Thailand Family Holiday

Sa-wat dee! Welcome to Thailand. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. 

Today you will travel by longtail boat down the Chao Phraya River and explore the famous 'khlongs' (canals) of Bangkok (approximately 1 hour). Life along these canals seems a world away from the busy streets of the capital. After that you will pay a visit to Wat Pho, one of the six most important temples in the country. It's home to the country's largest reclining Buddha, which is a seriously impressive sight. This place is also the gatekeeper of the secrets of Thai medicine and massage. After exploring the site, you and the family will take a bus to Kanchanaburi (approximately 2 hours) and check into your hotel. 

Travel to Erawan National Park in the morning (approximately 1.5 hours each way). Located on West Thailand in the Tenasserim Hills of Kanchanaburi Province, this national park boasts the incredible Erawan Falls, a famous seven-level waterfall of luminous turquoise pools and exotic tropical fish. It's a great place to explore or simply swim and relax.

Transfer by minibus to the nearby city of Ayuthaya (approximately 2.5 hours). Once the capital of ancient Siam, Ayutthaya offers a great opportunity to stroll the World Heritage-listed ruins of this once magnificent city. There's time for a guided tour of the picturesque ruins and temples spread across the town. The ruins at Wat Phra Mahathat provide many photo opportunities and the Buddha head surrounded by Banyan tree roots is perhaps the most photographed site in Ayuthaya. Afterwards, board an overnight train to Chiang Mai (approximately 11 hours). You will be travelling in soft sleeper class. Multishare compartments, air-conditioning, bunk beds, sheets and a pillow are provided. There's also a food and drink service on board. Note that your baggage will travel in the carriage with you.

Wake up in Chiang Mai, the most vibrant city of Northern Thailand. As well as amazing temples and an interesting old town, the city is known for its friendly, smiling locals. Drive along a scenic, winding mountain road that ends at an impressive 300-step naga-guarded stairway (approximately 45 minutes). The rewards will justify the climb, as one of Thailand's most stunning temples reveals itself. This is Doi Suthep. You'll be treated to panoramic views of the city from up here. You might also be able to listen to the evening chants of the resident Buddhist monks while you're here. You'll also visit Bor Sang today, a traditional umbrella factory. 

Set off early, around 8 am, through Mae Taeng Valley to Elephant Nature Park. The drive is about 60 kilometres (approximately 1.5 hours). This unique project provides a sanctuary and rescue centre for elephants. Greeted by an expert guide, learn about the problems these creatures face in South East Asia. You'll have the chance to see these amazing beasts from the viewing platform. Enjoy some lunch before elephant bathing time. Then, after a safety briefing, you can join in to scrub and bathe the elephants (be sure to brings swimmers and a change of clothing). Then set off to the warm and welcoming village of Ban Hua Tung (approximately 45 minutes). The community will invite you and your family into their village for the night for a truly unique experience. Be treated to a home-cooked dinner and a traditional Thai dancing performance. 

Notes: The Chiang Mai and homestay days may be swapped or shuffled around, depending on the commitments and availability of the host family.                  

Bid farewell to your village hosts and head into the forest at the base of Chiang Dao mountain. Local guides will show you around the forest which the local Hua Tung people manage together as part of a new community initiative. The biodiversity of the forest is protected by a sacred 'forest ordination' by Buddhist monks whereby trees are ordained as monks – the people nurture the forest, and the forest nurtures the people in return. There's a yearly bamboo harvest which raises money for the village. The locals take great pride in showing you the development of their village and the many different herbal medicines and wild foods in the forest. Return to Chiang Mai and enjoy free time. 

Today is free for you to explore Chiang Mai before your 4 pm overnight train journey (which heads in the direction of Hua Hin, tomorrow's destination). 

Take a minivan south to the beach town of Hua Hin (approximately 3 hours). Spend your free time here.

Today is free to spend as you please.

Return by minivan to Bangkok and enjoy an afternoon of free time. 

There are no activities planned for the final day, and you are free to depart the accommodation at any time.