Itinerary

DAY 1~FRIDAY~OCTOBER 26
SAN FRANCISCO/EN ROUTE
Your journey begins as you board your flight to Bangkok. (Meals Aloft)

DAY 2~SATURDAY~OCTOBER 27
BANGKOK
Your exciting Asian adventure begins today as you arrive in Bangkok where you will be welcomed by your Classic
Escapes specialist, and escorted to your hotel to freshen up before a brief orientation talk.
En route you will have your first taste of this frantic and steamy tropical city that offers
surprises at every turn. Gleaming skyscrapers, glittering temples, colorful street
markets, sophisticated shopping malls, bustling nightlife, and vibrancy reflect the
incredible economic growth of the last few years. A booming, modern capital, Bangkok
still manages to retain its unique Siamese heritage in the wonderful food, culture,
exotic architecture, Buddhist tolerance and Thai hospitality. The new "Skytrain," a
symbol of Bangkok's rapid development, provides not only a convenient way to get
around the main areas, but also some great views over a capital in constant change.
Montien Riverside Hotel welcomes guests to a tranquil oasis on Bangkok’s legendary
River of Kings, the Chao Phraya. This 27-story luxury hotel offers easy access to the
city's shopping and business areas. All 462 guest rooms and suites are beautifully
decorated and command panoramic views over the river. Facilities include six
restaurants and bars offering a taste of gracious Thai hospitality.
Overnight at the MONTIEN RIVERSIDE HOTEL. (Meals Aloft)

DAY
3~SUNDAY~OCTOBER 28
BANGKOK/GRAND PALACE/NAVY CLUB/ JIM
THOMPSON HOUSE
After a leisurely breakfast visit the Grand Palace.
Probably the most important center of Thai culture, the
Palace was once the royal abode, but today is used
mainly for ceremonial functions. Tourists are allowed
inside to see the Emerald Buddha, the displays of royal
artifacts and memorabilia, and wall decorations. Note:
You will need to wear long pants and shoes which cover the
heels to enter here. You must do this to pay respect to the
Thai people.
Lunch will be at the Royal Navy Club with local food
before continuing to the famed Jim Thompson house, a
work of art in itself and one of Bangkok’s landmarks.
Working first for the American CIA, Thompson became
an authority on an art, assembling a collection that attracted scholars from all over the world. He gained worldwide
recognition for his success in rebuilding the silk industry and for generating international demand for Thai silk.
Overnight at the MONTIEN RIVERSIDE HOTEL. (B,L)

DAY 4~MONDAY~OCTOBER 29
BANGKOK/COOKING CLASS
Your first cooking lesson in Thailand begins with a class at the
Blue Elephant cooking school where you’ll learn how to create a 4-
course Central Thai Cuisine. The lesson is conducted in English
and features a brief lecture, ingredient preparation, hands-on
cooking demonstration (yes, you’ll be participating!) and time for
questions and discussion.
After enjoying the fruits of your success for lunch, return to your
hotel where you spend the rest of the day exploring Bangkok at
your leisure.
Overnight at the MONTIEN RIVERSIDE HOTEL. (B,L)

DAY 5~TUESDAY~OCTOBER 30
FLOWER MARKET/CHINA TOWN ~MEKHALA RIVERBOAT
Get set to visit the fragrant and colorful Pak Khlong Talat Flower Market. Every day as the bite of the hot sun dissipates,
the roadside of Pak Khlong transforms into a kaleidoscope of color as
vendors from across the country meet to trade. The floral feast is truly
engaging for flower lovers. In addition to roses, daisies and
chrysanthemums are other more fascinating blooms unique to tropical
climates. Heliconias grow with copious numbers of different flowers and
the orchids spill magenta, tangerine and canary tresses of bright color on
to the street. Walk through Chinatown, a network of tight streets and
alleys lined with shops.
Lunch is at a local restaurant before transferring to the pier to board the
Mekhala Cruise. Enjoy the rest of the day cruising, Mekhala is a
collection of three restored rice barges that provide the setting for daily
journeys between Bangkok and Ayuthaya, retracing the paths of former
royal processions. Their journey is a fascinating insight into how life on
the river has changed over this time. The magic of this voyage is its
unhurried pace that
captures the subtle
colours and moods of
life on the river over a
24-hour period. A
couple of hours into the journey, the bustle of the city is replaced by
the tranquillity of the countryside. Along densely wooded river
banks, tin and timber homes nestle in the hyacinth-clogged shallows
housing families whose lives are still bound by the ancient waterway.
Just after the sunset, dock at Wat Kai Tia, a Thai temple set in a
tranquil rural village. An exquisite candlelit dinner of mouth-watering
Thai cuisine is served on the deck.
Your stateroom, one of four on each rice barge, is fully air-conditioned
with private facilities and deluxe amenities, beautifully furnished with
teak and rare woods, Thai fabrics, antiques, art and Oriental carpets.
Overnight aboard the MEKHALA RIVER BOAT. (B,L,D)

DAY 6~WEDNESDAY~OCTOBER 31
MEKHALA RIVERBOAT/AYUTTHAYA RUINS/KHAO YAI NATIONAL PARK
Disembark after breakfast in Bang Pa In and drive to Ayutthaya to explore the
ruins of the once magnificent capital of the Thais, praised by foreign emissaries as
the finest city they had ever seen. Surrounded by rivers and a canal, it flourished
under 33 Siamese kings from 1350 until the Burmese destroyed it in 1767. Visit the
notable temple remains of Phra Sri Sanphet, Chai Wattanaram and Yai Chai
Mongkol, the latter home to a large, white Buddha built by King Naresuan.
Continue to Khao Yai, Thailand's oldest and most revered national park.
Considered one of the best preserved national park tracts of evergreen forest in all
of Indochina, and noted for its larger forest birds and spanning four provinces,
Khao Yai National Park has a variety of terrains from deciduous forest to savannah
and houses some 3,000 species of plant. Wildlife in the park is as varied as its
terrain and it is home to more than 70 mammal species including elephants, white
handed gibbon, gaur, Asiatic black bear and wild dog, and a major bird population
– over 350 species – including a wide variety of hornbills. The entire area is crisscrossed
by hiking trails, ranging in length from one to five miles. There are also
many waterfalls, the tallest and most spectacular of which is Haew Narok at 260-ft.
This evening set out on a night safari in search of the resident wildlife.
Your beautiful home for the evening, Kirimaya, is nestled at the edge of the park and overlooks glorious evergreen hills
and grasslands. Some of the wonderful amenities on offer
include wellness spas, culinary adventures and the
exhilarating challenge of mastering an 18-hole championship
golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus.
Overnight at KIRIMAYA. (B,L)

DAY 7~THURSDAY~NOVEMBER 1
KHAO YAI NATIONAL PARK/WINERY TASTING /CHIANG
RAI
This morning embark on another safari drive in search of all
the wonderful species of animals that call this area home. The
beautifully forested hills, rivers and waterfalls will offer
wonderful photographic opportunities as well.
Continue on to Gran Monte Winery, where you’ll have the
chance to meet the Winemaker, Ms. Nikki, who loves to share
her knowledge and passion about wine. On an exclusive tour,
you’ll learn the various processes she uses in creating her
wines and have ample time for Q&A. Enjoy a late Italian lunch and tasting with Nikki before heading to Bangkok and
boarding your flight to Chiang Rai, where you will be escorted to your hotel.
The Legend Chiang Rai is situated on the banks of the Mae Kok River, away from the city yet within walking distance of
the city center. The quiet surroundings and the large area of the resort make the Legend a great retreat to relax enjoying
the views of the river and surrounding mountains. Each villa offers a space of privacy and the spa lets you indulge in
heavenly Asian health treatments. Emphasis is given to the landscape, which is a combination of small "klongs" and
ponds together with trees and colorful tropical flowers and plants. In the evening, lighting which enhances the natural
beauty of the development. The Legend Chiang Rai has fully features modern rooms decorated in Northern Thai style.
The rooms are equipped with all modern amenities.
Overnight at THE LEGEND CHIANG RAI RESORT (B,L)

DAY 8~FRIDAY~NOVEMBER 2
CHIANG RAI/PDA & HILL TRIBE MUSEUM/AKHA
VILLAGE/GOLDEN TRIANGLE
This morning visit the Hill Tribe Museum for a briefing from the head of
the Population and Community Development Association on the various
hill tribes in the region. You will then continue to Baan Lorcha and visit
one of the villages. Learn about the women wearing the famous brass
rings around their necks at the Karen Long Neck Village, or the elaborate,
colorful dresses of the Lisu at Ban Bangjars or visit the only Hill Tribe to
have a written language, the Yao at Ban Pong Takham. For many visitors
to Thailand, visits to these small mountain villages surrounded by great
natural beauty in the north of the country remain one of their most
unforgettable experiences.
Originating in different parts of Southeast Asia, mostly southern China,
and resisting persecution by other cultures, the villagers have migrated
into Thailand in a quest for freedom and security. There are six large
minority ethnic groups in the north of Thailand, and several smaller ones.
Each tribe has its own unique characteristics and identity expressed
through distinctive costumes, ornaments, musical instruments, weaving
products, weapons, and location of the village. The two most prominent hill tribes are the Lisu and Akha.
The Akha people are famous for their very exotic and beautiful costumes, and can be seen in many towns in northern
Thailand selling their unique handicrafts. They are not known for their shyness,
and one can easily find oneself engaged in an animated bargaining session with
these gregarious salespeople. Lunch will be at a local restaurant.
Next stop is the infamous Golden Triangle, known for centuries as the center of the
opium trade. Here, the illicit crops have long since been replaced by the small
tourist village of Sob Ruak and the only opium found is in the Golden Triangle
museums. Enjoy a scenic boat ride along the Mekong to the provincial riverside
town of Chiang Saen. Return to Chiang Rai in the evening.
Overnight at THE LEGEND CHIANG RAI RESORT. (B,L)

DAY 9~SATURDAY~NOVEMBER 3
CHIANG RAI/”LANA COOKING”/HERBAL
MEDICINE/REFORESTATION PROJECT /CHIANG MAI
You now begin your drive to Chiang Mai. En route, visit Phrao and
the lovely wooden house where you will learn to create a “Lanna”
Northern Thai 4-course meal. The lesson is conducted in English and
features a brief lecture, ingredient preparation, hands-on cooking
demonstration and time for questions and discussion. After enjoying
the fruits of your labor, ride pushbikes to a nearby village to meet a
local elder and learn how herbs have been used for centuries in
medicine and holistic healing.

Next stop is at the Himmapaan Re-Forestation Foundation who works to encourage collaboration among local
communities, associate partners, organizations and specialists in the field to find the best possible sustainable solutions
for areas affected by tourism.
De Naga hotel is a new luxury boutique hotel designed in Northern Thai style, conveniently located next to Tha Pae Gate
in the old city where shopping and cultural attractions are within walking distance. De Naga’s low-rise architectural style
is distinctly Northern Thai or “Lanna” style, with a resort feel, and features a view of the imposing Doi Suthep Mountain
Temple. As you enter De Naga through the lobby, past the open areas, the mood gently evolves from traditional Lanna
feel to a pleasant, but more contemporary style with touches of typical Chiang Mai. Each of the 55 rooms is grouped
around the courtyard swimming pool and is air conditioned with en suite bathrooms.
Overnight at the DE NAGA HOTEL. (B,L)

DAY 10~SUNDAY~NOVEMBER 4
CHIANG MAI~ALMS GIVING/DOI SUTHEP/ELEPHANT CAMP & BAMBOO RAFT
No trip to Chiang Mai would be complete without visiting Wat Phra Thart Doi
Suthep; the spectacular Buddhist temple that can be seen, from wherever you happen
to be in the city, clinging to the mountainside near the summit of Doi Suthep Hill. This
hill has been seen as a holy place for more than twelve hundred years. The original
inhabitants, the Lua, believed that the souls of their ancestors resided on the hilltop.
When Buddhism was embraced by the Siamese people, the hill became the epicenter
of the universe, and the centre of Buddhism in Lanna. The temple was built in the late
14th century under King Geu Na, and
attracts many pilgrims and tourists, both
local and international, throughout the
year. Learn from your guide how local
people ‘make merit’ by offering flowers
and burning incense, and how to correctly give offerings to Buddhist Monks.
Return to your hotel for breakfast, before heading off to an elephant
conservation camp to learn about these magnificent creatures. Take a ride on
elephant-back; then prepare to get wet! Ride a bamboo raft down a jungle
river. Return to Chiang Mai after lunch, and spend the rest of the day
exploring on your own – known for its eclectic cultures, scenic beauty and
historic architecture, the city of Chiang Mai has more than 100 temples and
other attractions, and the shopping is superb.
Overnight at the DE NAGA HOTEL. (B,L)

DAY 11~MONDAY~NOVEMBER 5
CHIANG MAI/COOKING NORTH THAI
This morning you will be taken to visit the local market to learn about the
different vegetables, herbs, roots and spices being sold, so you can actually
see what these raw products look like before they are cooked. Return to
your cooking school to help prepare and devour a four-course lunch, using
some of the ingredients found during your market trip. In the afternoon,
learn to create and enjoy two traditional Thai desserts. Late afternoon visit
to the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar where you can hone up on your
bargaining skills and get a glimpse of local culture. The Night Bazaar is a
shopping haven where one can find handmade products and souvenirs from many Chiang Mai villages and hill tribes.
Overnight at the DE NAGA HOTEL. (B,L)

DAY 12~TUESDAY~NOVEMBER 6
CHIANG MAI/BANGKOK
You have some leisure time to explore more of Chiang Mai or just relax at your hotel before boarding your flight to
Bangkok, where you’re transferred to your hotel near the airport. Spend the rest of the evening at leisure.
Overnight at the NOVOTEL SUVARNABHUMI. (B)
DAY 13~WEDNESDAY~NOVEMBER 7
BANGKOK/SAN FRANCISCO
Early this morning, return to the airport for your United Airlines flight to the USA, arriving with incredible memories of
wonderful ancient ruins and incredible people. (Meals Aloft)

4-DAY OPTIONAL POST-EXTENSION TO SIEM REAP AND ANGKOR WAT
DAY 12~TUESDAY~NOVEMBER 6
CHIANG MAI/BANGKOK/SIEM REAP
You have some leisure time to explore more of Chiang Mai or just relax at your hotel before boarding your flight to Siem
Reap, via Bangkok, where you embark on a new adventure. Upon arrival you will be met and escorted to your small
boutique hotel.
Your home for the next three nights offers unrivaled comfort and authentic rustic charm. The verdant gardens flanking
Angkor Village are immediately striking. Beautiful shades of lush greens in pleasing stands are punctuated with clusters
of crimson ginger flowers, white lilies and clutches of
orchids. Large trees front the cottage style room
pavilions screen balconies and terraces, cocooning rooms
in a lush, hushed privacy. In the early morning and
evenings the chorus of frogs and geckos is proof of the
thriving environment. When the birdsong starts with the
sunrise within the jungle-picturesque gardens, it is hard
not to feel perfectly relaxed and miles from an urban
lifestyle. The staff is very welcoming. The pool is small
but picturesque in a lush courtyard at the rear. The
Auberge de Temples Restaurant is on a small island in
the central pond and serves fine French and Khmer
cuisines. The hotel's Apsara Theater Restaurant, just
outside the gate, has Khmer-style banquet dining and
performances of Khmer Apsara dancing nightly. Rooms
are rustic with high bamboo ceilings, wood beams, builtin
cabinetry, comfortable beds, and decorative touches like traditional Khmer shadow puppets and statuary. The central
lobby is a series of platforms and private sitting areas, a good place to rest after a day at the temples. The restaurant offers
refined Indochinese cuisine to tempt your palate.
Overnight at ANGKOR VILLAGE RESORT. (B)

DAY 13~WEDNESDAY~NOVEMBER 7
SIEM REAP/ANGKOR THOM & ANGKOR WAT
This morning, begin your exploration of the Angkor complex with the
magnificent and monumental Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Khmers,
surrounded by a quadrangle of defensive walls totaling over seven miles.
Awaiting within, you will find the stunning Bayon temple – a 12th century
masterpiece with over 200 bas-relief ‘faces’ peering out from its walls. The
afternoon is filled with the sights and sounds of the temples of Thommanon,
Chao Say Tevoda and Ta Keo. See how the roots of the giant fig and kapok
trees have spread like tentacles throughout the 12th century Ta Prohm
temple, which has been left largely in its natural state since its “re-discovery”
by French explorers.
This afternoon, visit Angkor Wat, the largest temple in the world conceived
by Suryavarman II and generally believed to have been his funeral temple.
The temple is the epitome of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It
has become a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on its national flag, and it is
the country's prime attraction for visitors. Angkor Wat combines two basic plans of Khmer temple architecture: the
temple mountain and the later galleried temples. It is designed to represent Mount Meru, home of the gods in Hindu
mythology. Within a moat and an outer wall 2.2 miles
long are three rectangular galleries, each raised above the
next. At the center of the temple stands a quincunx of
towers. Unlike most Angkorian temples, Angkor Wat is
orientated to the west; scholars are divided as to the
significance of this. As well as for the grandeur and
harmony of the architecture, the temple is admired for its
extensive bas-reliefs and for the numerous devas adorning
its walls.Since the decline of the Khmer Watch the exotic
colors of the sun set over its galleries this evening.
Overnight at ANGKOR VILLAGE RESORT. (B,L)

DAY 14~THURSDAY~NOVEMBER 8
SIEM REAP/TONLE SAP LAKE/FLOATING VILLAGE/LES
ARTISAN D’ANGKOR
After breakfast, board a small shaded boat to traverse the
largest fresh water lake in South East Asia, Tonle Sap
Lake. Navigate between floating homes and small fish
farms to experience a centuries-old way of life and culture.
Return to Siem Reap and visit a development project that teaches young adults stone and wood carving skills, as well as
lacquer application. Les Artisans d' Angkor is a heartwarming reminder that progress in Cambodia can go hand in hand
with traditional crafts.
Overnights at ANGKOR VILLAGE RESORT. (B,L)

DAY 15~FRIDAY~NOVEMBER 9
SIEM REAP/BANGKOK
Spend the day exploring Siem Reap town where you will have some time at
leisure

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