What to see
MEKHALA CRUISE: A JOURNEY ON THE RIVER OF KINGS
Mekhala Cruises is a collection of three beautifully restored rice barges, which provide comfort and style on the Chao Phraya River. Mekhala 1 and 2 each have six comfortable air-conditioned cabins with private bathrooms, while Mekhala 3 offers nine cabins. The itinerary features an overnight journey on Chao Phraya River, the River of Kings, which flows between Bangkok and the ancient capital, Ayutthaya, retracing the paths of former royal processions. Chao Phraya River has long been the lifeline of Thailand, and this journey offers an insight into the lives of rural communities that are still dependent on the ancient waterways. The hustle and bustle of cosmopolitan Bangkok is replaced by the tranquillity of the countryside just a few hours into the journey. Cruises depart Bangkok for Ayutthaya every day except Fridays and every day except Saturdays in reverse.
EASTERN & ORIENTAL EXPRESS
Travel in style through the jungles, rice fields and cities of Southeast Asia aboard the luxurious Eastern & Oriental Express. The train operates various itineraries and is a unique way to discover the region. It is the first train ever to transport passengers directly from Singapore to Bangkok, travelling across the Straits of Johor to Kuala Lumpur, colonial Georgetown and Fort Cornwallis, crossing the border to Thailand, and stopping at the infamous River Kwai before arriving in Bangkok. Alternatively, travel from Chiang Mai to Bangkok through the magnificent landscapes of Thailand and visit the impressive Buddhist temples in Sri Satchanalai. E&O has introduced a new route through northeast Thailand to the Angkor-style temple of Phimai and across the Mekong to the fascinating capital city of Laos, Vientiane. The E&O offers refined elegance with well-appointed compartments fine dining options, a piano bar and observation car. Departures are scheduled throughout the year and it is possible to combine these journeys or take them in reverse.
