Thailand suggested Tailor made holidays

DISCOVER THAILAND

This comprehensive tour of Thailand takes you to the bustling cities of Bangkok and Chiang Mai, the stunning scenery and intriguing hill tribes of northern Thailand, the cultural centres and ancient ruins of Sukhothai and Ayutthaya and the historic River Kwai region.

You start in Thailand’s second city, Chiang Mai, whose vibrancy contrasts with its moated old city and many ancient wats. Its most famous temple is the hilltop Wat Prathat Doi Suthep with panoramic views over the city. If time, you can join a cookery class to learn the techniques behind the subtle textures and flavours of Thai cuisine. 

From Chiang Mai venture into the stunning mountains surrounding the city and travel by boat to meet and be guests of the hill tribes for 2 nights. They continue to live in much the same way as they have done for centuries and you will have the opportunity to learn about their extraordinary way of life. Spend a night in Chiang Rai, at the heart of the Golden Triangle, the crossroads where Thailand, Myanmar and Laos meet. 

Travel south to the ancient capitals of Sukhothai and Ayutthaya. Sukhothai was Thailand’s first capital in the 13th century and the ruins of the wats in the walled royal city, much of which have been carefully restored, are particularly picturesque with ponds filled with lotus flowers. Ayutthaya was a major marketplace with merchants converging on it from China, India and Persia. The remains of the imperial capital are a real treasure trove and include a 16th century royal palace, temples, monasteries and stupas, all surrounded by lush rice paddies and waterways.

Continue south to Kanchanaburi, home to the Bridge over the River Kwai and the infamous Death Railway. Here, you stay on rafts in a magnificent jungle setting, ride through the jungle on an elephant or hike to Thimoria Waterfall.

Your final destination is brash Bangkok, a city that never sleeps. Visit the glorious Royal Grand Palace, the delightful Thai house of Jim Thompson, the founder of Thailand’s silk industry and cruise the canals in a long-tailed boat. Of course, there will be plenty of time for shopping in Bangkok’s many street markets and chic shopping malls.

Cost per person from £1,385.00 (based on two people travelling in a twin/double room)

A Silk Steps inclusive holiday price includes:
• Private return transfers between airports and hotels (unless otherwise specified)
• The services of English speaking guides and representatives at each stage of the tour. Between most places you will travel unescorted
• Accommodation in a standard room (shared twin) with private facilities (unless otherwise specified) with breakfast
• Government taxes and compulsory service charges
• All tours and sightseeing as specified, inclusive of entrance fees
• Economy class air travel within all countries on the scheduled services of the national or domestic carrier as specified in each tour
• The services of our local representative
Extras:
• International flights - please contact us for up-to-date prices
• Travel insurance
• Meals - unless otherwise stated
• Optional sightseeing other than specified
• International airport departure tax payable overseas
• Visa fees
• Single supplement (on request)

Northern Thailand experiences a dry season from November to May and temperatures can drop to 13°C at night. From May to November the monsoon rain falls with increased humidity.  The further south you travel the more rain you are likely to get.  The dry season is normally from December to May with temperatures around 30°C."  

For up to date weather details try BBC weather   www.bbc.co.uk/weather/