Private Tour Highlights
- Be guided through glamorous streets and temples of Thailand
- Drive to Wat Pho in time to experience the monks' morning chanting ritual
- While at of the oldest and most extensive temples in Bangkok, see the famous Reclining Buddha
- Visit the Grand Palace, the most important and spectacular royal palace in Thailand
- See the largest teakwood mansion in the world, Teakwood Palace
- Shop the vibrant floating market with numerous small boats laden with colorful produce
- Enjoy an excellent buffet lunch at the picturesque Samphran Riverside
- Thai cultural performances, including the colorful Buddhist ordination procession
- Cruise the Chao Phrya River, a magnificent waterway and one of the great rivers in Asia
- Enjoy a delicious Thai dinner and watch the panorama change to reveal fantastic treasures
- Visit the modern King Rama VIII Bridge aboard The Manohra Luxury Cruise
- Admire the intricate Wat Rong Khun, much different from any other temple in Thailand
- Venture to the Hall of Opium to learn about the history of opium use in the area
- Take a long tailed boat ride to Phatai, passing bamboo huts and jungle scenery
- Enjoy a Khantoke dinner, guests are seated on cushions at a low table with northern Thai cuisine
Tour Overview
Highlighting the sites in and around Bangkok, this Golden Triangle tour also explores the hill tribes of Chiang Rai, the ancient Lanna capital of Chiang Mai and the tropical island of Koh Samui. Let Yampu guide you through central, northern and southern Thailand. You will visit local markets, enjoy fresh Thai cuisine, view extravagant palaces and temples, enjoy an exotic elephant trek, catch a sneak peak into rural lifestyles and relax on one of the country’s most exotic islands.
Bangkok, meaning “city of angels”, the capital of Thailand, was established over 200 years ago and has proved irresistibly intriguing to traders and travelers ever since. Many visitors have made this city of contrasts their permanent and beloved home, transforming the city into a multicultural hub. Suiting all tastes and lifestyles, fast paced Bangkok rarely sleeps, yet houses many enticing nooks and crannies from yesteryear.
Chiang Rai is often referred to as the gateway to the Golden Triangle, the point at which the borders of Myanmar, Laos and Thailand meet along the Mekong River. Once home to the famed Emerald Buddha that now resides in Bangkok, Wat Pra Keow remains the city’s most esteemed Buddhist temple. The city itself is situated in a valley surrounded by mountains that are home to many villages of varying ethnic minorities, called the “hill tribes.” An excursion to one of these villages introduces visitors to their rural lifestyles.
Popularly known as the “Rose of the North,” Chang Mai is blessed with stunning natural beauty and a unique indigenous culture. While here, you will find yourself exploring old temples, colorful markets and mountain top temples, such as the elegant Wat Prah That Doi Suthep. As you will see for yourself on an exhilarating elephant trek, the area is situated in a scenic valley, surrounded by orchards, green mountains and jungles which remain verdant with plentiful flora and fauna.
Located in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui hosts an impressive array of beautiful beaches. A large portion of the island remains covered with coconut plantations, creating a truly tropical paradise. Samui is surrounded by about sixty other islands, which compose the Ang Thong Marine National Park and include other top destinations, such as Ko Phangan, Ko Tao and Ko Nang Yuan, making it a great base for further explorations in the Gulf of Thailand.
Inclusions
One way domestic flights from Bangkok to Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai to Koh Samui and Koh Samui to Bangkok, Accommodations with daily breakfast, All private transfers and activities by air-conditioned car, An English speaking guide to escort all transfers and tours, All entrance fees and activities as mentioned, Meals where specified (food only) Government tax and services charge
Koh Samui Excursions;
*Speedboat Tour of Ang Thong National Marine Park
Take a speedboat from the pier to the breathtaking 42-island archipelago of Ang Thong National Marine Park. These pristine islands are magical and exude tranquility and natural beauty. Admire the colorful schools of tropical fish as you snorkel around shimmering coral and then continue with a walk to the beautiful Emerald Lake for spectacular views of the surrounding area. Afterwards, enjoy a tasty set Thai lunch at the fisherman village of Koh Phra Ruay and take some time to relax on Song Pee Nong Beach or go kayaking. Then board the speedboat for your return to Koh Samui and transfer back to your hotel.
*Coral Island Tour
Transfer to Thong Krut Village for a 20-minute boat ride to Coral Island. Coral Island is a primitive island without roads or cars. It is home to a small pristine village and beautiful white sandy beaches, and it is surrounded by coral reefs. Swim 20 meters off-shore to enjoy snorkeling, take a nap on the beach, or enjoy sunbathing. Afterwards, cruise to Koh Mudsum where you will have free time to swim and snorkel. Enjoy lunch at a restaurant on the beach before transferring back to your hotel in Koh Samui late this afternoon.
*Koh Phangan Tour
Transfer to Bangrak Pier and enjoy a light breakfast before taking a speedboat to Koh Phangan, an island famous for its full moon parties. Koh Phangan also has several natural attractions including waterfalls and many nice sandy beaches. Upon arrival, you will be picked up by a local songthaew (pick-up truck) for a sightseeing tour. Visit several interesting local sites including the Chinese Temple, elephant camps, and a local fisherman village. Then continue to Koh Mah, a small, spectacular island with fascinating coral reefs. Enjoy snorkeling or swimming here, followed by lunch at a local restaurant on the beach. After lunch, visit Kao Thum Temple and Haad Rin Beach, the location of the full moon party. Afterwards, return to Koh Samui and transfer back to your hotel late this afternoon.
Notes:
* For Day 3, it is recommended that for religious reasons, ladies have their shoulders covered and do not wear shorts or very short skirts. No sleeveless top and the sleeve have to be part of the top. Gentlemen should wear trousers and short sleeved shirts. Shoes must be removed before entering the Emerald Buddha Temple. Full length trousers and pants are required.
* Additional supplements may apply between 19 December – 7 January with a set minimum of consecutive nights required for bookings between 23 – 5 January. Special conditions apply between 30 December – 2 January.
* Additional supplements may apply during the weeks immediately preceding and following the Lunar (Chinese) New Year. The dates vary each year, but fall sometime between January 21st and February 20th:
2016 – Monday, February 8th
2017 – Saturday, January 28th
2018 – Friday, February 16th
* Guests staying over the night of 31 December are subject to a compulsory Gala Danner at an additional cost.
Package Price: From £$ 6645
Prices shown above are per person. Hotel categories do not adhere strictly to international ratings; Yampu has evaluated the hotels according to destination and availability. Prices include local airfare (where applicable), hotel accommodation including daily breakfast; all transfers with baggage handling, all guided tours in English and all entrance fees.
Please note that prices are subject to change based on availability and seasonality, especially during the holiday season from December 20th through January 5th each year. Please contact a Yampu Travel Specialist for more information on best times to travel.
Trip Type:
All our trips are operated on a private basis unless specified otherwise. This is only a sample itinerary; your Yampu Tour Consultant will personalize this trip for you according to your available dates, interests and type of hotels. This is your trip and we will work on making it perfect!
Tour Itinerary
International Flight to Bangkok
Overnight international flight to Bangkok.
Overnight international flight to Bangkok.
Arrival in Bangkok
Upon arrival in Bangkok, airport reception and transfer to the hotel. Depending on the arrival time, spend the remainder of the day at leisure.
Upon arrival in Bangkok, airport reception and transfer to the hotel. Depending on the arrival time, spend the remainder of the day at leisure.
Exploring Wat Pho
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After breakfast, drive to Wat Pho in time to experience the monks' morning chanting ritual. One of the oldest and most extensive temples in Bangkok, Wat Pho is home to the famous 45m Reclining Buddha. It is also the original school of traditional Thai massage. Next, visit the Grand Palace, the most important and spectacular royal palace in Thailand. The palace is an architectural wonder of golden stupas, walls and pillars encrusted in shining and colorful mosaics. Previously the residence of the Kings of Thailand, there are multiple palaces within the complex which were used for different occasions; including the beautiful Wat Phra Kaew, which houses the most revered Buddha image in Thailand: The Emerald Buddha. Continue with a walk to the public ferry pier for a short boat ride to Wat Arun, once the grand royal temple to King Rama II. After exploring, eat lunch (not included).
Proceed with a visit to Vimanmek Mansion, the largest teakwood mansion in the world. Also referred to as Teakwood Palace, it was built in 1900 by King Rama V as part of the Dusit Palace Complex. In 1982, Queen Sirikit was granted permission from King Rama IX to renovate the building for use as a museum. Today, the museum holds an impressive collection of photographs, personal art, and handicrafts that were all personally collected by King Rama V.
Continue with a visit to the Thai-style house of Jim Thompson, the legendary American businessman who came to Thailand at the end of World War II and rediscovered the Thai silk industry. His house is now a museum filled with fascinating Asian antiques and historical memorabilia. It consists of six separate Thai teakwood houses from the Ayutthaya period put together as one. Jim Thompson's mysterious disappearance in the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia remains a mystery to this day. After the tour, return to the hotel for the evening.
Note: Wat Arun Temple is under renovation so travelers will be able to walk around the temple, but will not be able to climb up the stupa. Ladies should wear a short-sleeved shirt with pants or a knee-length skirt and gentlemen should wear pants and a short-sleeved shirt for religious reasons. Sandals and flip flops are not allowed. If the trip starts on a Saturday, the Vimanmek Mansion part of the tour will be replaced with a tour of Suan Pakkad Palace Museum.
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Journey to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
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Depart early morning for the 2-hour drive to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. This vibrant market features numerous small boats laden with colorful fruits and vegetables, paddled by Thai women wearing bamboo hats. For the best experience of the market atmosphere, board a rowing boat and make way through the small canals to buy fresh produce from the vendors. This is the only place to see the traditional way of selling and buying goods in Thailand.
Afterwards, visit the Nakorn Pathom; the site of the highest Chedi in Thailand called "Phra Pathom Chedi", which is the largest pagoda in Southeast Asia. Enjoy an excellent buffet lunch at the picturesque Samphran Riverside. After lunch, there will be Thai cultural performances, including the colorful Buddhist ordination procession, an elegant fingernail dance, a Thai boxing demonstration, Hill Tribe dance performances, sword fighting, elephants, charming folk dances, a traditional Thai wedding ceremony and more.
This evening, be picked up from the hotel and transferred to Manohra Pier (or Saphan Taksin Pier), where travelers will board a boat for an evening cruise. Learn more about Bangkok and the Chao Phrya River, a truly magnificent waterway and one of the great rivers in Asia. The river has been a principal factor in the development of Thai heritage, culture, and economy, and is considered the nation's life and soul.
Cruise down the Chao Phrya River, enjoy a delicious Thai dinner and watch the panorama change to reveal fantastic treasures from the country's rich past, as well as fascinating modern architectural creations. The Manohra Luxury Cruise will take travelers to the King Rama VIII Bridge, where the boat will turn around and head back to the pier. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel.
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Bangkok – Chiang Rai
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Transfer to the airport for a flight to Chiang Rai. Upon arrival, airport reception and transfer to the hotel. After check-in, enjoy an afternoon tour of the city. Founded in 1262AD, Thailand's most northern city boasts a fascinating architectural history with a mix of Thai and Burmese styles. Begin this tour by visiting the ancient temple of Wat Phra Kaew, original home of the Emerald Buddha which is now housed in Bangkok.
Continue with a visit to Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong to observe its large gold stupa and Wat Rong Khun, which is different from any other temple in Thailand. In contrast to the ancient temples, this temple was built in 1997 and was designed using white glass. Return to the hotel after the tour.
Note: Wat Rong Khun is under construction, so visitors can view the outside only. Ladies should wear a short-sleeved top with pants or a knee-length skirt and gentlemen should wear pants and a short-sleeved shirt for religious reasons. Sandals and flip flops are not allowed.
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Hill tribes cultural immersion
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Start the day by visiting traditional Akha and Yao hill tribe villages. The Akha originated in Tibet, while the Yao originated in China. The Yao are heavily influenced by Chinese traditions and still use Chinese characters to write their language. Although different in many ways, they have managed to live peacefully alongside each other for decades.
Continue to Chiang Saen, a small crossroads town on the banks of the Mekong. Scattered throughout the town are the ruins of the Chiang Saen Kingdom, founded in 1325 AD, including chedis, images of Buddha, and earthen city ramparts. From there, go to Mae Sai, the northernmost point of Thailand, and one of the very few official land crossing points between Thailand and Burma. Many Burmese come over during the day from Thakhilek to work or do business and return home before sunset. Lacquer ware, gems, jade and other goods from Laos and Burma are sold in shops along the main street. Enjoy lunch here and then return to Chiang Rai in the late afternoon.
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Golden Triangle Tour
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Venture to the Hall of Opium to learn about the history of opium use in the Golden Triangle area. The Golden Triangle used to be infamous as one of the largest producers of opium in the world, and various Thai organizations led by the Royal Project and Doi Tung Development Project have spent decades battling this trade.
As part of this campaign, the Hall of Opium was built to educate people about the dangers of the drug through an entertaining exhibition which traces the first use of opium 5,000 years ago to current issues of drug abuse and addiction. Many publications regard this as one of the best museums in Thailand. After the tour, enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.
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Boat ride to Phatai
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This morning, take a long tailed boat for an approximately 3 hour ride to Phatai. On the way, pass bamboo huts and jungle scenery, and stop to visit a Karen hill tribe village built along the banks of the Maekok River. Upon arrival in Phatai, drive through Thaton to Chiang Mai and check in to the hotel. Lunch at a local restaurant is included.
This evening, enjoy a Khantoke dinner. The first Khantoke dinner was held in 1953, when local politician Kraisi Nimanhemin invited honored guests to sit with him and enjoy this special dinner. Dinner is served in small bowls ("Khan") and guests are seated on cushions at a low table ("Thoke"). Northern Thai cuisine is served and during dinner, entertainment is provided by beautiful dancers who perform the Forn Leb, known as the finger dance; Forn Thien, known as the candle dance; Ramwong, referred to as the circle dance; and the Ram Dab, known as the sword dance. After finishing dinner, there will be an option to see an additional hill tribe show from various members of Yao, Lahu, Meo, Lisu, and Karen tribes.
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Visit to Wat Suan Dok
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Start this morning with a visit to a food and flower market and then continue to Wat Suan Dok, where the ashes of former kings of Chiang Mai and the Royal Family are kept. From there, proceed with a visit to Wat Phrathat on Doi Suthep Mountain, which was founded in 1383 AD. In 1935, a road was built to the top, but today people climb the 309 steps from the car park to the top or take a tram for a small surcharge. From the top, enjoy a superb panoramic view of the city. After exploring, return to the car park for a transfer back to Chiang Mai to take a 20-minute rickshaw ride through the quiet streets of the old town.
Enjoy lunch (not included), and then visit the historic, laidback town of Lamphun, an important site for arts in Thailand. Continue to Wieng Kum Kam, an ancient city that was built by King Mengrai in the 14th century and rediscovered by archaeologists in 1984. The ancient capital was frequently flooded and eventually abandoned and forgotten. Explore the royal temple of Wat Kanthom (Wat Changkam), the shrine of King Mengrai, and Wat Hao Nong, a temple which is still home to the remains of the old-style temple entrance. Then head to Wat Pu Pia and Wat E-Kang, which were also recently discovered during archaeological excavations. Finally, visit Wat Chedee Liam, an important landmark in the architectural heritage of Chiang Mai.
Note: Ladies should wear a short-sleeved shirt with pants or a knee-length skirt and gentlemen should wear pants and a short-sleeved shirt for religious reasons. Sandals and flip flops are not allowed.
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Elephant Jungle Safari
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This morning, transfer approximately 1.5 hours through scenic agricultural areas, hills, and forest to the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary. On arrival, receive an introduction on the elephants and then change into traditional Karen clothing. After being allocated bananas and sugar cane to feed to the elephants, walk through the Sanctuary, where one will find free-roaming elephants and hear their individual stories. Visitors can touch, feed, photograph, and interact with the elephants at leisure while learning about their lifestyle and behaviors. After meeting all of the elephants, accompany them to a nearby mud spa. Get muddy with the elephants while applying a healthy cosmetic mud treatment to their skin. Next, walk them to a nearby river and join them in the water for a refreshing bath. Take a swim and help bathe and brush the elephants while they wade through and play in the water. Once the elephants are clean, take some final photos with them, and then it will be time to part ways and change into some dry clothes. Eat some snacks and seasonal fresh fruit, before leaving. ...read less
Journey to Doi Suthep
Rise very early and drive to Doi Suthep to see dozens of monks head down the mountain to the city of Chiang Mai to receive alms from the locals. This is their daily routine, and Yampu Travelers will be able to participate. Stop at a local market to purchase goods, and offer them when the monks pass by.
Afterwards, transfer to the airport for a flight to Koh Samui. Upon arrival, airport reception and transfer to the hotel. Afterwards, feel free to enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.
Rise very early and drive to Doi Suthep to see dozens of monks head down the mountain to the city of Chiang Mai to receive alms from the locals. This is their daily routine, and Yampu Travelers will be able to participate. Stop at a local market to purchase goods, and offer them when the monks pass by.
Afterwards, transfer to the airport for a flight to Koh Samui. Upon arrival, airport reception and transfer to the hotel. Afterwards, feel free to enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.
Ladd Koh View Point with views of Chaweng Beach
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Start today's tour with a visit to Ladd Koh View Point for a panoramic view of the famous Chaweng Beach. Its powdery white sand contrasts with the clear blue sea to create incredible scenery. Next, stop at a the famous Hin Ta and Hin Yai rock formations, or "Grandpa and Grandma Rocks". Continue to Wat Kunaram to pay respects to the mummified body of Luang Por Daeng, a sacrosanct monk who died more than 30 years ago in a sitting position of meditation. His body remains in the same position today and shows few signs of any major decay.
Then head to Na Muang Waterfall, which features a truly spectacular set of two cascades. The smaller waterfall drops 18m and is ideal for swimming. It is also accessible by car, while the larger waterfall drops 80m and requires a 20-minute walk up a hill. Proceed from there to visit "Big Buddha," a 12-meter high statue of Buddha that is located on a hilltop with beautiful views. Enjoy a set Thai lunch at local restaurant and continue to Nathon, the capital of Koh Samui, for some shopping. Return to the hotel late in the afternoon.
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Koh Samui – Koh Tao
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Depart from Koh Samui today for a small, lesser developed island with a rich jungle in the center, and beautifully tranquil surroundings. Koh Tao's setting offers amazing opportunities for relaxation on its white sandy beaches, as well as superb snorkeling and diving in crystal-clear, warm waters. Shallow reefs are just a stone's throw from the island and they feature corals of all colors, shapes, and sizes with hundreds of varieties of reef fish. After snorkeling, enjoy lunch at a restaurant on Koh Nang Yuan and then relax and take in the atmosphere. Return to the pier in Koh Samui in the late afternoon and transfer to the hotel.
Note: If one would prefer to do the Coral Island Tour, Speedboat Tour of Ang Thong, or Koh Phangan Tour instead of the Catamaran Tour of Koh Tao & Koh Nang Yuan, please contact a Yampu Travel Consultant.
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International Flight Home via Bangkok
Depending on the departure time, enjoy the morning at leisure before transferring to the airport for connection to Bangkok and flight home or continue with the Yampu Tours add-on of choice.
Depending on the departure time, enjoy the morning at leisure before transferring to the airport for connection to Bangkok and flight home or continue with the Yampu Tours add-on of choice.
Bangkok Thailand
Chiang Rai Thailand
Chiang Mai Thailand
Ko Samui Surat Thani Thailand
Places You'll See
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Bangkok
Dubbed the “World’s Best City” by Travel + Leisure, Bangkok is home to a plethora of attractions, and activities. Enjoy a variety of shopping and dining experiences, or the city’s bustling night life. Or immerse yourself in the city’s rich culture by visiting the Grand Palace, any of the several Buddhist temples, or the Bangkok National Museum.
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Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai, meaning “New City”, is overflowing with sites to see and activities to partake in. Visit the Chiang Mai Zoo, the oldest Zoo in Northern Thailand, or spend time shopping and haggling in the city’s night bazaar. For those feeling more ambitious, climb the 300 plus stairs up the slopes of Doi Suthep, to Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep Buddhist temple. There is also a cable car offered.
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Chiang Rai
Established during the reign of King Mangrai, Chiang Rai is a beautifully historic city in northern Thailand. Visit the many temples, churches and museums, such as the Baan dam Museum, or the Presbyterian Chiang Rai First Church. Take a hike in Lion Hill, a natural cavern and site of a Buddha Cave. Or watch local performers, and buy merchandise at the night bazaar.
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Koh Samui
The beautiful island of Koh Samui offers exciting sightseeing opportunities for people of all interests. See the mummified monk on display at the Wat Khunaram Ko Samui Temple. Visit the Samui Aquarium and Tiger Zoo Ko Samui to see a variety of animals. Spend some quiet time in the Secret Buddha Garden and enjoy the views from the high vantage point, or do some swimming at one of the many beaches.
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Testimonials
Emily K.
Traveled January, 2015
I had such a great time with Yampu
I had such a great time with Yampu, and I would love to travel with them again. My boyfriend and I booked a customized private tour to Thailand (Bangkok and Chiang Mai), Laos (Luang Prabang), Cambodia (Siem Reap and Phnom Penh), and Vietnam (Saigon, Hanoi, and Halong Bay.) We both enjoyed every minute of the trip. The guides were all friendly and knowledgeable, the drivers were always punctual, the accommodations were lovely, and the food was delicious. I would highly recommend Yampu to anyone who wants to have a good time on their vacation.
Traveled To
Pamela
Traveled August, 2014
I will definitely think of Yampu when I plan my next vacation.
I will definitely think of Yampu when I plan my next vacation. The English speaking guides in Thailand were excellent. Our entire trip was flawless and we will always remember this vacation
Traveled To
Debbie
Traveled February, 2014
I will always remember this trip
We have had opportunities to review our photos and share stories with family and friends, I will always remember this trip! Bangkok hotel and tour guide was fabulous. As soon as we got to the hotel they upgraded all of us to unbelievably fantastic rooms! Our guide met us at the airport and between her and the driver all went so smoothly. Due to the protest and closed streets, our guide helped us around the city using public transportation (upon our request), so no sight was unseen. The guide treated us as friends, sharing the local market place food and making sure we were safe at all times. Chiang Mai was great. Our hotel was in a perfect location. The hotel staff, food, and our guide were excellent.In Siem Reap, the hotel and surprise birthday celebration was fantastic, great location and fantastic staff! The guide and driver were kind, knowledgeable, accommodating and very flexible! Magical is a good word for Koh Samui. The hotel was perfect and would highly recommend it. I saw a few children, but not a place I would suggest for family with young kids. I must say that our guide showed us incredible places on the island that were not on the planned itinerary and that was beautiful. This guide had such a love for Koh Samui, which was a big plus! This guide saw we loved nature and added some unique experiences for us, like climbing a fantastic waterfall. In most of the locations the included lunches were not very good and in some cases bad. Maybe people should be given a chance on tour packages to upgrade to more of a local experience not a place all the tour buses go to. The first meal in Cambodia was fine but it went downhill fast from that one.I am so grateful for the chance to get check one place off my bucket list, Angkor Wat. Seeing Angkor Wat at sunrise completed one of my dreams.
Traveled To