Lavish Lifestyles Thailand 11 Days / 10 Nights
Activities
Day 1
Arrive at Bangkok and receive a private greeting at the aircraft door before entering the terminal area. A VIP escort will be waiting to fast-track the immigration process, with luggage assistance all the way. After being escorted through customs, a private helicopter will transport from Suvarnabhumi Airport to the Bangkok hotel.
Note: The helicopter will only operate in daytime hours. Nighttime arrivals will be transferred by private limousine.
In the evening, experience a romantic cruise along the Chao Phraya River on the luxury Manohra rice barge, which has been converted into one of Bangkok’s finest dining venues. Pass along many glittering sights including the stunning Temple of Dawn, the illuminated Grand Palace, magnificent temples, striking bridges and other Bangkok landmarks. On board, while the boat cruises slowly along the river, enjoy a sumptuous five-course dinner, prepared in the style of a five-star hotel.
Overnight in Bangkok
Day 2
Today offers the first chance to explore Thailand’s rich cultural heritage. The day starts with a visit to a secluded century-old house, now open to the public as the Museum of Floral Culture. Embark on a 45-minute guided tour through the museum, which features incredible floral art and designs reflecting Asian culture and heritage.
The museum is also home to a quaint tea house, surrounded by impeccably landscaped gardens. Relax in these peaceful surroundings while enjoying a cup of tea from the renowned florist Sakul Intakul, accompanied by some Thai desserts.
If interested, take part in a private flower workshop, or “Dok Mai Pra Yuk”. The instructor covers the fundamentals of flower arranging, sharing the skills needed to prepare floral displays for dinners and special events. At the end of the class, keep the handmade arrangements as a unique souvenir of the day Note: Museum closed on Mondays).
Head to The House on Sathorn for lunch. This restaurant is Bangkok's latest culinary destination and one of the most recognisable landmarks of Bangkok, set in a restored heritage building next to W Bangkok hotel. It aims to offer unique cuisine, unparalleled service and a one-of-a-kind experience in a luxurious yet comfortable and friendly environment.
After lunch, transfer to the hotel for some relaxation time.
This evening, enjoy a memorable visit to the Mahanakorn Building for dinner at VOGUE Lounge, a new destination in town with a good reputation for serving high-quality cuisine, classic cocktails and contemporary music. The VOGUE Lounge’s cuisine is presented in bite-sized servings created by Michelin Star chef Vincent Thierry.
Overnight in Bangkok
Day 3
After breakfast at the hotel, the morning is free at leisure.
In the afternoon, transfer to Issaya Siamese Restaurant for lunch. While it is set in an old house, this is no ordinary Thai restaurant! Run by the ‘prodigal son,’ Ian Kittichai, Issaya offers a vibrant and exciting take on traditional Thai cuisine. Guests will recognise most dishes on the menu, which includes organic vegetarian options.
After lunch, head into Bangkok’s vast network of canals, or khlongs, to board a private boat. This cruise along the peaceful Khlong Bang Luang passes shop houses, local temples and vendors. The guide will point out local landmarks and cultural idiosyncrasies of the area along the way. After observing this lively area, the boat stops at Baan Silapin, a 100-year-old renovated house which now houses an art gallery. Stop for a visit of up to two hours to enjoy the gallery, take part in an art workshop, or explore the local community, before experiencing a unique puppet show performed by puppeteers trained under the Joe Louis School of puppetry.
Please note: A puppet show performance is not guaranteed due to short notice changes. Puppet shows are not available on Mondays and Tuesdays (subject to change without notice).
Return to the hotel to freshen up before dinner.
After a short transfer, enjoy a sunset cocktail with a view at Sirocco. Located on the 63rd floor of the Lebua at State Tower hotel, Sirocco is the world's highest al fresco restaurant and one of Bangkok's most coveted venues.
Continue to the Metropolitan Hotel for dinner at Nahm, which was ranked 22nd in a list of the “World’s 50 Best Restaurants”. At Nahm, Thai cuisine is showcased using some of the best market-fresh produce in the world, all carefully put together by Executive Chef David Thompson and his experienced team. Standout dishes feature rare ingredients from all regions of Thailand.
Overnight in Bangkok
Day 4
Be picked up from the hotel in a private, air-conditioned luxury vehicle for a guided transfer to the airport. (Optional: Private jet for the flight from Bangkok to Chiang Rai on request)
Upon arrival at Chiang Rai Airport, sit back during a transfer to the factory and showroom of Doi Din Dang Pottery. A little more than 20 km from the town of Chiang Rai, Baan Doi Din Dang is a small pottery factory owned by a famous local artist who creates hundreds of unique, high-quality, pieces of handmade pottery which can’t be found anywhere else in the world.
Continue on with a drive to lunch at Chivit Thamma Da Coffee House.
Wrap up the day relaxing at the Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, followed by dinner at the hotel.
Overnight in Chiang Rai
Day 5
After breakfast at the resort, bring a passport and an adventurous spirit to explore three countries in one day. Experience the contrasting characters of Thailand and Myanmar, with the option of adding an experience in Laos.
Crossing the border to Tha Khi Lek, Myanmar, hop in a tuk-tuk and head off to the food market. Enjoy meeting the locals and the thrill of new finds. Uncover age old traditions at Shwedagon Pagoda, discovering which animal corresponds to which birthday and how to make merit with a temple offering. Take in the mountain scenery before moving on to explore the spiritual treasures of the Jade Temple. Then it’s off to the border to practice bargaining skills at the eclectic Chinese market.
Return to Thailand and visit the ancient Lanna Kingdom Capital, Chiang Saen. Tour the scattered ruins of defensive walls and sacred temples, reliving the rise and fall of this historic town through the knowledge of the guide. Board a traditional long-tail boat to cruise the Mekong River. Heading directly across the world’s 12th largest river, skirt the banks of Laos where local children often play at the water’s edge. Passing the impressive Golden Buddha statue and the point where three countries converge to mark the Golden Triangle, saunter off down the Ruak River to reach the resort’s private pier.
Dinner at the hotel.
Overnight in Chiang Rai
Day 6
After breakfast at the resort, meet the guide in the lobby for an escort to the elephant camp with an elephant introduction. With a mahout (elephant handler) as guide, embark on an hour-long ride through the bamboo forest, woodland and grassland, spotting seasonal birdlife and mammals along the way. After an hour, return back to the hotel.
Enjoy some leisure time before being transferred to Chiang Mai.
Stop en route at the famous Wat Rong Khun or The White Temple, a contemporary Buddhist temple created by renowned artist Chalermchai Kositpipat. Then go to Boonrawd Farm for lunch.
Upon arrival at the hotel in Chiang Mai, check in and spend some time at leisure.
Dinner and overnight in Chiang Mai
Day 7
Wake up early for a 06:00 departure and arrival at the foot of Doi Suthep Mountain, buying some offerings and joining the locals in the daily almsgiving ceremony. A serene Buddhist procession, dozens of monks walk barefoot through the streets collecting food and everyday items. Continue up the mountain to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and climb the 309 steps of the Golden Naga staircase to reach its golden pagodas. Proceed to Wat Umong, which dates back to the 14th Century. This forested temple is covered with moss and foliage, giving it a unique and charming natural ambience. After a walk through its mysterious tunnels, reach the Viharn (sermon hall) of the temple to experience a private blessing ceremony.
From 10:00 to 12:00, visit the Studio Naenna and meet up with Patricia Cheesman, an expert in antique Lao and Thai textiles and lecturer in Thai textile, ceramics and contemporary design at Chiang Mai University.
Note: A takeaway breakfast box will be provided by the hotel.
Lunch will be served at The Service 1921, at Anantara Chiang Mai. Dine in the sociable surroundings of the communal rooms or in the private dining room, accessible through a secret door hidden in one of the bookshelves that line the library wall.
After lunch, head to the village of Hang Dong to spend the afternoon with a Thai family. In true Thai style, slip into a pair of local fisherman’s pants and discover the architecture of a traditional Thai house and rice barn. Stroll around the small, family orchard and select fresh ingredients for the home-cooked dinner. Under the guidance of the local family, learn how to create traditional home-cooked recipes with authentic Northern Thai flavours that are considerably different from standard dishes offered in commercial cooking classes. Best of all, enjoy the opportunity to get to know a real Thai family and enjoy a delicious home-cooked dinner together.
Overnight in Chiang Mai
Day 8
Meet the guide at Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai Resort for a transport via air-conditioned car to Chiang Mai Airport. The guide will assist with check-in procedures for the flight south to Phuket.
Upon arrival at Phuket Airport, be greeted by a representative at the aircraft door. They will facilitate the transfer to a VIP line or zone area, help fast-track immigration procedures, assist with the luggage and introduce the guide who is waiting at the terminal. Hop in the private luxury vehicle and be taken to the hotel.
In the evening, transfer to Da Maurizio Bar Ristorante (Baan Rim Pa) for dinner. Da Maurizio Bar Ristorante offers the finest contemporary Italian cuisine in a beautiful seaside location. Enjoy sumptuous cuisine while seated just a few feet from the waves crashing onto softly-lit rocks.
Overnight in Phuket
Day 9
Be picked up from the hotel in the morning and head to the pier for a private luxury speedboat tour of Phang Nga Bay. This stunning seascape is dotted with spectacular limestone islands that rise from the emerald water, making it a must-see for anyone exploring the region. Cruise through this picturesque bay in comfort and privacy, taking time to stop at the famous James Bond Island. Relax on a secluded, private island for a mouth-watering barbecue picnic lunch. This idyllic tour is the perfect way to relax amidst spectacular scenery, far from the tourist crowds.
Overnight in Phuket.
Day 10
Depart the hotel at 07:00 and head to Layan Beach for a sunrise yoga session, led by a trained yoga guru.
After an hour of yoga, return to the hotel for breakfast, followed by a spa session.
Trisara Oil Massage (90 minutes)
Receive an aromatherapy massage using only organic massage oils and techniques using palms, thumbs, knuckles and elbows. This aromatherapy massage soothes body tissues and relieves sore muscles. It is also great for kids and pregnant women.
Overnight in Phuket
Day 11
Today is free at leisure until the final departure.
The guide will be awaiting at the hotel in Phuket for a transfer via air-conditioned luxury vehicle to Phuket Airport. The guide will assist with the check-in procedure for the departing flight.