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Classic sights & hidden treasures

  • Wat Rong Khun (white temple) in Thailand reflected in lake
Bangkok – Golden Triangle – Chiang Mai – Krabi

Classic sights &
hidden treasures

A dilemma that transcends travellers – to visit the sights everyone is talking about or to seek out somewhere unknown? The answer is simply finding the right balance.

In Bangkok, a tuk tuk tour leads to a day ticking off the glittering shrines and busy markets, before a day in the lesser-visited riverside communities.

That then makes way for the ‘Switzerland of Thailand’ in the north and the original charm of Chiang Mai encapsulated in the small town of Lamphun. Last but not least, a tour of cave paintings and the dramatic Phi Phi Islands in Krabi eclipse any thoughts of merely lounging on a beach.

Long exposure of busy street in Bangkok
View of Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan in Bangkok from across the river with boats passing
Boat anchored off the beach in Krabi

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Where you’ll be going

Get to know where you'll be exploring in Thailand, from the rippling hills of Chiang Rai and Bangkok’s street markets to the backpacker’s worst kept secret – Phuket.

  • Asia, Thailand, Bangkok, food market

    DAY 1 - 4

    Bangkok

    A non-stop flow that fades bustling city fears away; Bangkok is all about embracing the distraction and letting it be your guide. Vibrantly bubbling above its surface with histories, religions, and incredible cuisines telling stories as old as the rivers themselves, explorers and foodies need only step outside to discover grand temples, shrines, and the tastiest street-vendor morsels. 

    Stay at: The Siam
  • Hot air balloon over a lake in Chiang Rai

    DAY 5 - 7

    Golden Triangle

    The point where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar (Burma) collide, this trilateral land once infamous for its opium trade is now a flurry of plantations and villages where hill tribes craft jewellery and textiles. Most frequented by wanderlusters in search of wildlife in droves, they revel in the untamed landscapes on mountain treks and leisurely sails down Ruak River.

    Stay at: Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort

  • DAY 8 - 10

    Chiang Mai

    Otherwise known as a ‘culture capital’ with over 700-years-worth of Buddhist practice embedded into its landscape; it might come as a surprise that this city is one where energy is supposed to be burnt. Yet with tranquil countrysides and mountain treks calling to nature-lovers, white-water rafts drifting adrenaline-junkies downstream; and plenty of temples to explore for those seeking spiritual enlightenment, it's only a matter of knowing where to start.

    Stay at: 137 Pillars House
  • Boat anchored off the beach in Krabi

    DAY 11 - 15

    Krabi

    All karst limestone formations and eerie sea caves, the images conjured up or seen on Instagram feeds of the Andaman coast are most probably those of Krabi. The over 150 islands scattered around here are the picture-perfect postcard of Thailand’s oceans and it’s nice to keep that as photo-worthy as possible. Enter a barefoot day cruise aboard an eco-friendly 1906 Danish Schooner, the best base to snorkel with marine life off Koh Lao Ka and visit the lagoon of Hong Island.

    Stay at: Rayavadee
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A taste of what’s to come Classic sights & hidden treasures journal

Day 1
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 7
Day 9
Day 9
Day 12
Day 1
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 7
Day 9
Day 9
Day 12
  • Man driving a pink tuk tuk through Bangkok

    8:30pm

    Check in. Snack. Obligatory bed flop. Tuk Tuk time. Some thought us crazy for booking an evening tour on the first day, but the best way to start is just getting stuck in. At dusk, we took to the back of tuk tuks for a quick zip around the main attractions illuminated against the night sky - Phra Sumen Fort, Wat Benchamabophit and City Pillar at the Grand Palace to name a few.

    Explore
  • Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan temple in Bangkok at sunset with boats on the river in foreground

    9:46am

    Yesterday we continued with our sightseeing; everywhere looks so different in the daytime. I can see why these places are so popular too, I’ve already taken a week’s worth of photos. Now we’re off to uncover a different side to the ‘Big Mango’ on a tour of the smaller riverside communities.

    Explore
  • Black House in Chiang Rai Thailand

    4:00pm

    We landed in Chiang Rai earlier this morning and decided to take the scenic (rather colourful) route to our hotel. We’ve not even been here half the day and we’ve already seen the White Temple, Black House and the baby of the bunch, the Blue Temple. And just when my stomach was starting to protest, we stopped off at a local restaurant for lunch.

    Explore
  • Mae Fah Luang Gardens in Doi Tung Thailand

    1:13pm

    With all the villages dotted over it, it’s no surprise why they call Doi Tung ‘the Switzerland of Thailand’. We’re having a little break from our tour at the moment, sitting in the elevated Mae Fah Luang Gardens to take in the views. When we get up, we’re going for a treetop walk and to the Development Project for a bit more insight into the history of the area.

    Explore
  • Paddy fields and mountains in the landscape of Chiang Mai

    9:56pm

    The rest of our time in the Golden Triangle consisted of exploring Doi Mae Salong, stopping for a much anticipated tea tasting. Now we’re in Chiang Mai after taking the scenic route (again), snaking over the roads straddling the border with Myanmar to get to Lahu where a traditional lunch with the hilltribe awaited us.

    Explore
  • Strong of lanterns hanging in Lamphun

    7:13am

    Ironically, you have to leave Chiang Mai to get a sense of its original charm, so Lamphun is our destination. Largely untouched by tourists, we’re being spared no authenticity, starting out by taking a train journey to the town itself. Once there, our guide is taking us to discover the relics of the Hariphunchai Kingdom and the development of Lanna culture.

    Explore
  • Group of people preparing food in a Thai cooking class

    8:35pm

    Well that topped off what has been the best day of the trip for us so far, and that’s a bold statement. This afternoon we visited a local family, who have lived in Hang Dong village for more than 150 years, for a culinary masterclass. The recipes they use have been in the family for generations. In the open-air pavilion (sans electric stoves may I add) we cooked up a storm, including Auo Kai, Nam Prik Oong and Phat Makauyay Moo.

    Explore
  • Limestone formations in Phang Nga Bay, Krabi, Thailand

    10:02am

    After exploring the Phi Phi Islands yesterday we’ve got a taste for the water, so we’ve enlisted the services of a private traditional longtail boat to help us cruise around Phang Nga Bay. Our destination: the mangrove caves. An old burial site over 3,000 years old, apparently they’re covered in cave paintings that date back just as far.

    Explore
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Where to stay

  • Worldwide, Thailand, The Siam, Private Residence
    The Siam
    In a charmingly calm district of the city, on the banks of Chao Phraya River lies this one-of-a-kind Bill Bensley masterpiece. Those seeking a genteel urban sanctuary will be delighted by this quiet boutique beauty. Offering something very different to Bangkok’s typical skyscraper hotels, this retreat is more akin to a turn-of-the-century family estate, where allure and intrigue permeate its hidden corners.
    The Siam


Where to stay

  • Worldwide, Thailand, The Siam, Private Residence
    The Siam
    In a charmingly calm district of the city, on the banks of Chao Phraya River lies this one-of-a-kind Bill Bensley masterpiece. Those seeking a genteel urban sanctuary will be delighted by this quiet boutique beauty. Offering something very different to Bangkok’s typical skyscraper hotels, this retreat is more akin to a turn-of-the-century family estate, where allure and intrigue permeate its hidden corners.
    The Siam


Where to stay

  • Worldwide, Asia, Thailand, Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle,, Tent view
    Four Seasons Tented Camp
    Delightful ‘golden era’ accommodation distinguishes this enchanting all-inclusive camp in the heart of north Thailand’s lush terrain, close to Laos and Myanmar. Hidden away amidst exotic bamboo jungle at the confluence of the Ruak and Mekong Rivers the camp offers vast and luxurious air-conditioned living spaces. Deluxe and Superior Tents harken back to 19th century adventure expeditions, dominated by an inviting king-size bed, recycled teak wooden floors and a spacious veranda with hot tub that’s perfect sipping sundowners. Arrive by boat before being introduced to the joys of the spa, Burma Bar and the Nong Yao Restaurant with its innovative Thai-to-Western cuisine.
    Four Seasons Tented Camp


Where to stay

  • Worldwide, Asia, Thailand, Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, Hot tub view
    Four Seasons Tented Camp
    Delightful ‘golden era’ accommodation distinguishes this enchanting all-inclusive camp in the heart of north Thailand’s lush terrain, close to Laos and Myanmar. Hidden away amidst exotic bamboo jungle at the confluence of the Ruak and Mekong Rivers the camp offers vast and luxurious air-conditioned living spaces. Deluxe and Superior Tents harken back to 19th century adventure expeditions, dominated by an inviting king-size bed, recycled teak wooden floors and a spacious veranda with hot tub that’s perfect sipping sundowners. Arrive by boat before being introduced to the joys of the spa, Burma Bar and the Nong Yao Restaurant with its innovative Thai-to-Western cuisine.
    Four Seasons Tented Camp


Where to stay

  • India, Far East & Australasia, Thailand, Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, Pool area
    Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai
    Nestled amidst thirty two acres of lush greenery at the foothills of the tranquil Mae Rim Valley, this serene resort is designed like a traditional Thai village surrounded by rice terraces and flanked by the Suthep Mountains.
    Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai


Where to stay

  • India, Far East & Australasia, Thailand, Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, View
    Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai
    Two-storey Lanna-style Pavilions have been designed in harmony with the surrounding environment each with a private outdoor sala, the secluded Pool Villas have a private home feel whilst the Residences, some with private pool, offer the ultimate in luxury living. Delectable cuisine ranges from Peruvian to Indian delicacies. The Elephant Bar is the perfect place to watch the sun set while sampling fine wines and cocktails. Extensive recreational facilities include two swimming pools, floodlit tennis, a spa with seven spacious treatment rooms, yoga classes and bicycles. Younger guests can escape to the Gecko Kids Club. Nature based activities include resort garden tours,rice planting and bird watching.
    Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai


Where to stay

  • India, Far East & Australasia, Thailand, Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, Restaurant
    Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai
    Nestled amidst thirty two acres of lush greenery at the foothills of the tranquil Mae Rim Valley, this serene resort is designed like a traditional Thai village surrounded by rice terraces and flanked by the Suthep Mountains.
    Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai


Where to stay

  • Indian Subcontinent, Far East & Australasia, Thailand, Rayavadee, Bird's eye view
    Rayavadee
    We won’t exaggerate, but when the boat slips between the gateway of jungle-topped cliffs and slows upon reaching Rayavadee, well, let’s just say a gentle pinch may be in order. Obscured beneath what seems to be their own bit of rainforest, kindred spirits to Robinson Crusoe feel right at home in their solitude. So intimate is the relationship between hotel and jungle, the domed villas snuggled between the greenery – not to mention the monkeys that swing overhead – make life here feel blended with the endless flora and fauna.
    Rayavadee

Explore all the
places to stay

  • Worldwide, Thailand, The Siam, Private Residence
    Thailand
    The Siam

    In a charmingly calm district of the city, on the banks of Chao Phraya River lies this one-of-a-kind Bill Bensley masterpiece. Those seeking a genteel urban sanctuary will be delighted by this quiet boutique beauty.

    Explore this place
    • Worldwide, Thailand, Krabi - rayavadee, Swimmingpool
      Thailand
      Rayavadee

      We won’t exaggerate, but when the boat slips between the gateway of jungle-topped cliffs and slows upon reaching Rayavadee, well, let’s just say a gentle pinch may be in order.

      Explore this place
    • Worldwide, Thailand, Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, Pool View
      Thailand
      Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort

      Tucked into 160-acres of ancient jungle in Northern Thailand, Anantara is a perfect base for exploring the history and culture of the Golden Triangle region, from visiting indigenous hill tribes to cruising the Mekong in a longtail boat.

      Explore this place
  • Worldwide, Thailand, Capella Bangkok, Pool
    Thailand
    Capella Bangkok

    On the fringe of one of Bangkok’s oldest and most unique districts, this thoughtful individual keeps its appearance low-key stylish, its service perfectly personalised and its experiences truly authentic.

    Explore this place
    • India, Far East & Australasia, Thailand, Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, View of Pool
      Thailand
      Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai

      Nestled amidst thirty two acres of lush greenery at the foothills of the tranquil Mae Rim Valley, this serene resort is designed like a traditional Thai village surrounded by rice terraces and flanked by the Suthep Mountains.

      Explore this place
    • Worldwide, Asia, Thailand, Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, View from the Camp
      Thailand
      Four Seasons Tented Camp

      Delightful ‘golden era’ accommodation distinguishes this enchanting all-inclusive camp in the heart of north Thailand’s lush terrain, close to Laos and Myanmar.

      Explore this place
  • Asia, Thailand, Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok, The Verandah
    Thailand
    Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok

    Since its early days as a seaman’s lodge on the fabled Chao Phraya River, the world-acclaimed Mandarin Oriental has become the favoured haunt of both dignitaries and the discerning traveller.

    Explore this place

Extraordinary
experiences

    • Uncover a hidden side to Bangkok in its riverside villages

      Beginning in the narrow lanes of Talad Noi with its shophouses of oddities, the neighbourhoods to be explored house some real gems from both Thailand and further afield; including one of Bangkok’s first churches, the village of Kudijeen famous for its cake and of course some of its oldest and prettiest temples.

    • Mae Fah Luang Gardens in Doi Tung Thailand
      Take in the garden views in the ‘Switzerland of Thailand’

      Doi Tung mountain – earning its nickname thanks to the villages sprinkled over it – is not only in enviable possession of some glorious views, but of some luscious botanical gardens too. After a morning wandering between the blooms, things are taken to new heights on a treetop walk 30m above the ground.

    • Paddy fields and mountains in the landscape of Chiang Mai
      Experience the timeless charm of Chiang Mai away from the modern day clamour

      Head a little south of Chiang Mai’s confines and you’ll discover some of the region’s oldest temples and a small-town feel in sleepy Lamphun. After scouting out some of the must-see locations and learning about the history of the Hariphunchai Kingdom, get stuck into a Northern Thai cooking class with a local family.

    • Limestone formations in Phang Nga Bay, Krabi, Thailand
      Sail to Phang Nga Bay’s ancient caves and follow the stories of their paintings

      Boarding a traditional longtail boat, cruise over the bay’s glassy water, passing karst islands and floating fishing villages on the way to the ancient burial site where paintings adorn the walls and ceilings.

Itinerary essentials
  • 14
    NIGHTS
IDEAL TIME
  • Nov - Mar
    COSY & COMFORTABLE
WHEN TO GO
  • 11hrs 30min
    LHR - BKK
FLIGHT TIME
  • 6hrs 07min
    BY ROAD
  • 3hrs 05min
    BY AIR
  • 20min
    BY SEA
ALL TRANSFERS
Get in touch your way…
We customise every trip to you and our quotes are bespoke. We’re here to offer advice, recommendations and answer your questions.
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