The Duo: Bangkok & Koh Samui

Accompanied by your English-speaking guide, you make your way to the docks and board a public water bus. As you travel along the water, you head towards the historic center on the right bank, until you reach the flower market at Pak Khlong Talat. Stroll through the fragrant aisles and experience an authentic and traditional Asia.

We set off to discover the architectural gems of Bangkok. Let us marvel at the splendor of the Grand Palace of Bangkok, built in 1782: a sumptuous ensemble 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 venerated sanctuaries in the country.

Then, on foot, we reach Wat Pho, one of the oldest temples in Bangkok, 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 punctuated by 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 can admire its spectacular central prang, finely decorated with porcelain mosaics and floral motifs that shimmer in the light.

A ride aboard a private traditional long-tail boat on the Chao Praya river, one of the country's most important waterways and the lifeblood of Bangkok. As we drift along the water, we discover the "Venice of the Orient," between peaceful klongs, stilt houses and small temples hidden along the banks.

Continuation with the visit of the Wat Bang Kung (Kai Bang Kung), commonly called the Banyan Tree Temple, since its chapel was covered by the roots and branches of a banyan tree. In its gardens, we can notably observe life-size representations of wrestlers, commemorating the Battle of Ayutthaya between Thailand and Burma at the end of the 13th century.

Embark on a cycling tour in the lungs of the capital in the extraordinary neighborhood of Bang Kachao District - a true jungle in the heart of the city. At the entrance, you can rent bicycles to explore the park.

You can also visit an incense stick manufacturing workshop and several small temples and see old houses in the neighborhood.

Next to Chinatown, lies the amazing Talat Noi district, one of the oldest in Bangkok. Steeped in Chinese culture, this place is full of curiosities of all kinds, from street art to atypical houses and timeless temples. A real discovery of authentic Bangkok.

Visit to Wat Traimit or the Golden Buddha Temple, and the small but very interesting Yaowarat Chinatown Heritage Museum, which traces the history of Chinese immigration to Bangkok.

Suggestion: In the evening, you can freely stroll through the Chinese quarter, wandering through the alleys brimming with all kinds of shops. At the beginning of the evening, the night market sets up on Yaowarat Road and its illuminated side alleys that give new life to the neighborhood. You will find all sorts of Thai and Chinese specialties to dine on.

After lunch, you set off to discover the historic center of Ayutthaya. You explore in particular the Wat Mahathat, a major temple dating from the late 14th century, famous for the Buddha head entwined in the roots of a tree, which has become one of the symbols of the site.

The visit continues to the Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, a former royal temple and the largest in the ancient capital, recognizable by its elegant aligned chedis that testify to the past grandeur of the kingdom.

Finally, you discover the Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, renowned for its impressive reclining Buddha and peaceful atmosphere, offering a beautiful conclusion to this immersion in the heart of Siamese history.

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

We will then be transferred to Elephant Haven for lunch.

Upon your arrival, you will meet your guide as well as the mahouts, the elephant handlers. Together, you will prepare their food before meeting these gentle giants and participating in their meal.

You will then set off on a walk through the forest alongside these majestic pachyderms, while your guide reveals to you their way of life, their behavior and the conservation efforts put in place for their protection.

The experience will continue with observing the elephants playing in the mud, a natural behavior essential to their well-being. You will then accompany them to the river for their bath, a moment that is both playful, moving and privileged.

Finally, we will return to the camp, where you will have the opportunity to capture this exceptional encounter with a few final photos before returning to your hotel at the end of the day.

Then we return to the capital after this unforgettable day.
The day is accompanied by an English-speaking guide

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

Pig Island is a small island located off the south coast of Thailand, renowned for its abundant marine life and immaculate white sandy beaches, and of course its pigs inhabiting the beach. This morning, we embark on our boat with a first snorkeling stop at Koh Tan.

We then head to Madsum Island, nicknamed Pig Island. On the beach, we can have fun with the pigs, walk to the viewpoint, and go kayaking. We have lunch on site before returning to Samui in the early afternoon.

Transfer to our hotel, and the rest of the day is free.

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

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 over the Emerald Lagoon, a gem of the Ang Thong park. Fed by the sea through a series of caves, the lagoon is completely pristine, as swimming is forbidden. Next, head to Koh Phaluai for a Thai lunch by the sea and to relax and unwind on the beach before returning to Koh Samui.

Our stay on the island is slowly coming to an end.

Take advantage of one last massage and enjoy a bit more of the sweetness of Thai hospitality and exceptional gastronomy

Arrival at the international airport and lunch at the airport (not included) while waiting for your return international flight.

Goodbye and see you soon in the Land of Smiles!