At a Glance
Immerse into the oasis of Thailand’s wilderness as you hike, bike, and cruise its natural wonders traversing Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Koh Samui. A thrilling 10-day adventure of unmatched discovery; uncover its bustling city, mountain countryside to island paradise as you savor fragrant cuisines and rich cultures that tell a story of the people’s past and present.
Your journey begins in Bangkok, a city of contrasts with action at every turn as you spend time exploring this bustling city at your own leisure. A contrast in pace, escape the city life and fly north to Chaing Mai. Delve into a rare glimpse of different communities dotting Thailand’s beautiful Northern mountainside. Discover its beauty on a bike adventure to remote villages, ancient ruins and historic temples. A different perspective, see’s you exploring ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- 9 nights’ accommodation on a twin share basis
- Meals as specified
- All tour and airport transfers
- English speaking guide
- Opium Trial on Doi Pui Tour including Thai picnic lunch
- Morning Chiang Mai Bike Tour including bike and helmet
- Ang Thong Boat Ride including snorkeling rental gear
- Entrance fees for all tours
Itinerary
Begin your journey in the vibrant city of Bangkok, where your guide will welcome you at Suvarnabhumi Airport and transfer to your city accommodation. Along the way, your guide will introduce you to the City of Angels share helpful information, its history and culture about the Land of Smiles that is Bangkok. Spend the day unlocking the bustling city of Bangkok or whisk away in the comforts of your hotel. You’ll stay at the urban oasis just steps away from Bangkok’s business and entertainment district. Plunge into the 25 metre infinity pool with sun loungers and cabanas embraced by lush gardens. Or, rejuvenate at the spa with whirlpool bath and steam rooms. For those in pursue of adventure, the hotel’s location makes it easy to explore the many sights of vibrant Bangkok. Embrace a true taste of the city with the buzz of Silom Road and the famous Patong night market just a few minutes' walk away. The greenery of Lumpini Park is nearby and a perfect spot to jog off any jetlag, and the authentic dining scene at Sukhumvit Road is a short taxi ride away. If you prefer to stay closer to home, the hotel’s celebrated Thai restaurant Celadon has been voted ‘Best Restaurant in Bangkok’. |
Indulge in a leisurely breakfast before enjoying the next 2 day exploring Bangkok at your leisure doing as much or as little as you please. Delve deep into Bangkok’s majestic temples where the jewel is the iconic and strikingly beautiful Grand Palace. Be captivated by the most sacred temple in the kingdom, the renowned Grand Palace, and the official residence of the past Kings of Thailand. Marvel at an intricate and impeccable architectural wonder of golden stupas, walls and pillars encrusted in shing and colorful mosaics and murals. While here, visit the sacred Emerald Buddha, where you will find the most revered image of Buddha in Thailand. Step back into history exploring Ayutthaya’s ancient ruins, a historically spectacular UNESCO World Heritage site. For those who want a slower paced rhythm, embark on a historical river cruise along the River of Kings, the Chao Phraya River and into the fascinating discoveries of its resplendent landmarks from temple hopping to the Royal Barges Museum. The food lovers can awaken their sense with an array of floating markets. Escape to the Thai countryside to the famous Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. Set sail on a traditional long tail boat gliding through picturesque canals and local riverbank villages. Marvel at the traditional ways of doing business on the water as you cruise between rows of shops. Your senses will be awakened as you meander amongst the bustling market discovering exotic and unique fresh fruits, vegetables and other unusual local delights. A delightful scene to admire. Meander in the Bangkok’s bustling night markets as you taste your way around its alleyways. Or indulge in Bangkok’s rooftop scenes with sweeping 360-degree backdrop views sipping on your favorite cocktail. Your choices are endless! |
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before a transfer to Suvarnabhumi Airport for a scenic flight to Chiang Rai (flight at own expense). Today, farewell the bustling city and fly north to the beautiful mountain province of Chiang Mai. Upon arrival, be transferred to your hotel. You’ll stay at the tranquil Raya Heritage, part of The Leading Hotels in The World. Immerse in its tranquil natural surroundings on the banks for the Ping River. Its serene atmosphere makes it a perfect base for discovering the unique charms of the region. Spend the rest of the day indulging in its serenity. Unwind in your terrace suite complete with bathtub and outdoor terrace with views of the Ping River. Alternatively, relish the tranquil river views relaxing and dining at its cozy Laan Cha Tea Terrace or be pampered in perfect privacy at is onsite spa. |
Today escape the city life and embark on a private guided hike on the historic Opium Trail in Northern Thailand. Embrace the Hmong Village communities and connect with their lifestyle, history and culture. You'll journey by a private local Song-taew (a local truck) to Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai's iconic mountain. Arrive in Hmong village, located in Doi Suthep-Pui National Park where you'll meet your local guide and begin your 2 hours hike to the summit. Marvel at stunning viewpoints along the way and traverse pine forests before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant in a village. Gain cultural immersion in this village, a Hmong community, where you'll meet locals and step back to the heyday of the opium era. Visit a local museum and admire the traditional dresses of the Hmong people. Enjoy the patches of evergreen forest, the mountain streams and the ferns. This forest is the fresh watershed area for the rice fields in the lowlands and also known for the quality of coffee. Enjoy coffee tasting at a local shop on a terrace boasting serene views of the village and mountains beyond. Marvel at how coffee is cultivated and roasted in a tradtional way before driving to Wat Phra Doi Suthep. Continue your walk up the iconic Naga staircase to a temple offering sweeping views over the city before journeying to Wat Pha Lat, 'the jungle temple'. Admire its Burmese-style architecture that holds old Buddhist images before returning to your hotel. You’ll spend the rest of the evening at your leisure. |
This morning enjoys the off beaten paths of Chiang Mai as you embark on 4-5hours biking adventure to where sites and old traditions continue to live on. Journey on quiet green land roads traversing the historic settlement of Wiang Kum Kam, the former capital of the Lanna empire. Along the way, explore ancient temples and ruins and delve into its history and Buddhist culture. Call into the McKeen Rehabilitation Centre, a former leper colony, once cut off from the outside world. Peddle through to a local school filled with hilltribe children and onto a small pottery workshop. Mingle with the locals and gain insight to their local way of life. Along the way, enjoy a small Thai meal at a local restaurant. Continue your biking adventure along the Ping River and absorb the serene vistas before stopping at a local bakery to sample local treats. Delight your taste buds at a market sampling some of the most delicious and exotic fruits and other local delights before returning to your hotel around 1pm. |
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Spend the rest of the day doing as little or as much as you please. Whisk away to the serene oasis of the hotel. Take a dip in the pool or pamper with a rejuvenating spa (at own expense). Alternatively, venture further afield into Chiang Mai’s wonders. Adventure to Chiang Mai’s city where food lovers can awaken their senses exploring the old city meandering its bustling markets scenes as you sample more unique northern cuisine at its night bazaar or weekend night markets. |
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before a transfer to Chiang Mai Airport for a scenic flight to Koh Samui (flight at own expense). Immerse into an island paradise as you leave the city life and fly to the fine beaches of Koh Samui. (Flight at own expense). Upon arrival at Phuket airport, you’ll be chauffeured to the island’s beachfront resort, The Melati Resort & Spa. Immerse yourself in relaxation with breathtaking tranquil garden and a stunning beachfront location. Relax in your Grand Deluxe room, a uniquely designed 2 story villa. Enjoy access to the garden courtyard or refresh in your outdoor bathtub nestled in a private balcony. Take a refreshing dip with two stunning pools, sip on cocktails at the swim up bar or engage in the many water activities on offer. Indulge in local as well world cuisine at its beachfront dining equally ideal or a casual lunch or a romantic candle lit dinner. Those in pursue of adventure can embark to the charming nightlife and entertainment of Chaweng Beach just 15 minutes away. |
This morning, begin with an unforgettable journey through a unique and peaceful marine setting by a private traditional long tail boat to the neighboring island of Koh Tan. Set sail gliding through picturesque beaches and mangroves with serene views on a short cruise to the island and relax for a day. Explore the lush woodlands or dip into the world of dreamlike marine lives and snorkel at Koh Tan’s colorful and diverse reefs. Enjoy swimming of the clear waters, snorkeling along the coral reef, and uncover an underwater wonderland of a kaleidoscope of tropical fish. Continue cruising to Koh Museum where you’ll spend time swimming and basking in the sunshine on its pristine secluded white sandy beach. Take a lovely stroll into is mangrove forest filled with wildlife including monitor lizards. Cruise back to Koh Samui for a refreshing tropical lunch at s beachside restaurant before returning back to your resort. Retreat back to your beachfront oasis about 2pm and refresh with a delightful swim and drink at the swim up bar. |
Enjoy a leisurely tropical breakfast before spending the rest of the day crafting your own wild island adventures. For the nature enthusiasts embark on a long tail boat ride to Ang Thong National Marine Park, an archipelago of 42 islands. Be captivated by limestone cliffs, rocky caves, lush jungle, waterfalls and lagoons and hike its trails or laze on its white sandy beaches. Marvel at The Big Buddha, sitting at top of the temple stairs and enjoy the sweeping panoramic views it has to offer. Alternatively, soak in beach haven on the island’s picturesque beaches from Lamai Beach to Coral Cove. The food lovers can meander the bustling Chaweng markets sampling local delights that will awaken all your senses as your rub shoulders with locals. For those in pursue of some relaxation can whisky away to the hidden oasis of your resort and simply indulge in its premium facilities. |
Soak in your last moments in paradise over a relaxed breakfast. A perfect time to reflect on an incredible immersive Thailand journey. You’ll be transferred to Koh Samui Airport for your onward travels. NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. |
Accommodation
Dates & Prices
Surcharge applies to festival/holiday season. Please contact us to check availablity, cabin type and price. Please contact us for group bookings.
More Info
- The departure point is Bangkok
- The finish point is Koh Samui
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Bangkok
November to February is warm, dry and when the heat and humidity are at their lowest. This makes it an ideal and pleasant time to visit but also a peak travel time. Temperatures rise March to May, with rainy season from May to November. Still, Thailand’s tropical climate could easily bring temperatures up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit on any given day regardless of the time of year.
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 120 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 120 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 120 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 120 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a tour with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the tour has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any tour up to 60 days prior to departure if the minimum number requirement is unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the tour or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.