EAT SIP'N DIP
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CLASSIC THAILAND WITH PHUKET
Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Sukhothai, Ayutthaya, Phuket
November 15, 2024-November 30, 2024
WE'RE READY TO CELEBRATE FROM THE NIGHT UNTIL DAY
NEXT STOP THAILAND
BANGKOK, CHIANG MAI, CHIANG RAI, SUKHOTHAI, AYUTTHAYA, PHUKET
CALL FOR PRICING
PAYMENT PLAN BASED ON CURRENT PRICES. THESE PRICES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAILY SO BE READY TO PAY YOUR DOWN PAYMENT UPON SIGN-UP. DUE DATES BASED ON SINGLE & DOUBLE OCCUPANCY
PRICES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE BASED ON DEAL DATES AND ALSO SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY. EVEN DURING A 36-HOUR HOLD, WHICH WILL ONLY HOLD THE PRICE IN PLACE, HOTELS MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AS THEY ARE NOT INCLUDED IN THE 36-HOUR HOLD AND SOLELY BASED ON AVAILABILITY. THE QUICKER YOU PAY YOUR DOWN-PAYMENT, THE BETTER CHANCES YOU HAVE IN GETTING THE HOTELS YOU DESIRE.
THERE WILL BE (5), 4-STAR HOTELS IN THAILAND
$0,000.00 BASED ON SINGLE & double OCCUPANCY INCLUDES:
YOU WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE COST OF YOUR FLIGHT FROM YOUR HOME LOCATION TO ATLANTA,GA (ATL) AND ALSO ONCE YOU RETURN FROM ATLANTA, GA (ATL) BACK TO YOUR HOME LOCATION ONCE YOU RETURN FROM BANGKOK, THAILAND.
FLIGHTS FROM ATLANTA, GA (ATL) TO SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA (I (ICN) AND TRANSFER FLIGHTS FROM SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA (I (ICN) TO BANGKOK, THAILAND. RETURN FLIGHTS FROM BANGKOK, THAILAND TO SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA (I (ICN) AND TRANSFER RETURN FLIGHTS FROM SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA (I (ICN) TO ATLANTA, GA (ATL).
TRANSFERS, HOTELS, AND LISTED BELOW ARE THE MEALS THAT ARE INCLUDED IN THE COST OF THE TRIP. THESE FLIGHT COSTS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND ARE ALSO BASED ON THE AVAILABILITY WHEN YOU PAY YOUR DOWN PAYMENT. ​
Escorted Package Includes
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Round trip flights Los Angeles-Bangkok, Bangkok-Los Angeles
Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices -
Airline taxes & fuel surcharges
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All intra-flights: Bangkok-Chiang Mai & Bangkok-Phuket-Bangkok
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14 nights First Class accommodations
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4 nights Bangkok
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3 nights Chiang Mai
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2 nights Chiang Rai
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1 night Sukhothai
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1 night Ayutthaya
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3 nights Phuket
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Hotel taxes, fees & service charges
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Hotel porterage
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All transfers included only with airfare purchase on package arrival & departure dates†
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21 meals: 14 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners
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Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned motor coach
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Services of English-speaking tour manager throughout
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Entrance fees per itinerary
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Comfortable wireless earphones for enhanced touring
Special Features
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In Bangkok, visit serene Wat Po, home of the astonishing giant Reclining Buddha, over 150 feet long
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Authentic Thai dinner at Chiang Mai private home
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Discover Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep Temple, the most sacred temple in Northern Thailand
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Visit the House of Opium and Golden Triangle
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Explore historic Sukhothai, capital of the first Kingdom of Siam
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Marvel at Chai Wattanaram Temple, one of Ayutthaya's most impressive remaining monuments
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Visit Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, used as a summer palace by the Siamese royalty
♦Flights from the USA may arrive on DAY 3. Included sightseeing commences in the morning on day 3.
†Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates
OPTIONAL TOUR IDEAS WILL BE LISTED BUT AND ARE NOT INCLUDED IN THE COST OF THE TRIP).
THE DOWN PAYMENT IS $0,000
AND IS DUE AT SIGN-UP. IF YOU CHOOSE TO WAIT UNTIL THE END OF THE 3-DAY HOLD PERIOD, HOTEL OPTIONS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE BECAUSE THEY ARE NOT BASED ON AVAILABILITY AND CANNOT BE HELD.
FINAL INSTALLMENT
OF BALANCE IS DUE
AUGUST 17, 2024​
BASED ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY
FINAL INSTALLMENT
OF BALANCE IS DUE
AUGUST 17, 2024
BASED ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY
FINAL INSTALLMENT
OF BALANCE IS DUE
AUGUST 17, 2024​
BASED ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY
FINAL INSTALLMENT
OF BALANCE IS DUE
AUGUST 17, 2024
BASED ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY
FINAL INSTALLMENT
OF BALANCE IS DUE
AUGUST 17, 2024​
BASED ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY
CALL FOR PAYMENT OPTIONS & DETAILS (678) 787-5706
DEPARTURE FROM NEW YORK (JFK) TO ATHENS
DEPARTURE FROM
NEW JERSEY (EWR)
SEPTEMBER 12, 2024
TIME: 11:20a.m.
ARRIVAL IN ATHENS, GREECE
SEPTEMBER 13, 2024
TIME:
NEWARK, NJ (EWR)
EMIRATES AIRLINES
FLIGHT EK 210
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Please refer to the recent newsletter sent to your email address. If you have any questions you can reach out to Freddie at (770) 802-4139 office or (678) 296-5420 cell or via email at fantastic.journeys.inc@gmail.com.
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FLIGHT FROM ATHENS TO SANTORINI
FLIGHT
ATHENS TO SANTORINI
SEPTEMBER 13,
11:20a.m.
ARRIVAL IN DUBAI
MAY 29, 2020
7:50a.m.
SANTORINI, GREECE
FLIGHT
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Please refer to the recent newsletter sent to your email address. If you have any questions you can reach out to Freddie at (770) 802-4139 office or (678) 296-5420 cell or via email at fantastic.journeys.inc@gmail.com.
FERRY FROM SANTORINI TO MYKONOS
DEPARTURE FROM DUBAI
JUNE 4, 2020
2:50a.m.
ARRIVAL IN NEW YORK
JUNE 4, 2020
8:50a.m.
We gain one day back
SANTORINI FERRY INFO
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Please refer to the recent newsletter sent to your email address. If you have any questions you can reach out to Freddie at (770) 802-4139 office or (678) 296-5420 cell or via email at fantastic.journeys.inc@gmail.com.
FERRY FROM MYKONOS TO ATHENS
DEPARTURE FROM DUBAI
JUNE 4, 2020
2:50a.m.
ARRIVAL IN NEW YORK
JUNE 4, 2020
8:50a.m.
We gain one day back
MYKONOS FERRY INFO
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Please refer to the recent newsletter sent to your email address. If you have any questions you can reach out to Freddie at (770) 802-4139 office or (678) 296-5420 cell or via email at fantastic.journeys.inc@gmail.com.
DEPARTURE FROM ATHENS TO AMSTERDAM
DEPARTURE FROM DUBAI
JUNE 4, 2020
2:50a.m.
ARRIVAL IN NEW YORK
JUNE 4, 2020
8:50a.m.
We gain one day back
ATHENS, GREECE
EMIRATES AIRLINES
FLIGHT EK 209
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Please refer to the recent newsletter sent to your email address. If you have any questions you can reach out to Freddie at (770) 802-4139 office or (678) 296-5420 cell or via email at fantastic.journeys.inc@gmail.com.
DEPARTURE FROM AMSTERDAM TO NEW YORK (JFK)
DEPARTURE FROM DUBAI
JUNE 4, 2020
2:50a.m.
ARRIVAL IN NEW YORK
JUNE 4, 2020
8:50a.m.
We gain one day back
NEWARK, NJ
EMIRATES AIRLINES
FLIGHT EK 203
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Please refer to the recent newsletter sent to your email address. If you have any questions you can reach out to Freddie at (770) 802-4139 office or (678) 296-5420 cell or via email at fantastic.journeys.inc@gmail.com.
DEPARTURE FROM NEW YORK (JFK) TO YOUR DESTINATIONS
DEPARTURE FROM DUBAI
JUNE 4, 2020
2:50a.m.
ARRIVAL IN NEW YORK
JUNE 4, 2020
8:50a.m.
We gain one day back
NEWARK, NJ
EMIRATES AIRLINES
FLIGHT EK 203
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Please refer to the recent newsletter sent to your email address. If you have any questions you can reach out to Freddie at (770) 802-4139 office or (678) 296-5420 cell or via email at fantastic.journeys.inc@gmail.com.
Breakfast
Included 14 Days
Lunch
Included 3 Days
Dinner
Included 4 Days
Free Wifi
Included Daily
Making time for yourself is oh so important, and a wellness retreat in Thailand is an opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in tranquillity. Discover the best wellness retreats in Phuket & Chiang Mai and make time to prioritize your health and well-being.
https://bookretreats.com/s/wellness-retreats/thailand
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Thailand is known for its palm-fringed beaches and lively Bangkok streets, but there’s a lot more to do and see if you’d like to explore further, including ancient capital ruins, vast swathes of forested mountains, and a rich cultural heritage.
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​Chiang Mai is one of the destinations in Thailand that I most anticipate returning to because of its temples, walkable old city, developing arts scene, and distinct, tasty local cuisine (especially khao soi, a curried noodle soup).
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You could head further north to Chiang Rai to experience authentic local life with fewer crowds around. Around here, you can learn about tea and coffee farming, explore hillside villages, and delve into highly decorative Buddhist architecture dating back centuries.
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If you’re a history lover, you could learn about the Siam Kingdom as your guide walks you through the expansive, intricately carved ruins in Sukhothai or Ayutthaya.
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Phuket town’s wide selection of rustic food courts, side-street stalls and markets make it a hot-spot for local delicacies.
There is no shortage of things to do in Thailand, and there is something for everyone. Here are the most beautiful places to visit in Thailand.
Getting familiar with a new city and finding the best places to eat can be a daunting task. Determined to explore the city like the locals, we set out to taste Lisbon food, one neighborhood at a time.
https://www.authenticfoodquest.com/lisbon-restaurants-local-food/
Thailand's Street Food scene has come into its own, with award winning Michelin Star chefs from across the world looking to join the ranks of some of the country's most-extolled kitchens. There are 31 Michelin-starred restaurants in Bangkok, with 27 of them having Bib Gourmand Distinction and 1 having 1 star.
https://guide.michelin.com/us/en/bangkok-region/bangkok/restaurants/street-food
DAILY ITINERARY
DEPART FROM ATLANTA (ATL) TO SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA (I (ICN) AND TRANSFER FLIGHTS FROM SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA (I (ICN) TO BANGKOK, THAILAND.
Welcome to bangkok, the capital of thailand
Hotel check-in - century park hotel
*Includes Free Wi-Fi
ARRIVE IN Bangkok, thailand
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Arrive in exotic Bangkok, Thailand's capital city; transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure to rest, relax and acclimate to the new time zone.
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Welcome to CENTURY PARK HOTEL
*Includes Free Wi-Fi
*Includes Breakfast
*Includes DINNER
*Includes BANGKOK CITY Tour
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BANGKOK CITY TOUR
Begin your day with a city and temple tour of Bangkok, a fascinating mix of ancient and modern. Drive through Chinatown and then on to the colorful Indian Market.
Visit serene Wat Po, the oldest and largest temple in the city, with the astonishing giant Reclining Buddha, over 150 feet long and almost 50 feet high. Drive to Royal Avenue where most of the Government offices are located and the King's Palace.
Later in the afternoon, attend an orientation meeting with your Tour Manager at approximately 5 PM, followed by a light dinner with your fellow travelers
Welcome to Easten tan hotel in chiang mai
*Includes Free Wi-Fi
*Includes Breakfast
*Optional: Half Day Grand Palace & Emerald Buddha (AM) $42
*Optional: Bangkok Canal Tour with Dinner (PM) $55
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full day in bangkok​
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Today is yours to explore Bangkok independently. Or, take the optional tour to the elaborate 18th century Grand Palace, symbol and ceremonial heart of the kingdom, and to Wat Phra Kaew, (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), with its brightly colored buildings, golden spires and gorgeous mosaics.
You'll see the distinct contrast in style between the Thai-inspired Wat Phra Kaew and the European design of the Grand Palace. In the afternoon, embark on the optional canal tour along the Chao Phraya River passing by Wat Arun and other iconic landmarks as well as a scenic view of local life along the river. Then travel on a tuk-tuk to dinner at a local restaurant before returning to your hotel.
Welcome to Easten tan hotel in chiang mai
*Includes Free Wi-Fi
*Includes Breakfast
*Includes flight to chiang mai
*Includes dinner at private home
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Flight to Chiang Mai, Dinner at Private Home
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Morning is at leisure before flying to Chiang Mai, ancient capital of the Lanna Kingdom. The afternoon is free for individual interests, before a unique experience tonight.
Join a local Chiang Mai family for an authentic Thai dinner in their home. Enjoy a tour of the home, conversation about life in Chiang Mai and savor the great flavors of home-cooked food.
Welcome to chiang mai
*Includes Free Wi-Fi
*Includes Breakfast
*Optional: Elephant Sanctuary with lunch (AM) $86
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full day in Chiang Mai
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Morning is free to explore this vibrant city independently or, join the Elephant Sanctuary with lunch optional tour.
Get introduced to this ethical program that offers a chance to meet the elephants and spend quality time with these majestic animals (no riding is included). Observe their playful interactions and bathing rituals while learning about their unique behaviors. Participate in feeding sessions, delighting in the opportunity to offer the gentle giants their favorite treats.
After your visit, stop for lunch at a local restaurant before returning to the hotel. In the afternoon, visit Sankampang Street, center of handicrafts, for on-site demonstrations on how the silk, lacquer, and silver, wares are made.
Later, visit the world's largest gem factory, to watch while the gem stones are cut and set. Spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Welcome to chiang mai
*Includes Free Wi-Fi
*Includes Breakfast
*Optional: Thai Traditional Massage (PM) $35
DOI SUTHEP TEMPLE TOUR
Start today's morning tour with Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, Northern Thailand's most sacred temple, containing a holy relic of Lord Buddha.
Equally impressive is the mythological Naga (dragon-headed serpent) staircase, with 306 steps leading up to the temple grounds. Visit a local jade factory, followed by an afternoon at leisure, or pamper yourself with an optional Thai massage.
Welcome to The Legend Chiang Rai Boutique River Resort & Spa IN Chiang Rai
*Includes Free Wi-Fi
*Includes Breakfast
*INCLUDES DINNER
*OPTIONAL HALF DAY MAE CHAN HILL TRIBE VILLAGE (PM) $24
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TRAVEL TO CHIANG RAI​
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The tour departs Chiang Rai City in the morning for the drive to visit Hill Tribe at the foothill of Mae Chan. Upon arrival, change vehicles to the local Thai Combi which takes you up to the hill tribes, namely the Akha, Long Neck and Palong. See this unique way of life and culture of the tribes that is still maintained today.
This tour requires walking up several steps as well as uneven pavement and trails to get to the small village.
Approximate tour duration is 5 hours.
Welcome to chiang rai
*Includes Free Wi-Fi
*Includes Breakfast
*INCLUDES LUNCH
*INCLUDES TOUR
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MAE SAI BORDER TOWN & GOLDEN TRIANGE TOUR
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Travel to the border town of Mae Sai, at the tip of Thailand. At this border crossing, arrangements may be made to enter Myanmar*.
Ascend to the hilltop viewpoint to see the famous "Golden Triangle" of Southeast Asia - the meeting point of the borders of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos. The locals call it "Sop Ruak", as this is also where the Mekong meets the Ruak River. Continue to the dramatic House of Opium at Golden Triangle, offering an informative exhibition on the history of opium which dates back almost 5000 years.
This afternoon, enjoy a locally prepared lunch before embarking on a long tail boat ride along the banks of the Mekong River between Myanmar, Laos and Thailand where you will see local farmers and fishermen at their craft and learn more about how this river played a role in the opium trade. End the day with a stop at an old teak forest and view centuries old giant teak trees before returning to Chiang Rai for the evening.
*Entering Myanmar (Burma) requires a border crossing fee of approx US$45, payable locally. The opportunity to cross the border will depend on local conditions and cannot be guaranteed. If the border crossing is not possible, alternate arrangements will be made
Welcome to Legendha Sukhothai HOTEL Sukhothai, Thailand
*Includes Free Wi-Fi
*Includes Breakfast
*INCLUDES LUNCH
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TRAVEL TO SUKHOTHAI
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Travel southward to Sukhothai, birthplace of the Thai nation, founded in the 13th century by King Ramkhamhaeng. The country's first capital was established here in 1238 and lasted over two centuries.
Sukhothai is world-famous for its over 100 historical sites and treasures, including some of the most beautiful Thai art and architecture in the country, created during the city's "golden era", between the 13th and 14th centuries.
Remainder of the day is at leisure to explore historical Sukhothai independently
WELCOME TO Classic Kameo Ayutthaya, Ayutthaya, Thailand
*Includes Free Wi-Fi
*Includes Breakfast
*INCLUDES LUNCH
*Includes Dinner AT HOTEL
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Sukhothai Historical Park, Travel to Ayutthaya, Ayutthaya City Tour
After breakfast visit the Old Town of Sukhothai with its impressive Historical Park, immaculately restored and set among leafy hills and peaceful lotus ponds, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
At this astonishing site, most of the remains of the original city can be seen. Marvel at the ancient Buddha figures, palaces, temples, and historical monuments and feel yourself drift back in time to a bygone era.
Depart Sukhothai to Ayutthaya, the second Siamese capital after Sukhothai for over 400 years, once glorified as one of the largest cities in Southeast Asia. Ayutthaya Historical Park, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, lies in the center of the city.
Here, you can see the ruins of the former capital and its remaining palaces, monasteries, and towers - one can envision the grandeur and splendor that was once the Kingdom of Ayutthaya. Continue to the Chai Wattanaram Temple, built by King Prasat Thong to honor his mother, conceived as a replica of the Angkor Temple. Tonight, dinner is at the hotel
Welcome to Diamond Cliff Resort & Spa Phuket, Thailand
*Includes Free Wi-Fi
*Includes Breakfast
*Includes FLIGHT TO PHUKET
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FULL DAY IN MARRAKECH
This morning, time permitting, meet children at a local school* then visit Bang Pa-In Palace, a collection of beautiful buildings in various architectural styles, surrounded by a lake.
Originally built by King Prasat Thong in 1632, Bang Pa-In served as the Royal Summer Palace for the Thai Kings. Drive to Bangkok Airport for your flight to Phuket, the largest island in Thailand. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel.
The rest of the evening is at leisure to begin your exploration of this "paradise on earth" with its world-class beaches and chic jet-set atmosphere. Tonight, perhaps sample some of the island's delicious Malay, Sri Lankan, and Thai cuisine in lively Phuket Town *School visit is subject to changes due to school scheduling.
Welcome to PHUKET, THAILAND
*Includes Free Wi-Fi
*Includes Breakfast
*Optional: Full Day Phang Nga Bay and Lawa Island by Cruiser with lunch $98
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relax, rejuvenate and enjoy PHUKET
Today is yours to just relax, rejuvenate and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. There is plenty to do and much to see in Phuket, including the Aquarium, Butterfly and Orchid Gardens and the Thai Village. In the older area of the town, discover the 19th century buildings with their distinctive Sino-Portuguese architectural style. Be sure to stop at the buzzing market where villagers shop for their daily meals, or watch the stoic monks on their daily alms rounds.
Perhaps, join the full day optional excursion to Phang Nga Bay and Lawa Island by Cruiser with lunch. Travel through mangrove jungles and limestone peaks, where cliffs rise vertically from the sea. Stop at Phang Nga Bay, one of the most unusual and beautiful coastal locations in the world and Lawa Island with its pristine white sand beaches before returning to Phuket.
Welcome to PHUKET, THAILAND
*Includes Free Wi-Fi
*Includes Breakfast
*Optional: Full Day Phi Phi & Bamboo Islands by Speedboat with lunch $98
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Full day at leisure to explore Phuket independently
Spend time in Patong, the island's most famous beach resort. Watch the trendsetters coming in droves to the many restaurants, boutiques and luxurious spas.
Or, travel by speedboat on the optional full day excursion to the magnificent Phi Phi Islands. There'll be time to snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, watch the fantastic colorful marine life, and spot the monkeys at Monkey Beach. Enjoy swimming, or sunbathing on the beach before returning to your hotel.
On your last night in Phuket, enjoy the island's non-stop entertainment scene, at a choice of bars, clubs with live music and fabulous cabaret shows.
Welcome to bangkok, the capital of thailand
Hotel check-in - century park hotel
*Includes Free Wi-FI
*Includes Breakfast
arrive back in Bangkok, thailand
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Depart Phuket this afternoon by flight to Bangkok.
Spend your last day in Thailand at leisure in Bangkok revisiting some of the city's fantastic sights, or shop to your heart's content for souvenirs and treasures at the city's many markets, boutiques and choice of different shops.
Treat yourself to a delectable Thai dinner tonight at a world-class restaurant.
FAREWELL BANGKOK, THAILAND
*INCLUDES FREE WI-FI
*INCLUDES BREAKFAST
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight BACK HOME.
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RETURN FLIGHTS FROM BANGKOK, THAILAND TO SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA (I (ICN) AND TRANSFER RETURN FLIGHTS FROM SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA (I (ICN) TO ATLANTA, GA (ATL).
A FEW HISTORICAL FACTS​
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BANGKOK
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While there has been a small village on Chao Phraya River since the early 15th century, the city of Bangkok was officially founded as the country's capital in 1782 by King Rama I. Since then, the history, culture and language of the city have gone hand in hand with that of Thailand as a whole.
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FOUNDATIONS OF BANGKOK
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A bit of background knowledge: Thailand as we know it today was settled by the "Tai" people of southern China from around the 10th century onwards, and the small villages of farmers, hunters and traders developed into city-states ruled by different empires, including the Khmer (Camobdia), the Srivijaya (Malay) and the Mon-Dvaravati (Myanmar).
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CHIANG MAI
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Chiang Mai, largest city in northern Thailand and the third largest city in the nation after metropolitan Bangkok and Nakhon Ratchasima. It is located on the Ping River, a major tributary of the Chao Phraya River, near the centre of a fertile intermontane basin at an elevation of 1,100 feet (335 m).
It serves as the religious, economic, cultural, educational, and transportation centre for both northern Thailand and part of neighbouring Myanmar (Burma). Once the capital of an independent kingdom, the city also has strong cultural ties with Laos.
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CHIANG RAI​
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Chiang Rai, town, northern Thailand. Chiang Rai lies at an elevation of 1,150 feet (350 m) in the basin of the Kok River, near the Khun Tan Range. It has an airport with scheduled flights, and road connections lead south to Lampang and north to Myanmar (Burma) and the Laotian border.
It is a trading centre dealing in teak, coffee, and rice. The town was once the walled capital city of an independent principality. The well-known Emerald Buddha, now in Bangkok, was at a temple in the town until 1436, when it was removed to Chiang Mai.
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SUKHOTHAI
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Sukhothai, town and historical capital of a former kingdom of north-central Thailand. It is one of Thailand’s earliest and most important historical settlements.
Originally a provincial town within the Angkor-based Khmer empire, Sukhothai in the 13th century gained its independence and became established as the capital of the first united and independent Tai state in what is now Thailand’s Chao Phraya River basin, or Central Plain.
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AYUTTHAYA
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Ayutthaya, town and former capital of the Tai state of Ayutthaya (Siam) located in central Thailand, about 55 miles (89 km) north of Bangkok. The site of immense temples and other structures that are important both historically and architecturally, Ayutthaya was added to UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 1991.
Ayutthaya, Thailand: Wat Ratchaburana
Guardians and other mythical creatures on Wat Ratchaburana, Ayutthaya, Thailand. Ayutthaya kingdom
Ayutthaya (Ayudhya) kingdom, mid-15th century.
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The town was founded by Ramathibodi I about 1350 on an island formed by the confluence of the Chao Phraya, Lop Buri, and Pa Sak rivers. The modern state of Thailand can be said to date from its founding, for the kings of Ayutthaya extended their influence until their state became one of the most powerful in Southeast Asia.
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PHUKET
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Phuket, city and island, southern Thailand. The island lies in the Andaman Sea, off the west coast of peninsular Thailand. Phuket city, located in the southeastern portion of the island, is a major port and commercial centre. Its harbour exports tin, rubber, charcoal, lumber, and fish products south to Malaysia and Singapore and north to Myanmar (Burma). Rice and manufactures are imported. The city airport has regular flights to Bangkok, towns of southern Thailand, and George Town, Malaysia.
The island’s surface area is mostly level land but is dotted with isolated hills that reach a height of 1,700 feet (520 metres). It was settled as early as the 1st century BCE. The island was part of various Tai states from an early time and was incorporated into the Ayutthaya kingdom about the 16th century. After the 18th century large numbers of Chinese arrived, and more than half the population is now Chinese. Called Ujong Salang (“Cape Salang”) by Malays, the island has also been known as Tongka, Junk Ceylon, and Jonsalam.
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DISCOVER MOROCCO
BY CLICKING THE LINKS
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As your likely first stop in Thailand, Bangkok is an ideal place to get acquainted with Thai food and gain the confidence to experiment throughout the rest of your trip. On a street food tour a local guide will take you to Bang Rak, one of Bangkok’s busiest districts. Diving first into a busy market, you’ll be able to smell some of the local spices and take a look at some of the exotically shaped fruits.
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Known locally as Doi Suthep, this temple and its legends are considered among the most important in Thailand. According to the tale, a precious relic, believed to be a piece of Buddha’s shoulder bone, was tied to the back of a sacred white elephant.
After roaming Chiang Mai’s hills, the elephant lay down and died atop Mount Suthep. The golden shrine of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep was built on the same spot to house the heirloom.
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Pilgrims earn Buddhist virtue by climbing a 306-step staircase up to the temple, which is flanked by two mirror-encrusted serpents (there’s also a lift). The terrace at the top is covered with small shrines, gardens and breadfruit trees.
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Though it was once the royal capital of Thailand, today Chiang Rai is a sleepy, subdued city near the country’s northern border. Because it attracts fewer visitors than Chiang Mai, its sister city, Chiang Rai offers a chance to explore authentic local life as well as smaller markets and several temples, both historic and modern. It also acts as the gateway, if you want to explore the countryside and villages of the Golden Triangle.
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Wat Phra Kaew is the most revered temple in the city, and one of the oldest. The precise date of the founding is unknown, but one of the wat’s pavilions was struck by lightning in 1434, revealing the Emerald Buddha. Thai people consider the fate of their country to be symbolically entwined with the fate of the hip-high jade statue, which is now on display in Bangkok.
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SUKHOTHAI THINGS TO SEE & DO
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This was the earliest capital of a Thai kingdom that flourished from the early 13th century, an era whose religious art and architecture is considered the most classic of Thailand’s cultural influences. In lush parkland settings are countless carved Buddhas, elegant lotus-bud spires and calm reflective lily ponds dating back to the golden age of ancient Siam.
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We’ve selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Sukhothai. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.
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AYUTTHAYA THINGS TO SEE & DO
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At the height of the Siam Kingdom in the 17th century, Ayutthaya was the largest city in the world. The capital of Siam for just over four centuries, the city strategically stood at the confluence of three rivers, laid out in a systematic grid of roads, moats and canals. Ransacked by the Burmese in 1767, Ayutthaya is now a crumble of ruined monasteries, timeworn Buddhas and prang (temple) spires. Standing among it, you see enough surviving architecture to get an inkling of the city’s past grandeur.
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Ayutthaya came to prominence just after the fall of Angkor, taking its place as Southeast Asia’s hub of global diplomacy and commerce. The royal court at Ayutthaya regularly welcomed merchants and ambassadors from courts as diverse as the Palace of Versailles, and imperial Japan and China.
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