doi Suthep Temple. As we drive up, enjoy sweeping views of Chiang Mai city. In the afternoon, explore the San Kamphaeng district, the heart of the region’s silk and cotton industries. Watch artisans weave intricate fabrics, then continue to Bor Sang, the renowned umbrella village, where delicate paper parasols are hand-painted. Marvel at designs inspired by centuries-old Sawankhalok pottery before ending the day observing local lacquerware and silverware craftsmanship. 

Today we fly to the sunny beaches and clear blue waters of Krabi. Upon arrival, enjoy a free afternoon to unwind and explore at your own pace. Sink your toes into the soft sand of its stunning beaches, or enjoy the amenities at our resort. 

Ao Nang Villa (3 nights) 

Get ready for a captivating half-day guided tour as we uncover the natural and cultural treasures of Krabi. Our morning begins at a lively local market, where you’ll catch a glimpse of everyday life in Krabi. Then, head to Khao Kanab Nam, Krabi’s iconic twin limestone mountains rising beside the gentle Krabi River. Board a traditional long-tail boat and drift through peaceful waters lined with mangrove forests, hidden caves, and riverside villages. Keep an eye out for stalagmites, stalactites, bats, monkeys, and water lizards along the way. Return to Krabi Town with time to browse the shops or wander at your leisure.  

Today is all about sun, sea, and sand on a full-day island-hopping tour in Krabi. Board a speedboat and set off for the uninhabited Ko Tup, known for its clear waters and powdery white sands. At low tide, a natural sandbar appears, allowing you to walk across to Ko Kai, or Chicken Island, named for its chicken-shaped limestone outcrop. Relax on the beach or snorkel in the warm shallows, where you might spot colourful fish, sea urchins, stingrays, and even small reef sharks. Lunch is served on the beach, followed by time to swim or snorkel in Ko Poda’s turquoise waters and coral reefs. The final stop is Phra Nang Beach, home to the Princess Cave. Local fishermen leave offerings here in honour of a princess believed to protect them at sea, who is said to have drowned here. Enjoy free time for sunbathing or a final snorkel before returning to our hotel for our farewell dinner.  

Spend your final morning in paradise relaxing at the resort or browsing the local market. This afternoon, we transfer to the airport for our flight back to the capital.

Hyatt Regency Bangkok Airport (1 night) 

Early this morning we gather our things and check in for our flights back to Canada.