Itinerary
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Day 1
Bangkok Bangkok is a frequently chaotic jumble of traffic, temples, savory food and entertainment. Over the last few years, the opening of a slick new elevated tramway that enables visitors to glide over the chaotic scenes below, coupled with the cheap and frequent river boats and the reasonably priced air-conditioned taxis, have made tourism in the city newly appealing. Within the city limits is a wealth of over 300 Buddhist temple and shrines. Most famous are Wat Benchamabophit (Marble Temple), Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) and Wat Trimit (Temple of the Golden Buddha). One of the largest temple complexes in the country is Wat Pho. Altogether, there are over 30 individual temples scattered here, of which the Temple of the Reclining Buddha is the largest. The Buddha's statue is enormous, an amazing 47.5m (156ft) long and 15m (49ft) high. Wat Phra Kaeo is a temple complex that houses the Emerald Buddha. A private vehicle with English speaking guide & driver will transfer you between the airport and your hotel. The Mandarin Oriental was founded in 1876 on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. The hotel is regarded as one of the world’s most luxurious hotels and has accommodated royalty, dignitaries and distinguished travelers for more than a century. The Mandarin offers lavish rooms and suites, exquisite restaurants and bars, and one of the most beautiful spas in the world. It is rich in history and is filled with the stories of celebrated guests who have made this hotel an essential stop on their world travels. Enjoy genuine teak and traditional Thai silks in the elegant rooms with clear views of the River and take advantage of a personal butler that is available at all times to cater to your every need. Overnight at Mandarin Oriental (5*). |
 Bangkok |
 Mandarin Oriental |
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Day 2
Bangkok A visit to the Royal Grand Palace, the nation’s landmark and most praised royal monument in Thailand, with the enclosed and dazzling Wat Phra Keo with its revered Emerald Buddha, the Golden Chedi, the Pantheon of the Chakri Kings and the Eight Coloured Towers, is a must. In Thailand by many, it is considered to be a living example of classical Siamese Court, being the former residence of the kings of Thailand. Wat Pho is also regarded as the first centre of public education and is sometimes called ‘Thailand’s first university’. Mural paintings, inscriptions, and statues found in the temple-educated people on varied subjects such as literature, warfare, archaeology, astronomy, geology, meditation and to be considered, home of the Thai traditional massage. Here, you will enjoy a 30-minutes’ Thai massage as an excellent break after a morning sightseeing. Experience an afternoon trip along the bustling Chao Phya River and the quiet Klongs (canals) in a long tail boat enjoy scenes of life by water. We bring you to a more traditional way of living, more serene and traditional, away from all the high-rise and modern buildings of Bangkok City Centre, as we gently pass Thonburi residential areas. A stop will be made at the “Temple of Dawn” (officially named Wat Arun). Finally, a visit to the Flower and vegetable market will round off this day. Located close to the Chao Phraya River, this part of Bangkok brings you to a rural piece of Bangkok where they have a vast selection of all kinds of flowers, especially orchids and tropical flowers and see how the merchants create very special flower garlands. The end of this Bangkok day ends at the Golden Mountain. Photography is permitted in the Royal Palace Grounds and in the compounds of the Emerald Buddha Temple, but not inside the buildings. Note: Please dress respectfully by not wearing sleeveless, shorts or sandals, when visiting the Grand Palace and temple complex. The Palace may be closed without prior notice during Royal ceremonies and officials/head of state visits. The inner courts of Grand Palace are frequently closed on Sundays; we recommend not to book this excursion on Sundays to avoid disappointment. Overnight at Mandarin Oriental (5*). |
 Golden Mountain |
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Day 3
Chiang Mai Chiang Mai in the far north is Thailand's second-largest city and a center for excursions to the region's ancient and beautiful temples, the teak forests and their working elephants, caves and waterfalls, and journeys to visit the northern hill tribes. The main attractions are the Doi Suthep temple and elephant trekking. Doi Suthep is one of the most famous temples in northern Thailand. Perched high on a hilltop, it offers fine views over the city on clear days. The trip up can either be made via a funicular or a grand staircase with 400 steps. The banisters alone are worth a visit: a giant green-and-red glazed serpent winds its way down to end in a magnificent dragon's head. A private vehicle with English speaking guide & driver will transfer you between the airport and your hotel. Relax on this flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. This tour features a scenic drive through the most historic areas of Chiang Mai, including a pass through the old city walls, city gates and moat. The drive continues into Chiang Mai’s tourist attraction area, past the local market, foreign consulates, government buildings and ‘Tapae Gate’ before continuing to the acclaimed temple Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, home to a holy relic of the Lord Buddha and considered by many to be the most sacred Wat in northern Thailand. Built by King Gue-Na in 1383 and situated 3,500 feet above sea level, this temple offers an interesting challenge as it contains a flight of over 300 steps to reach its top level. Once on top of the summit, visitors will be treated to a panoramic view of the city before leaving to visit the primitive Meo Pui village, a community known for its unique culture and colourful costumes. Please dress respectfully by not wearing sleeveless T – shirts, shorts or strapless sandals, when visiting the Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep. Spacious Lanna-style pavilions overlook terraced rice fields and the mountains in the beautiful Mae Rim Valley, minutes from the artistic and cultural heritage of Thailand's northern capital. Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai offers 64 elegantly appointed pavilions, each with a private covered verandah, and 16 magnificent residences. All are furnished in a style consistent with a luxurious northern Thai home and fitted with all modern conveniences. Experience everything the Four Seasons has to offer, from the Thai cooking school to the acclaimed spa and overall flawless service. Sample the diversity of Thailand by experiencing the urban oasis that is the Four Seasons Hotel. Overnight at Four Seasons Chiang Mai (5*). |
 Chiang Mai |
 Doi Suthep Temple |
 Four Seasons Hotel Chiang Mai |
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Day 4
Chiang Mai Inspired by the ancient Lana Kingdom, renowned for its refinement and artistry, the Cooking School takes you on a culinary adventure. Experienced cooks and beginners alike will delight in the discovery of Thai cuisine and the culture, which produced it. This Thai Culinary Experience includes market trip / cooking class / Fruit and vegetable carving class / soft drinks and local beer with lunch. To ensure personal attention, class size is limited to 8 attendees. Customized group programs can be organized in the afternoon. Overnight at Four Seasons Chiang Mai (5*). |
 Thai Carved Watermelon: Practice Makes Perfect! |
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Day 5
Chiang Mai The two ancient cities of Lampang and Lampoon are located in the Chiang Mai region, south of Chiangmai. They offer a different experience for the visitor and are in total contrast to the beaches and sea resorts of the South. One of the interesting highlights of this tour is a visit to the Lampang Elephant Conservation Centre (TECC). TECC, founded in 1993 under Royal Patronage, cares for more than 50 Asian elephants in a beautiful forest with a relaxed non-commercial feel. Here you will learn how to care for an elephant and experience a one-hour jungle ride on top one of these majestic beasts. After a delicious local lunch, the tour heads back towards Chiang Mai, stopping at Lampoon. Steeped in a history that dates back to A.D. 700, Lampoon is famous for several ancient and revered temples. Among them is Wat Prathat Hariphunchai, built in A.D. 1044 at the site of the ruins of the Royal Palace, and Wat Jamathevi, named after a 7th century queen and founder of Lampoon. Her ashes are interred in the main stupa of the Wat. The trip concludes with a fascinating ride along the old Lampoon-Chiang Mai Road. Overnight at Four Seasons Chiang Mai (5*). |
 Elephant Conservation Centre |
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Day 6
Phuket Phuket offers spectacular scenery, stunning tropical sunsets and warm blue sea. This fun island provides a combination of perfect silky soft white palm-lined beaches, superb hospitality and great value accommodation. Whether it's world class diving in the Andaman Sea, golf at world-standard championship courses or exciting eco-adventures in tropical forests, Phuket is a place to extend your horizons. Take an exhilarating speedboat trip to the surrounding islands, or enjoy a serene cruise around mystical Phang Nga Bay. Or why not simply enjoy Phuket's vibrant nightlife in Patong Beach. Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. Relax on this flight from Chiang Mai to Phuket. Airport transfer with private guide, driver and vehicle. A search for the idyllic and the refreshing has brought us together at Paresa, the heaven of all heavens where the outside world fades away and time stands still. Perched high on the cliffside, amid tropical forests, over azure blue waters and a picturesque panorama of the Andaman Sea, Paresa is an oasis of tranquility and unrivalled luxury. Cocoon yourself in style within Phuket’s best kept secret, along its most spectacular coastline at Paresa luxury Kamala resort. A secluded retreat to getaway from it all. Recharge your energy, Restore life balance, Experience Paresa! Overnight at Paresa. |
 Phuket |
 Paresa |
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Day 7
Phuket Enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel. Overnight at Paresa. |
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Day 8
Phuket Enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel. Overnight at Paresa. |
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Day 9
Phuket Airport transfer with private guide, driver and vehicle. Depart from International Airport. End of itinerary. Overnight at Depart (Int`l Airport). |
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Trip Includes
Guaranteed departure - Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services
Trip Excludes
Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance
Trip Terms & Conditions
- Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $250). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure. We accept payment via credit card, certified check, wire transfer or money order.
- Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
- Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
- Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
- Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of deposit. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to 100% of program price.
- Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.kensingtontours.com/terms-and-conditions
- Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.
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