Thailand for Families: A Tailor-Made Journey

Arrive in Bangkok and meet your guide at the airport for a private transfer to your hotel on the banks of the Chao Phraya River.

Join a private guide for a fun introduction to Bangkok, seeing the city’s main sites while traveling by various forms of public transport. Wind between skyscrapers on the elevated Skytrain and take a public taxi boat along the river. Hop into a tuk-tuk for an open-air ride through the city streets, and glide through canals in a longtail boat, taking in views of daily life. Along the way, visit the Grand Palace and Wat Pho—home to an enormous, gold-covered Reclining Buddha. Stop in at the Jim Thompson House, a fine example of traditional Thai architecture, and learn about the age-old art of silk-making. As this is a private tour, you can explore at a pace that suits your family. (B)

A private transfer brings your family to Kanchanaburi, where, during World War II, the Japanese army conscripted Allied POWs to build the Thailand-Burma Railway. Gain insight into the area’s wartime history on a private guided tour of the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre, Hellfire Pass, and the infamous Bridge on the River Kwai. Ride a boat on the River Kwai and travel by train on the notorious Death Railway. Settle into a lovely camp overlooking the River Kwai, where you’ll glamp in comfortable safari-style canvas tents. Breakfast and dinner are included in your stay. (B)

Experience the sights of Erawan National Park today with its incredible multi-layered waterfalls and perhaps attempt to climb to the peak, then cool off in the crystal blue waters of the pools.  (B)

Take advantage of a leisurely morning to take a dip in the camp’s rock pool, visit the waterfalls in the Erawan National Park, or go mountain biking in the countryside. Later, your guide will escort you back to Bangkok and assist you in catching the overnight sleeper train to Chiang Mai in northern Thailand.  (B)

Sleeper Train

Upon arrival in Chiang Mai, meet your guide at the train station and transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure to discover this bustling city with your family. In the late afternoon, consider a visit to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple, set high on a hillside and affording a panoramic view of Chiang Mai. This evening, we recommend exploring the famous night markets—a fascinating cultural experience and a true feast for the senses.  (B)

Spend the day immersed in everyday life in Thailand. A local resident will pick you up for a visit with his family in their typical home. Get acquainted with Thai traditions and join the family in making authentic recipes from the region which you’ll enjoy over lunch together. Return your hotel in the afternoon and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. (B)

Encounter one of Asia’s most iconic species on a shared tour of Chang Chill Elephant Sanctuary, an elephant sanctuary for former working elephants. Here, you’ll have the chance to observe the elephants while they go about their lives, roaming through the forest, splashing in the mud pools and chowing down on their lunch prepared by you. You’ll learn about elephant behaviour, conservation and their importance in culture from their care takers. Enjoy dinner at your camp’s al fresco restaurant overlooking the river this evening. (B,L)

Take a private transfer to the airport for your direct flight to the island of Koh Samui. You’ll be escorted to a small boutique resort nestled in tropical gardens. Settle into your private villa overlooking the aquamarine sea and the sands of Maenam Beach. (B)

The largest island of an archipelago in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui is a gem of long, palm-fringed beaches, waterfalls, and tropical forests. Indulge in four delightful days on the island, relaxing at the private beach and enjoying the amenities and excursions offered by your resort. Set sail in a catamaran or explore by motorboat, stopping to snorkel with a guide or have a picnic on a hidden beach. Join a guide for a waterfall hike or tour the island’s cultural spots, from temples to markets and fishing villages. Take a Thai cooking class or enjoy seaside yoga or a massage in your villa. Windsurfing, diving, tennis, and golf are also options. Consider an outing to Ang Yhong National Marine Park, a preserve of 42 rugged islets with limestone cliffs and caves. (B)

Transfer to the island airport in time for your onward flight. (B)