On arrival in Bangkok, you’ll be met and transferred to your boutique hotel in the heart of the city. Take time to refresh and settle in before beginning your discovery of Thailand’s vibrant capital, where gleaming skyscrapers meet golden spires and bustling canals.

In the afternoon, set off on a long-tail boat journey through the klongs (canals) to see local life unfolding along the waterways, with stilted houses, floating kitchens, and shrines draped in flowers. Later, dive into the sensory overload of a lively night market, where sizzling street food, neon lights and exotic aromas create an unforgettable welcome to Southeast Asia.

After breakfast, step into the splendour of Bangkok’s most revered landmarks. Begin at the dazzling Grand Palace, a masterpiece of Thai architecture and home to the sacred Emerald Buddha. Wander through golden courtyards and ornate halls that once housed the Thai kings.

Continue to Wat Pho, where the colossal Reclining Buddha stretches an impressive 46 metres, and learn about Thailand’s traditional art of massage at its historic school. Cross the river by ferry to reach Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, whose porcelain spires rise over the Chao Phraya. As the sun sets, the temple glows in golden light, offering one of the most iconic views of the capital.

This morning, take a short flight north to Chiang Mai, the cultural heart of Lanna heritage. On arrival, transfer to your boutique retreat and take a moment to unwind beneath shady frangipani trees before stepping out to explore the moated Old City’s quiet lanes and temple courtyards.

Discover Wat Chedi Luang, with its weathered brick stupa and saffron banners, and pause at Wat Phra Singh to admire elegant viharns and lacquered murals. As golden hour approaches, drive up the forested slopes of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Climb the naga-flanked staircase to the gleaming chedi and take in panoramic views as the city lights begin to sparkle below.

Immerse yourself in the flavours of northern Thailand with an authentic Thai cooking class. Begin the morning at a bustling local market alongside your host, selecting fragrant herbs, spices, fresh vegetables and tropical fruits. Learn about the essential ingredients that give Thai cuisine its distinctive balance of sweet, sour, salty and spicy.

Continue to a traditional home or small cookery school where family recipes are passed down through generations. Under expert guidance, prepare signature dishes such as green curry, spicy papaya salad and mango sticky rice. Sit down together to enjoy the meal you’ve created, a true highlight of your Chiang Mai experience.

Spend today exploring more of Chiang Mai and its enchanting surroundings. Begin with a stroll through the Old City’s leafy streets, where saffron-robed monks pass between ancient temples and quiet monasteries. Pause at artisan workshops to see traditional crafts such as woodcarving, silverwork and silk weaving.

Later, venture out into the countryside where emerald rice paddies and teak forests frame the horizon. Visit a local village to learn about rural traditions and enjoy warm hospitality, then take a gentle walk along scenic trails where water buffalo graze and bamboo groves line the paths. Return to Chiang Mai in the evening with a deeper appreciation of northern Thailand’s harmony between city and nature.

Leave Chiang Mai behind and embark on one of Thailand’s most beautiful drives as you travel through rolling plantations, misty hillsides and emerald-green rice paddies en route to Chiang Rai. The journey offers endless vistas of teak forests, coffee fields and terraced farms carved into the mountainsides.

Along the way, stop at remote villages where you’ll meet members of the Karen and Akha hill tribes. Gain an insight into their traditions, handwoven textiles and way of life, which has remained unchanged for generations. Arrive in Chiang Rai by late afternoon and settle into your luxury resort surrounded by serene countryside views.

Wake to the cool mountain air of Chiang Rai and prepare for an unforgettable day at the Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp. Join expert mahouts at sunrise as you gently walk alongside elephants through lush jungle paths, learning about their behaviour, care and conservation. Share in the joy of bath time at the river, where these gentle giants splash and play in the water.

Later, set out to explore the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar converge. Cruise the Mekong and Ruak Rivers aboard a traditional long-tail boat, passing misty hillsides, riverside villages and ancient temples that have witnessed centuries of trade and migration. As evening falls, enjoy serene views across three countries before returning to your lodge for a peaceful night.

Today your adventure carries you across borders as you embark on a luxury river cruise along the mighty Mekong River. Depart Chiang Rai and board your comfortable vessel, gliding downstream past dramatic limestone cliffs, jungle-clad hills and fishing villages that reveal daily life along the waterway.

Relax on deck with panoramic views as the river meanders between Thailand and Laos. Enjoy freshly prepared meals onboard and insightful commentary from your guide about the Mekong’s history, ecology and role as a lifeline for millions. As evening falls, dock at a riverside stop and overnight aboard, lulled to sleep by the gentle rhythm of the river.

This morning, your cruise glides into the UNESCO-listed town of Luang Prabang, one of Southeast Asia’s most enchanting destinations. Disembark and transfer to your boutique luxury retreat before setting out to explore the town’s serene streets, lined with colonial-era villas, gilded temples and frangipani trees.

Begin at the Royal Palace Museum, once the residence of Laos’ last monarchs, where royal regalia and cultural treasures bring the past vividly to life. Continue to Wat Mai with its intricate gold bas-reliefs and visit the oldest temple, Wat Visoun, with its lotus-shaped stupa. As the afternoon light softens, climb the 328 steps up Mount Phousi to watch the sun sink over the Mekong and the surrounding emerald mountains—a moment of pure magic.

After breakfast, board a traditional long-tail boat and cruise upriver on the Mekong to the sacred Pak Ou Caves. Nestled in limestone cliffs at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Ou Rivers, these atmospheric caves house thousands of wooden Buddha statues placed here by devotees over centuries. It is a deeply spiritual site and a highlight of your journey in Laos.

Return to Luang Prabang for an afternoon of temple discovery. Visit Wat Xieng Thong, the town’s most exquisite monastery, adorned with sweeping roofs and glittering mosaics. Wander through shaded courtyards where saffron-robed monks chant their evening prayers, and feel the serene pace of life that makes Luang Prabang so unique.

Rise before dawn to witness one of Laos’ most sacred traditions: the daily alms-giving ceremony. As saffron-robed monks walk silently through the streets, locals kneel to offer sticky rice and fruit in a ritual that has continued for generations. With your guide’s help, you may also make your own offering respectfully, sharing in this timeless Buddhist practice.

Later, head out of the city into the forested hills to discover the Tad Sae Waterfall. Crystal streams tumble over tiers of limestone, forming turquoise pools perfect for swimming and relaxation. Enjoy a riverside lunch and some free time to wander jungle trails, spotting butterflies and listening to the sounds of nature before returning to Luang Prabang for a relaxed evening.

Today you’ll head deep into the forested hills surrounding Luang Prabang for an immersive day of culture, adventure and nature. Guided by locals, learn traditional jungle survival skills passed down through generations: how to forage for bamboo shoots, edible herbs and mushrooms, and how to fish in the streams using simple techniques.

Your foraging adventure continues with a rustic outdoor cooking experience, transforming your gathered ingredients into a delicious Laotian lunch. In the afternoon, trek further into the forest until you reach the spectacular Kuang Si Waterfalls. Here, cascading turquoise pools invite you to swim, relax and soak in the beauty of one of Laos’ most photographed natural wonders.

This morning bid farewell to Laos as you take a short flight via Bangkok to Phuket. On arrival, a private transfer will carry you north along a scenic coastal road to Khao Lak, famed for its golden sands and tranquil atmosphere. Here you will check in to the award-winning Sarojin, your luxury beachfront sanctuary set amidst tropical gardens and fronting the turquoise Andaman Sea.

Unwind after your journey with a refreshing welcome drink and a gentle stroll along the pristine beach. Spend the rest of the day at leisure—whether lounging by the infinity pool, indulging in a spa treatment, or simply sinking your toes into the warm sand as the sun sets over the horizon.

Wake up to the gentle sound of waves at The Sarojin and enjoy a leisurely breakfast served until late morning. Today is dedicated to pure relaxation on Khao Lak’s golden sands, where you can swim in turquoise waters, stroll along the beach, or simply relax with a book beneath swaying palms.

For the ultimate indulgence, retreat to the award-winning Pathways Spa, set in a secluded coconut grove by the ocean. Treat yourself to a rejuvenating Thai massage, herbal body wrap or aromatherapy session as the sea breeze drifts in. As evening falls, enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner by the beach with the sand beneath your feet and the stars above.

Today offers the chance for adventure with an optional full-day excursion to the Similan Islands, a pristine archipelago just off the Andaman coast. Famed for their crystal-clear waters and dramatic granite boulders, the Similans are ranked among the world’s top dive and snorkelling destinations.

Cruise by speedboat across the shimmering Andaman Sea, then spend the day swimming, snorkelling or diving amidst vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish. Between snorkel stops, relax on powdery white sand beaches fringed with casuarina trees. Return to Khao Lak in the evening, refreshed and exhilarated from your encounter with this marine paradise.

Savour your final full day in Khao Lak with complete freedom to enjoy this coastal haven at your own pace. Wake to the sound of the waves and choose between a lazy morning on the beach, a refreshing swim in the infinity pool, or perhaps a guided yoga session to stretch and centre yourself.

The day is yours to design—take a bicycle to explore nearby fishing villages, embark on a gentle nature walk in the surrounding rainforest, or simply relax with a cocktail as the sun sinks into the Andaman Sea. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at The Sarojin, reflecting on your remarkable journey through Thailand and Laos.

After a leisurely breakfast at The Sarojin, it’s time to say farewell to Thailand’s golden shores. A private transfer will take you to Phuket International Airport for your return flight to NEW YORK. As you board, reflect on the extraordinary journey you’ve just completed—from Bangkok’s dazzling temples and Chiang Mai’s cultural treasures to elephant encounters in the Golden Triangle, the serene spirituality of Luang Prabang, and the idyllic beaches of Khao Lak.

Though your Southeast Asia adventure comes to an end, the memories of Buddhist rituals at dawn, Mekong sunsets, jungle waterfalls and barefoot luxury by the sea will remain long after your flight touches down back in the UK.