Thailand's great discovery in small groups

Accompanied by your guide, you reach the quays and board a public boat-bus. Along the water, you head towards the historic center, on the right bank, to the flower market at Pak Khlong Talat. Stroll through the fragrant aisles and experience your first immersion in an authentic and traditional Asia.

We set out to discover the architectural jewels 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). There we discover the famous Emerald Buddha, a precious statue dating from the 14th century, at the heart of one of the most venerated 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 place, as well as the inner courtyards dotted with stupas and refined decorative details.

Next, we cross the river aboard a small boat to reach Wat Arun, the famous "Temple of Dawn", standing on the right bank. Upon arrival, we will be able to admire its spectacular central prang, finely decorated with porcelain mosaics and floral motifs that sparkle in the light.

Cruise aboard a private traditional "long-tail" boat-taxi on the Chao Praya river, one of the country's most important waterways and the lifeblood of Bangkok. As we glide along the water, we discover the "Venice of the Orient," with its peaceful klongs, stilt houses, and small temples hidden along the riverbanks.

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

After lunch, we stop at the HellFire Pass, a long trench of the Death Railway carved out of a massive rock formation to allow the train to pass through. The work carried out by prisoners of the Japanese soldiers is said to have cost the lives of more than 100,000 forced laborers and other prisoners of war. Visit the associated museum and take a moving walk along the memorial 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

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

We begin our visit to Uthai Thani with Wat Chantaram, also known as Wat Tha Sung, a remarkable Buddhist temple and renowned tourist site for its unique architecture. This temple is one of the most impressive in Thailand, often called the "Glass Temple" due to its interior adorned with glass.

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 is located at the summit, offering spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding region.

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

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 can see 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 Taois, beyond its religious purpose, a historical and architectural icon of the 15th century of 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, along with murals that celebrate 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 approximately one hour of navigation on the Mekong waters, offering beautiful panoramic views 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 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 culture. 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 give 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 believe that these visits also make it possible to generate essential income for refugee communities often living in modest conditions. We therefore prefer to leave everyone free to choose, in all conscience, whether or not they wish to discover this village.

A few kilometers before arriving in the city, we turn off to visit Mae Khampong, a charming mountainous village that breathes serenity. Spend the morning strolling through this lovely centenary village of 500 inhabitants. Admire the tea gardens, rice paddies on the surrounding hills and farms where buffalo graze peacefully.

On our way to Chiang Mai, we can visit the village of Bo Sang if time permits, renowned throughout Thailand for the handcrafted manufacturing of its Sa paper umbrellas. This art, originating from Burma, was imported 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 (frame manufacturing, painting patterns, etc). We will then discover other small workshops in the small streets, whether for umbrella making, the production of the famous Sa paper 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 silkworm to weaving, will be explained to you.

This morning, you set off on a bicycle tour to discover Chiang Mai, nicknamed the "Rose of the North". Starting 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 residents, in particular that of craftspeople from mountain communities who go about their business as we cycle past, under their curious eyes, through their neighborhood.

Small group activity accompanied by an English-speaking local guide.

In 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 iconic 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 pork curry)

• 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 join an elephant sanctuary located in the tropical forest of the Mae Taeng valley, 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 will be able to interact in a natural environment. Our guide will tell us more about their behavior and their history.

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

Group activity accompanied by an English-speaking guide

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

From our hotel, we head to the docks for a full-day excursion to the 4 islands.

By longtail boat we first head towards Pranang Bay, an isolated peninsula at the end of Railay Beach, one of the most beautiful in Thailand.

We discover Pranang Cave, its origins and local fishing traditions, before relaxing on a beautiful beach.

Back on the boat, we then head to the local islands on a small beach to taste some local specialties (buffet lunch). Then on the agenda: snorkeling, visiting the small paradisiacal islands of the region, stops on isolated beaches away from mass tourism (Koh Poda, Koh Tup and Chicken Islands). Finally we set course for Koh Poda's main beach to end this beautiful day with an aperitif at sunset. On the way back, night snorkeling in the midst of luminescent plankton: a unique experience

Private cruise

Take advantage of this/these free day(s) in Ao Nang to relax on the beach, enjoy your hotel's facilities and admire the magnificent coastline of the region. You can notably reach the beautiful Railay Beach just minutes away or take an excursion to the surrounding islands.

Possible excursions: Cruise to discover Phang Nga Bay, the islands Koh Phi Phi or the 4 islands, Visit the hinterland including notably the Emerald Pool, hot springs or the Tiger Cave Temple, Bike or scooter rides along the coast or in the hinterland.

Day trip by speedboat around the mythical Phi Phi islands to share in a small group (Max. 15/17 people on a 35-seat boat).

Our experience allows us to adapt the itinerary at any time to make this day as exclusive as possible, that is to say far from mass tourism!

We will pass by Bamboo Islands, Monkey beach, the lagoon, Viking Cave and Maya Bay but also and especially we will enjoy the lesser-known beaches.

What's on the program? Fantastic landscapes, numerous beaches and swimming, at least two incredible snorkeling dives in the transparent waters of Koh Phi Phi where you may have the chance to observe sharks and turtles, lunch on a quiet beach. Return around 3 pm.

Stay at Shanghai Mansion, a charming boutique hotel in the heart of Bangkok's Chinatown.

In the evening, you can stroll freely through Chinatown, wandering through the narrow streets brimming with shops of all kinds. Early in the evening, the night market sets up on Yaowarat Road and its adjoining illuminated side streets, bringing new life to the neighborhood. You'll find all sorts of Thai and Chinese specialties for dinner.