Classic Thailand

(N)

Arrive and transfer to the Ariyasom Villa for 3 nights, a charming property set within a 1940s Thai heritage villa that provides a quiet haven in the city. (N)

Spend the following 2 days exploring this vibrant city, an exciting mix of beautiful ancient Buddhist temples, golden royal palaces, riverside houses on stilts, and traditional markets contrasted with a modern cityscape of skyscrapers and air-conditioned shopping malls. On today's guided tour visit the Wat Pho temple grounds and see the celebrated 45-metre reclining Buddha, the Grand Palace, the National Museum and the Dusit Palace complex. The evening is free to explore the city's numerous night markets, street food stalls and fine dining restaurants. (B)

Morning at leisure. Afternoon guided visit to the former home of Jim Thompson, an American who came to Thailand after the second world war and revitalised the Thai silk industry. End the day with a visit to Wat Arun temple on the banks of the Chao Praya river, which makes a spectacular sight when lit up at sunset. (B)

Drive north this morning to Khao Yai National Park, where you will be escorted on a walk through the jungle. Visit a lookout tower for the chance to spot wild elephants, relax by the scenic Haew Suwat waterfall, and keep an eye out for a variety of species of birds, monkeys and butterflies along the walking trails. Stay overnight at the Kirimaya Golf Resort & Spa. (B)

Drive north to Ayutthaya, the former capital of the ancient Ayutthaya Kingdom, and explore the Phra Nakorn Sri Ayutthaya Historical Park that protects the ruins of the old city. Stay overnight at iuDia on the River. (B)

Continue west to Kanchanaburi, a friendly provincial town in east central Thailand resting on the River Kwai and set in countryside of traditional small villages and farmsteads. During your stay, visit the notorious bridge over the River Kwai, the Allied war cemeteries and the JEATH Museum. Stay 2 nights at the River Kwai Resotel. (B, L)

Journey south to Ratchaburi, and stay for 2 nights at the Asajara Resort, which features three villas set against the backdrop of a beautiful Thai house with shady gardens, natural streams and superb mountain views. From Ratchaburi, visits can be made to the Khao Chong Phran cave, where thousands of bats fly out at sunset, and the Khao Prathap Chang Wildlife Sanctuary. (B)

Continue south to the coastal resort of Hua Hin on the Gulf of Thailand, with a stop en route at the Damoen Saduak floating market. Spend the next 2 days relaxing at the beachfront Rest Detail Hotel. (B, L)

Drive to Bangkok airport and fly home. (B)