Trunks, Tribes & Beaches (Family)

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Day to Day Itinerary

Day 1: Bangkok

Arrive in Bangkok where you are transferred to your comfortable and centrally located hotel. A pre-trip briefing is held in the evening, to meet the other members of your group and discuss the trip itinerary. Please check for a Welcome Notice on the hotel noticeboard located near the hotel lifts which will provide your tour leader's name and the exact time and location of your Welcome Meeting. Until this meeting we encourage you to get out and discover the delights that Bangkok has to offer, including trying some of Thailand’s famous cuisine. After the group meeting in the evening we may adjourn to a nearby restaurant and enjoy a meal together (this is optional and at your own expense). The rest of the evening is free - perhaps a visit to the bustling night markets of Bangkok.

Day 2: Bangkok - Kanchanaburi

Meals included: 1 breakfast

In the morning we discover the sights of Bangkok. We visit the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), a must for first-time travellers to Bangkok. We also visit Wat Po, home of the famous Reclining Buddha. (When visiting temples and palaces in Thailand, please dress conservatively in order to respect the local culture). We then depart Bangkok and make our way to Kanchanaburi on our private minibus (approximately 2 ½ hours). A tour here takes us to explore the sights in town, including the infamous Bridge over the River Kwai, the sobering Kanchanaburi War Cemetery and the JEATH War Museum. Following this, we check into our idyllic and peaceful accommodation, set in the countryside on the banks of the River Kwai Noi on the outskirts of town. This evening you can relax by the pool and soak up the peaceful country atmosphere.

Day 3: Kanchanaburi Region

Meals included: 1 breakfast

We explore the beautiful countryside whilst driving out to the infamous Hellfire Pass, where we visit the fascinating museum that chronicles the events of World War II. Nearby, we get to view a section of the infamous Burma Railway. From here we continue to Erawan National Park, where we have time to relax in the cool blue waters of the pools beneath the beautiful seven-tiered waterfall. If you are feeling energetic, you can also trek along the jungle trail to the top of the falls.

Day 4: Ayuthaya - Ban Koh Kerd

Meals included: 1 breakfast, 1 lunch, 1 dinner

We then head to Ayuthaya (approximately 4-5 hours). Situated 90 kilometres north of Bangkok, was the capital of Siam from 1350 to 1767 AD. In its prime, it was one of the largest and most glamorous cities in the world and the capital city of the, then, huge Siamese empire, which included large parts of Laos, Cambodia and Burma. Following a siege of nearly two years, the city suffered total destruction at the hands of the Burmese. We board our private rice barge for a two-hour lunch cruise around this ancient city and its major temples. After our cruise, we head to Ban Koh Kerd, where we spend a night in a traditional Thai teak house. We are privileged to be guests where we will experience life from a Thai perspective. During your stay you have the opportunity to learn more about life in a Thai village. A highlight is giving alms to the monks in the morning with our hosts, an activity that takes place in every villages, towns and cities throughout Thailand. There is a sharp contrast between the creature comforts you are used to at home and village life. This is an experience which will see you richly rewarded with an insight that few tourists get. The accommodation is basic; however it enables you to experience a slice of the lifestyle of our gracious Thai hosts.

Day 5: Sukhothai

Meals included: 1 breakfast

After an early morning wake-up call to offer alms to the monks, we embark on a long drive to Sukhothai (approximately 5-6 hours). Our journey takes us through the central plains of Thailand – the major rice-producing region of the country. We pass townships such as Uthai Thani and Nakhon Sawan before reaching our destination. Most of these towns see very few foreign tourists. Tonight we stay in a comfortable hotel situated between the new town and the archaeological site. The hotel here has a pool, which you can enjoy as a respite from the tropical heat.

Day 6: Sukhothai – Lampang

Meals included: 1 breakfast, 1 dinner

Sukhothai, historically known as the ‘Dawn of Happiness', was Thailand's first capital. Some of the finest Thai antiques, Buddha images and ceramic pieces date from this period. We have an early start and visit the Sukhothai ruins. Here, we ride bicycles, which is a great way to explore the archaeological park. After the decline of Sukhothai, the site remained deserted for centuries. The first major restoration began in 1979 and the Visitors’ Centre displays the original layout of the city. In the afternoon, we travel by private mini-van to Lampang (approximately 4-5 hours), former centre of the teakwood trade. The chicken is the symbol of the province and can be seen everywhere. Legend has it that the god Indra was concerned that people wouldn’t get up in time to offer alms to the Lord Buddha, who was arriving the following day, so he descended on the province in the form of a chicken and started crowing to ensure everyone woke in time! In the late afternoon we visit Wat Phra That Lampang Luang. Built in Lanna style, it is arguably one of the most beautiful temples in northern Thailand. Your tour leader can teach you how to ‘tum bon’ (make merit), which ultimately should assist you in returning, in your next life, one step closer to enlightenment. Following our spiritual experience, we continue on to the Lampang Elephant Conservation Centre where we spend the night in their homestay and learn more about the fantastic work that is done at the centre.

Day 7: Lampang – Chiang Mai

Meals included: 1 breakfast

Another early start so that we may walk out to the surrounding forest with the Mahouts (elephant handlers). Here, we collect the elephants from their overnight grazing and escort them back to the centre. After breakfast, we have the opportunity to watch the elephants bathing and then watch a show that demonstrates the skills that have made elephants such an integral part of the Thai logging trade. It is also a great chance to get close to these magnificent animals. After lunch it’s an hour’s drive to Chiang Mai, a walled city surrounded by a moat with the impressive backdrop of Doi Suthep - a 1676-metre peak that offers impressive views of the surrounding countryside. Near the summit is a famous temple – Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. The evening presents you with a fantastic opportunity to explore the famous Night Bazaar, a shopper’s paradise! The combination of the local Lanna handicrafts and the traditional wares of the hill tribe people on offer ensures that you will not leave empty-handed!

Day 8: Chiang Dao - Chiang Mai

Meals included: 1 breakfast, 1 lunch

We catch a private mini-bus and drive for an hour and a half into the northern hill region around Chiang Dao. An elephant ride through the forest delivers us the hilltribe villages where we then trek around the area, visiting Palong, Karen, Lisu and Akha people. Meeting these colourful people gives you an insight into their unique lifestyle and customs.

Day 9: Chang Mai

Meals included: 1 breakfast

A day to enjoy the more relaxed ambience of the ‘Rose of the North’, as Chiang Mai is sometimes called (the literal translation is actually ‘new city’). Thai cuisine is one of the world's best and most interesting, and we can arrange a Thai cooking class for those interested (not included in tour cost). The day is free to enjoy your own exploration. There are many old temples situated in the inner city area, including Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chiang Man and Wat Chedi Luang. In fact, there are over 300 temples in this venerable city. Alternatively, you can relax by the hotel pool and cool off in the heat of the day. Chiang Mai also has a very large zoo that is set in pleasant surroundings and is home to some rare giant pandas from China. Your local tour leader will be able to provide assistance regarding optional activities to fill your day. Tonight is your last chance to hit the Night Bazaar in Chiang Mai.

Day 10: Fly to Bangkok, drive to Koh Samet

Meals included: 1 breakfast

Today we transfer to Chiang Mai airport for our return flight to Bangkok. Upon arrival in Bangkok, we will be transferred to the tropical island of Koh Samet, approximately four hours from Bangkok. Firstly, we drive to the village of Ban Phe (approximately 4 hours) and from here it’s a 30-minute ferry ride across to the island.

Day 11-12: Koh Samet

Meals included: 2 breakfasts

Two full days to soak up the sun and the tropical atmosphere of Koh Samet – time to relax and unwind. Your tour leaders on hand for your stay on the island and can assist in arranging optional activities.

Day 13: Bangkok

Meals included: 1 breakfast

Today we will transfer back to Bangkok by road (approximately 4 hour). Our final night is an opportunity to head out as a group for a final dinner. The afternoon is free for any final shopping or sightseeing that you wish to do or, alternatively, you can just relax by the hotel pool.

Day 14: Bangkok

Meals included: 1 breakfast

The tour ends after breakfast in Bangkok. A transfer to the airport is not included; however, your tour leader will be on hand to advise you as to the options available.

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Your Trip

What's Included

Local tour leader, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees.

Summary of accommodation, transport & meals

Accommodation

• 8 nights Comfortable hotel
• 1 night Teak house
• 1 night Homestay
• 3 night Bungalow

Meals

• 13 breakfasts
• 2 lunches
• 2 dinners

Not Included

Visa costs, international airfares, departure taxes, insurance (obligatory on all trips), departure transfer, other meals, drinks, snacks, any optional additional tours or activities during free time, spending of a personal nature such as gratuities, laundry, drinks, souvenirs.

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Important Information

Flight: Chiang Mai to Bangkok
Your flight ticket will be given to you by your tour leader before you board this flight.

Local Tour Leaders
By employing and training local guides to lead our group holidays, there is a two-fold benefit. Firstly, we provide employment opportunities for the local community. Just as importantly is the benefit to you, the traveller. Your tour leader’s friendship, humour, passion and intimate knowledge of the region will be key factors in making your holiday a success.

Tipping
Tipping has become an accepted part of tourism in South East Asia. Your tour leader will be able to advise you in this area; however, as a guideline we would recommend tipping 10% of the total bill in restaurants and a small tip to hotel bellboys for carrying your bags.

At you pre-tour briefing your tour leader will discuss with you the idea of running a tipping kitty, whereby everybody contributes an equal amount and then the tour leader pays the tips and keeps a record of all monies spent (except restaurant tips). The record can be checked at any time and any money remaining at the end of the tour is returned to group members. This is often the easiest way to avoid the hassles of needing small change and knowing what is an appropriate amount to tip.

It is customary to tip your tour leader, at the end of the trip, if you are happy with the service. A minimum tip of US$2 per day, from each member of the group, is the usual amount expected.

Etiquettes and Customs
Your tour leader will advise you further on Thai cultural etiquettes during your tour; however, here are some simple ones to get you started.
· Patting a Thai on their head is considered extremely rude and insulting
· Public displays of affection are not acceptable, including holding hands and kissing.
· Losing your temper or showing anger and shouting or yelling will lose respect immediately;
to remain cool, calm and collected at all times is an admired quality in a person in Thai
culture
· When visiting temples, ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. They are places of
worship, so it is important to dress modestly
· The monarchy is held in very high esteem in Thailand. Please show the highest level of
respect to the king of Thailand and never make jokes about him

Songkran
The Thai Buddhist New Year or Songkran is celebrated every year on April 13, although the associated water throwing festivities can start well before and go on through to a week well beyond this date. Songkran is a time of cleaning and renewal. Thais go to the temple to pray, give food to the monks and clean the Buddha statues with scented water. It is believed these practises will bring good luck and prosperity for the coming year. Water is used to pay respect to your elders, particularly your parents, during the Songkran period. It is poured in small amounts over the hands as a sign of respect. These days the nation erupts into one huge water fight and the small amounts have turned into bucket loads. The date used to be set by astrological calculations, but these days the date is set. Until 1888 Songkran represented the beginning of the year in Thailand. After 1888 the date of 1st April was considered the first day of the year. In 1940 the date of 1st January was recognised as the beginning of the new year, in line with international practice. It is a great time of year to be in Thailand and a lot of fun taken in the right spirit. However you will need to have an easy going attitude to your travels, as when you head outside there is a good chance that you will get wet. In addition to this it is a busy travel time, so you may find that the transport listed in the itinerary is not always the transport you get.

Dry Season Tours
Please note that March and April are traditionally the hot dry months in Thailand. During this time, the villagers burn their fields before the onset of the wet season, in order to prepare for the following season’s harvest. Whilst travelling at this time of the year, please be prepared for the fact that the fields and jungles are not lush and green, but dry and brown.

Age limits and responsibility for minors
Our family trips are not recommended for children under the age of six. There must be at least one parent/adult guardian for three minors. Parent/adult guardian must be fully responsible for their minors throughout the entire trip. If you have a question regarding age and suitability, please contact us for further advice.

Thai Visas
Please note that any travellers of certain nationalities (ie. Australians, Americans, Canadians, British and New Zealanders) do not normally require a visa for Thailand if flying in and staying up to 30 days. However, travellers will only get 15 days of stay if arriving without a visa at a land border checkpoint from a neighbouring country. Travellers arriving in Thailand this way and planning to stay in the country longer than 15 days should obtain a Thai visa before they leave home.

All other nationalities should check for visa requirements with their travel agents. Please note that those nationalities requiring a visa may need to acquire one before they arrive Thailand, as a visa on arrival is not available at certain land borders.

About this Information

The information provided here is given in good faith and has been compiled with all reasonable care. However, things change and some of the information may become out of date. Please keep this in mind when you read it and check with us if you want to be sure about something. The document was correct at time of printing, but you can check online for the most up to date version.  If you have any queries, please contact your travel agent or our staff in Australia. We are here to help you!

Last Updated

3 November 2011

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