Depart on your international flight to Thailand. 

Flying to Bangkok 

Arrive in the capital city of Thailand. What originated as a 15th-century trading outpost has since developed into a hub of intensity. A kaleidoscope of sights lay all around, from the ancient temples to the modern scooter taxis, from the street food vendors to the neon lights that pierce the night. Visit three of Bangkok’s coolest neighborhoods by private tuk-tuk. Sample some of the city’s local food and explore the “City of Angels” on your own for a bit. Ride to Chinatown before settling down at your hotel.  Overnight in Bangkok. (D)

Visit awe-inspiring religious centers. An early morning start ensures the opportunity to witness Wat Pho’s monks gather for the morning chant. Explore the spiritual grounds, including the gilded 45-meter reclining Buddha. Next up is the Grand Palace. You’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into Roger’s and Hammerstein’s King and I. Sunlight bounces off of golden tiles. Curvaceous rooftops protect hidden statues and figures. The Grand Palace has been the seat of the Thai monarchy for more than two centuries. Water means life to Thailand. Akin to Egypt’s Nile River, Thailand’s seasonal monsoons bring fertility to the land. A river cruise is the perfect way to see how the locals revere their waterways. Make a stop at Baan Silapin, which is famous for its puppet shows. Then, travel towards central Thailand as you make your way to Kanchanaburi.  Overnight in Kanchanaburi. (B, D) 

With sunlight streaming through jade-colored leaves, weave through the mystical rainforest of Sri Nakharin National Park. Your inner child is sure to come alive! Tiered waterfalls cascade along easy hiking trails. Keep an eye out for native wildlife such as gibbons, peacock-pheasants, hornbills, and barking deer. From there, head out to one of Thailand’s largest lakes, Srinkarin, created by a dam built in 1980.  (B, L, D) 

Continue learning about lesser-known WWII history as you explore the WWII Museum, recently voted Thailand’s best museum and the Allied War Cemetery. During WWII, 60,000 were captured and used to build the Japanese train line into Burma (now Myanmar). Pay your respects to fallen Allied soldiers at the cemetery. Transfer to Ayutthaya, Thailand’s former capital. Its mythical ruins hold a temple that once claimed to be the center of the universe. True or not, the temple certainly leaves its mark. Hundreds of figures line the pathways. Formidable stairways climb so long and steep that they seem to stretch towards heaven. These icons of foregone Siamese royalty whisper declarations of conviction that permeate the culture. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site and glean insight seldom available to the Western world. Overnight in Ayutthaya. (B, D) 

Visit Aranyik, known for its knife craftmanship. Each villager has their own knife-making technique, which you can observe and discuss with them. Meet one of Chiang Mai’s culinary masters, Chef Gee, during an intimate dining experience.   Overnight in Chiang Mai. (B, D) 

Be a part of a historical effort in Thailand – transforming the treatment of elephants. For thousands of years, the Thai people have relied upon elephants for their livelihood. Now, thanks to the ChangChill Elephant Experience, they are learning a harmonious respect for these exquisite creatures.  Overnight in Chiang Mai. (B, D)  

Enjoy Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, named after two mountains within the park – Doi Suthep and Doi Pui. Numerous waterfalls, lookout points, and trails make it one of the best parks in the country. Doi Suthep Temple is the most popular attraction within the park and offers great views of Chiang Ma’s cityscape. The indigenous wildlife also adds to the wonder. See if you can spot dholes, Assam macaques, Indochinese serows, Malayan porcupines, and more.  Overnight flight or overnight in Chiang Mai.  (B)