In the morning, we will show you around the crazy city of Bangkok, and the premier sites of interest, such as the Royal Palace and Wat Phra Kaew and its famous Emerald Buddha and also see the golden reclining Buddha at Wat Pho, historically Thailand's first seat of learning. A long-tail boat ride on the river will give us unusual views of the city and its many lively inner canals, to experience local lifestyles in motion around us, with a stop at Wat Arun, the 'Dawn Temple.' After lunch on a floating restaurant, we will view the five and a half ton, three metre high Buddha, fashioned out of solid gold, at Wat Traimit.

The following day, we will head out into the lush countryside beyond the city boundaries to the previous Siamese capital of Ayutthaya whose former glory is revealed in the ruins of Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, Wat Chai Wattanaram and Wat Chaimongkol. We will then visit Bang Pa In, and the pavilions of the Summer Palace, a blend of Thai, Chinese, Italian and Victorian architectural styles, formerly used by the monarchy as a retreat from the burden of being worshipped as a god incarnate. A gentle cruise aboard a luxury boat, passing by a floating village and absorbing daily life along the riverbanks, will take us the leisurely way back, slipping from quietude to the buzzing centre of Bangkok.

Meals: two breakfasts, two lunches, and one dinner.
Escort/guide: transfer from airport to hotel and evening, and the following day

Four days in Chiang Mai
Take your time in the morning to ready yourself for the short flight to Chiang Mai and your transfer to your next hotel. A cultural evening dinner of northern-style Khantoke cuisine will be accompanied with the music and dance of the local ethnic minorities.

Next day, we drive west to the mountain of Doi Suthep and a pleasant walk to Wat Prathat Temple close to its summit, which offers a panoramic views of the city below nestled in its upland forest landscape. An afternoon visit to the neighbouring villages of Sankamphaeng and Borsang will give you a chance to encounter the fine craftsmanship of local artisans in the cottage industries of lacquerware, silk-weaving, wood carving, silverware and umbrella making.

Today, we will travel north for an excursion to Mae Taeng Elephant camp for some fun with elephants, and during your visit, you will have a chance to try your hand at elephant riding, bamboo rafting, ox-cart riding and the elephant show, and a visit to the nearby orchid farm.

Meals: three breakfasts, two lunches and one dinner
Guide: transfer from airport, guided tours

On your last day you will be picked up from your hotel for your transfer to Bangkok, and your onward flight.

Meals: one breakfast

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Prices (person in US dollars):

The prices below are based on the hotels on the Classic Thailand 'Accommodation' page. If you would prefer a different hotel or hotels, tell us, and we'll send you a modified price within 24 hrs at the latest.

Number in group	2	3-4	5-8	9-12	13-16	*Supplement for single hotel room occupancy
Mid-range	993	848	730	734	679	158
Superior	1,065	941	803	806	753	230
Deluxe	1,360	1,215	1,098	1,103	1,046	525
First Class	2,090	1,945	1,828	1,831	1,778	1,190

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These prices are valid until October 31, 2008. Please note: bank transfer fees are not included.

* ‘Single room occupancy’ refers to the accommodation element of the programme only, and applies to someone who is traveling with others but requires an additional room for him or herself. Single traveller prices are available on request.

Our prices include:

• Breakfast and accommodation sharing a twin or double room.
• Pick-ups and transfers by private air-conditioned vehicle as specified in the itinerary above (Please note: pick-ups will be by a guide and driver or, where a guide is not necessary, a driver only. All unaccompanied drivers will be briefed in advance, and will carry a mobile phone to ensure smooth transfer arrangements)
• Domestic flight tickets: Bangkok - Chiang Mai and Chiang Mai - Bangkok, including domestic airport taxes
• Boat cruises as specified in the programme. All boats will be fully licensed and comply with current safety regulations.
• Travel in an appropriate private air-conditioned vehicle with an experienced safe driver.
• The services of experienced English-speaking guides as indicated in the itinerary (please note: guides will be on hand from pick-up until guests' return to their hotel or reaching their destination). Free days or part days will not include the services of a guide unless requested and included in the final itinerary.
• Where necessary, entry fees for all visits as mentioned in the programme.
• Lunches and dinners (as specified in the itinerary) in the best local restaurants, or picnics where no suitable restaurant is available, There are six breakfasts, four lunches and two dinners
• VAT and other taxes

Our prices do not include:

• International flight tickets and airport tax.
• Visas
• Dinners, except as specified above.
• Drinks, gratuities and personal expenses.
• Camera fees (if any)
• Insurance.

 

Accommodation

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