For my fourth trip, I designed a whirlwind 16-day journey through the vibrant and diverse landscapes of Thailand. From bustling cities to serene natural wonders, this trip was filled with unforgettable experiences and cultural immersion. With a group of 4 intrepid companions to start, and just 3 after one had to leave us half way through, I led the way, uncovering hidden gems, indulging in mouthwatering cuisine, and immersing us in the rich traditions of this enchanting country. From the breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji in Japan to the bustling markets of Bangkok, and the tranquil waters of Phuket to the ancient temples of Chiang Mai, every moment was a captivating chapter in this extraordinary travel tale. Join me as I recount the highlights of this incredible journey through the Land of Smiles
Part 1: Chiang Mai & Chiang Rai
Day 1
After a 20-hour layover in Japan, which involved being served breakfast by a robot, followed by a scenic train journey from Tokyo to Kawaguchiko to ride the ropeway and witness the breathtaking view of Mt. Fuji, as well as a relaxing evening soak in an authentic Japanese onsen, we finally arrived in Bangkok. From there, we caught a flight to Chiang Mai, where our Thai adventure truly began. Upon landing, the four of us rendezvoused with the 5th member of our group, who had been in Thailand for several days already, and together we checked into our cozy Airbnb. Eager to explore, we set out to the northern part of Old Town, indulging in our first authentic Thai dinner and visiting a highly recommended tailor to have custom suits made for two of my clients. We then took a stroll around some ancient temples. To conclude the day, we treated ourselves to our first authentic Thai massages, a blissful experience that only cost around $10 USD.
Day 2
Day 2: Our second day in Thailand was a perfect blend of gastronomic delight and cultural exploration. I enrolled us in an all-day organic Thai cooking school and we had a blast learning to prepare a five-course meal. After a visit to a local fresh food market, and a walking tour of the school’s very own organic garden, from which many of our ingredients were sourced, we honed our culinary skills under the guidance of expert instructors. From fragrant curries to zesty stir-fries to mango sticky rice, we got to feast on our creations and savor the authentic flavors of Thai cuisine.
Energized by our food-filled day, we ventured to the enormous weekend Night Market in Old Town Chiang Mai. The market was a vibrant hub of activity, with countless stalls offering a myriad of goods. We couldn’t resist the allure of the scrumptious street food that enveloped us. The prices were unbelievably affordable, with 36 baht equating to a dollar (after exchange fees). We indulged in the culinary delights with gusto, including gyoza, noodle dishes, and rolled ice cream — a delicious treat that left us wanting more. We ended the day with a sense of gratitude for the incredible experiences we had enjoyed so far. My Thailand tour was off to an incredible start!
Day 3
We embarked on an exhilarating full-day, 12 hour tour into the mountains north of Chiang Mai. Our first stop was the Living Green Elephant Sanctuary, where we had the incredible opportunity to feed and bathe their 5 rescue elephants. It was a heartwarming experience being up close with these gentle giants.
Next, we ventured to the highest peak in Thailand and marveled at the Great Holy Relics Pagodas. The views on the drive were breathtaking, and we soaked in the serenity of the surroundings.
Our adventure continued as we trekked through the stunning Doi Inthanon National Park on the Pha Dok Siew Trail. The trail treated us to bamboo bridges, railings, and walking sticks that guided us through the lush wilderness. After the hike, we also had the pleasure of indulging in a presentation on and tasting of 3 kinds of organic coffee in a nearby village.
As the day drew to a close, we headed to the Chang Phuek Market for a delightful dinner. The market boasted an array of street food stalls, each offering delectable dishes that tantalized our taste buds. To top off the evening, we enjoyed live music at the North Gate Jazz Co-op, creating a perfect ambiance for relaxation and unwinding.
We embarked on an exhilarating whitewater rafting adventure on the Mae Taeng River, marking the fourth country where I’ve experienced this thrilling activity. The rapids were intense, and the rush of navigating the river was absolutely incredible.
In the evening, we immersed ourselves in the magical Yi Peng/Loy Krathong annual festival. The night sky was lit up with loud fireworks and big floating paper lanterns, and the rivers were adorned with countless little candled and flower covered river floats. The markets and streets were bustling with energy and excitement. We strolled through the enchanting Chiang Mai night bazaar, indulging in more delicious street food along the way, and wrapped up the day with late night Thai massages.
Day 5
I hired a private driver to take us to the stunning Bua Tong “sticky waterfall.” We climbed up the unique limestone waterfall like Spidermen. On our way north from there to Chiang Dao, we had a delightful lunch on a remote farm, immersing ourselves in the charming rural surroundings.
In Chiang Dao, we embarked on a privately guided tour of the captivating Chiang Dao cave and cave temple, known as Wat Tham Chiang Dao. The stalactites, stalagmites, intricate details and spiritual ambiance left us in awe. Additionally, we embraced the challenge of climbing up the 510 steps at the nearby Wat Tham Pha Plong, a mountainside temple with steps leading up to a magnificent pagoda. The steps were adorned with Buddhist wisdom, making the ascent all the more meaningful.
To wrap up the day, we treated ourselves to a sunset dip at the free and undeveloped Chiang Dao hot springs. The soothing hot springs provided the perfect relaxation before we headed back south to Chiang Mai.
Day 6
Our adventure continued as we embarked on a comfortable 3-hour coach bus ride from Chiang Mai to the smaller, northern city of Chiang Rai. Once we arrived, we wasted no time and hired a charming small blue songthaew, a two-bench truck-taxi, to transport us to the city’s most mesmerizing attractions.
Our first stop was the spectacular White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), a masterpiece of contemporary Thai architecture. The building’s intricate details and gleaming white mirror-paneled facades left us in awe of its beauty. Next, we visited the enchanting Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten), where vibrant blue hues adorned the walls and intricate artwork adorned the interiors. The vibrant colors created a captivating atmosphere that was truly unique.
As the evening approached, we made our way to the city’s central clocktower just in time for its delightful 7 pm light and music show.
To conclude the day, we immersed ourselves in the lively atmosphere of the Chiang Rai night bazaar. The vibrant market was a treasure trove of local crafts, delectable street food, and fascinating sights. Some of us indulged in rejuvenating massages at only $8 a pop, a perfect way to unwind and relax after an eventful day of travel and exploration.
Day 7
Our exploration of Chiang Rai continued with a full-day private tour that I personally customized with a local company.
We kicked off the day by visiting the magnificent Guan Yin Bodhisattva statue in Chiang Rai. This gargantuan, towering statue left us in awe of its grandeur and significance. From there, we delved into the intriguing art of the Black House (Baan Dam Museum). The museum’s augmented reality (A/R) exhibits, filled with captivating artwork, came alive on our phone screens, offering a unique interactive experience.
After immersing ourselves in art, we made a stop at the Choui Fong Tea Plantation, where we indulged in oolong tea sampling while enjoying panoramic views of the lush tea fields. The tranquil atmosphere and aromatic teas made for a delightful respite.
Our next destination was the Monkey/Fish Cave Temple (Wat Tham Pla), where we climbed the steep steps to reach the cave temple and encountered playful monkeys along the way.
Continuing our journey, we ventured to the town of Maesai, located on the Myanmar border. This vibrant town offered us the opportunity to shop for unique local wares, immersing ourselves in the rich cultural diversity of the region.
A highlight of the day was the classy buffet lunch we enjoyed while overlooking the Golden Triangle. This famed area, where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar converge, offered us grand views and a chance to appreciate the historical significance of the region.
The adventure didn’t stop there. We hopped on a small wooden speedboat and crossed the Mekong River to Denxao Island in Laos. Stepping foot on this border town, we had the chance to engage in some shopping. I managed to find some coffee-flavored mini cigars and e-cig juice, a product that is actually banned in Thailand. My clients picked up a new suitcase with which to bring all the new souvenirs home.
We took the speedboat back across the river to Thailand. We then visited the House of Opium Museum, where we delved into the history and impact of opium in the region. The museum provided valuable insights into a significant aspect of the area’s past, including why it is called “The Golden Triangle” — because so much gold was exchanged for opium.
With the day coming to a close, we made it back to Chiang Rai just in time to catch the last bus back to Chiang Mai. The day was a whirlwind of incredible experiences and cultural encounters.
Part 2: Phuket and Khao Sok National Park
Day 8
After saying goodbye to one of our members, who had to fly home to Alaska, the remaining four of us took a morning flight of 2 hours and around 1000 miles south to the vibrant tropical island of Phuket.
The Phuket airport is about a one hour drive from Patong, where I booked our accommodations. Once we arrived in Patong, we wasted no time immersing ourselves in the energetic atmosphere of the town. During the daytime, we wandered over to Patong Beach, taking in the many themed bars and clubs, watching people jet ski and parasail, and indulging in tantalizing street food along the way. The flavors and aromas filled the air, tempting us to try a variety of mouthwatering dishes.
For dinner, I ordered a Grab (the Thai version of Uber) to take us to Patong Sunset View Restaurant, providing the perfect setting for a delicious meal while enjoying the stunning coastal scenery at sunset.
With the night still young, we made our way to the famous Bangla Walking Street, conveniently located just a 5-minute walk from our Airbnb. The bustling street came alive with an array of entertainment options, vibrant lights, and an eclectic mix of people.
As we strolled through the lively atmosphere, we encountered many ‘ladyboys’ and ‘tomboys.’ Some were dressed to the nines, posing for pictures with tourists in exchange for tips, while others seamlessly blended into the bustling crowd. We found ourselves engaged in friendly debates, playfully guessing at genders.
Patong’s reputation for its wild nightlife proved to be true as we were bombarded with offers for various entertainment experiences, including the infamous “ping pong shows.” The sheer variety of activities and offerings was astounding. Only recently legalized – the first Asian country to do so – the smell and sale of cannabis was omnipresent. We embraced the energy, danced to the rhythm of the night at Illuzion Nightclub, where we ordered and smoked from a hookah in the middle of the dance floor, and created lasting memories of the exhilarating nightlife scene.
Day 9
Our adventure continued as we embarked on a private tour of Phuket, the largest island in Thailand. With a customized itinerary and the convenience of a private driver that I arranged, we set out to explore the island’s diverse attractions and immerse ourselves in its beauty.
After breakfast, our first stop was Karon Beach, where we marveled at the picturesque coastline and enjoyed the warm sand beneath our feet. The crystal-clear waters beckoned us, and we couldn’t resist taking a refreshing swim at the renowned Kata Beach, known for its pristine shores.
To gain a panoramic perspective of the island, we ascended to Karon Viewpoint and Promthep Cape. From these elevated vantage points, we beheld breathtaking vistas that showcased Phuket’s natural splendor and coastline in all its glory.
Continuing our journey, we ventured to Rawai Beach, where we indulged in a unique dining experience. At the local seafood market, we selected freshly caught sea animals, including 1kg of giant prawns and a 1.4kg Tuna fish, which we then brought to a nearby restaurant. The talented chefs skillfully cooked our chosen seafood to perfection, allowing us to savor the flavors of the ocean, alongside the ocean, in a truly memorable meal.
Eager to explore the island’s cultural heritage, we made our way to the iconic Big Buddha, an awe-inspiring landmark that stands tall atop Nakkerd Hill. The colossal statue, adorned in white marble, exuded a sense of serenity as we marveled at its grandeur and took in the panoramic views that stretched out before us.
Our cultural immersion continued with a visit to Wat Chalong temple, one of the most revered Buddhist temples on the island. We immersed ourselves in the tranquil atmosphere, admired the intricate architecture, and paid our respects to the sacred relics within.
We had our driver drop us off in Old Town Phuket and commenced exploring the lively Sunday night market known as Lard Yai. The market was a sensory delight, with vibrant stalls offering an array of clothing, souvenirs, and tantalizing street food. We indulged in a gastronomic adventure, sampling a variety of local delights that tempted our taste buds, and enjoyed the many busking musicians along the packed streets.
To cap off the evening, we hopped on a songthaew, a 2 bench pickup truck-taxi, with a booming sound system. With beers in hand, we enjoyed a lively ride back to Patong, with energetic EDM music pulsating through the speakers, creating a lively atmosphere that perfectly complemented the vibrant spirit of our day.
Day 10
We embarked on a full-day speedboat island hopping tour of Phi Phi Don, Phi Phi Lae, and Khai Island in the Andaman Sea. With 12 hours of adventure ahead, we were eager to explore the natural wonders and gorgeous beaches that awaited us.
Our first stop was Monkey Beach, a small lagoon with a beach and trees inhabited by playful monkeys. Although we didn’t disembark from the boat, we were delighted to catch glimpses of these mischievous creatures as they frolicked in the trees.
The tour offered two fantastic opportunities for snorkeling. The first took us into the open ocean, where we immersed ourselves in the vibrant underwater world, marveling at the colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life that surrounded us. The second snorkeling spot, near a beach, provided a more leisurely experience, allowing us to observe the underwater wonders at a relaxed pace. In addition to snorkeling, we had the chance to try stand-up paddleboarding (SUP).
Our adventure continued as we savored a delicious buffet lunch at a beachside resort on Phi Phi Don. With the sound of gentle waves and the scent of the sea in the air, we indulged in a variety of culinary delights, savoring the flavors of Thailand while basking in the island paradise.
One of the highlights of our day was a visit to Maya Bay, famously known for its appearance in the movie “The Beach.” The beauty of this secluded bay, with its crystal-clear waters and towering limestone cliffs, was truly awe-inspiring, though the bay was quite popular and bustling with visitors.
As the day drew to a close, we made our way to a food night market back in Patong. The market was a culinary haven, offering a wide variety of delectable street foods. From succulent grilled seafood to flavorful Thai dishes, we indulged in a feast of flavors, savoring each bite as we reminisced about the incredible experiences of the day.
Day 11
After renting a car at Phuket Airport, I drove us (on the left side of the road) for over two hours to reach Khao Sok National Park, specifically the Headquarters Entrance. Our adventure began with a private evening trek through the lush jungle, accompanied by an experienced 30-year guide and a local native.
As we explored the depths of the jungle, we encountered an array of fascinating creatures, including spiders, lizards, frogs, and even a remarkable giant bat. Unfortunately, we also had some unwelcome encounters with tiny leeches that nibbled at our ankles. The symphony of rainforest cicadas provided a constant and deafening soundtrack to our trek.
Day 12
The following day, we embarked on another adventure in Khao Sok National Park. After driving one-hour from our scenic accommodations at K.K. Park Resort, we arrived at CheowLan Pier, where we met our exceptional tour guide, Junn. Excitement filled the air as we prepared for a private, two-day longtail boat excursion in the breathtaking Khao Sok National Park.
We set off on the tranquil waters of Cheow Lan Lake, marveling at the stunning views surrounding us. Our destination was remarkable rafthouse accommodations, where we would spend the next two days. Upon arrival, we wasted no time and took a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters just in front of our floating oasis.
Eager to explore further, we boarded the boat once again and ventured into the depths of the jungle. Our destination was a captivating trek up a sticky waterfall. With each step, we marveled at the natural beauty surrounding us, and even got the opportunity to run and jump off a rope swing into a pool below.
Our appetites were well taken care of with delicious Thai cuisine back at the rafthouse. From a satisfying lunch to a flavorsome dinner and a hearty breakfast the next day, we continued to savor the diverse flavors that Thai cuisine had to offer.
Day 13
The next day, we had an early start at 6:30 am as we embarked on a memorable morning safari in Khao Sok National Park. As we cruised along the serene waters, we were fortunate to spot a wild pig on the shore. Our excitement reached new heights as we witnessed wild elephants buried in the jungle of their natural habitat, pulling at trees and enjoying their breakfast.
After a satisfying breakfast of our own, we had a couple of hours to engage in kayaking, exploring the nearby areas and immersing ourselves in the tranquility of the surroundings. The gentle strokes of our paddles echoed through the air as we marveled at the beauty that unfolded around us.
Before bidding farewell to this captivating destination, our longtail boat made a couple of noteworthy stops along the way. First, we ventured into a bat cave nestled in the sheer mountains around the lake. Our journey then took us to witness tall and sheer limestone formations that stood as silent witnesses to the wonders of nature.
Returning to land and leaving the park, our next destination was the rejuvenating Rommanee Hot Springs. My clients indulged in a relaxing dip. Although the weather proved to be challenging on our two-hour drive back to Phuket, we braved the elements and arrived near the airport to ensure a smooth departure for our early morning flight the following day. One unexpected treat was spotting men riding elephants a couple of times along the side of the highway on the long ride back
Part 3: Koh Samui
Day 14
Our journey continued as we bid farewell to Phuket and boarded an early flight to the picturesque island of Koh Samui. Arriving at our swanky accommodations, we couldn’t help but be impressed by the luxurious poolside setting.
Eager to explore, we set off to discover nearby Fisherman’s Village in the daytime. The streets were filled with an array of charming shops, restaurants, and sculptures, immersing us in the island’s unique atmosphere.
Our adventure took an exciting turn as we caught a shuttle to the southern pier of the island. From there, we embarked on a grand oceanic escapade aboard a spacious ocean longtail boat, which I exclusively reserved for our group. Our first destination was Koh Mat Sum, affectionately known as Pig Island. As we approached, our excitement grew at the sight of the playful wild pigs wandering along the shore and in the trees. Sipping refreshing drinks, feeding and petting the large pigs, we reveled in the serenity of this picturesque island.
Leaving Pig Island behind, our journey continued to the waters of nearby Tean Island, where we had the opportunity to snorkel in the vast Gulf of Thailand. To our amazement, we found ourselves surrounded by an abundance of colorful tropical fish, creating a spectacle of nature’s vibrant palette. The underwater world came alive as we swam among these mesmerizing creatures, sharing a moment of connection with the diverse marine life. Throwing small pieces of watermelon rind into the water resulted in an incredible frenzy of fish as they eagerly swarmed around us, sometimes nipping at our skin, and created a truly magical experience.
As the day drew to a close, we returned to Fisherman’s Village, which had transformed into a lively hub of activity. The night market beckoned us with enticing aromas and the melodies of live music filled the air. Indulging in delectable Thai cuisine, we savored the flavors of this culinary paradise. Eager to unwind, we treated ourselves to yet more rejuvenating Thai massages, finding bliss in the expert hands of skilled practitioners.
With memories of Koh Samui etched in our hearts, we prepared for the next leg of our adventure with an early morning flight to the bustling city of Bangkok, for the final chapter of our journey.
Part 4: Bangkok
Day 15
The final leg of my tour brought us to the vibrant, hot and humid city of Bangkok, a sprawling metropolis that never fails to captivate with its energy and allure. With 22.8 million annual visitors, it is the most touristed city in the world
Our first stop was the legendary Chatuchak weekend market, a shopper’s paradise that left us in awe of its sheer size and variety. Spanning a colossal 25 acres and boasting an astonishing 15,000 stalls, this open-air market is a treasure trove of unique finds, the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia. Divided into 26 sections, we roamed through the maze of bustling alleys, discovering an endless array of souvenirs, handicrafts, clothing, and much more. The myriad of sights, sounds, and scents made our shopping experience truly memorable. We carefully selected souvenirs and gifts for friends and loved ones, ensuring that each item would serve as a cherished memento of our incredible journey.
As the day progressed, our group split off into different adventures. My clients ventured to a massive pool party at a venue I had meticulously researched for them. Meanwhile, my partner and I decided to indulge in the vibrant nightlife of Khao San Road, a bustling street known for its lively atmosphere and eclectic offerings. With drinks in hand, we reveled in the deafening music coming from all directions, immersing ourselves in the pulse of Bangkok’s nightlife. The air was filled with excitement and anticipation as we explored the famous street, encountering street vendors, lively bars, and a plethora of entertainment options. Sipping on nitrous oxide balloons, offered for sale seemingly every few feet we walked, the experience reminded us very much of Bangla Walking Street in Patong, yet with its own distinctive Bangkok vibe and flair.
Day 16
On the last day of my tour, we encountered a slight hiccup as the Grand Palace had closed early due to an inopportunely timed Buddha Day celebration. I had plotted a packed itinerary of exploring Bangkok’s famed temples and districts that was unfortunately obliterated at the last minute. I adapted to the interests of my clients and hailed a tuk-tuk for the four of us. We took a short journey to a luxurious jewelry shop, then to a park along the Chao Phraya River, where we embarked on a private long-tail river boat ride, taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling cityscape from the water. The boat gracefully navigated the intricate network of canals, offering us a glimpse into the local way of life and the charm of Bangkok’s waterways. Our journey brought us to the majestic Wat Arun temple, its towering spires captivating our gaze and inspiring a sense of awe.
After immersing ourselves in the sacred atmosphere of Wat Arun, we opted for a convenient Grab ride to Baiyoke Tower II, a magnificent skyscraper that stands as an icon in the Ratchathewi District. After a delectable dinner of Indian food (for a change), we ascended the tower in a high-speed glass elevator, the panoramic views of the city unfolding before our eyes.
We ventured to the uppermost floors of the tower, where a bar awaited us, offering a range of delightful libations. Sipping on our drinks, we marveled at the cityscape stretching out in every direction. The highlight of the experience was the rotating platform on the top of the building, where we captured breathtaking photographs of the sprawling metropolis at night.
As the day came to a close, it was time to bid farewell to my clients, who began their journey back home the following morning. With hearts full of unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for the wonders we had witnessed, we said our goodbyes.
The Thailand tour I designed and led in Autumn of 2022 was a remarkable journey, filled with meaning, discovery, an overload of sensational delights and the beauty in the Land of Smiles. I would be happy to lead another one, including these or many other activities and routes, depending on my clients’ tastes and abilities. Please contact me if you would like to discuss this further.
