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Small Group Programs to Thailand 2004-2005
This is not for everyone.
You will only do this if you want to be totally exhausted at the end of your
trip - by fun, lots of walking, lugging your back packs all over, overnight trains, small hotels with
basic amenities, and with a group of 11 other international travelers usually between ages of 20 to 50.
These programs offer great value.
If you prefer to move at your own pace, or want more upscale accommodations or private guides, please
contact us for independent programs.
Villages and Islands
15 days Bangkok to Koh Samui or Phuket (seasonal) from 864.00
Bangkok, Chiang Mai, hilltribe trek, islands, beaches, snorkelling
Soak up the ambience of Thailand. We lose ourselves amongst the hilltribe villages of the north
before retreating to the remote islands of the south. Does life really get better than this? Allow US$155
for meals not included.
| Itinerary |
| Days 1-2 | Bangkok | Immerse yourself in the canal life of busy Bangkok by longtail boat and marvel at the splendours of the Grand Palace. |
| Day 3 | Village Homestay | After exploring the rural countryside surrounding the home of our village hosts, we enjoy a delicious Khantok dinner with music and dancing. |
| Days 4-6 | Hilltribe Trek | Marvel at the rural landscape and stay in hilltribe villages during our 3 day trek. Gain an insight into the lives and culture of tribes who have maintained their own languages and ancient customs from a century ago. |
| Day 7 | Chiang Mai | There is ample time to discover the delights of Chiang Mai, whether it be shopping, visiting temples or sampling some great food. |
| Day 8 | Bangkok | Back in boisterous Bangkok to visit colourful Wat Po. Take time to indulge in a massage or simply stroll down legendary Khao San Road. |
| Please note seasonal variations apply to days 9-15 |
| Days 9-10 | Koh Pha Ngan | Departures between May and October (East Coast):
Relish in the super relaxed atmosphere of Koh Pha Ngan, an island with picture postcard beaches and rugged tropical interior. Spend time simply lazing on soft sands or explore the island's fishing villages and temples. |
| Days 11-12 | Koh Tao | Famous as an underwater wonderland of coral reefs and aquatic life, Ko Tao is a tropical dream with coconut palms shading white sandy beaches. Bask in the glorious ambience of paradise and snorkel in coral bays. |
| Days 13-15 | Koh Samui | Welcome to the delights of Koh Samui. Enjoy stunning beaches, hike to wonderful waterfalls, shop 'til you drop or get a taste of the vibrant nightlife. |
| Days 9-10 | Koh Kho Khao | Departures between and Nov and April (West Coast):
Relatively tourist free, Koh Kho Khao allows us to get into the spirit of the south with golden beaches and sparkling turquoise waters. Explore surrounding deserted islands and snorkel superb coral reefs. |
| Days 11-12 | Koh Yao Noi | A landscape of craggy limestone peaks rising majestically from the glistening waters. Phang Nga Bay is simply blessed with beauty. |
| Days 13-15 | Phuket | The international playground of Phuket has an interesting mix of southern Thai, Chinese and Portuguese influences and a smorgasbord of activities. |
Northern Thailand
16 days ex Bangkok from 776.00
River Kwai rafthouse, Chiang Mai, elephant ride, hilltribe trek, Golden Triangle
Experience the best that northern Thailand has to offer. An adventure trip of a lifetime. Become immersed
in the culture and be ready for some active trekking. Allow US$130 for meals not included.
| Itinerary |
| Day 1 | Bangkok | Check out the lively atmosphere in Bangkok's famous Khao San Road. |
| Days 2-4 | River Kwai Rafthouse | Explore Wat Po and Bangkok's canals before travelling to the infamous Bridge over the River Kwai, boarding our rafthouse and cruising the river. Swim, feast on delicious banquets and visit impressive limestone waterfalls and temples along the way. |
| Day 5 | Ayuthaya | Overland to the old Thai capital of Ayuthaya to explore picturesque ruins and temples. |
| Days 6-7 | Chiang Mai | Chiang Mai with its bustling night bazaar and spectacular Doi Suthep Temple has so much to offer. Great cooking schools, ancient temples, bamboo rafting, cycling and Thai massage to list a few. |
| Day 8 | Village Homestay | Our village homestay gives a taste of genuine rural life in Thailand. After enjoying a northern Thai Khantoke dinner, villagers treat us to a performance of traditional music and dance. A privilege to experience. |
| Days 9-12 | Hilltribe Trek | Trek though hilltribe villages and gain an insight into the lives of the ethnic minorities who have maintained their own languages and beliefs. This is an adventure through hilly rural terrain with maybe a shallow river crossing or two and a stay in basic village huts. |
| Days 13-14 | Golden Triangle | Explore the notorious Golden Triangle region where Thailand, Burma and Laos meet on the mighty Mekong River. We visit the colourful border town of Mae Sai and wander through Chiang Rai's great night market. |
| Days 15-16 | Bangkok | Our active holiday ends in Bangkok with time to shop in the huge weekend market or explore more of this city's amazing sights. |
Treasures of the North
8 days ex Bangkok from 512.00
Bangkok, Sukhothai, Elephant Conservation Centre, homestay, Chiang Mai, Doi Suthep
Discover Thailand's northern treasures. Experience the buzz of cycling to ancient ruins and elephant riding across the forested highlands. Stay with local friends, sample a sumptuous traditional dinner and enjoy the colour and character of Chiang Mai. Allow US$80 for meals not included.
| Itinerary |
| Day 1 | Bangkok | Be sure to make the most of frantic, fantastic Bangkok - City of Angels. |
| Days 2-3 | Sukhothai | Marvel at Sukhothai's grand Buddhas and 12th century ruins scattered amongst lakes and gardens. |
| Day 4 | Lampang | Explore Lampang in old world style by horse drawn cart. Make time to see the impressive 19th century murals of Wat Phra That Lampang Luang. |
| Days 5-6 | Elephants / Homestay | Ride elephants through the forest and enjoy the communal elephant bathing session. Local friends treat us to a traditional Thai dinner and dancing. We cycle through the countryside to learn about rural life. |
| Day 7 | Chiang Mai | So many options in Chiang Mai - explore the old city, visit famous temples, paddle on the river, head up to the hilltop temple, learn Thai cooking, relax with a traditional massage or shop in colourful bazaars. |
| Day 8 | Bangkok | Our short but sweet adventure ends at our Bangkok hotel early in the morning. |
Thailand Getaway
15 days Bangkok to Koh Samui or Phuket (seasonal) from 809.00
Bangkok, elephant riding, Three Pagoda Pass, River Kwai, homestay, beautiful islands and beaches
What dreams are made of! Pristine sandy beaches, a kaleidoscope of colourful marine life, jewel-like turquoise waters, dramatic scenery and the opportunity to experience the diversity within Thai culture. Get away and live the dream with us. Allow US$150 for meals not included.
| Itinerary |
| Day 1 | Bangkok | Absorb all the sights and smells of colourful Bangkok. |
| Days 2-3 | Three Pagoda Pass | Dramatic limestone mountains and dense rainforests are the rugged surrounds for the hilltop smuggling station of Three Pagoda Pass on the Burmese border. Enjoy a captivating elephant ride. |
| Day 4 | Village Life | Learn about local customs, religion, farming techniques and the day to day life of the Karen people with a village visit. |
| Day 5 | Kanchanaburi | At the haunting Hellfire Pass, visit the museum and gain insight into the plight of the POW's. Board the Death Railway for the trip to the Bridge over the River Kwai. A sobering day of history and understanding. |
| Days 6-7 | Thai House | Move in with a friendly family and enjoy superb meals in a magnificent teak house. Shop for fresh produce and spices in the morning market before travelling back to Bangkok along the Chao Phraya river. |
| Days 8-9 | Bangkok | More time to explore Bangkok! Visit Wat Po and the Grand Palace and sample the delicious street food on offer. |
| Please note seasonal variations apply to Days 10 - 15 |
| Days 10-11 | Koh Pha Ngan | Departures between May and October (east coast): Beachside bungalows, gushing waterfalls, lush rainforest, beautiful beaches with the occasional fishing village and temples to explore. The relaxed pace of Koh Pha-Ngan is infectious. |
| Days 12-13 | Koh Tao | Crystal clear waters teeming with colourful marine life surround the island paradise of Koh Tao. Chill out under the swaying palms on sandy beaches, snorkel the surrounding reefs or partake in some optional diving. |
| Days 14-15 | Koh Samui | Cosmopolitan Koh Samui is a magnet for beach lovers with something for everyone. Great shopping, idyllic beaches, lively nightlife, dense rainforest and picturesque waterfalls. |
| Days 10-11 | Koh Kho Khao | For departures between and November and April (west coast): Find the spirit of southern Thailand while relaxing in a hammock by the beach. Snorkel offshore reefs that are overwhelmingly rich in coral and aquatic life. |
| Days 12-13 | Koh Yao Noi | Our island getaway is located in stunning Phang Nga Bay where limestone pinnacles rise dramatically from the sea and perfect beaches mingle with rugged coastline. Explore the imposing karst formations or cycle to local villages. |
| Days 14-15 | Phuket | Thailand's Pearl of the South is Phuket, a historic trading town with an interesting mix of Thai, Chinese and Portuguese influences. There is plenty to see and do in this tourist mecca. |
A Taste of Adventure
8 Days ex Bangkok from 490.00
Bangkok, Chiang Mai, hilltribe trek, northern Thai homestay
Experience the magic of trekking in northern Thailand. Maximise time with this short action-packed adventure, trekking through beautiful countryside and hilltribe villages, sampling the region's cultural delights. Allow US$70 for meals not included.
| Itinerary |
| Days 1-2 | Bangkok | Bangkok is a amazing city to explore with crowded markets, glitzy temples and great nightlife. Discover canal life by longtail boat and enjoy a guided tour of the Grand Palace. |
| Day 3 | Homestay | Meet some of our local friends in a small village in the north. Cycle the countryside and enjoy a traditional Khantoke dinner accompanied by Thai music and dance. |
| Days 4-6 | Hilltribe Trek | Hiking through lush valleys, wooded slopes, rice fields and banana forests we learn about hilltribe life, so vastly different from our own. Staying in basic village huts is part of the fun. |
| Day 7 | Chiang Mai | An atmospheric city of golden temples, Chiang Mai has something for everyone. Explore the countryside by bicycle, discover the secrets of Thai cooking or sample some of the delicious Burmese influenced cuisine. |
| Day 8 | Bangkok | By overnight train arrive back in the excitement of Bangkok. This is your last chance to explore the streets and experience the hub of Thailand |
Thailand Encompassed
24 Days Bangkok to Koh Samui or Phuket (seasonal) from 1221.00
River Kwai rafthouse, Chiang Mai, elephant ride, hilltribe trek, Golden Triangle, islands, beaches, snorkelling.
Discover Thailand, from north to south. In the spirit of adventure, we glide along the River Kwai and trek to northern Thailand's hilltribes. We then travel to the islands of the south and discover unspoilt shores and lively coral bays. Allow US$215 for meals not included.
| Itinerary |
| Day 1 | Bangkok | Bangkok is a colourful, animated city with a wealth of sights to explore. |
| Days 2-4 | River Kwai Rafthouse | Cruise along the River Kwai on our open air rafthouse pausing along the way to visit temples. Erawan National Park's cascading limestone waterfalls give us the chance to cool off. |
| Day 5 | Ayuthaya | The ancient ruins and temples of Ayuthaya offer glimpses of the majesty of ancient Siam. |
| Days 6-7 | Chiang Mai | Explore the hustle and bustle of Chiang Mai's colourful markets bursting with local handicrafts. Enjoy an elephant ride and visit the spectacular hilltop temple on Doi Suthep Mountain. |
| Day 8 | Village Homestay | Our village homestay plunges us into the true rural life of the north. Local friends give us the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Thai culture and share dinner with traditional music and dancing. |
| Days 9-12 | Hilltribe Trek | Our 4 day trek through hilly rural terrain exposes us to some of Thailand's colourful ethnic minorities. Gaining an insight into diverse cultures and traditions of these hilltribe people is inspirational. |
| Days 13-14 | Golden Triangle | The once notorious Golden Triangle is the confluence of Thailand, Burma and Laos. Explore the colourful border town of Mae Sai and visit the opium museum. |
| Days 15-17 | Bangkok | Dynamic Bangkok has so much to offer, from distinctly styled temples to vibrant weekend markets. |
| Please note seasonal variations apply to Days 18-24 |
| Days 18-19 | Koh Pha Ngan | For trips that run from May to October: The tranquil surrounds of brilliant beaches in Koh Pha Ngan await. Sit back and relax with a cocktail, soak in the relaxed atmosphere or explore the island by boat, seeking out idyllic sands. |
| Days 20-21 | Koh Tao | Koh Tao has all the ingredients of paradise: white sandy beaches framed with coconut palms, luxuriant tropical rainforest and clear waters with bountiful marine life. Snorkel, swim, relax or maybe enjoy some optional diving. |
| Days 22-24 | Koh Samui | Koh Samui is a lively island. Picture perfect beaches, gushing waterfalls in verdant forest - plus a whole raft of shopping and nightlife options! |
| Days 18-19 | Koh Kho Khao | For trips that run from November to April: Koh Kho Khao is surrounded by the Andaman Sea. Explore deserted bays, relax on the beach or snorkel the waters teeming with marine life. |
| Days 20-21 | Kho Yao Noi | Koh Yao Noi sits amongst the limestone karsts jutting from the waters of Phang Nga Bay. The superb natural wonders are yearning to be explored. |
| Days 22-24 | Phuket | Internationally renowned Phuket is a great place to end our trip. Blessed with stunning natural beauty the island has cultural influences from the Chinese, Portuguese and Southern Thai. |
Southern Thailand
15 Days ex Bangkok from 776.00
Bangkok, jungle, lake rafthouses, Khao Sok National Park, beaches, Krabi, Ao Nang, island safari
Savour magnificent southern Thailand. The allure of pristine jungle and picture postcard beaches are just two reasons to get away from the ordinary and savour all the delights of the south. Explore magnificent islands and sea caves or drift off to sleep with warm seas gently lapping the shores.
Allow US$140 for meals not included.
| Itinerary |
| Days 1-2 | Bangkok | You can arrive at any time on Day 1. In this vibrant city full of contrast, we explore the canals of Bangkok by longtail boat, tour the Grand Palace and have a free afternoon before boarding the overnight train south. |
| Days 3-6 | Khao Sok National Park | Some of the most pristine jungle in Thailand can be found at Khao Sok. In the wet season there is an option to float down the river in inner tubes. For two of the nights we stay on a beautiful lake in remote floating rafthouses surrounded by spectacular mountains and rainforest. |
| Please note seasonal variations apply to Days 7-13 |
| Days 7-10 | Koh Pha-Ngan island safari | Departures between May and October (east coast): After a Day's journey by songtaew and ferry we reach the island paradise of Koh Pha-Ngan. Subject to weather conditions, we spend two days camping and exploring magnificent islands in the Ang Thong Marine Park by longtail boat. Swimming, snorkelling and seafood is on the menu - this is beach life at its best! (For trips commencing between 1 May to 31 October) |
| Days 11-13 | Koh Samui | We move on to Koh Samui, famous for its magnificent beaches and holiday atmosphere. There's plenty of time for relaxing on the beach. On Day 13 we head back to the mainland and board a sleeper train for Bangkok. |
| Day 7 | Krabi homestay | Departures between November and April (west coast): Leaving the National Park, we travel by local bus to the west coast town of Krabi and transfer to our village homestay. Here we can get to know the family and eat a scrumptious feast. |
| Day 8 | Krabi Beach | Leaving the Homestay we drive approx. 15 minutes to the beachside town of Ao Nang. Known as a backpacker haven, there are a multitude of options here such as kayaking, rock climbing, Thai cooking class or just soaking up the sun. |
| Days 9-10 | Koh Muk | Time to hit the beach. On the beautiful island of Koh Muk, our bungalows are a great base from which you can snorkel off the beach, take to bicycles, wander along the sand, visit a fishing village, sip cocktails or just lie around on the golden sand! |
| Days 11-12 | Island safari | We head out in small boats to explore magnificent beaches, towering limestone cliffs, sea caves and coral bays in the Andaman Sea. We camp under the stars for two nights - gorgeous! |
| Day 13 | Trang | Trang, ancient trading port of the deep south with a strong Chinese influence. |
| Days 14-15 | Bangkok | Arriving in Bangkok in the morning you are free to check out markets or shopping centres, catch a river ferry or explore Buddhist sights. You can depart at any time on Day 15. (Both seasons) |
Thailand - North and South
29 Days ex Bangkok from 1320.00
Bangkok, River Kwai, Chiang Mai, elephant ride, hilltribe trek, Golden Triangle, jungle stay, rafthouses, homestays, Krabi, Ao Nang, island safari
The ultimate Thailand adventure. The cultural diversity of northern Thailand's hilltribes and the exotic Golden Triangle combine with the sheer beauty of southern Thailand's pristine lush jungle, idyllic tropical beaches and magnificent marine life. Allow US$220 for meals not included.
| Itinerary |
| Day 1 | Bangkok | Exhilarating Bangkok with grand temples and palaces, crowded street markets and endless shopping opportunities is the perfect place to begin an adventure. |
| Days 2-4 | River Kwai rafthouse | Our open air rafthouse drifts along the River Kwai stopping to let us explore temples and caves. Lay back, enjoy the journey with an occasional swim and sumptuous dinner. A visit to the Erawan National Park and waterfall is not to be missed. |
| Day 5 | Ayuthaya | Formerly one of Asia's greatest trading centres, the ancient capital of Ayuthaya is teeming with picturesque ruins and temples. |
| Days 6-7 | Chiang Mai | Enjoy great views over Chiang Mai on a visit to the hill top temple of Doi Suthep and take an elephant ride in the forest. Later head out to the lively night market for great food and a huge array of handicrafts. |
| Day 8 | Village Homestay | Stay in a small rural village with local friends where we are treated to a traditional northern Thai Khantok dinner while enjoying a performance of local music and dance. |
| Days 9-12 | Hilltribe Trek | A four day trek through the northern hills gives us a fantastic opportunity to learn about the life and culture of a number of ethnic hilltribe communities. Meeting the friendly locals is truly a highlight. |
| Days 13-14 | Golden Triangle | The history of the Golden Triangle, meeting point of Thailand, Laos and Burma on the mighty Mekong River, is simply fascinating. For a glimpse at the past visit the Opium Museum or perhaps you'd prefer to head down river in a speedboat. |
| Days 15-16 | Bangkok | Shopping at the weekend market, visiting ancient temples or wandering Khao San Road - the joys of Bangkok are there for the taking. |
| Days 17-20 | Khao Sok | Virgin jungle with abundant flora and fauna overshadowed by mountains, is the backdrop for our remote floating rafthouses. Perfect for relaxing while absorbing the sounds of nature. |
| Please note seasonal variations apply to Days 21-27 |
| Days 21-24 | Koh Pha Ngan | Departures between May and October (east coast): On Koh Pha-Ngan the magnificent marine life, coupled with crystal clear waters, idyllic islands and beaches, is our playground for an island safari. Camping under the stars, feasting on seafood, snorkelling, swimming and exploring remote islands. |
| Days 25-27 | Koh Samui | Glamorous Koh Samui is popular for good reason. It has a great atmosphere, many spots to sip a sunset cocktail, enjoy Thai food or just walk barefoot in the luxurious sands of perfect beaches. |
| Days 21-22 | Krabi | For departures between November and April (west coast): The fabulous hospitality of our homestay is always special - delicious meals and lots of fun interaction with our hosts. Moving on to the Krabi coastline we try to find time for exploring the surrounding limestone towers. |
| Days 23-24 | Koh Mook | Nestled in the southern Andaman is the beautiful island of Koh Muk. Snorkel the lively coral reefs in warm waters, relax on a perfect beach or explore the superb Emerald Cave. |
| Days 25-26 | Island Safari | Head out on an island safari and soak up the sheer bliss of remote islands in a tropical paradise. Camp by the beach under sparkling night skies, dine on succulent seafood, and explore magnificent coral bays. |
| Days 27 | Trang | As an historic trading town of the deep south, Trang retains a definite multi-cultural Asian influence. Consider a day trip out to the forests of Banthat Mountains. |
| Days 28-29 | Bangkok | Take some time to enjoy the fun of Bangkok. |
A Taste of Thailand
8 Days ex Bangkok from 512.00
Bangkok, Kanchanaburi, elephant riding, Three Pagoda Pass, River Kwai, traditional Thai house
Get a taste of Thailand in the remote rural and mountain regions. Escape every day routine and indulge in a trip through dramatic limestone mountains, beautiful lakes and traditional villages. A magical elephant ride will be an experience you'll never forget. Allow US$80 for meals not included.
| Itinerary |
| Day 1 | Bangkok | In fast paced Bangkok you have time to explore Chinatown, wander down Khao San Road or visit the spectacular Grand Palace. |
| Days 2-3 | Three Pagoda Pass | Journey through dramatic limestone mountain scenery and rugged forest close by the Burmese border. We take an elephant ride through the Thai wilderness and visit the historic Three Pagoda Pass. |
| Day 4 | Village Life | A day spent with the Karen people presents an excellent opportunity to witness first hand their lifestyle and culture. |
| Day 5 | River Kwai | Visit the Hellfire Pass Museum, a poignant reminder of a brutal past. We board the infamous Death Railway on a pilgrimage to the Bridge over the River Kwai. |
| Days 6-7 | Thai House | Our magnificent teak house and friendly host family awaits us. Explore colourful local markets and learn about local spices and produce. Watch the world pass by on the river as we return to Bangkok by longtail boat. |
| Day 8 | Bangkok | Enjoy a final day exploring the hustle and bustle of Bangkok. |
Canoeing and Caves in Krabi
5 Days ex Krabi, departs daily - seasonal - from 275.00
Low Season: 01MAY04-27OCT04
Twin per person 275, Single 369
High Season: 28OCT-10DEC03, 16JAN-30APR04
Twin per person 292, Single 424
Peak Season: 11DEC03-15JAN04
Twin per person 385, Single 583
Compulsory Xmas Eve and NY Eve dinners apply
Krabi, canoeing, coral reefs, caves, canyons and stunning beaches
A perfect trip for the independent traveller who wants sea, sand and sunshine without the crowds! Discover the secret delights of Krabi. Explore some of Thailand's finest beaches and coral reefs and experience the wonder of paddling by canoe through mangrove forests, sea caves, towering canyons and heavenly lagoons. You will never want to leave this tropical paradise! Allow US$75 for meals not included.
| Itinerary |
| Day 1 | Arrive Ao Nang Beach, Krabi. |
| Day 2 | Krabi - Boat trip. |
| Day 3 | Krabi - Canoeing. |
| Day 4 | Krabi - Canoeing. |
| Day 5 | Depart Ao Nang/Krabi. |
Chiang Mai Cooking School
5 Days ex Chiang Mai from 259.00 (to Oct 04)
Chiang Mai and Thai cuisine cooking course
Learn the secrets of Thai cuisine in the relaxed atmosphere of a Thai family home. Lemon grass, basil, coriander, chilli, garlic, lime juice and coconut milk - all vital ingredients in the fiery but fragrant Thai cuisine. Five days in charming Chiang Mai with four nights in a fabulous hotel and three days of preparing, cooking and eating delicious Thai dishes - a great recipe for an unforgettable Thailand experience! Allow US$40 for meals not included.
| Itinerary |
| Day 1 | Arrive Chiang Mai |
| Days 2-4 | Chiang Mai Cooking School |
| Day 5 | Depart Chiang Mai |
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