China & Thailand Cultural Treasures - 16 Days

Upon arrival at Beijing Capital Airport, our local tour guide will welcome you and arrange your transfer to the hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is yours to relax and recover from any jet lag.

Our journey begins as your guide greets you in the hotel lobby. First, we head to the iconic Tiananmen Square, a site of immense historical significance.

From there, we'll explore the magnificent Forbidden City, once the heart of imperial China. Next, we'll climb to Jingshan Park, where Coal Hill offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Forbidden City.

After a traditional Chinese lunch, we drive to the Temple of Heaven, a masterpiece of architecture and a symbol of harmonious cosmology. Later, enjoy some leisure time browsing the Panjiayuan Antique Market, famed for its diverse offerings, and a local tea store.

We'll then return to your hotel. On the way, feel free to consult your guide about evening plans, whether you fancy a night show or wish to savour a Peking duck dinner. Your guide is ready to provide recommendations to enhance your experience.

Today, we visit the Mutianyu section of the iconic Great Wall of China. You have the option to hike along this historic structure or take a cable car for a more leisurely exploration.

After our morning on the Wall, we'll enjoy a traditional Chinese lunch at a nearby restaurant. In the afternoon, we return to the city with a stop at a jade carving factory, where you can see the craftsmanship involved in this ancient art.

Before heading back to the hotel, we'll pause for photographs at the Bird's Nest and Water Cube, two striking venues from the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

Begin the day by checking out of your room. We start our journey at the Drum Tower, where you'll enjoy a leisurely rickshaw tour through Beijing's charming Hutongs, offering a glimpse into the local lifestyle.

Next, we'll visit the Summer Palace, renowned as the largest and best-preserved imperial garden in China. A boat ride on Kunming Lake is included, perfect for appreciating the garden's serene beauty.

After enjoying a nearby Chinese lunch, we'll board a high-speed train to Shanghai. Upon arrival, a transfer service will take you to your hotel, with guidance from a local expert.

We begin the day with a visit to Yuyuan Garden, a classic example of a traditional Chinese garden nestled in the heart of the city. Next, explore Shanghai Old Street and Nanjing Road, renowned as Shanghai's earliest commercial street, where you can shop for unique souvenirs and silk products.

After lunch at a local Chinese restaurant, we enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Bund, a showcase of Shanghai's historical colonial architecture.

We'll then visit the Jade Buddha Temple, home to remarkable cultural artefacts, before viewing the striking exterior of the Oriental Pearl TV Tower while walking along the Riverside Promenade. We will conclude the day by driving you back to your hotel.

In the morning, we will drive to Zhujiajiao Water Town. Here, we will discover ancient bridges spanning bubbling streams, wander alongside willowed rivers, and observe traditional houses with charming courtyards. This serene setting offers a refreshing escape from the modern city's hustle and bustle.

You may choose to enjoy a short boating trip along the waterway for a unique perspective of the town. Lunch will be arranged at a local Chinese restaurant. After lunch, we will return to the hotel. In the afternoon, you will have free time for shopping in Shanghai.

Spend your day at leisure before we arrange your transfer to the airport for your return flight. If desired, you can experience the futuristic Maglev train to Pudong Airport, or we can provide a direct car transfer. From there, board your flight to Bangkok, where you will spend the night.

We begin our day with a hotel pickup for an exploration of Bangkok, the vibrant capital of Thailand. Founded in 1782 by King Phra Phutthayotfa Chulalok, Bangkok features a rich history and cultural tapestry. Our tour navigates the city’s dynamic streets to visit three iconic temples: Wat Traimit, Wat Pho, and Wat Benchamabophit.

At Wat Traimit, you’ll encounter the renowned Golden Buddha, a masterpiece from the Sukhothai period. This awe-inspiring statue, crafted from solid gold, stands 3 metres tall and weighs five and a half tonnes.

Next, we visit Wat Pho, one of Bangkok’s most historic and expansive temples. Established by King Rama I over two centuries ago, it houses the impressive Reclining Buddha. This gold-plated figure stretches 49 metres in length and 12 metres in height, featuring intricately inlaid mother-of-pearl soles.

Following this, we drive past landmarks such as Sanam Luang (The Royal Field), the Democracy Monument, and Ratchadamnoen Klang Avenue. We'll also see the grandeur of Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall and the Thai Parliament buildings.

Our final stop is Wat Benchamabophit, celebrated for its exquisite marble structures erected during King Rama V’s reign.

We will collect you from your hotel to begin our journey southwest towards the Ratchaburi province, home to the renowned Damnoen Saduak Floating Market.

On our way, we will stop at a sugar palm factory. Here, you will observe the traditional process of extracting sugar from palm trees, offering insights into local industry and craftsmanship.

At the pier, we board a traditional long-tail boat. This scenic ride offers a close-up view of life along the canal, providing a unique glimpse into the daily lives of local residents. We arrive at the vibrant floating market, where boats teeming with fresh produce, flowers, and local goods crowd the waterways.

As you observe the bustling trade, you'll have the chance to sample local delicacies, from refreshing coconut juice to a variety of fresh fruit juices. You might also wish to purchase souvenirs for friends and family.

After breakfast at the hotel, we will transfer you to the airport for your flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. Upon arrival at Chiang Mai International Airport, our local representative will greet you and assist with your transfer to the hotel for check-in.

The remainder of the day is yours to relax or start discovering the charming streets and rich culture of Chiang Mai at your own pace.

We set off from Chiang Mai, heading south for about 1.5 hours. Enjoy the views of rolling hills, lush forests, and local farming areas en route to our destination.

Upon arrival, explore the sanctuary and change into traditional Karen clothing. Gain insights into the lives and history of these magnificent creatures as we prepare herbal medicine for them.

Engage with the elephants up close - feed them, administer the medicine, and enjoy playful interactions. This interaction takes place in their natural environment, offering a unique glimpse into their behaviour. Capture the moment with photos alongside these gentle giants.

Join the elephants for a fun and therapeutic mud spa, an important part of their care routine. Accompany the elephants to the river and assist in bathing them. This hands-on experience deepens your connection with these incredible animals.

Savour a traditional meal before bidding farewell to our elephant friends. This meal provides a taste of local culture. We depart the sanctuary and begin the 1.5-hour drive back to Chiang Mai.

We will begin our day by meeting your tour guide at your hotel. We start our journey with a relaxing visit to the Maekhachan Hot Spring, where you can soak your feet in the warm waters and enjoy the serene surroundings.

Next, we visit the iconic White Temple. Designed by National Artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, this contemporary Buddhist and Hindu temple is famed for its striking white façade, symbolising purity. Expect intricate artistry that blends traditional Buddhist motifs with modern design.

Our tour continues at the Blue Temple, remarkable for its vibrant blue interior and an impressive white Buddha statue, both of which offer a unique spiritual experience.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, where you can sample authentic Thai cuisine.

In the afternoon, we'll explore Baan Si Dum, also known as the Black House. This striking collection of buildings, created by Dr. Thawan Duchanee, a celebrated Thai National Artist, serves as both a museum and a display of unconventional architecture offering profound cultural insights.

We return to your hotel or guest house by 5:00 pm after a day filled with artistic and cultural discoveries.

Savour your final moments before your private driver takes you to the airport for your flight to Phuket. Upon arrival, you'll be met by your driver and transported to your accommodation in Bangkok. The remainder of the day is yours to explore at leisure.

Enjoy a free day to explore the vibrant island of Phuket at your leisure. Perhaps visit the famous Patong Beach, explore the bustling local markets, or discover the island's rich cultural heritage at a nearby temple.

Another day to make the most of Phuket. You might head out to one of the island's other beaches, join a snorkelling trip, visit a local temple, or simply return to a favourite spot from yesterday. Whatever you choose, there's plenty here to fill the day.

A final breakfast before your driver arrives to take you to Phuket International Airport for your homeward flight. It's been quite a journey - from the imperial grandeur of Beijing to the warm waters of the Andaman Sea. Safe travels!