Best of Thailand

Handcrafted Travel
Daily Departure
  • Beach Escapes
  • Classic Journeys
  • Family

Overview

Day 1 - 3: Bangkok - Damnoen Saduak Floating Market - Ayutthaya
  • Arrive in Bangkok and explore its iconic landmarks, including the Grand Palace and Wat Pho.
  • Experience a serene voyage through Bangkok’s klongs by longtail boat.
  • Discover vibrant markets like the Train Market and Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, along with historic wonders in Ayutthaya.
Day 4 - 6: Chiang Mai
  • Fly to Chiang Mai. Visit the city’s attractions: Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Silver Temple & the Night Market, etc.
  • Spend a day to visit the local Tea Plantation and play with the elephants at the Kanta Elephant Sanctuary.  
Day 7 - 12: Phuket - Phang Nga Bay - Departure
  • Fly to Phuket for beach relaxation and city exploration.
  • Take a day trip to Phang Nga Bay.
  • Explore local markets and food stalls with a chef.

Customizable itinerary

Embark on an enchanting journey through our Best of Thailand Tour to discover the finest treasures!

Begin in captivating Bangkok, where the Golden Buddha, Reclining Buddha, Grand Palace, and traditional Thai houses weave tales of culture and spirituality. Immerse yourself in the world-renowned floating market and the historical wonders of Ayutthaya, where the Ayutthaya Historical Park boasts a multitude of Buddha statues.

Continue your adventure in Chiang Mai, where grand temples await and a special visit to Kanta Elephant Sanctuary adds a heartwarming touch. Then, make your way to Phuket, famous for its pristine beaches, breathtaking landscapes, and the historic Old Town with its remarkable architecture. This tropical paradise and its neighboring islands promise an all-encompassing experience for every traveler.

Welcome to Bangkok, the City of Angels
Your guide awaits you at arrivals for a private ride to your city center hotel. This vibrant metropolis is ready to enchant you with its unique blend of tradition and modernity. Take the day to relax, and consider trying a Thai traditional massage to kickstart your holiday after your long flight.

Overnight in Bangkok



Begin your exploration in Bangkok with a visit to the iconic Wat Pho, home to the magnificent 45m (148ft) reclining Buddha and the esteemed original Thai massage school. Hop into a tuk-tuk for a thrilling ride to the Grand Palace, a place of great reverence housing the famous Emerald Buddha, meticulously crafted from jade or jasper.

Savor lunch at a local restaurant, delighting in Thai cuisine. Then, embark on a tranquil long-tailed boat ride through Thonburi’s charming canals, immersing yourself in local life and pausing at the scenic Wat Arun temple.

Be sure to explore the vibrant atmosphere of  the lively Talad Kao Market, where you’ll find an abundance of culinary delights, fresh and dried fruits, and Chinese herbs. Then, return to your hotel for relaxation.

In the evening, embark on an enchanting Tuk Tuk food journey through Bangkok. Led by expert guides and Tuk Tuk drivers, savor Northeastern Thai cuisine, including spicy delicacies like papaya salad and crispy catfish. A charming detour to the flower market and Wat Pho adds a touch of magic to your evening.

Overnight in Bangkok

Meals: (B/L/D)


After breakfast, leave Bangkok and head to Mae Klong to witness the captivating Amazing Railway Market, where vendors swiftly fold stalls for passing trains.

Hop on a traditional longtail boat to reach the renowned Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, immersed in a bustling scene of tropical fruits and more. Explore the vibrant Damnoen Saduak market at your leisure, engaging with vendors and soaking in the cultural charm.

Next, journey to Ayutthaya, the capital of the Thai Kingdom for 417 years. Founded in 1350 by King U-Thong, its destruction by the Burmese army in 1767 resulted in the collapse of the kingdom.

Stop en route to enjoy a delicious lunch at the Michelin Suggested Pa Lek Boat Noodles. This third-generation family shop offers delightful boat noodles with various flavors, including pork or beef boat noodle soup and dry tom yum-style egg noodles with pork.

The afternoon unfolds with an exploration of Ayuthaya Historical Park. Visit around the ruins of Wat Phra Si Sanphet, a former royal temple during Ayutthaya’s days of glory, and Wat Mahathat, best known for a stone Buddha head entwined in tree roots, before returning to Bangkok for your free time.

Overnight in Bangkok

Meals: (B/L_)


After breakfast, depart from Bangkok on a short flight to Chiang Mai, the largest city in northern Thailand, known for its profound history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural landscapes.

Upon your arrival, your local guide will welcome you and assist with your transfer to the hotel. You’ll have the rest of the day to unwind at your own pace. Whether you opt for a leisurely neighborhood walk, indulge in an authentic Thai massage, or venture out to explore the vibrant night market, the choice is yours to embrace the charm of Chiang Mai at your leisure.

Overnight in Chiang Mai

Meals: (B/_/_)


Morning
After breakfast, we’ll depart from Chiang Mai for an approximately one-hour drive to Kanta Elephant Sanctuary.

On our way, we’ll make a brief stop at Araksa’s Tea House. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the intricate processes involved in nurturing young tea plants. You’ll even try your hand at picking tea leaves and witness the art of tea processing, from kneading to roasting.

Following the demonstration, you can savor a refreshing cup of iced or hot tea along with a delightful Thai snack.

Lunch will be a delightful affair featuring home-style Thai cuisine prepared with locally sourced and organic ingredients.

Afternoon Our adventure continues as we embark on a short drive to Kanta Elephant Sanctuary. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly greeted by the staff. We’ll take a stroll through the sanctuary to understand the elephants’ environment and history. Don traditional clothing and prepare some delicious fruits for our gentle giants.

The highlight of the day is meeting with the elephants. You’ll have the chance to feed, interact, and play with these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat while learning about their behavior and background. Don’t forget to capture memorable moments with the elephants through photography.

We’ll then accompany the elephants to a serene water pond, where they can cool off, and you can observe them in their element.

As our day comes to a close, we’ll take a break for tea, coffee, and seasonal fruit, and bid a fond farewell to the elephants. Afterward, we’ll make our way back to Chiang Mai, approximately a 50-minute drive.

The tour concludes at your hotel, leaving you with cherished memories of this unforgettable experience.
Overnight in Chiang Mai

Meals: (B/L/_)


Begin your day with an early start, heading to Doi Suthep Temple to witness monks descending from the mountain for their daily alms, a visually captivating ritual.

Next, journey up the mountain to Wat Doi Suthep, founded in 1383 AD and among Northern Thailand’s most sacred temples. Explore its pagodas, statues, and enjoy panoramic city views before returning for lunch.

In the afternoon, start at the iconic Tha Phae Gate, then ride through the old city’s narrow lanes to picturesque forest-lined roads. Pause by Wat Phra That Doi Khama, serene 7th Century Buddha and visit an artisan craft village. Immerse in the bustling Chiang Mai market scene before concluding with a visit to Wat SrisuphanSilver Temple”, Thailand’s most stunning temple, offering incredible photo ops and a local snack.

Overnight in Chiang Mai

Meals: (B/L/_)


After breakfast, we’ll transfer you to the airport for your flight to Phuket, Thailand’s beach paradise, known as the pearl of the Andaman Sea.

Upon arrival, your local guide will escort you to your resort. Later in the evening, prepare for a dazzling experience at Simon’s Cabaret, where glamorous “ladyboys” will enthrall you with non-stop musical and dance performances amid stunning costumes and lights.

Overnight at Phuket

Meals: (B/_/_)


Today you will embark on a thrilling full-day adventure to uncover the beauty of Phang Nga Bay Marine National Park, celebrated for its stunning rock formations rising from the sea.

Upon arrival, glide through captivating caves by inflatable canoe, expertly guided. Explore Hong Island, Dark Cave, leading to a mangrove-lined lagoon, and Diamond Cave, renowned for its shimmering flowstone.

Next, set sail to James Bond Island (Khao Tapu), famously featured in “The Man with the Golden Gun.” Continue your journey to Panyi Island, known for its picturesque village built on stilts, extending over the water and predominantly inhabited by Muslim fishermen.

Following a delectable Thai set lunch at a local restaurant, take a refreshing swim at Lawa or Naka Island before returning to your hotel where the remainder of the day at your leisure.

Overnight in Phuket

Meals: (B/L/_)


10:00 – 14:00: Culinary Exploration

Embark on a mouthwatering food adventure, uncovering Phuket’s hidden culinary gems beloved by locals. Immerse yourself in the flavors of Burmese curries accompanied by wood-fired naans, savor aromatic chai at a hidden teashop, perfect your chopstick skills with exceptional Hokkien noodles, and indulge in succulent grilled pork – a symphony of tastes awaiting your discovery.

Overnight in Phuket

Meals: (B/L/_)


Today is your free day to relish the renowned Thai beaches and savor local delicacies. Unwind under the sun, discover charming restaurants, cozy cafes, and unique boutiques. Above all, make sure to catch the breathtaking sunset!

Overnight in Phuket

Meals: (B/_/_)


Spend another leisurely day in Phuket and relish the freedom to enjoy it to the fullest. 

Overnight in Phuket



Savor your morning on the beach before it’s time to check out. Later, your guide will accompany you to the airport for your departure flight. If necessary, we can arrange a local flight back to Bangkok, where you will connect to your outbound flight. Wishing you a pleasant journey home.

Meals: (B/_/_)


Ariyasom Villa

Introducing a family-owned boutique hotel with spacious stylish rooms, high ceilings, and large windows overlooking landscaped grounds. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TV, DVD player, and private bathrooms with a bathtub and hairdryer.
Conveniently located next to Bumrungrad Hospital and less than half a mile from Ploen Chit BTS Skytrain Station. Reach Central World Plaza and Siam Paragon in just a 5-minute Skytrain ride.
Relax at Som Sen Spa with body massages or stay active in the small fitness room. The elegant library adorned with local artwork offers a casual space for guests to read and mingle.
Indulge in healthy vegetarian and seafood dishes at Na Aroon Restaurant or enjoy room service from 7 am – 10 pm.

Riva Surya Bangkok

Property Highlights:

  • Prime location: 5-minute walk to Khao San Road, 10-minute walk to The Bangkok National Museum.
  • Suvarnabhumi Airport is just a 1-hour drive away.
  • Tastefully furnished rooms with contemporary decor, flat-screen TV, iPod docking station, and safety deposit box.
  • Some rooms feature a private balcony.
  • 24-hour front desk assistance with laundry services and safety deposit box.
  • On-site tour desk and free private parking available.
  • Stunning river views from the on-site restaurant.
  • Babble & Rum Restaurant offers diverse and delectable authentic Thai, Asian, and European cuisines.
  • The Garden and Mezzanine Bar offer sweeping views of the Chao Phraya River and a wide range of wine and cocktails.
  • Room service available upon request.

Chala Number6

Chala Number6 offers well-equipped rooms with a flat-screen TV, fridge, and free toiletries. Some rooms have a balcony and city views. Breakfast with continental, American, and Asian options is available. The hotel staff speak English, Thai, and Chinese. Nearby attractions include Chedi Luang Temple, Three Kings Monument, and Chiang Mai Gate. The airport is 2.5 miles away, with a paid airport shuttle service.

137 Pillars House

137 Pillars House, located just minutes away from Thapae Gate Market and Chiang Mai city centre, offers stylish air-conditioned suites with parquet flooring and a walk-in closet. The suites feature a contemporary décor, with a balcony, patio, and spacious living area. Bathrooms come with a Victorian bathtub and an open-air shower. Amenities include cable TV and a personal safe.
The Dining Room offers a variety of à la carte Thai and international dishes, while the Library Bar provides snacks, drinks, and light meals. In-room dining is also available.
Guests can take advantage of the on-site business center and tour desk. The 24-hour front desk assists with luggage storage, currency exchange, and laundry services. Free on-site parking is provided.
Chala Numb

Mom Tri’s Villa Royale

Nestled in Kata Noi, Mom Tri’s Villa Royale offers spacious suites with stunning Andaman Sea views. Enjoy 4-star amenities, including 4 pools, a public beach, and free Wi-Fi.

Elegant suites at Mom Tri’s Royale Villa feature modern Thai décor, wooden flooring, and private balconies. Relax in comfort with a 32-inch flat-screen TV.

Indulge in a Thai massage at Mom Tri’s Spa Royale, or explore snorkeling adventures. The 24-hour front desk offers car rentals and complimentary parking.

Savor Thai and international cuisine at Mom Tri’s Kitchen, renowned for its wine selection. Veranda Bar offers drinks and live entertainment.

Just a 5-minute stroll from Kata Town, Villa Mom Tri’s Royale is a 45-minute drive from Phuket International Airport.

The Surin Phuket

Escape to The Surin Phuket for a tropical retreat on Pansea Beach’s pristine sands. Embrace cottage-style accommodations enveloped by coconut trees. Enjoy an outdoor pool, spa, and free non-motorized sports. Our elegant design integrates seamlessly with nature, connected by charming stairs and walkways.

Patong’s lively nightlife is a 30-minute drive away, while Phuket Town is a 40-minute drive.

Rooms boast spacious outdoor lounges with garden and beach vistas, plus satellite TV. Experience a range of water sports.

Watch the sun set over the Andaman Sea from our beach sundeck.

Dine on Thai, Western, and Asian delights at our outlets, including delectable barbecue and seafood specialties.

Useful Information

This sample itinerary was created by our travel experts as inspiration for your next trip. Ready for your customization. You pick to suit your budget, desires, and cultural experiences. The price of this trip will vary, depending on the number of people in your party, dates of departure, and the availability of ground services. Please click on REQUEST A FREE QUOTE (above) and give us the necessary information to enable us to send you a FREE personalized quote within 48 hours if not sooner!

Sightseeing Highlights

  • Immerse yourself in the finest of Thailand during a 12-day journey
  • Begin in vibrant Bangkok, a city renowned for its temples and delectable local cuisine.
  • Explore Damnoen Saduak, Thailand’s most famous and picturesque floating markets which offers a vibrant and unique cultural experience.
  • Wander through the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya, an archaeological marvel.
  • Uncover the treasures of Chiang Mai, where temples and tea plantations await.
  • Indulge in tropical paradise on the idyllic beaches of Phuket.
  • Set sail on a captivating full-day adventure, exploring the picturesque Phang Nga Bay Marine National Park.

Dining Experience

  • 11 hotel buffet breakfasts.
  • 6 lunches at well-selected restaurants
  • 1 street food tour


Travel Highlights

  • An educational trip covering many of Thailand’s popular icons
  • 100% tailor-made for your family’s needs and desires
  • Your own private guide and driver for in-depth cultural touring based on your interests
  • Firsthand, sophisticated destination knowledge and recommendations from our locally born travel specialists
  • A seamless travel experience, including all logistics, hand-picked hotels and restaurants, private airport transfers, internal transportation, and entry visa assistance…etc
  • Around-the-clock support from your travel designer and concierge before, during and after your trip


What’s Included?

Private English speaking guide, accommodation, private tours and transfer, domestic flights, A/C train, some main meals, all entrance fees, tax, and service charge.


What’s Not Included?

Your international flights from and to Thailand, personal expense, tips to guide and driver.

                           

Request A Free Quote

Free service. No credit card required

Reviews on Our Service

We are committed to giving our customers unforgettable experiences in Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia and beyond, not just something staged for tourists. Read reviews written by our customers about their experiences in Indochina after they have returned home. These include the ratings and comments on attractions, guides, activities, hotels and food.

Simply Perfect!

Simply perfect. We had an amazing three weeks (albeit busy and active – as we requested!) which included a perfectly curated itinerary in Vietnam and Thailand.
From the time I connected with Stella, I knew she’d be able to do exactly as I asked. As for the pre trip/planning portion, I had researched all we wanted to do within the two countries, gave her a budget and advised of the duration of our trip. She mapped all of the logistics: arranging private transportation, English speaking tour guides and enlisted us with specialty activities (some that we joined in with other small groups some of which we did alone). The initial itinerary was “massaged” a couple times to keep everything aligned (us making various decisions) and in line with our initial ideas. Stella ran with every suggestion made! We received a an incredibly detailed itinerary that just made us even more excited for our trip.

Once we arrived, Stella continued with excellent communication by providing us with very specific info communicated on what we could expect, (meeting places, time frame, what to bring for the day, etc). In fact, many people we ran into envied our personalized situation. She left all the guess work out of our trip and we were well prepared in every instance.

Everything was simply wonderful-and we experienced it with a local
flair. I only wish we had a company like this in all countries we want to visit. The experience made it so carefree and we were right at budget. We greatly appreciate all of Stella’s hard work on our behalf, and her company high class, top tier company, Asia Pioneer Travel!

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kdknny - Eagle, ID
Dec 4, 2024

Trip to Cambodia and Vietnam

We just finished an amazing 18-day trip to Cambodia and Vietnam. Winston Dinh was our travel designer. He went above and beyond his duty to make sure that we had a perfect trip. He was always available to respond to our request and/or questions. We could not ask for a better travel designer.
The only one thing we wish that our hotels in Da Nang and Hoi An would-be walking distance to the center of night light activities. Other than that, we were very happy with our hotel arrangement.
We already planned for your next trip in 2025. Winston will be the first person that we will contact to help us with our next trip. Thanks, Winston, for a job well done.

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Donald D - Huntington Beach, California
Dec 2, 2024

THE BEST OF THE BEST……WHAT MORE CAN YOU ASK FOR!

Chloe from Asia Pioneer travel prepared for my friends and I a wonderful trip to Vietnam and Cambodia. The planning of the itinerary was a lot of fun and we felt very much part of the process. Chloe and her team delivered everything as planned. guides, vehicles, hotels were first class and were delivered on time and as promised.
.

In Angkor Way my friend jumped off a small ledge and broke her heel. CHLOE, ASIA PIONEER AND OUR LOCAL GUIDE WENT INTO QUICK ACTION HAD HER IN VERY COMPETENT HANDS IN A MODERN HOSPITAL WITHIN MINUTES. SHE WAS WELL TREATED BUT SHE DID END UP IN A WHEELCHAIR FOR THE REST OF THE TRIP..

As they say in Vietnam every thing is possible SO CHLOE and her team went into action modified our itinerary and planned other activities compatible with a person in a wheelchair..

In the blink of an eye they made this all possible. . They ARE A WELL GROOMED MACHINE THANK YOU VERY MUCH CHLOE. for making this the trip into an unforgettable memory. I GIVE CHLOE THE HIGHEST RATING AND GIVE HER MY PERSONAL RECOMMENDATIONS AS TRAVEL PLANNER FOR VIETNAM AND CAMBODIA.

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richardgaron - Stanstead, Canada
Dec 2, 2024

An incredible Lifetime Adventure in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand – Experience Local Culture – Thank You Asian Pioneer

Special thanks to Lizzie Pham and the Asia Pioneer Travel Team for an incredible experience in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand in November 2024. They were always available from our original booking through our travels, and selected knowledgeable, professional, and friendly guides and drivers. My wife and I had the trip of a lifetime. My sister had made a similar trip, with Asia Pioneer, in February and strongly recommended them. We had considered a large tour group and realized, that for approximately the same price, we could have our own private tour. Our ability to be flexible was an advantage not available to large tour groups. Every day was well planned and full of sights and activities. What made this trip extra special was our experience with the local culture which was an important goal. We will always remember taking a Vespa tour through Hanoi learning about the local religion, tasting fruit in the market, and fully appreciating the significance of the tea culture. Biking around a small island on the Mekong Delta, being rowed in the small waterways, making candy with a local family, and catching our own fish to eat for dinner was a highlight. Exploring a local Cambodian floating village and sipping coconut milk while on a floating restaurant (with caged crocodiles) just added to the adventure. Taking a tuk-tuk around Bangkok walking through the Flower market and watching them make Pad-Thai (my favorite) and eating it was yet another “WOW”. The nighttime was yours and with local car or tuk-tuk service being inexpensive we were able to have drinks, on the rooftop, at the famous Caravelle Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City, enjoy Hanoi street food, Pub Street and the Phare Circus in Siem Reap, and eat incredible street food in Bangkok. We are so glad that we had the Asia Pioneer TravelTeam manage this remarkable journey.

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jackandlaurieb
JackandLaurieB -
Nov 30, 2024

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