Thailand Group Trip

Led by Alexa Moss

November 3-11, 2019
November 3
Upon arrival at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport, you will be greeted at
the aircraft door and escorted to a VIP line, where you are fast-tracked
through the immigration, helped with your bag, escorted through
customs and taken to your guide/driver.

You will then be transferred to COMO Metropolitan Bangkok, where you

will be staying in a Studio room.

Located in the fashionable Sathorn district of Bangkok and minutes

away from trendy bars, restaurants and the popular Silom shopping
complex, COMO Metropolitan Bangkok offers the best of the city. This is
a sleek and contemporary base for soaking in the city’s sights and
nightlife. Soft flower motifs, a peaceful outdoor pool and serene spa all
encourage relaxation in this bustling capital city.

Enjoy the afternoon at your leisure.

This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at Khua Kling Pak Sod. Khua Kling
Pak Sod comes highly recommend, a family-owned restaurant that
specializes in authentic southern Thai cuisine and serves home-style Thai
dishes.

November 4
For the early riser, start the Bangkok full day tour with an (optional)
early morning walk through Lumpini Park. This green oasis in the heart
of the city is filled with locals taking their morning tai chi, yoga and
aerobics classes.

Then the day’s adventure begins with a ride on the city’s Skytrain. This
elevated train line is busy in the morning with business people and
school kids who avoid the traffic of the streets for a faster, air-
conditioned commute. Disembark near the Chao Phraya River and board
a public boat, another popular commuter option. Enjoy the views of the
city’s skyline as it passes by and see houses precariously balanced on
stilts along the river’s edge.
The boat stops near the iconic Wat Pho and the Grand Palace. Spend
the remainder of the morning exploring these two remarkable sites,
learning about the country’s regal history and of the deep-rooted
spiritual traditions of its people.

Then hop aboard a tuk tuk, Thailand’s famous three-wheeled vehicles

used by locals throughout the country. Zip through quieter city streets
to Soi Ban Batra. Visit a family-run workshop that produces monks’ alms
bowls. Witness artisans at work and learn about the daily lives of the
Buddhist monks, who wake early to collect alms offerings from the city’s
residents.

The last leg of today’s Bangkok full day tour is on a ‘bus boat’ through
the city’s canals. Rarely used by tourists, this ride provides an up-close
look at the ways of life of the local people who live alongside the canals.
Then it’s a short walk to the Jim Thompson House. Take an insightful
tour of the compound’s tranquil gardens and traditional buildings, which
showcases the history of the famous and mysterious American silk
merchant. Afterwards stroll to the nearby modern shopping malls for
some retail therapy then return to the hotel via Skytrain. Arrive back at
your hotel around 5:00pm.
This evening, should you choose, join Alexa to explore one of Bangkok’s
famous night markets. Enjoy food stalls & shop for local goods.

November 5
This morning you will be transferred from Bangkok Hotel to
Suvarnabhumi Airport accompanied by your guide in the comfort of a
private, air-conditioned vehicle.

At 12:05pm, board flight PG217 to Chiang Mai, arriving at 1:25pm.

You will be transferred from Chiang Mai Airport to NA NIRAND
Romantic Boutique Resort where you will be staying in a Lanna Deluxe
room.

Right on the banks of the Ping River and watched over by a 100-year-
old tree, this quiet garden property could hardly be better placed for
those seeking a getaway right in the city. The night market is a five-
minute walk away and the old city centre can be reached by a 10-minute
tuk-tuk ride. This lovely resort is built around a beautifully restored teak
Lanna-style house, which now serves as lounge and library and houses
the resort’s small spa on the ground floor. The rooms, in attractive white-
washed two- and three-story villas, are clustered around a cute
swimming pool.
At 6:30pm, you will be picked up to enjoy a lively night in Chiang Mai
town, wandering through the South Gate of the old city to the traditional
street food market that opens every evening. During the walk, guests
will be tempted by the heady aromas emanating from the various food
stalls and simple carts, and the guide will be on hand to introduce the
many local dishes on offer. And of course, guests will be able to try
whichever dishes take their fancy. Some of the most delicious dishes on
offer include deep fried pancakes, deep fried taro, kanom jeen (rice
noodles with curry soup), kanom krok (Thai coconut pudding), noodle
soup, pad Thai, and the summer favorite of sweet mango with sticky
rice. Guests can also sample the local rice whisky. After the evening’s
gastronomic adventure, guests return to their hotel with their stomach
filled with delight. Arrive back at your hotel around 10:00pm.

November 6
You will be picked up at 09:00am. Uncover the secrets behind Thailand’s
famous dishes at the Pantawan Cooking School. Travel south of the city
centre to a traditional teakwood house to meet with a local chef. After a
short introduction on the day’s activities, head out to a nearby fresh
market.

Browse the stalls at this a colorful and lively market. See exotic herbs
and spices and learn about their uses. During the visit, the chef will
introduce local vendors and explain about Thailand’s food culture.

Armed with a basic knowledge of Thai cuisine and its ingredients, return
to Pantawan and start cooking! Chop vegetables, stir up spicy sauces
and fry up sizzling dishes. Throughout the course the chef will share his
personal story and offer tips and hints for preparing these same dishes
back at home. When everything is ready, sit down and enjoy the
delicious fresh dishes. Savor the delicate flavors of home-cooked Thai
cuisine, enjoying the results of the day’s activities. Return to the hotel to
refresh.

At 3:00pm, take a journey of spiritual discovery in Chiang Mai. Start with

a visit to the city’s old town, venturing through the crumbling city walls
and admiring a blend of old and new buildings. Catch glimpses of
glittering pagoda spires illuminated by the late afternoon sun.

Then step into the secret jungle temple, Wat Phalad. As one of the most
peaceful and enchanting crafted temples in Chiang Mai, the temple has
got the fantastic history as it was built to enshrine a piece of bone said
to be from the historical Buddha. Here, visit one of the monks and
receive a blessing of good health and good fortune.

Continue on the spiritual trail, leaving the city centre, and taking a
winding drive into the hills. Climb up the staircase of Wat Phra That Doi
Suthep, admiring the intricate naga carvings along the way. Upon
reaching the top, explore the 14th-century pagoda and hear about its
origins. Wander around the towering gilded stupa and take a moment to
enjoy the views of Chiang Mai in the distance.

Before the sun sets, witness the magical evening chanting of the monks,
a serene way to end the day’s spiritual tour.

This evening, we’ll enjoy a group dinner at Ginger & Kafé. Centrally
located and sharing space with the trio of charming boutiques
collectively known as "The House", Ginger & Kafe is a favorite for visitors
and locals alike. It is set in an old 1960s edifice that’s been lovingly
restored; the eclectic mix of décor, and the eatery’s bright colors, give
the place a fun "Alice in Wonderland" vibe. On the menu traditional Thai
dishes are presented artfully.

November 7
A day with elephants starts early in the morning. You will be picked up
at 08:30 from the hotel by air-conditioned vehicle and transferred to
Kanta Elephant Sanctuary through Chiang Mai’s beautiful scenery—
rolling hills, forests, and local farming areas.

At Kanta Elephant Sanctuary, an ethical and sustainable eco-tourism is

promoted. They offer a retirement home for ALL elephants that have
previously work hard for tourism entertainment or in the logging
industry. Throughout the day you will gain an insight into elephants’ life
and their story while spending time with them in a safe area.

Upon arrival at the sanctuary, get changed into traditional clothing,

followed by preparing fruits to feed elephants. Enjoy roaming, touching,
and playing with them.
Enjoy delicious Pad Thai for lunch at the sanctuary. After lunch, prepare
and cook sticky rice mixed with herbal for elephants. Get to learn more
about their background, health care, and common behaviors. Have more
fun with them in the pool by giving them a bath and mud scrub and
taking pictures with them. Then tea and coffee break will be served
before departing the sanctuary for your hotel.

November 8
Today, you will be transferred from your hotel to Chiang Mai Airport
accompanied by your guide in the comfort of a private, air- conditioned
vehicle.

At 2:35 pm, board flight PG248 to Phuket, arriving at 4:40pm.

You will be transferred from Phuket airport to Twinpalms Phuket where

you will be staying in a Deluxe Palm Room.

A tranquil and secluded escape just feet from Surin Beach, Twinpalms
Phuket Resort is set in a magical, water garden landscape.
Contemporary and stylish, this privately-owned resort has hip
restaurants and bars, fabulous beach clubs, a world-class spa, all
delivered with thoughtful and attentive service. 
Blissfully sleek and minimalist rooms and suites at Twinpalms Phuket
feature a private terrace with a view of the lagoon. This place has a
totally unhurried and chilled-out ambiance where the only energy you
need to expend is lying by the pool or sitting on a stretch of golden
tropical sand.

November 9
You will be picked up at 08:30. Spend a day in paradise. Leave the
crowded beaches of Phuket aboard a private, long tail boat that has
been customized for ultimate comfort. Cast off and head to turquoise
waters during this full day boat trip to Phang Nga Bay.

Pass by ‘James Bond’ Island, slowing down for photos of this beautiful,
but touristy, site. Venture further afield to discover dramatic limestone
karsts jutting out of the water and a pristine mangrove forest. Relax and
enjoy the views as the boat glides across the Bay. The boat captain will
seek out a secluded beach for a chance to swim in the clear waters or
sunbathe on the white sandy shores.

The day continues with a visit to a privately-owned island. Go ashore at

this tropical paradise and explore the tranquil beaches which are
blissfully free of development. A barbecue of fresh seafood will be
prepared for lunch in this incredible setting.

Spend the rest of the day swimming and lounging about, soaking up the
sun’s rays and the serene atmosphere. Return to Phuket by boat, arriving
back at your hotel around 5:00pm.

November 10
Enjoy today at your leisure, enjoy the hotel’s Catch Beach Club.

This evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at Suay Restaurant. A truly

delightful find, this charming place with an attractive garden stands out
for its superb preparation of classic Thai and fusion dishes. Chef
Tammasak ‘Noi’ Chootong, a rising star in the Thai culinary scene, helms
the restaurant and oversees the artful presentation and sourcing of top
ingredients.

November 11
Guests will be transferred from Phuket Hotel to Phuket Airport
accompanied by their guide in the comfort of a private, air- conditioned
vehicle.
Price
Price per Person in double occupancy: $2,845 (based on 10 people traveling)
Single Supplement: $912

Price Inclusions
8 nights luxury accommodation in double occupancy
Breakfast Every Morning
Airport Transfer (November 3)
Welcome Dinner (November 3) Includes family style meal & 2 local beers
Full Day Tour of Bangkok (November 4)
Airport Transfer (November 5)
Flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai (November 5)
Night Market Tour (November 5) Includes street food
Cooking Class (November 6) Includes lunch
Afternoon Tour of Chiang Mai (November 6)
Dinner in Chiang Mai (November 6) Includes family style meal & 2 cocktails
Full Day with Elephants (November 7) Includes lunch
Airport Transfer (November 8)
Flight from Chiang Mai to Phuket (November 8)
Full Day Boat Trip (November 9) Includes lunch
Farewell Dinner (November 10) Includes family styles meal & 2 Cocktails
Airport Transfer (November 11)

Exclusions
International Airfare
Tips & Gratuities
Any meals or services not mentioned in the itinerary

Deposits & Payment

All tour costs are based on the services specified in each tour’s detailed itinerary. All
costs quoted are based on availability and subject to change. Worldwide Cruise &
Travel, Inc. will charge change/cancel fees within 30 days of departure. Tour and
Transfer Companies will charge change/cancel fees prior to 30 days of departure.
Tours and transfers are nonrefundable within 30 days of travel, local time. Airline
tickets are nonrefundable and are subject to change fees. Please check with your
carrier. If clients have booked private tours and decide to be late (unless it’s an
emergency and tour operator has been notified) there will be no refund and the
private guide will not be obligated to extend the tour to make up for lost time.
Insurance
We strongly recommend that all clients purchase a comprehensive travel package
that includes trip cancellation protection and emergency medical evacuation. Please
contact us for more information