Thailand at a Glance
Private - Independent Tour
Bangkok - Ayutthaya - Ko Samet
Simply touch the surface of Thailand as you explore with this shorter stay tour. See where vibrant street life meets the tuk-tuks and river boats filled with locals and tourists shoulder to shoulder through narrow canals. See majestic temples, each with their own unique story, ornate shrines and statues of Buddah, that will plunge visitors into the history and spirituality of Thailand. Renowned for beautiful beaches, idyllic islands and azure waters, Thailand is the land of contrasts, and this itinerary also includes a stay on Ko Samet, one of the smallest islands easily accessible from Bangkok.
Your Itinerary
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Day 1
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Day 2
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Day 3
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Day 4
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Day 5
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Day 6
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Day 7
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Day 8
Day 1 : Bangkok
On arrival at Bangkok airport, you will be met and greeted by an English-speaking guide. Your private driver and vehicle will transfer you to your hotel, the rest of the day is at leisure. Shoppers will be spoilt for choice with the vast array of shopping malls where you can grab yourself a bargain. Market stalls are vibrant and lively, especially in the evening with cooler temperatures. Art, craft, handbags and jewellery make for perfect gifts, remember to negotiate a price as haggling is part of the 'shopping game' in Thailand. When you have shopped till you drop why not head to one of the breathtaking rooftops bars for a predinner drink.
Day 2 : Bangkok
Today you will be met by your Englishspeaking guide for a fun packed tour of the city. In the morning you will visit the iconic sites of Wat Pho or Grand Palace where you will learn about Thai history and spirituality. Also included is a tour of the family-run Monks Alms Bowls workshop where you’ll observe the artists and learn about the monks’ daily lives. Finally, visit Jim Thompson House where you will tour the gardens and buildings. Highlights will prove to be the transport options as you ride in a tuk-tuk through the quieter streets of Soi Ban Batra, ride the Skytrain with the locals on Bangkok’s elevated train and boat rides through the canals, where you will gain a better understanding of living like a local in this city of contrasts. Following the Skytrain you will return to your hotel for the evening at leisure. You may wish to join a food tour this evening with your guide or head to Chinatown where you will find food stalls aplenty to suit every palette or ask your hotel concierge for recommendations.
Day 3 : Ayutthaya - Bangkok
Your private guide and driver will meet you at your hotel and transfer you approx. 1.5 hours to the royal city of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will have the choice of touring the site by an easy bicycle ride, alternatively you may wish to continue by car and walk. With a knowledgeable guide you can be sure you will visit the most significant sites, such as Wat Phra Si Sanphet and Wat Yai Chai Mongkoi, famous for its reclining Buddha statue. This afternoon board The Pearl Grand River boat, and gently cruise back to Bangkok down the Chao Phraya River. The cruise is around 2.5 hours and a buffet lunch is served on board. Arrive back at approx. 4pm where you will be met and transferred back to your hotel.
Day 4 : Ko Samet
Check out of your hotel where your guide and driver will transfer you to Ban Phe pier approx. 3 hours drive away before embarking on a 40 minutes shared speedboat ride to the island of Ko Samet. Situated on the eastern side of the Gulf of Thailand, welcome to some of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand. Feel the soft white sand between your toes, sip on a cocktail at sunset before dining at one of the beachside eateries where traditional local dishes, BBQ’s and seafood platters are served.
Day 5 : Ko Samet
Today is your first day of exploring this tiny island, just under 5km in length and 1km wide you can easily take a walk around the island and find your perfect beach stop. Kayaking is a great way to explore the coastline and remote beaches, grab a snorkel and mask and dive into the warm turquoise waters
Day 6 : Ko Samet
Another day, a new book or a different beach view is your simple choice today. This evening you may wish to head to Hat Sai Kaew, also known as Diamond Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches on Ko Samet where there is a daily fire show and home to the largest beach bar on the island.
Day 7 : Ko Samet
Today is at your pace, feeling energetic, follow one of the nature trails in Ko Samet National Park (local entrance fee applies), or maybe grab a snorkel and mask, discover the marine life beneath the sparking turquoise waters. For something more relaxing treat yourself to a massage or spa treatment on the beach under the shade of a palm tree.
Day 8 : Depart Bangkok
It is time to leave your island paradise and make the return journey by shared speedboat and private vehicle back to Bangkok and onwards to the airport for your return flight. Alternatively, you may wish to extend your stay in the north of Thailand or further afield to Laos, Cambodia or Vietnam.
