“Thailand” translates to “land of the free” and this Globus Independent tour of Thailand means you’re free to explore its breathtaking beauty as you please. Start your adventure in Thailand with a boat ride through Bangkok’s canals, or klongs, to see family homes and temples and you’ll discover why this beautiful city is called the “Venice of the East.” Visit Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of the Dawn, and the Grand Palace, which houses the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, then stop at the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, the oldest and largest Buddhist temple in Bangkok, featuring one of the largest Buddha statues in Thailand. You’ll also have free time to explore more of Bangkok and other nearby attractions, including Damnoen Saduak floating market and the ancient capital of Ayutthaya. Then fly to Chiang Mai, where you’ll explore temples and visit an amazing elephant sanctuary to learn about the conservation efforts of orphaned and rescued elephants. End your stay in Thailand with a three-night stay at a beachfront resort in Phuket. Explore the area at your leisure or simply relax at the beach!
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
ARRIVE IN BANGKOK, THAILAND
Welcome to Thailand! Your hotel is available for mid-afternoon check-in.
Day 2
BANGKOK
Today’s private guided tour starts with a boat ride through the klongs, Bangkok’s famous canals. Next, stop at Wat Arun, the Temple of the Dawn, where its 260-foot-tall spire has become a symbol of Bangkok. Continue to the Grand Palace, comprised of the Funeral Palace, the Reception Palace, the Throne Hall, the Coronation Hall, the Royal Guest House, and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Lastly, visit the Temple of the Reclining Buddha. The oldest and largest Buddhist temple in Bangkok, it houses more than 1,000 Buddha images, including the 49-foot-high and 151-foot-long massive Reclining Buddha. (B,L)
Day 3
BANGKOK
Enjoy a full day at your leisure. (B) INSIDER PICKS Enjoy a full day at leisure for your own discoveries. You may consider a visit to the renowned Jim Thompson House, a dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River, or an excursion to the vibrant Damnoen Saduak floating market.
Day 4
BANGKOK–CHIANG MAI
Today, fly to Chiang Mai, known as the “Rose of the North.” (B)
Day 5
CHIANG MAI
This morning, travel out of the city to visit Elephant Nature Park, established in the 1990’s to provide a sanctuary for rescued and orphaned elephants. You will hear the personal stories of the elephants and see how they became a proud herd and free from abuse for the first time in their lives. Watch these majestic animals thrive in the natural surroundings within the rehabilitation center. In addition to elephants, tree planting and providing a safe home for other rescue animals are continuous projects at the park. After lunch at the sanctuary, return to Chiang Mai, where the balance of the day is free for your own exploration. (B,L)
Day 6
CHIANG MAI
Today, your private guided sightseeing tour takes you to the walled part of the city for the revered Buddha at Wat Phra Singh. You’ll also visit Wat Doi Suthep, a temple tucked away in the mountains. For the final ascent to the temple, you can take a tram car or walk up the Naga (dragon-headed serpent) staircase, with more than 300 steps. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure. (B) INSIDER PICKS During your free time, perhaps take in a Khantoke dance show with dinner, participate in a cooking class, or simply explore the night market and absorb the lively atmosphere.
Day 7
CHIANG MAI–PHUKET
Today, fly to Phuket, Thailand’s most popular beach area. Transfer to your beachfront resort. (B)
Day 8
PHUKET
Enjoy a full day at your leisure. (B) INSIDER PICKS The beaches of Phuket are among the most stunning in the world, with glistening white sand and turquoise water that invite you to relax and rejuvenate. Enjoy the day with the free time to swim and stretch out on the sand to soak in the spectacular natural beauty of Thailand.
Day 9
PHUKET
Enjoy another full day at your leisure. (B) INSIDER PICKS Consider a trip to the Phi Phi Islands, explore Phuket Town, or simply relax on the beach.
Day 10
PHUKET
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
What's Included
Meals
Breakfast daily, 2 Lunches
Hotels
Bangkok
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Montien Hotel Surawong Bangkok
Superior First-Class
Bangkok,
Thailand
54 Surawong Road
Free WiFi
Enter the cozy embrace of the Montien Hotel Surawong Bangkok, a landmark in the bustling Silom sector of the city. This iconic hotel welcomes guests with an abundance of elegance, flair, and friendly Thai hospitality. Rooms combine timeless Thai style and contemporary design with art and high quality modern features.
Chiang Mai
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Ratilanna Riverside Spa Resort
Superior First-Class
Chiang Mai,
Thailand
33 Chang Klan Road
Free WiFi
This boutique resort has a great location close to the city center and captures the essence of the Lanna people with subtle architectural details and inspiring interior decor.
Phuket
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Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket
Superior First-Class
Phuket,
Thailand
390 Moo1 Srisoontorn Road
Free WiFi
Set on the white sands of Bang Tao beach, The Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket is surrounded by lush gardens, 2 inland lagoons and overlooks the glittering Andaman Ocean. The resort offers an outdoor pool, open air bar and 4 international restaurants.