Itinerary & Activities
Bangkok, Thailand
Finally, the first day of your adventure to Thailand and Cambodia is here! Your trip of a lifetime begins in the “Land of Smiles” as we arrive in the bustling capital of Bangkok, Thailand. As soon as we step foot off the plane we will feel the energy of this mesmerizing city which blends old and new, East and West. Our group will check in to the centrally located Courtyard by Marriott, located in the heart of the action. We will explore the opulent grounds of the dazzling Grand Palace, built by King Rama I in 1782. Inside the palace we will pay our respects at Thailand’s most sacred temple, Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Get ready to take in the city from the Bangkok River, and truly understand why Bangkok is known as the “Venice of the East” as we cruise through the city’s famed canals. Next up you won’t believe your eyes as we enter Wat Pho and marvel at the impressive Reclining Buddha, which at over 150 feet in length is covered entirely in gold! We’ll finish our time in this amazing city as we climb the stairs at Wat Arun and take in the sights and sounds as the sun sets over Bangkok.
Chiang Rai
Our short flight takes us to fabled northern Thailand, a traveler’s paradise and home to outstanding landscapes and gorgeous natural beauty. Our first stop is the quaint city of Chiang Rai, where we’ll check into Le Meridien Resort, located on the banks of the Me Kok River. Soak up the ambience of the magnificent countryside as you swim in the refreshing outdoor pools and stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens. Strap on your helmet and grab your bike as we head out on our Bicycle Tour. We’ll discover rural Thailand and its rich culture as we pedal through small villages and rice fields and follow the Lao River downstream. No visit to Chiang Rai is complete without a visit to the glistening Wat Rong Khun, known as the White Temple, due to its astonishing snow-white exterior. Built by a local Thai artist in 1997, the temple is a masterpiece of modern art. As you move through the grounds you find yourself in the artist’s surreal vision of Buddhist teachings, as superheroes, movie stars, and cartoon characters find their way into the building’s murals!
Chiang Mai
Our next stop is Chiang Mai, founded over 700 years ago as the capital of the Lanna Kingdom. Home to historic temples, diverse ethnic tribes, elephant camps, and numerous outdoor pursuits, Thailand’s “second city” is best known for its age-old traditions and welcoming hospitality. We’ll settle into the beautiful Sibsan Luxury Hotel for our stay in this breathtaking location, where we will enjoy meaningful community service, enriching cultural exploration, and amazing outdoor activities. Enjoy the cool mountain air as we hike to the top of Doi Suthep, one of the area’s highest mountains and home to Wat Phra That, one of the most historically and spiritually significant Buddhist temples in all of Thailand. From the top of the mountain we’ll have commanding views of Chiang Mai and will experience the magic of this sacred place. Next, we’ll enter the lush jungle as we get ready to brave the rapids of the Mae Taeng River on our exhilarating white-water rafting trip! Cross through the Tha Phae Gate and take in the excitement of the famous Sunday Night Market as you browse through the traditional art and locally made handicrafts as the Old City comes alive with musicians, street entertainers, and Thai dancers.
Phuket
We catch our plane to our next stop, the tropical island paradise of Phuket. Few places in the world can boast of such an abundance of sandy beaches, clear waters, and stunning ocean views. We’ll check in to the beachside Katathani Phuket Beach Resort, located on secluded Kata Noi Bay. Swim in one of the resort’s six pools, work out in the world-class fitness center, and lounge on the spectacular palm-lined beaches. We’ll marvel at the beautiful scenery and receive a monk’s blessing during our Jungle Trek through the lush interior of the island. Enjoy an evening performance at one of Thailand’s biggest shows, Phuket Fantasea. With trapeze artists, magical illusions, and special effects, this theatrical extravaganza is an unforgettably unique experience that blends Thai tradition with fantasy. A short ride to the top of Mt. Nagakerd brings us to the impressive Giant Buddha and incredible views of the Andaman Sea.
Siem Reap, Cambodia
We’ll say goodbye to Thailand as we board our plane for our unbelievable 5-day finale in the Kingdom of Wonder, Cambodia. Our plane touches down in Siem Reap, the gateway to ancient and mysterious worlds. Prepare to be awe-struck as you tour centuries-old temples and hike through lush jungles. Deep in the forest rises the elegant and soaring spires of the ancient stone city of one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Angkor Wat. Built between 1113 and 1150 as a Hindu temple and encompassing over 500 acres, Angkor Wat represents one of humankind’s most astonishing and enduring architectural achievements. Get your cameras ready as our private guide helps us explore this incredible ancient city. Next, we’ll enter the jungle for our short hike to Angkor Thom (often referred to as the Tomb Raider Temple – parts of the movie were filmed here!) and the mysterious smiling statues of Bayon. Hike to Ta Prohm, a city disappearing back into the jungle as the roots and trees slowly reclaim it. Soar high above the trees as you fly over the canopy on our thrilling Zip-Line Adventure! You’ll leap between elevated platforms and hanging sky bridges during this fun-filled adventure. Experience the amazing energy of Phare, the world-renowned Cambodian Circus. Enjoy dinner at the most happening spot in town, the Hard Rock Cafe! We’ll stay at the beautiful Angkor Village Resort during our time in this majestic part of the world.
Phnom Penh
The last stop on our amazing journey is Phnom Penh, the vibrant capital of Cambodia. We’ll check into the beautiful Garden City Hotel, centrally located in the heart of the city, where we’ll swim in the refreshing pools and enjoy the resort’s amenities. We’ll have time to reflect upon Cambodia’s troubled past as we visit the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, where you will learn about the infamous Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge. While difficult to process at times, you will leave with profound respect for what Cambodians endured and how they have rebuilt their nation. As the sun sets over Cambodia, we’ll board our boat for our final night River Cruise. Enjoy the magnificent scenery along the Mekong River while enjoying the relaxing sounds of live traditional music. We’ll take in the stunning Phnom Penh skyline after dark as we prepare to say goodbye to our new friends and your adventure of a lifetime.
