Thai Essentials: From Bangkok to Phuket

Touch down in the buzzing capital of Thailand, where you’ll be welcomed by an airport representative. Then, transfer to the hotel.

Bangkok is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, located in the heart of the country. It offers a variety of unique experiences, from its impressive temples and lively culture to its world-renowned cuisine. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure and begin discovering this fascinating city. Overnight stay in Bangkok.

Breakfast at the hotel. Today is all about diving into local gastronomy and daily life as you explore two of Thailand’s most iconic marketplaces.

First, it’s off to Maeklong Railway Market, aptly named as it sits directly on active railway tracks. Transfer to Ban Na Kwang railway station, where you’ll catch a train to Maeklong. Watching the 100-metre-long market operate in harmony with passing trains is a fascinating experience.

Known in Thai as Talat Rom Hup, or “umbrella pulldown market”, it’s famous for its fresh seafood and the sudden flurry of activity that occurs when a train approaches. Vendors swiftly retract their awnings and goods, only to reopen moments later as if nothing happened.

Next, continue to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, an exciting destination. You might recognise it from the canal chase scene in The Man with the Golden Gun, starring Roger Moore as James Bond. Sample local dishes, discover new flavours, and admire the colourful boats serving as floating stalls.

Return to the meeting point, and the rest of the day is free for you to explore at your own pace or relax at the hotel after a lively start. Overnight stay in Bangkok.

Breakfast at the hotel. Head to the meeting point and discover the city and its temples on an exciting guided tour!*

Start at Wat Phra Kaew, Thailand’s most sacred Buddhist temple, located within the vibrant amulet market of Rattanakosin Island. Next, explore the Grand Palace complex, the former royal residence and a symbol of Bangkok’s rich history. Afterwards, visit Wat Pho to marvel at the impressive Reclining Buddha, one of the largest statues of its kind. Then, continue to Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, renowned for its striking riverside spires.

After the tour, return to your hotel or, if you wish, join our optional Michelin Guide street food tour**. Overnight stay in Bangkok.

Note: for cultural respect when entering temples, women are advised to wear short-sleeved tops with full-length trousers or knee-length skirts, and men are advised to wear trousers with short-sleeved shirts. Remember to remove your shoes before entering any temple.

**Optional Michelin Guide Street Food Tour by Tuk Tuk: Bangkok’s food scene is calling, and it’s ready to show you its very best on this group tour. Your guide will take you to some of the city’s most iconic local street food stalls, where you’ll discover beloved dishes such as fishball egg noodles, Chinese-style Pa Tong Go Savoey doughnuts, crab fried rice served with lime and chillies, and the flavour-packed rolled noodles at Nai Ek — a truly otherworldly experience. 

Breakfast at the hotel. Today, enjoy the day at your leisure to continue exploring the capital. We recommend an unforgettable optional excursion to Ayutthaya.* Overnight stay in Bangkok.

*Optional Full-Day Ayutthaya Historical Park Tour with Lunch: The former capital of the Kingdom of Siam, Ayutthaya is a historic city waiting to be discovered. Your first stop is Wat Lokayasutha, a temple known for its giant reclining Buddha image. Next, visit Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, one of the most important landmarks in Ayutthaya, where you can explore the ancient ruins of the Grand Palace and its temples.

You’ll then continue to Wat Mahathat, famed for the iconic Buddha head entwined in tree roots and inscriptions dating back over 600 years.

The tour includes lunch at a local Thai restaurant, with your guide on hand to recommend regional specialities. Finish the unforgettable experience at Wat Chaiwatthanaram, a striking historical site. Drop off at the hotel is not included, tour ends at MBK Mall city center.

Please wear smart casual summer attire and comfortable walking shoes. For cultural respect, women are advised to wear short-sleeved tops with full-length trousers or knee-length skirts, and men are advised to wear trousers with short-sleeved shirts. Remember to remove your shoes before entering any temple.

Breakfast at the hotel. At the indicated time, transfer to the airport for a flight to Phuket. Arrive in beautiful Phuket, a paradise island of rainforests and mountains known as the ultimate escape in Thailand. Transfer to your hotel, and after settling in, the rest of the day is yours to lounge by the pool or search for the most idyllic paradise coves. Overnight stay in Phuket.

Today is a day full of adventure with a tour that showcases the best of Phi Phi Islands. Be ready early in the morning for your transfer to Leam Nga pier. Upon arrival, enjoy a light breakfast with snacks and refreshments provided at the pier before setting off. You’ll depart by speedboat, enjoying extraordinary coastal views en route to Phi Phi Island.

Your first stop is Pileh Lagoon, where you can swim in the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea, surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs. Next, head to Phi Phi Don Island for a delicious lunch at a beachside restaurant, followed by free time to relax or explore the beach at your own pace.

In the early afternoon, visit Monkey Beach on Phi Phi Don, where you can swim, snorkel, and spot the local macaques. Then, cruise past Viking Cave on nearby Phi Phi Leh, known for its swiftlet bird nests, for a quick photo-op.

Then arrive at Maya Bay, the iconic beach made famous by the film The Beach. Explore a bit before your final stop at Khai Nai Island, where you can relax on the white sandy beach or swim in the crystal-clear sea.

Return to Leam Nga Pier, and transfer back to your hotel. Overnight stay in Phuket.

Breakfast at the hotel. Make the most of another free day to relax, explore and enjoy Phuket. We recommend our optional excursion to the James Bond Island in Phang Nga Bay.* Overnight stay in Phuket.

*Optional Excursion to James Bond Island & Beyond: An unforgettable adventure awaits! Transfer to a private departure lounge at Royal Phuket Marina, where you’ll enjoy coffee and a snack with your expert tour guide. Then set off to discover a stunning landscape shaped by towering cliffs, limestone formations, and hidden caves.

Arrive at Panak Island for a walk-in cave exploration featuring tranquil lagoons and mystical hongs (limestone caves with water channels). Next, visit the famous James Bond Island, made iconic by The Man with the Golden Gun—a truly cinematic and picturesque destination. The adventure continues with canoeing at Siam Adventure World, Tam Lod. Paddle through caves and mangroves in this secluded area of Phang Nga Bay.

Next, explore Koh Panyee village, a unique fishing village built on stilts. Savour delicious dishes at a local restaurant for lunch. In the afternoon, relax on a tropical beach, soaking up the sun while admiring the incredible natural backdrop.

Finally, return to Royal Phuket Marina for a seamless transfer back to your hotel.

After breakfast* at the hotel, say goodbye to beautiful Thailand as you transfer to the airport** for a flight back to the US.***

*If your return flight departs early in the morning, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast.

**If either your outbound or inbound flights depart in the early hours (before 4:00 a.m.), you must arrive at the airport the night before the indicated departure day.

***Depending on the choice of flight, you may arrive back in US the following day.