The Thai Triptych: Bangkok - Chiang Mai - The Southern Islands

Accompanied by our English-speaking guide, we make our way to the docks and board a public water bus. Following the water's course, we travel upstream towards the historic city center on the right bank, until we reach the flower market of Pak Khlong Talat. Pak Khlong Talat is Thailand's largest flower market. Once a floating market, it is now famous for its mountains of orchids, jasmine and roses. Flowers arrive here from all over the country, often in the dead of night, making it one of Bangkok's most lively places before dawn. Stroll through the fragrant aisles and immerse yourself in 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 the Wat Phra Kaeo (Temple of the Emerald Buddha). 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 iconic figure of the place, as well as the inner courtyards dotted with stupas and refined decorative details.

We then 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 glitter in the light.

A ride aboard a traditional private "long-tail" boat-taxi 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 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.

After lunch, we set out to discover the historic center of Ayutthaya. We 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, we discover the Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, renowned for its impressive reclining Buddha and its peaceful atmosphere, offering a beautiful conclusion to this immersion in the heart of Siamese history.

In the company of our guide, we make a detour to the Warorot market, where we can find all kinds of specialties from northern Thailand, such as Sai Ua (northern sausage), Moo Yo (traditional Vietnamese pork sausage), Nam Phrik Num (northern green chili paste) and dried fruits, among other delights. In addition to local food, the market also offers clothing, ceramics, fabrics, embroidery tools, flowers, and much more.

Let's then head towards the Doi Suthep temple, perched on the slopes of the mountain at approximately 1,200 meters altitude. A true symbol of Chiang Mai, this magnificent Buddhist temple offers an atmosphere filled with serenity and spirituality, where statues, sanctuaries and bells accompany the faithful and visitors in a moment of contemplation. According to legend, its location was chosen by a white elephant carrying a sacred relic of Buddha: after climbing the mountain, the animal is said to have stopped at the summit, trumpeted three times and then lay down, thus indicating the place where the temple was to be built. Today, its terraces offer a spectacular view over the city and the surrounding valley.

Along the way, a stop at Wat Pha lat, a more discreet temple nestled in the forest, appreciated for its peaceful setting and almost confidential atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Finally, we will end our day with a visit to the Wat Umong, a Buddhist temple founded in the 13th century and nestled at the foot of the Doi Suthep mountains. Surrounded by forest, this monastery offers a particularly peaceful atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of the city.

We will discover the history of the place by walking through its ancient tunnels, carved for meditation. It is also an opportunity to interact, when possible, with the resident monks and learn more about monastic life.

This morning, we set off by bike to discover Chiang Mai, nicknamed the "Rose of the North". From the famous Tha Phae gate, with the Doi Suthep mountains as a backdrop, we quickly leave the main roads to slip into the small streets and traditional alleyways of the city. Along the way, we cross historic neighborhoods dotted with ancient temples, we encounter monks in their daily lives, and we stop by lively markets. The itinerary also takes us outside the city walls, where the pace becomes gentler, to meet a more local Chiang Mai: scenes of daily life, small workshops, craftsmanship and busy residents who watch you pass with curiosity. Small group activity, accompanied by an English-speaking local guide. 3 hours - Approximately 13 Km

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

Throughout the session, we will prepare several essential recipes, before tasting our creations on site.

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

Menu (indicative):

• Tom Kha Gai (lemongrass coconut milk soup)

• Pad Thaï (stir-fried rice noodles)

• Nam Prik Ong (Northern specialty based on tomatoes and chili)

• Khao Soi Gai (curry noodle soup, Northern specialty)

• Dessert: Khao Niao Mamuang (sticky rice with coconut milk and mango)

Upon arrival, we begin a guided hike on the Mae Wang trails. We walk first along a mountain stream, before reaching the heights and crossing the terraced rice fields that shape the region's landscape. We take a lunch break near a waterfall, with the opportunity to refresh ourselves.

In the afternoon, the hike continues through the crops and mountain paths. We reach a Karen village for a stop, then continue to the rice fields where your guesthouse is located, for a peaceful end of day close to local life.

Day accompanied by an English-speaking hiking guide. Total duration: approximately 5h30, including 3h30 of actual hiking.

Tonight we are welcomed for dinner and the night by a Karen family, in a breathtaking setting on the edge of the jungle, in the middle of the rice fields.

After breakfast at our hosts' place, we can enjoy a short morning walk in the surrounding area before driving to Chi's camp, a young Karen who shares his daily life with his elephants.

Here, the approach is respectful and centered on animal welfare: no riding, no shows, and limited interactions, always supervised, to give the elephants the space and pace they need.

Upon arrival, we prepare the fruits that will be used to feed them. You set off to walk with them in the jungle, where they move freely while feeding on the vegetation. Our guide helps us better understand their behavior and the attention paid to their balance, for an authentic, gentle and ethical encounter.

In the afternoon, to cool off, you enjoy a peaceful descent of the Mae Wang River aboard a traditional bamboo raft. Guided by a local boatman, the raft glides gently with the water, offering a calm and contemplative way to discover the surrounding landscapes.

At the tranquil pace of the current, you travel through lush nature between forests, rice fields and wild banks. A simple and relaxing activity, ideal for ending the day gently.

We take advantage of our free time on the superb Koh Lanta and at sea (not included - to be arranged on site directly):

• discovery of the island's interior

• half-day or full-day boat excursions to the small islands and islets around

• cooking classes (must be booked in advance)

• kayaking or why not simply relax by your pool or on the white sand beach.

In the evening, you can stroll freely through the Chinese quarter, wandering through the alleyways full of shops of all kinds. Early in the evening, the night market sets up on Yaowarat Road and its illuminated side streets that give new life to the neighborhood. You will find all sorts of Thai and Chinese specialties to dine on there.