Bangkok to Chiang Mai Express - 7 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What kind of experience can I expect on the Bangkok to Chiang Mai Express tour?

  This express trip is designed for those short on time but wanting to explore Northern Thailand, including Kanchanaburi, Ayutthaya, and Chiang Mai. It's packed with temples, palaces, and small villages, offering ease of travel by trains and buses for a memorable week in this dynamic region. The travel style is 'Classic'.

• What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

  Accommodation includes stays in hotels (4 nights), a unique rafthouse experience (1 night), and travel on a sleeper train (1 night).

• What should I know about the accommodation quality?

  A variety of hotel and guest house styles are used, which might differ from what you are accustomed to. In some areas, we stay in simple local guest houses in beautiful locations, with small, basic rooms and potentially shared toilet and shower facilities. Please note that properties with only two stories may not have elevators.

• Are there exceptions for single room bookings?

  Yes, if you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive a single room for all night stops except for the rafthouse (Night 2) and the overnight sleeper train (Night 4).

• Are meals included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 5 breakfasts and 1 dinner. Generally, other meals are not included to offer flexibility in your dining choices and budgeting. Your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) can recommend excellent local restaurants, and groups often choose to dine together.

• What is the typical group size and age range for this tour?

  The tour accommodates a maximum group size of 16 people. It is suitable for individuals aged 12 to 100 years.

• What is the physical rating for this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 1, which means an average level of fitness and mobility is required. Travelers should be able to walk without aid, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage at a minimum.

• Who will be leading the tour?

  The tour will be accompanied by one of our Chief Experience Officers (CEO) throughout the trip, and local guides will be utilized where specific local knowledge will enhance the experience.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation between destinations and to/from included activities primarily involves trains, private vans, and walking.

• Are there any considerations for train travel during public holidays?

  During local public holidays like New Year's or Songkran (April 13-15), train routes may have limited space. In such instances, alternative transport may be arranged for one or more of the scheduled train journeys.

• What is the local currency and how should I manage money during the trip?

  The local currency is the Thai Baht. We recommend carrying debit cards (Visa and Mastercard networks are widely accepted at ATMs) for cash withdrawals. It's also a good idea to have some USD cash for emergency situations. Traveler's cheques are generally not recommended due to exchange difficulties and fees.

• What is the customary practice for tipping?

  Tipping service providers such as waiters (around 10%) is customary. For drivers and local guides, a recommendation ranges from $1.5-$3.5 USD per person per day. Tipping your CEO at the end of the trip is appreciated, with a guideline of $20-25 USD per person per week.