
In
Bangkok, traveling on long-tail boats and bicycle rickshaws, we discover
famous Buddhas, ancient temples, bustling markets filled with spicy food and
the incredible Grand Palace.
After an overnight sleeper train to Chiang Mai, we enjoy a Thai cooking
class. To work up an appetite for more good food we ride bikes to a nearby
village where we teach English to local children and enjoy their music and
games.
In the lush, forested mountains of the north we trek, ride atop elephants
and float on bamboo rafts to the heart of ancient Thailand. This
once-in-a-lifetime adventure allows us to meet local hill tribes and
experience an ancient way of life. We travel between tribes during the day
and spend the evenings immersed in their culture in traditional huts.
We fly south to Thailand's famous white sand beaches, tropical blue waters
and sunshine. To experience the islands, we sea kayak, snorkel, explore sea
caves, inland lagoons, and camp on our own private island. After enjoying
our last days together in paradise, we head back to Bangkok and say farewell
to this amazing country.
Day 1:
Arrive in Bangkok, Thailand. Trip Leaders meet you at the airport when you
arrive. We will then be transported to our hotel where we will get to know
each other and learn what to expect in the days ahead. Our daily routine,
safety, jobs and safety rules and all trip logistics are explained and the
process of growing together as a group begins.
Days 2-4:
Our first adventure is on the Kwai River where we board a long-tail boat
for a trip through the canals of Bangkok. We will see an abundance of
wildlife and get a glimpse of what life is like for Thai's reliant on the
river. We also visit Wat Po, home of the magnificent reclining Buddha. We
then travel by bus to Kanchanaburi, location of the infamous "The
Bridge On the River Kwai". In the afternoon we take a samlor (bicycle
rickshaw) tour to see the sights of Kanchanaburi. Day 3 we board a large
bamboo raft house for cruising along the Kwai River. Stops are made to
explore caves, temples and there is plenty of time for soaking up some sun.
Our final day on the river will be spent in kayaks. That evening we will
enjoy delicious Thai cuisine and relax.
Day 5:
We hop on public buses with the locals to Ayutthaya, one of the ancient
Thai capitals. In Ayutthaya we take a guided tour to explore the picturesque
ruins and temples. Thai people are famous for colorful markets where they
sell beautifully hand crafted ceramics and silks, we spend the afternoon
here before boarding the train. Tonight we climb aboard a sleeper train
headed north to Chang Mai. Each of us will have plenty of room to get a good
night's rest.
Days 6-7:
Destination Chiang Mai! Arriving early in the morning, we have two full
days to enjoy this happening city. We will begin these action packed days
with a visit to the hill top temple of Doi Suthep and participate in a
hands-on cooking lesson to learn how to make yummy Thai food. The next day
we head out on bikes to explore the city's famous temples and surrounding
countryside. In the evening we will have the chance to see a entertaining
night market with an array of handicrafts.
Days 8-9:
The adventure continues as we head into the depths of Thailand's jungles.
Our travels through the lush limestone mountains will take your breath away.
Upon arrival at our base camp in the Mae Hong Son region we will drop off
our luggage at the Jungle Lodge and head out for a spectacular hike. This
pristine region is filled with caves that contain rivers and waterfalls
amongst an abundance of greenery.
Days 10-12:
Get ready for the most memorable experience, a hill tribe trek! We will
walk through remote countryside, stay in hill tribe villages and ride
elephants along the way. We sleep in traditional bamboo huts and help
prepare our own meals. On the final day we travel down river on simple
bamboo rafts and pass through unique villages each community differing
slightly in dress, language and religion making for a fascinating journey.
Days 13-15:
We say goodbye to the jungle and head back to Bangkok. We will take a short
journey to Pai, a peaceful town where we will explore local waterfalls and
hot springs. Day 14 we make the winding journey back to Chiang Mai and take
a short flight back to Bangkok. The following morning we get cleaned up to
go to the Grand Palace to experience the majesty of Bangkok's royal temple.
In the afternoon we will have time to do some shopping before we head to the
train station for the overnight trip to Chumpon.
Days 16-17:
From the mountains to the beach, our next adventure takes us to the small
island of Koh Tao, famous for spectacular coral reefs, clear blue water and
white sand beaches. What better way to explore the reefs than snorkeling!
Get ready to see colorful fish and a variety of marine life. In the evenings
we sample some local seafood and enjoy the fresh tropical air.
Days 18-20:
Island hoping, we move onto nearby Koh Samui. This island has a great
holiday atmosphere, long stretches of beautiful beaches and striking granite
outcroppings. We do some more swimming and exploring of the area. The next
day we spend sea kayaking amongst the island of Ang Thong Marine Park. Day
20 we head back to the mainland and take a train back to Bangkok.
Day 21:
Our last night together in Thailand, we pack up our gear and celebrate our
successes. We share our memories and challenges and say our good-byes. All
great things must come to an end. Early on the last day we go to the
airport, confident, tan and strong after your most incredible summer of
adventure, fun and friends.