Thailand: Beach and Culture 9 Days

Tour overview:

From the bustling streets of Bangkok to trying your hand at cooking delectable Thai dishes at a world renowned cooking school, visiting a traditional floating market and also spending time at Thailand’s iconic beaches in Phi Phi Island as well as Phuket, this tour is packed with bucket list experiences.


Day 1 - Arrive Bangkok

Arrive this morning in Bangkok, the vibrant and throbbing capital city of Thailand. You are welcomed and escorted to your hotel. Built on the banks of the Chao Phraya river, this “City of Angels” has a fascinating appeal that is difficult to resist. The day is at leisure to relax and recover from the long flight.


Day 2 - Klongs and China Town Tour / Grand Palace & Wat Po

Travel by motor launch on the picturesque Chao Phraya River and canals, or klongs, to observe the serene family homes and temples along the waterways. You will pass the famous Royal Barges, excellent samples of Thai craftsmanship and stop at Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn. Then visit Grand Palace, the former residence for the Thai kings. Visit the Reception Hall, the Coronation Hall, the Funeral Hall and the beautiful Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Phra Keo. Visit Wat Po, one of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok. Ride on a tuk-tuk, a three-wheeled taxi, to Chinatown for a short walk. (BL)



Day 3 - Cooking Class at Blue Elephant Cooking School

Enjoy the Ancient Thai Cuisine Cooking Course, ideal for both amateurs and professionals. You will learn how to make four of the country’s long forgotten dishes including Ma Auan, Kaeng Mumba, Lon Taujiew Poo as well as a variety of delicacies, that were quite popular in the old days. You will be given some tips about alternative cooking methods and substitutes throughout the demonstrations. You will cook each dish and teachers will be on hand to help and guide you with step-by-step instructions. Afternoon free at leisure. (BL)



Day 4 - Maeklong Railway Market & Floating Market

Early morning leave Bangkok for Samut Songkhram province. Visit to the rural Maeklong Railway Market. The nickname of the market, Talad Rom Hoop, roughly translates to closing an umbrella. As the name Maeklong Railway Market suggests, part of the market is situated on the railway. Every morning till late in the evening, this market springs to life selling a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, seafood, snacks, and clothes and accessories. However, what makes the market unique and exciting is the fact that a train will run through the market 8 times a day, every day of the week. As soon as the siren signals the arrival of the train, everything stops. Shoppers will hop off the tracks, and vendors will quickly pack their goods and prepare to close/retract their awnings from the train track as the train passes by Continue to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. A very attractive place to see the old style and traditional way of selling and buying fruits, vegetables, etc., from small boats. You will also see traditional Thai houses, the way they live and travel by boats.



Day 5 - Bangkok / Phuket

Morning transfer to the airport for your flight to Phuket. Blessed with a wide variety of magnificent beaches, hidden coves and secluded bays, Phuket is a spectacular kaleidoscope of brilliant colors. You are met and transferred to your hotel. Afternoon at leisure. Evening attend Phuket Fantasea, International buffet dinner, followed by a popular theme show extravaganza for all the family. (BD)



Day 6 - Phi Phi Island Excursion

Enjoy full day Phi Phi Island excursion by speed boat. Enjoy stops for opportunities to swim and snorkel. (BL)


Day 7 - Phuket

Day at leisure to relax and pursue independent activities. (B)


Day 8 - Phuket

Day at leisure to relax and pursue independent activities. (B)


Day 9 - Phuket/Home

Morning transfer to the airport for your flight back home, carrying with you treasured memories of your journey to Thailand. (B)