Tales of the Orient

Daily details in brief

Day 1 Arrive Chiang Mai. Day 2 Chiang Mai. Visit a local market, then into the kitchen for a hands-on class and tasting of mouth watering Thai cuisine. Day 3-4 Chiang Rai. Chiang Rai is the main gateway to fascinating hill tribe cultures and the forests and waterways of the infamous Golden Triangle. There is a diversity of tribes still living in small village communities and it is possible to arrange a day visit. For the more active, there is a chance to trek or cycle through the beautiful mountain scenery. Courses in meditation and yoga are also popular in this serene and natural setting. Day 5 Take a short flight to Bangkok in the morning, and by the afternoon you can be cruising down the Chao Phraya river, running through the heart of Bangkok. On its shores rest many significant monuments including the opulent Grand Palace and Wat Po. This is one of the oldest and most revered Buddhist temples where you can witness the monks chanting, an ancient practice that survives today, or relax after your adventures in the north with a traditional Thai massage. Day 6 Train journey through nort east Thailand, complete natural beauty and awe-inspiring ruins of ancient cities. Day 7 Disembark early morning for a tour to Phimai. Return for lunch as you continue your journey on to the picturesque Khao Yai valley. Day 8 Cross the Mekong River via the Friendship Bridge and enter Laos. A walk along the riverfront at sunset is a nice way to get acquainted with Vientiane. Day 9 Free at leisure. Day 10 Luang Prabang, a small city with all the charm of a french village mixed with the spice and mystique of South East Asia. Walking is the preferred mode of transport and the best way to take in the historic sights. There is a plethora of ancient temples and you will often pass by monks on the street, some of whom may even want to practice their gentle English with you. Day 11 Luang Prabang. You have the option to wake up before dawn to witness and participate in offering alms to hundreds of saffron-robed monks.  A long-tailed boat cruise to visit Pak Ou caves is a fantastic way to soak in the sleepy pace of rural Laos. Day 12 Depart Luang Prabang. If you wih to extend further into the ancient history of South East Asia, we recommend a short flight east to Hanoi, the 1000 year old capital of Vietnam, and gateway to the magnificent Halong Bay.

 

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