Join me on the adventure of a lifetime… explore the mesmerizing landscapes and vibrant culture of Thailand, the land of smiles! Explore authentic local culture in a sustainable, experiential way during this 8-day trip in Southeast Asia.
8 days in Thailand
Feb. 25 to March 3, 2024
Cost: $1,999 USD
Availability: SIGN UP NOW!
Why travel with me?
Small groups and authentic experiences
You’re not hopping on a crowded tour bus here, or confined to a strict schedule. I’ve handpicked the itinerary and activities, and we’ll travel in a small group of 8-16, where we’ll get to know each other and share amazing moments as a group — but also, you’ll have plenty of solo or free time for reflection and to practice some of the solo travel muscles you’ve been building.
Coaching and connection before the trip
I am your resource! Travelers receive communication, milestone reminders, and other guidance from me in all aspects of their travel, and are invited to virtual group coaching meetings leading up to the trip, in order to build even stronger connections, a valuable support network, and to best prepare for the trip and destination.
Support and togetherness
I’ll be on the trip too, but not as the tour guide — I’ll help center your experience and provide all the support and motivation you might need (whether logistical or emotional!) Age is but an attitude; ideal travelers must possess open-mindedness, curiosity, and a desire to broaden your horizons. Don’t wait for someone to join you… join US.
About the trip
Where we’ll go
The trip starts and ends in Bangkok. We’ll visit Kanchanaburi, Erawan National Park, Ayutthaya Historical Park, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, and Chiang Mai.
What’s included
- Professional guides
- 7 nights in upgraded hotels with shared accommodation
- 10 meals
- Internal flights (between Bangkok-Chiang Mai)
- Airport transfers, all transport between destinations and to/from included activities
Highlights include
- Swim in turquoise pools below a seven-tiered waterfall, and spot monkeys on a jungle hike
- Meet a resident monk and receive a Buddhist blessing at one of Thailand’s most revered temples
- Visit a village home and sit down to a traditional khantok dinner
The cost
The trip cost is $1,999 USD (international flights and travel insurance not included), and a $350 deposit will save your spot. If you’d like a room to yourself, there’s an additional cost.
I need 8 people to hold the trip, and the group is CAPPED at 16.
The first three to commit and pay a deposit get a free travel coaching session with me (valued at $50)!
8 days in Thailand – Summary
- Our journey starts in Bangkok, the electrifying heart of Thailand… where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern marvels. Let’s get lost in its bustling streets!
- We’ll sail through Bangkok’s enchanting canals, called the “Venice of the East” — and be dazzled by the Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho, adorned with gold leaf and mother-of-pearl.
- In Kanchanaburi, we’ll stand in awe at the historic Bridge on the River Kwai, a legendary symbol of World War II history, and visit the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, a solemn tribute to the past.
- Let’s dive into the crystal-clear turquoise pools of Erawan Falls, a seven-tiered natural wonder tucked away in lush jungles, named after the mythological three-headed elephant, Erawan. What a dream!
- Together, we’ll explore the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya Historical Park, where magnificent palaces and Buddhist monasteries stand as a testament to the city’s glorious past.
- We’ll FEAST upon the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine with a local family, savoring the flavors that make Thai food so tantalizing…
- …Immersing ourselves in the art of Thai cooking, we’ll learn how to make delectable dishes bursting with authentic ingredients, starting with shopping the bustling markets of Chiang Mai.
- And our horizons will expand as we dive deep into the spirituality of Chiang Mai, explore its historic temples, and meet resident monks.
Get ready to be captivated by Thailand’s magic! Let me know you’re interested.
Itinerary (subject to change)
February 25 – DAY 1
BANGKOK
Welcome to Bangkok! Upon arrival at Suvarnabhumi Airport, head to the arrival hall and go to gate number 4 near the airport information counter. Look for a driver holding a G Adventures sign with your name, who’ll take you to your hotel so you can check in and start exploring. Join your guide for a welcome meeting at 6pm.
Arrival Transfer: Included (on an individual basis).
Included Activities: Welcome meeting. The adventure begins tonight! Feel free to explore beforehand, but make sure you’re back in time to meet the group. After introductions, your CEO will review the details of your tour.
Accommodation: Shanghai Mansion Bangkok (or similar). Please note that normal check-in times apply at our start hotels, but you can usually store your luggage for the day if you arrive early.
February 26 – DAY 2
BANGKOK/KANCHANABURI
After breakfast, travel to the city of Kanchanaburi, situated at the convergence of the Khwae Noi and Khwae Yai Rivers. Board a train for a winding journey into World War II history as you cross the bridge made famous by the 1957 film The Bridge on the River Kwai. At the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre, learn about the Burma Railway, constructed by imperial Japanese forces to connect Bangkok and Burma; then visit the nearby Kanchanaburi War Cemetery to see where the prisoners of war who worked on the railway were laid to rest.
Included Activities: Private vehicle, Bridge on the River Kwai Visit, Thai/Burma Railway Centre and Allied War Cemetery Visit
Accommodation: Royal River Kwai Resort or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast
February 27 – DAY 3
KANCHANABURI/PHRA NAKHON SI AYUTTHAYA
This morning, hike into the lush landscapes of Erawan National Park, located high in the mist-shrouded Tenasserim Hills. Take a dip in the turquoise pools of the Erawan Falls—so called because its top tier of cascades resemble the three-headed, mythological elephant known as Erawan. Its seven tiers offer a unique experience at every climb, reaching up to 1,500m (4921 ft). Swim in the turquoise pools, snap photos from the top tier, and opt to hike in the jungle to spot monkeys. This afternoon, transfer to the historic city of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, a former capital of the medieval kingdom of Ayutthaya, also known as Siam. Sample traditional Thai dishes during dinner on a converted rice barge from the 1930s.
Included Activities: Erawan Waterfalls, private vehicle, dinner cruise
Accommodation: Kameo Classic Ayutthaya Hotel (or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast, dinner
February 28 – DAY 4
PHRA NAKHON SI AYUTTHAYA/CHIANG MAI
Set out to explore the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Ayutthaya Historical Park, centered on the old city which served as the Siamese capital from the 14th to 18th centuries, when it was one of the largest and most cosmopolitan regions in the world. Stroll down well-planned city streets to view magnificent palaces and Buddhist monasteries that set the standard for Thai architecture for generations to come. Later, return to Bangkok and transfer to the airport for your flight to Chiang Mai. Visit a traditional village in the countryside and enjoy a khantok-style dinner, served on low pedestal trays.
Khantok in the Northern dialect means wooden tray, used for carrying dishes, round in shape and made of teak wood. The host will invite guests to sit on the floor around the khantok. After dinner, enjoy tea time with the opportunity to talk with local people to learn their way of living.
Included Activities: Ayutthaya Historical Park Guided Tour, private vehicle and plane from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Traditional Thai Home Dinner
Accommodation: Siripanna Villa Resort & Spa (or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast, dinner
February 29 – DAY 5
CHIANG MAI
Delve into the bustle of Chiang Mai’s morning markets with a local chef, and learn about colourful fruits and fragrant herbs as you select ingredients for a Thai cooking class. Enjoy your creation for lunch, then set out to visit a historic temple. Sit down with one of the resident monks to discuss daily life and the tenets of Buddhism. Later, clear your mind to the chanting of monks at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of the most spectacular gilded temples in Thailand. Climb 300 steps to reach the temple and be rewarded with an unforgettable view. Admire the many Buddhist relics at this sacred temple and visit the white elephant shrine.
Included Activities: Cooking Class, Meet with Monks, Doi Suthep Temple Visit, private vehicle
Optional Activity: Chiang Mai Cycling Tour ($30 USD). Meander through Chiang Mai by bike and get an alternative view of this bustling city.
Accommodation: Siripanna Villa Resort & Spa (or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch
March 1 – DAY 6
CHIANG MAI
Spend a full day exploring Chiang Mai’s temples and forested hills on your own, or choose between a variety of optional activities. Opt to take a cycling tour through verdant rice paddies and the elegant historic district. In the evening, choose to visit Chiang Mai’s vibrant night market.
Chiang Mai is a mecca for shopping and handicraft production, so take advantage of this opportunity to do some shopping if you wish.
Optional Activities: Chiang Mai Cycling Tour ($30 USD), Street Food Walk at Chiang Mai Night Market
Accommodation: Siripanna Villa Resort & Spa (or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast
March 2 – DAY 7
CHIANG MAI/BANGKOK
This morning, fly to Bangkok and board a traditional klong boat for a ride along the winding canals that have earned the city the nickname the “Venice of the East.” Glide past colourful temples, modern skyscrapers, and houses perched above the water. Visit Wat Pho, Bangkok’s largest and oldest temple complex, and often considered Thailand’s first public university—its many inscriptions were intended to instruct visitors. Marvel at the magnificent statue of the Reclining Buddha, glittering with gold leaf and mother-of-pearl.
Travel by longtail boat on the busy Chao Phraya River and through the small canals of western Bangkok’s Thonburi district. Observe colourful scenes of everyday life along the river banks.
Included Activities: Plane from Chiang Mai to Bangkok, Klong Riverboat Tour, Wat Po Visit, private vehicle
Accommodation: Shanghai Mansion Bangkok (or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast
March 3 – DAY 8
BANGKOK
Depart at any time. Not ready to leave? I can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
Meals included: Breakfast
Some additional information
Deposits and final payments
To book this trip, a $350 deposit is required. Payment is collected and by the tour operator I’m partnered with — so your money is always safe with them. If you need to cancel or delay your trip for any reason, you won’t lose your $350 deposit. You can apply it to a future G Adventures trip (with or without me), pass it on to a friend, or donate it. Final payment is due 60 days prior to departure.
Personal information
To book this trip, you must provide your contact information and other personal details including name as it appears on your passport, nationality, and date of birth, and pay the $350 deposit. More personal information is required closer to departure.
Travel insurance
G Adventures requires that you are covered for at least $200,000 in medical expenses including emergency repatriation on their trips. As a travel agent, I can quote travel insurance for you.
Fitness level
This tour has a physical fitness rating of 2 out of 5: light walking and hiking suitable for most fitness levels; nothing too challenging. Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.
Visa requirements
U.S. citizen tourists entering Thailand for fewer than 30 days do not require a visa. Most other nationalities do not need a visa for Thailand for stays of 30 days or less, but if you do they are available on arrival at Bangkok Airport. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your arrival in Thailand.
Local dress
In Asia the dress standard is more conservative than it is back home. When packing try to pick loose, lightweight, long clothing that will keep you cool. In predominantly Buddhist, Hindu and Muslim countries we ask that you dress respectfully and avoid very short shorts/skirts and tank tops when visiting temples or mosques or other holy sites.
Reserve your spot
Questions? Contact me at julie@travelbta.com.
Join my Facebook group, open to anyone traveling or thinking about traveling with me on a mini-sabbatical trip — you’ll find announcements, tips, and can chit-chat with other group participants!
