Summer trip in small groups in the heart of Siam

Accompanied by your guide, you join the quays and then board a public water bus. Along the water, you head towards the historic center, on the right bank, as far as the flower market of Pak Khlong Talat. Stroll through the fragrant aisles and take your first immersion into authentic and traditional Asia.

We set out to discover the architectural gems of Bangkok. Let us marvel at the splendor of the Grand Palace of Bangkok, built in 1782: a sumptuous complex of buildings and inner courtyards, including Wat Phra Kaeo (Temple of the Emerald Buddha). We discover there the famous Emerald Buddha, a precious statue dating from the 14th century, at the heart of one of the most revered sanctuaries in the country.

Then, on foot, we reach Wat Pho, one of Bangkok's oldest temples, renowned for its peaceful atmosphere and elegant pavilions. We discover the impressive Reclining Buddha, an emblematic figure of the site, as well as the inner courtyards dotted with stupas and refined decorative details.

Then, we cross the river by small boat to reach Wat Arun, the famous "Temple of Dawn", standing on the right bank. Upon arrival, we can admire its spectacular central prang, finely decorated with porcelain mosaics and floral patterns that shimmer in the light.

Cruise aboard a traditional private long-tail boat on the Chao Praya river, one of the country's most important waterways and a vital artery of Bangkok. As we drift along the water, we discover the "Venice of the East", with its peaceful canals, stilt houses and small temples hidden along the banks.

Departure for the station and boarding around 10:40 on the famous "Death Railway" made famous by the historical film "The Bridge on the River Kwai", for approximately 1 hour of train travel westward to the SaiYok region, located 70 km west at the end of the railway line.

After lunch, we stop at HellFire Pass, a long trench of the Death Railway cut into a massive rock formation to allow the train to pass through. The work carried out by prisoners of Japanese soldiers is said to have cost the lives of over 100,000 forced laborers and other prisoners of war. Visit to the associated museum and a moving short walk along the commemorative trail. Plan to spend at least 1 to 2 hours on site.

Return in late afternoon to Kanchanaburi. Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide

Morning departure for the national park and Erawan Falls (60 km of road). This national park is home to a superb waterfall extending over 7 levels, forming natural pools in emerald blue color populated with Mahseer Barbs. If you wish, you can decide to stay around the first 3 levels, the easiest to access, and swim there, an ascent to the 7th level, while not difficult, is rewarding: La Phu Pha Erawan, the final waterfall being the most majestic of the sites.

After free time to enjoy the waterfalls, we take the road to Ayutthaya, the former capital of the Kingdom of Siam. Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide. Installation for 2 nights at the Krungsri River Hotel in Deluxe room

Day dedicated to visiting Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of the Siamese kingdom. We set out to discover the historic center of the city, including the temple Wat Mahathat, dating from the late 14th century. We continue towards the temple Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, which formerly served as a royal temple, and is therefore the largest in the city; Finally, the Wat Chai Watthanaram, from where we can appreciate the sunset over its ruins.

We continue with a visit to Khao Sakae Krang, a hill located in Uthai Thani province. This hill is famous for the Buddhist temple "Wat Sangkat Rattana Khiri" which stands at the summit, offering spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding region.

We then embark on a boat cruise along the Sakae Krang River to observe the traditional way of life and the floating houses of local residents along the banks. This preserved destination is a remnant of Thailand from several decades ago with its slow pace and picturesque landscape.

Today we begin a cycling excursion along small canals winding between the small rural communities of the region and the rice fields. We thus discover rural life and the importance of canals in their daily lives (agriculture, bathing, laundry, fishing for dinner…).

We finally reach the city of Sukhothai, the capital of the first Thai kingdom, and the renowned historical park, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site that we visit. Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide

We begin our discovery of Lampang with a visit to the Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, an ancient temple dating from the Phra Nang Cham Tewi era with ancient architecture.

In mid-afternoon, we enjoy a pleasant walk through the old Kad Kong Ta street where you will find beautiful teak houses and notably the Moung Ngwe Zin house.

Then, we head to the magnificent Wat Phra Kaeo Don Tao temple, the former guardian of the Emerald Buddha. theWat Phra Kaeo Don Tao is, beyond its religious purpose, a historic and architectural icon of the 15th century in the city of Lampang. Night at Lampang River Lodge.

Upon arrival in Chiang Rai, we visit the extraordinary Le Wat Rong Khun "white temple", a contemporary creation by one of Thailand's most renowned artists: Chalermchai Kositpipat.

In reality, while the site mimics the appearance of a religious complex, its purpose is quite different: the nine buildings house extraordinary works of art, from meditation Buddha statues to pop culture idols like Michael Jackson, as well as murals celebrating the doctrines of Theravada Buddhism. Its immaculate white color gives the building a unique and surprising character.

Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide

From the small local port, we board a water taxi for a navigation of approximately one hour on the Mekong waters, offering beautiful panoramas of the villages and landscapes bordering the river.

We then continue our journey along the banks to a viewpoint overlooking the Mekong and the impressive casino complex with Sino-Roman style built on the Laotian bank.

Visit of the remarkable Hall of Opium, a modern museum built on a hillside overlooking the Mekong Valley. Through immersive and documented exhibitions, the site traces the history of the opium trade in Asia, the influence of the Golden Triangle and the economic and social consequences related to this cultivation. A fascinating visit that allows you to better understand the complex history of this border region.

On the way back, we make stops in several small villages of the Yao and Akha communities, settled in the mountains of northern Thailand.

If you wish, we can also stop in a Padaung community, a branch of the Karenni people originally from neighboring Myanmar, some of whose women wear the famous golden spiral neck rings that create the impression of elongating the neck.

This visit remains however very particular and sometimes raises questions among travelers. Some see it as a form of intrusive tourism, while others consider that these visits also make it possible to generate essential income for refugee communities living often in modest conditions. We therefore prefer to leave everyone free to choose, with full awareness, whether or not they wish to discover this village.

A few kilometers before arriving in the city, we turn off to take a walk around Mae Khampong, a charming mountainous village that exudes serenity. Spend the morning strolling through this adorable century-old town of 500 inhabitants. Admire the tea gardens, rice paddies on the surrounding hills, and the farms where buffalo graze peacefully.

On our way to Chiang Mai, we will be able to visit the village of Bo Sang if time permits, renowned throughout Thailand for the traditional craft of its Sa paper umbrellas. This art, originating from Burma, was brought here over a century ago by a monk. We begin our visit at the Umbrella Making Center where several artisans work at each stage of umbrella production (structure manufacturing, pattern painting, etc). We will then discover other small workshops in the little streets, whether for umbrella making, famous Sa paper production or other crafts (silver and wood work).

A few kilometers further on, we stop at the Silk Village, a beautiful workshop where the entire process of silk production, from the worm to weaving, will be explained to you.

This morning, you set off on a bike ride to discover Chiang Mai, nicknamed the "Rose of the North". From the famous Tha Phae gate, and with the Doi Suthep mountains as a backdrop, you quickly leave the main roads to slip into the small streets and traditional alleyways of the city.

You will discover numerous ancient temples, monks walking through the city, lively markets and the daily life of the inhabitants, in particular that of craftspeople from mountain communities going about their business as we pass by bike, under their curious eyes, in their neighborhood.

Activity in a small group accompanied by an English-speaking local guide.

Late afternoon, you head out for an English-speaking traditional cooking class, organized in the countryside, outside Chiang Mai, in an old Lanna style house. In a friendly atmosphere, you discover the basics of Thai cuisine and learn to balance the emblematic flavors: spicy, sweet, salty and tangy.

Throughout the session, you prepare several must-try recipes, before tasting your creations on site.

Vegetarian or vegan options available. (Please inform us in advance)

Menu (indicative) :

• Tom Yum Goong (hot and sour shrimp soup) or Tom Kha Gai (coconut milk chicken soup with lemon)

• Pad Thaï (Thai-style stir-fried rice noodles)

• Panang Moo (Panang curry with pork)

• Pad Makhueau Yao (stir-fried Chinese eggplants) or Poh Pia tod (fried spring rolls)

For dessert, Khao Niao Mamuang (sticky rice with coconut milk and mango) is served.

Early in the morning, we head to an elephant sanctuary located in the tropical forest of the Mae Taeng valley, about an hour's drive north of Chiang Mai.

Upon arrival, after a short walk, we will prepare the fruits with which we will feed the pachyderms.

Meeting with the elephants that we will feed and with which we can interact in a natural environment. Our guide will teach us more about their behavior and history.

You will witness the elephants bathing in the river and be able to brush them. Return to Chiang Mai early in the afternoon.

Group activity accompanied by an English-speaking guide

In the afternoon, enjoy a 3-hour tuk-tuk ride in Chiang Mai, passing through its iconic temples, lively markets and charming alleys.
An authentic immersion between tradition and modernity, with stops to discover local culture.
A lively and exotic experience, ideal for exploring the city differently and feeling its unique energy.

We are staying for 4 nights at Paradise Beach Resort in a Grand Deluxe room, on the beautiful Mae Nam beach in the north of Samui

Speedboat excursion limited to 16 passengers.

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After morning pickup from Koh Samui, head directly to the pier to begin your maritime excursion among the 42 islands of Ang Thong. After being equipped with masks and snorkels, you will navigate to Koh Wao island to snorkel in crystal-clear waters amid coral reefs of magnificent diversity. Explore the sheltered bay keeping your eyes open to spot tropical fish.

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Continuing through the national park, you will arrive at Koh Mae Ko, disembark and head to the panoramic view of the Emerald Lagoon, a jewel of the Ang Thong park. Fed by the sea through a series of caves, the lagoon is completely intact, as swimming is prohibited. Then head to Koh Phaluai for Thai seaside lunch and to relax and unwind on the beach before returning to Koh Samui.

Free day to enjoy the beach and available activities (not included, to be booked on site):

• Boat excursion

• Hiking

• Mountain biking

• Cooking class

• Elephant sanctuary (if available)

• And many more

Stay at Shanghai Mansion, a boutique hotel ideally located in the heart of the capital's Chinatown.
In the evening, you can stroll freely through Chinatown, wandering through the alleyways brimming with shops of all kinds. Early in the evening, the night market sets up on Yaowarat Road and its illuminated side streets, giving new life to the neighborhood. You'll find all sorts of Thai and Chinese specialties to dine on.

Depending on your flight time, departure for Bangkok airport.

Goodbye and see you soon in the land of smiles!