ASIAN AFFAIR ESCAPE TO THAILAND
SATURDAY MAY 12TH TO FRIDAY MAY 25TH, 2012
INCLUDING A DAY TRIP TO VISIT LAOS
PLUS AN OPTIONAL 2 NIGHT TRIP EXTENSION TO TOUR THE INCREDIBLE TEMPLES OF ANKUR WAT CAMBODIA

                                                            The Grand Palace of Bangkok

JOIN US FOR AN INCREDIBLE JOURNEY TO THAILAND.
WITNESS THE AMAZING TEMPLES OF BANGKOK, WALK ACROSS THE FAMOUS BRIDGE OVER THE RIVER KWAI, HOLD A TIGER IN YOUR ARMS AT A TIGER PRESERVE, RIDE THE ELEPHANTS OF CHANG MAI, TAKE AN EYE OPENING CRUISE ON THE MEKONG RIVER FROM THAILAND TO THE COUNTRY OF LAOS TO EXPLORE ANOTHER CULTURE, VISIT THE HILL TRIBES OF NORTHERN THAILAND AND ENJOY DINNER WITH A LOCAL FAMILY.
PLUS SO MUCH MORE!
PLUS IF YOU WISH, ADD OUR OPTIONAL 2 NIGHT VISIT TO SEE THE MAGNIFICENT TEMPLES OF ANKUR WAT CAMBODIA!

DAILY ITINERARY

DAY 1 –Saturday May 12th  / Sunday May 13th - Depart the USA
Fly from your home city on your own arrangement to Los Angeles on Saturday. May12th.

Our tour will Depart the Los Angeles LAX airport this evening for Thailand. Your flight includes meals and in-flight entertainment for your journey. 

Passengers should plan to arrive in LAX no later than 8pm Sat. May 12th  to connect to our flight departing at 1am tonight (May 13th).  \

An optional meet and greet dinner will be hosted by your trip leader at the Encounter fine dining restaurant on the grounds of LAX at 7:30pm on SAT. MAY 12TH.

This is a great way to meet both your trip leader and the other passengers that will be travelling on this exciting tour with you and a great way to unwind with a great meal and new friends before you check in for your flight tonight.  Passengers wishing to attend this social pre flight dinner should book their domestic flight from their home city to arrive LAX by 6:30pm on Sat. May 12th.

DAY 2 MONDAY MAY 14TH - Arrive in Bangkok
After crossing the international date line in flight we will Arrive in Bangkok at 10am local time where we will be met at the airport and transferred to our hotel where we will have the day at leisure to relax.

Overnight: Bangkok Century Park Hotel

Located in the heart of the city, in the Pratunam Victory Monument area, with the Victory Monument BTS subway station nearby, the property is close to shops, restaurants and banks.  The hotel comprises 380 attractive and well appointed guestrooms over 24 floors.

All bathrooms marble paneled with separate shower stall and full bath. Individual A/C, fridge, mini-bar coffee/tea making facilities, hairdryer, in room safe.

An outdoor pool, poolside bar and health club are on site.
http://www.centuryparkhotel.com

DAY 3 – TUESDAY MAY 15TH - Bangkok City Tour
This morning, we will enjoy a half day city and temple tour. This tour will introduce you to the City of Angels, Bangkok. Drive through Chinese Town, the Indian Market, and the Wholesale Flower Market. Visit Wat Po (Temple of the Reclining Buddha), the oldest and first school for people in the olden days.

See the biggest Reclining Buddha statue, 150 feet long and 40 feet high, before continuing to the Royal Avenue where most of the Government offices are located and the Palace of the Present King.

The highly impressive gold plated reclining Buddha is 149 FEET long and 49 FEET high, and is designed to illustrate the passing of the Buddha into nirvana. The feet and the eyes are engraved with mother-of-pearl decoration, and the feet also show the 108 auspicious characteristics of the true Buddha


The Reclining Buddha

This afternoon is at leisure to relax or enjoy our optional guided half day tour of the Grand Palace (only $39)

Optional Half day tour of Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and the adjoining Grand Palace.

Together they form what is perhaps the greatest spectacle for the visitor to Bangkok. Wat Phra Kaew consists of over 100 brightly colored building, golden spires and glittering mosaics, and dates back to 1782, when Bangkok was founded. From Wat Phra Kaew head to the Grand Palace. Despite the proximity of the two, there's a distinct contrast in style between the very Thai Wat Phra Kaew and the more European-inspired designs of the Grand Palace. The Grand Palace is used only for occasional ceremonial purposes and is no longer the royal residence.

Within its walls were also the Thai war ministry, state departments, and even the mint. Today, the complex remains the spiritual heart of the Thai Kingdom.

Within the palace complex are several impressive buildings including Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), which contains the small, very famous and greatly revered Emerald Buddha that dates back to the 14th century.  It is considered the most important Buddhist temple in Thailand.

                      The Grand Palace of Bangkok

Enjoy the evening at leisure to explore Bangkok’s hopping nightlife or if you wish, join us for the spectacular Siam Niramit Dinner show

Buffet dinner is served at the Siam Niramit Restaurant before this evening's stunning performance of the journey to the Enchanted Kingdom of Siam. Boasting over 150 performers, this $40 million production delves into the history and culture of Siam (The original name for Thailand), featuring scenes taken from the North's Ancient Kingdom of Lanna, the famed sea traders of the South, Khmer heritage, and the Central Plains traditions. Then in a journey reminiscent of Dante, venture into the heart of Thai mythology with scenes of Fiery Hell, Mystical Himapaan Forest, and Blissful Heaven. Lastly, enjoy a montage of joyous celebrations honoring the Buddhist tradition of merit-making festivals.

The cost of this optional activity is only $49 including dinner and show

Overnight: Bangkok
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 4 – WEDNESDAY MAY 16th Full Free Day in Bangkok
Today is a Full day at leisure to explore Bangkok independently.

If you wish, enjoy our optional full day tour to the famous Bridge over the River Kwai and the fabulous Tiger Preserve.

Visit historical sites in Kanchanaburi including the world renowned Bridge over the River Kwai, Built during World War II by prisoners of war.

Be amazed with an extreme experience of a "Tiger Watch" in the Buddhist temple which keeps numerous animals, among them several tame tigers that walk around freely and can be petted by tourists.

Visit JEATH War Museum, a realistic depiction of prisoner of war living quarters, with photographic, pictorial and physical memorabilia dating from World War II.

Continue to Kanchanaburi War Cemetery which contains the graves of 6,982 war prisoners (mostly the British, Dutch, Australian and American) who lost their lives during the construction of the Bridge over the River Kwai and the railway to Burma (the Death Railway.)

Visitors to the Bridge Over the River Kwai will also be able to walk across a segment of the bridge that was constructed by P.O.W.  in WWII.

Often visitors will see large water fowl, including hippos lounging or playing along the banks of the river below THE BRIDGE.

We will enjoy an included lunch and then, this afternoon we will visit Wat Pha Luang Ta Bua - well known as Tiger Temple. The Tiger Temple is a rescue centre for animals and the home of tigers, wild pigs, deer, antelopes, water buffalos, apes and a hand full other animals.

The animals are rehabilitated by a community of Thai monks.

The tame tigers roam freely on the grounds and visitors and given a chance to interact and even pet the tigers if desired.

    
The tigers at Wat Pha Luang Ta Bua (Tiger Temple)
With visitors and resident monks

The optional full day tour is only $96 INCLUDING THE WALK ACROSS THE BRIDGE OVER THE RIVER KWAI, VISIT TO THE WAR MUSEUM AND CEMETARY, LUNCH AND THE VISIT TO THE TIGER PRESERVE.


The evening is at leisure to again enjoy the hopping nightlife of Bangkok or if you wish something at a more relaxed pace, join us on our Optional: Chao Phraya River Cruise with Dinner

     A very relaxing cruise on the River of King, Chao Phraya. Enjoy the beautiful picturesque of Bangkok by night along the river. You will cruise slowly up the river, passing by the Royal Navy Fort, Grand Palace and many beautiful temples which are illuminated at night. An International Buffet Dinner on board with the entertainment of live band along the way.  The cost of this including cruise with dinner on board is just $70.

Overnight: Bangkok
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 5 – THURSDAY MAY 17TH  Travel to Ayutthaya

Today we depart via chartered private air conditioned coach for Ayutthaya, the second and most prosperous capital of Thailand, from 1350-1767. On the way, we will stop and visit Bang Pa In Royal Palace. Bang Pa In was the royal summer palace for Thai kings. Originally constructed in 1632, the complex fell into disrepair. In the mid-1800's, King Mongkut restored the site to its former glory.

"The Divine Seat of Personal Freedom"    

View of the gatehouse.

The Chinese styled "Heavenly Light" palace.

Upon arrival in Ayutthaya, we will enjoy sunset at Chai Wattanaram Temple. This temple was built by King Prasat Tong, who was actually a commoner who overthrew the previous king and took his throne. This is a lovely place to take in the nature and peace of Siam

Wat Chaiwatthanaram Temple

Overnight: Ayutthaya- Kantary Hotel    http://www.kantarygroup.com/kantaryhotel-ayutthaya/index.html
Meals: Breakfast
Our hotel features a pool, whirlpool and fitness center.

DAY 6 – FRIDAY MAY 18TH Travel to Sukhothai

Today we depart Ayutthaya aboard our private air conditioned coach and travel north to Sukhothai. Sukhothai was found in the 13th Century by King Ramkhamhaeng, as the 1st capital of Siam.  Upon arrival, the remainder of the day and evening is at leisure.

Overnight: Sukhothai Legendha Hotel
http://www.legendhasukhothai.com/index.html

Amenities include open air pool, massage and morning walks along trails.  Rooms include mini bat, hairdryer

Meals: Breakfast

DAY 7 – SATURDAY MAY 19TH  - Sukhothai Historical Park, Travel to Chiang Rai

Sukhothai's golden era was from the 13th to the 14th century, the art and architecture produced in this period are considered to be some of the best.  Sukhothai today consists of the old and new towns. The old town of Sukhothai consists mainly of the large Historical Park, where most of the remains of the original city can be seen. This morning we will enjoy a tour of this historical site and marvel at the ancient Buddha figures, palace buildings and ruined temples.

Sukhothai is most famous for the ruins of the ancient city Sukhothai. The name translates as "the dawn of happiness.

This afternoon, we will continue by our private air conditioned coach north to Chiang Rai where we will spend the next 3 nights accommodations.

Overnight: Chiang Rai Le Meridian Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
http://www.starwoodhotels.com/lemeridien/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=3160

The sole 5-star resort found in Chiang Rai, a cultural region of Northern Thailand, the resort has 159 rooms that meld luxury with style.
The resort features a blend of activities, including therapeutic treatments at the spa, refreshing swims in the pool, relax in the hotel Jacuzzi or enjoy a hearty workout in the gym.

Rooms feature free wi fi access, mini bar, in room safe, hairdryers and even bath robes

Hotel Exterior

Day 8 SUNDAY MAY 20TH
This morning, we will travel by our private air conditioned coach to the town of Mae Sai, the northern-most point of Thailand on the border of the nation of Myanmar

This border town in the extreme north is popular for trading in jade, rubies, handicrafts and other exotic items from the country across the border, Myanmar (formerly called Burma). Since most of its activities are centered on trading, it is bustling with life. Numerous stalls along the main road to the bridge make good resting points where food and drinks are served

After the morning excursion, we will stop at the infamous Hall of Opium. This tour combines a museum of the history of opium and the impact of illegal drugs, with an information center for research and extension education on opium, opiates and other narcotics before returning to Chang Rai.

A walk through the 5,600 sq-meter world-class exhibition area within the Hall of Opium highlights different aspects on the subject of "Opium". Every step of the way, the information presented through the dramatic use of state-of-the-art multimedia innovation is vivid and poignant. The use of engaging audio-visual presentations and interactive displays, coupled with dynamic spatial design, work together to enlighten and provoke thought

On this morning’s tour, at the Myanmar border,  if you wish, you will have the opportunity to cross over into Myanmar for a brief visit to see another culture and shop for local handicrafts (IF YOU WISH TO CROSS THE BORDER INTO MYANMAR, A Visa for entry into Myanmar is required, at your own expense).

MYANMAR-Thailand bridge border crossing in Mae Sai

This afternoon, after returning to Chang Rai, we will all enjoy a scenic Mekong River Cruise.  The river is over 2700 miles long and originates from the Tibetan Plateau. It runs through China, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam. The section of the river at this Golden Triangle flows through the spot where three countries Myanmar, Laos and Thailand meet.

 The afternoon cruise will board you on a motor boat and cruise slowly along the banks of these three countries, near enough to really shout "Hello" to those villagers who are living here along the banks. The timing is quite perfect as local folks who live along the river come to the river at this time to RELAX, interact socially and sometimes even to bathe at the end of their day.

Later today, we will continue to Don Sao, a small island of Laos. Here we will enjoy shopping and leisure time in Laos, one of the most fascinating of Asian cultures.
We will return to Thailand for the evening at leisure in Chang Rai.
If you wish, explore the Chang Rai night bazaar for an evening of shopping the local wares of Chiang Rai

Overnight: Chiang Rai
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 9 – MONDAY MAY 21ST - Travel to Chiang Mai; Visit to Hill Tribes
This morning we all will enjoy a fascinating cultural excursion to interact with the local hill tribes of northern Thailand.

Your tour begins with hour drive from Chiang Rai on our private air conditioned coach. Upon arrival, we will change transportation to the local Thai Combi which will take us up to the Doi Mae Salong to visit the hill that is still inhabited with the hill tribes.

See the unique way of life & culture of the various tribes that is still maintained today. As WE ascend the hill, you will have the opportunity to visit and interact with several different hill tribes before arriving to the peak.

The Akha live in raised houses, within which one small room is set aside for paying respect to their ancestors. The Akha speak a Lolo-Burmese language, but with no written form, it’s difficult to accurately trace their history. The Akha are closely bound by tribal culture and have developed a rich oral literature tradition in which elders can recite their ancestral names going back 50 generations!  A highland tribe, the Akhas have been forced by necessity to move into the lowland hills and valleys for agricultural land. They wear beautifully embroidered jackets and exquisite headsets -- especially when selling trinkets to tourists.

AN AKHA TRIBESWOMAN IN TRADITIONAL DRESS.

This afternoon, we will head to Chiang Mai.   Chiang Mai is the cultural heart of Northern Thailand. Located in the rolling foothills of the Himalayas, Chiang Mai remained isolated from the world until the 1920's
On arrival we will check in to our hotel for the next 3 nights, Le Meridien Hotel Chiang Mai

http://www.starwoodhotels.com/lemeridien/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=1950

All 384 guest rooms and suites deliver a visit replete with discovery, from glass and marble bathrooms with massaging rain showers, High Speed Internet Access, and flat-screen TVs, to the exclusive Le Méridien bed and ethereal views of the Doi Suthep peak.  In room safes, hairdryers and bathrooms are in each room.  Wireless internet access is also free.

At The Spa, Le Méridien Chiang Mai, you can indulge in a vast selection of traditional Thai or Swedish massages, full-body treatments, and bath rituals as well as luxurious facials and skincare services, while our outdoor swimming pool provides unobstructed views of Doi Suthep Mountain. Guests flex, tone and sweat in our state-of-the-art fitness centre

Exterior of the hotel

Hotel Exterior Pool View

This evening, if you wish, enjoy an optional Kantoke Dinner & Show (Only $25 including dinner and the show)

This evening, delight in a Kantoke dinner with traditional dances from Northern Thailand. As guests of this unique event, you will be seated on the floor, as is customary, and enjoy acted scenes depicting the local culture as you dine. After dinner, villagers from various hill tribes will perform an exciting array of cultural dances, including the Fon Lep (Fingers Dance), Sword Dance, Fon Thien (Candle Dance), and Ramwong, in which all guests are invited to participate.

Overnight: Chiang Mai – Le Meridien Hotel
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 10 – THURSDAY MAY 22ND  - Full Day in Chiang Mai

Enjoy the morning at leisure to explore Chiang Mai independently or take an optional visit to the world’s largest gem factory.  Chiang Mai is a city known for culture, nature and handicrafts.

This afternoon we will enjoy a half Day visit to the  Mae Sa Elephant Camp with lunch at the camp

Travel northwest along the Mae Sa Valley, with its scenic botanical gardens and ten-tiered waterfalls, to visit the Mae Sa Elephant Training Camp. Here you will see elephants bathing in the running streams or demonstrating their daily feats of skill and strength in a show with music and dance, a soccer match, or an abstract painting demonstration. Even more impressive is the camp's goal to protect the endangered Thai Elephant by controlled breeding, a program which has flourished since it was established in 1995. Enjoy time at leisure to walk the exhibition greenhouses, gardens and nature trails

At the camp, you may choose an optional ride on the back of a Thai Elephant, making for a truly memorable experience.  

Overnight: Chiang Mai
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 11 – WED. MAY 23RD - Chang Mai City & Temples Tour; Dinner at Private Home

This morning is at leisure to relax at our hotel or explore shopping venues in Chiang Mai at your leisure if you wish.

This afternoon, we will enjoy a half day city and temples tour. Visit the most interesting temples in Chiang Mai. Visit Wat Suan Dok, where the remains of the Chiang Mai Royal family are enshrined. The tour continues to visit Wat Phrathad Doi Suthep, erected in 1384 A.D.  Located 3500 feet above sea level, Wat Phrathad Doi Suthep is Northern Thailand's most sacred temple, containing a holy relic of Lord Buddha and a copper-plated chedi topped by a tiered-gold parasol in its interior cloister. Equally impressive is the mythological Naga (Dragon-headed serpent) staircase, consisting of 290 steps leading up to the temple grounds. From the top an impressive view overlooking Chang Mai can be seen.  As you decline down the stairs, there will be an opportunity to visit a local jade factory.


Chedi (dome) at Doi Suthep

 This evening, we will enjoy the authentic experience of dinner in a local Chiang Mai family home. Enjoy a tour of the home, open conversation of how a typical Thai family lives all while enjoying the savors of home cooked Thai cuisine

Overnight: Chiang Mai
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 12 – THURSDAY MAY 24TH - Flight to Bangkok

This morning, we will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Bangkok.  Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. Enjoy balance of the day at leisure

Overnight: Bangkok, Kantary House hotel
http://www.kantarygroup.com/kantaryhouse-bangkok/

Located in the Srinakarin-Ramkamhaeng area, nearby are department stores and numerous restaurants. Each suite at Kantary House is fully furnished, complete with linen, chinaware and pantry utensils and are serviced by well-trained staff.

Meals: Breakfast

Day 13 – FRIDAY MAY 25TH-  Depart for optional 2 night extension to Ankur Wat or flight home ARRIVING LAX AT 8PM THE SAME DAY.

Meals: Breakfast

Sunday, May 27, 2012
This morning, we are transferred to the airport for the 9:45am flight to Bangkok connecting with our trans-Pacific flight home, arriving at 8pm the same day.
Meals: Breakfast