18 days Signature away from the obvious

Upon arrival at Suvarnabhumi International Airport, proceed through immigration and collect your luggage, before passing through customs. Our airport representative will be waiting for you at exit number 6 / Gate B, and escort you to meet the driver for a transfer to your hotel.

Walking through old town - BKK-001 (18:00 - 21:00)

Bangkok’s old town is unique and well-preserved as somehow high-rise buildings have never made it to this part of the city. Some of the oldest Bangkok neighbourhoods have been occupied since the early days by entrepreneurial Chinese migrants that typically build shophouses; the family was living upstairs while the shop downstairs was meant to do trading and make money. This part of town is also home to the Grand palace and many other historical buildings that are used at ministry. Your guide will take you through this interesting part of town and stops regularly to let you taste some of the local specialities. Meeting point at 18:00 

A walk of five generations - BKK-009 – 09:30 – 13:30

Voyage through the old neighbourhood on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River where untold stories are waiting for you to be revealed. This journey will allow you to gain a deeper understanding of Thai culture through the very personal perspective of the story of a Thai aristocratic family who has been living in this neighbourhood of Thonburi for five generations. 

Discover the secret stories and places from the unseen temples of those historic communities with different beliefs and ethnicity which are hidden in the area. The Bangkok this route introduces you to, cannot be found anywhere in the world of the internet but only in the memories of the locals and in their bright eyes when they talk about the good old days. This tour will include public transportation to get around. Operated by The Roots Routes

 Chatting, Chanting, and Fortune-telling – BKK-024 (16:00 – 20:00)

While Buddhism is a lot about practice and self-discipline, there are some parts of the philosophy that have influences from different beliefs and faiths. Today we will make a deeper connection to some of these, while talking to a Buddhist monk to get a better introduction to the religion, going to meet a fortune teller who might see interesting scenarios in your future, followed by joining an evening chanting at a local temple – all very special encounters in order to get a more overall picture on how Buddhism is practiced and lived.

Biking through the green heart of Bangkok with local lunch (Private tour) - BKK 019 (09:00 – 14:00)

If you are seeking a respite from the frenetic pace of Bangkok, then the Green Lung in Bang Kra Jao is an idyllic destination for nature and bicycle lovers. This serene oasis is situated amidst verdant greenery, traditional stilt houses, botanical gardens, ancient temples, vibrant markets, and an array of fascinating wildlife. When you visit, you will have the opportunity to explore the nearby communities and the life of the locals who inhabit this lush local paradise. Local lunch is served as well. Take a break from the chaos of the city and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Bang Kra Jao' by bike. Transfer between the hotel and tour starting point is included. Operated by Bangkok Bike Adventure

Modern Bangkok by night – BKK-003

In the evening your guide takes you for a night out discovering the legacy of Bangkok’s sex, drugs and rock and roll status. Discover the modern skyscrapers with a fantastic view over the city from one of its rooftop bars, vibrant street art, the very modern public transport, electric powered tuk-tuks and of course a lot of Thai street food to taste ending with a drink in a former CIA den, hidden in the heart of Patpong, the infamous red-light district of Bangkok.

Transfer to Suvarnabhumi airport and fly to Mae Hong Son via Lampang by afternoon flight (Flight Date: 3 days a week – Monday, Wednesday & Friday)

Arrival in Mae Hong Son airport, transfer to your hotel.

Karen Village walk – BUR-007

Your local Karen guide will show you around the village, the nearby fields and forest and explain about the daily life in this remote part of Thailand. Get introduced to the daily routine, local tales and culture on a leisurely walk of about 4 hours and includes a home-cooked lunch of typical regional food at a local Karen house.

Tham Lod - A Cave Exploration – BUR-006

One of the most impressive caves in Thailand is over 1,5 km long and consist of 3 huge chambers. Likely one of the most impressive caves that are accessible in Northern Thailand. Community members will take you through the cave with a small lantern and escort you on bamboo rafts and wooden bridges to glittering chambers and an ancient coffin cave. A beautiful visit in this fascinating part of Thailand.

Windy Roads, Tea and Coffee Plantations – BUR-008

Today’s trip takes you away from the main road and brings you closer to some small settlements along the mountain ridges between Mae Hong Son and Chiang Mai. Learn from a Chinese tea lover what it takes to produce high quality organic tea, may it be black, green or white – taste the difference. While we continue walking along the plantations, it’s coffee time. See how coffee is grown, and how the locals process it into the final product - enjoy a fresh cup! Enjoy a home cooked lunch by one of the villagers, chatting about life in this part of Thailand and the new ways on how farmers make a living. Continue by car to your hotel in Chiang Mai

History of Lanna royalty, hidden Doi Suthep temples, 90 years old Khao Soy and a prison break - CNX - 001 (morning)

An introduction to Chiang Mai including its royal history and a visit to the mausoleums of Chiang Mai descendants and a stunning stupa. During this half day the guide will tell you about all insights on the colourful history and we visit some of the hidden temples on the Doi Suthep mountain including a short walk (30 min) through the forest over the ancient monk trail and a discovery of 600 years old ancient temple ruins. The old Chiang Mai palace was destroyed a long time ago and replaced by a prison; right opposite this spot we bring you for a nice cup of coffee or tea, prepared by female prisoners as part of a program to reintegrate them into society. A beautiful project that gives you and them a real prison break . We’re starting or ending the tour with typical Lanna noodle dishes in a restaurant that has been in business for over 90 years. The rest of day is free at leisure.

Vespa Tour – The insider’s Chiang Mai – CNX – 002 (08:00 – 13:00)

Experience the exotic culture and explore the quieter lanes and surrounding areas of this fascinating city riding pillion on our stylish Vespas. From the iconic Tha Phae Gate, we ride through a labyrinth of narrow lanes and winding, historic streets in the old city before the scenery opens up around us on picturesque forest lined roads. We head up to the top of the hill, where we reach a very famous & prominent temple, whose origins date back to the 7th century. Perched on the top, there is a serene Buddha statue that overlooks the beautiful countryside and we can absorb the culture and surroundings as we take in these incredible city and mountain views.

It’s back on the Vespas for an exhilarating ride downhill to an art & craft village in a cool garden setting. There’s a real community feel and a bohemian, laid back vibe where we mix with the hip and interesting locals and artisans. Next up, it’s a change of pace as we experience the bustle of Chiang Mai’s largest and most famous market where we can try the exotic local produce and fully embrace the chaotic Thai market experience & customs.

Finally, it’s on to one of Thailand’s most stunning temples which had a spectacular makeover at the turn of this century by local silversmiths. It’s a truly incredible sight and a great photo opportunity where we finish our adventure by enjoying a light local lunch. Let our guides give you a unique local’s insight into Chiang Mai. Small group tour – operated by Vespa Adventures.

Night Rider – by Songthaew through Chiang Mai – CNX – 007 - (17:00 – 21:00)

This evening you will be picked up by Songthaew, a typical Thai mode of transportation, to explore the town from different perspectives. Hop on and enjoy the ride through the old town, where we will talk with monks to give them an opportunity to improve their English and visit some of the ancient Lanna temples. We sample some of the best street food popular with the locals and stroll through the city with your personal local host. As the sun slowly sets, we will sit and sip a drink to welcome the night – which we will be spending in small hidden bars that are home to talented young musicians. A fun night out – as wild as you wish!

Today is free at leisure to explore the Chiang Mai City on your own

Burmese Influences – a special dinner! – CNX - 003

Chiang Mai has an enormous population of Shan and other Myanmar ethnic groups, who crossed the mountains to build up a new life in the city, or who have been living in the surrounding areas for a long time. Today we introduce you to a talented Burmese chef, who prepares a home-cooked dinner for you with Burmese influences.

Lampang Legends & Impressions – day tour from Chiang Mai – CNX / LAM – 013 – (08:00 - 17.00)

Pick up from your hotel by car and take local train No 8: (08:50 / 10:41), together with our guide to visit one of the old Lanna cities. In Lampang, we visit the city pillar shrine where locals pay respect to the founding shrine, walk through the local market and learn about the exotic products that are being sold by the villagers and farmers from the region. Only a few steps away is the Lampang Museum, which gives great insight to the history and legends of the town and we visit Baan Louis, the former residence of the teak trader. Continue to visit the ceramic museum of the factory that made Lampang bowl famous all over Thailand and have a typical noodle lunch from the region. After exploring the town, we will continue by car to the world's first elephant hospital, where the majestic giants are taken care of – a much needed facility that does not include any riding or staged activities, but a very special learning experience instead as covered on BBC: (www.bbc.com/news/av/world-asia-39590571). Return by private car in about 1 hour to Chiang Mai.

In the morning, the driver picks you up from hotel and transfer to Chiang Mai airport for your morning flight to Phuket. Arrival in Phuket, private transfer by car & boat to Baba Eco Lodge. 

Free & relax

Free & relax

Free & relax

Free & relax

Free & relax

Free & relax

In the morning, transfer by boat and car to Ranong airport and fly to Bangkok by afternoon flight to Don Mueang airport. Arrival in Don Mueang airport, transfer by car to Suvarnabhumi airport for your homeward flight.